Palworld Dev Considers Free-to-Play vs Pay-to-Play Amid TGS Buzz

The developer of the popular multiplayer survival game Palworld is contemplating whether to shift from its current pay-to-play model to a free-to-play, live service approach. Launched earlier this year, Palworld quickly achieved fame as a crafting game likened to Pokémon but with guns, enjoying remarkable sales and player engagement. However, as player numbers have declined post-launch, the developer Pocketpair is weighing the pros and cons of transitioning to a live service model, which could enhance profitability but also pose significant design challenges. Pocketpair CEO Takuro Mizobe noted that while the live-service model could stabilize earnings, it would require considerable effort to redefine the game originally designed for a different monetization structure.

Should Palworld switch to a free-to-play model?

Palworld has made a significant impact since its release, prompting discussions around intellectual property and drawing comparisons to classic gaming franchises. Debuting in early access, it has secured itself as one of the top-played titles on Steam. Additionally, the game has stirred controversy due to accusations of being a Pokémon clone, leading to threats against its developers and legal inquiries by Nintendo regarding potential copyright infringement. As Pocketpair moves forward, they've also announced expansion plans through a partnership with Sony to leverage Palworld's popularity in merchandise and media beyond the game itself.