Palworld Adds Crossplay in Late March Update

Palworld developer Pocketpair is gearing up for a significant update, slated for late March 2025, which will introduce crossplay functionality across all platforms. This eagerly awaited update will also feature the addition of world transfer capabilities for Pals. While details remain sparse, Pocketpair shared a glimpse of what's to come via a promotional image on X/Twitter, showcasing a group of Palworld characters engaged in battle with a formidable Pal.

Palworld gets crossplay late March. Image credit: Pocketpair.

John 'Bucky' Buckley, Pocketpair's Communications Director and Publishing Manager, hinted at "a few little surprises" that players can look forward to in the March update. This news is particularly exciting for the 32 million players who have embraced Palworld since its early access debut in January 2024. The studio has outlined an ambitious content roadmap for 2025, which includes not only crossplay but also an "ending scenario" and further new content for the massively popular creature-catching survival game.

Palworld made a splash upon its launch on Steam for $30 and on Game Pass for Xbox and PC, shattering sales records and achieving unprecedented concurrent player numbers. The game's phenomenal success overwhelmed Pocketpair, with CEO Takuro Mizobe admitting that the studio struggled to manage the influx of profits. In response, Pocketpair swiftly moved to expand the Palworld universe, striking a deal with Sony to establish Palworld Entertainment. This new venture aims to broaden the IP's reach, including a planned launch on PS5.

However, the game's success has not been without controversy. Nintendo and The Pokémon Company have filed a lawsuit against Pocketpair, alleging infringement on "multiple" patent rights and seeking an injunction and damages. In response, Pocketpair has identified the contested patents and made adjustments to how players summon Pals in the game. The studio remains steadfast, promising to defend its position vigorously in court: "We will continue to assert our position in this case through future legal proceedings."