Palworld Stays Paid: 'Players Aren't Looking for Free'

Palworld, the survival crafting game often described as "Pokémon with guns," has confirmed it will not adopt a free-to-play model. Originally, CEO Takuro Mizobe had proposed the idea of transitioning to a live service game to improve stability and longevity, but developer Pocketpair clarified that after deliberation, they decided to keep it a pay-up-front title. The team stated, "Palworld was never designed with that model in mind," emphasizing their commitment to player feedback and experiences.

This decision comes after Palworld's successful launch in January 2024, where it gained more than 19 million players and sold 15 million copies on Steam alone within its first month, despite some comparisons to Pokémon. Pocketpair is, however, exploring the possibility of introducing live service elements like cosmetic skins in the future, always prioritizing player input.

No, Pocketpair has confirmed that Palworld will remain a pay-up-front game to maintain the original design intent and player experience.

Palworld is an innovative multiplayer title that combines elements of monster collection and survival gameplay, drawing inspiration from popular franchises. It features a vibrant world where players can capture creatures called "Pals" and use them in various ways, emphasizing crafting, exploration, and combat. The game has quickly caught the attention of gamers looking for a fresh take on the genre after its January launch, showcasing both its unique mechanics and aesthetic charm.