Palworld Gets Crossplay Late March as Part of Big Update

Palworld developer Pocketpair is gearing up for its much-anticipated crossplay update, scheduled for late March 2025. In an announcement on X/Twitter, the studio revealed that this update will introduce multiplayer functionality across all platforms, along with the ability to transfer Pals between worlds. A promotional image accompanying the announcement showcased various Palworld characters engaged in battle with a formidable Pal, hinting at the excitement to come.

John 'Bucky' Buckley, Pocketpair's Communications Director and Publishing Manager, has teased that the update will also include "a few little surprises" for players, adding to the anticipation. This news is particularly exciting for the 32 million players who have embraced Palworld since its early access launch in January 2024. The studio has outlined an ambitious content roadmap for 2025, which includes not only the crossplay feature but also an "ending scenario" and additional new content for this highly popular creature-catching survival game.

Since its launch on Steam for $30 and its inclusion in Game Pass on Xbox and PC, Palworld has shattered sales and concurrent player number records. The game's overwhelming success led Pocketpair CEO Takuro Mizobe to admit that the studio was initially overwhelmed by the massive profits generated. In response, Pocketpair quickly moved to expand the Palworld universe, striking a deal with Sony to establish Palworld Entertainment, a new venture focused on extending the IP and bringing the game to the PS5.

However, the game's success has not been without challenges. Nintendo and The Pokémon Company have initiated legal action against Pocketpair, alleging infringement on "multiple" patent rights and seeking "an injunction against infringement and compensation for damages." In response, Pocketpair has identified the specific patents in question and adjusted the mechanics for summoning Pals within the game. The studio remains steadfast, ready to defend its position in court, stating, "We will continue to assert our position in this case through future legal proceedings."