'It Has Become a Success Beyond Our Wildest Dreams' — Palworld Developer Pocketpair Decides Against Price Hike for 1.0 Launch

Palworld developer Pocketpair has chosen not to increase the game's price for its 1.0 launch this week, keeping it at $29.99. The Early Access Steam page had previously stated that the price might rise upon official release, leading many to expect a hike when version 1.0 drops on July 10. However, Pocketpair announced it's sticking with the current price as a token of gratitude.

"After much thought, we have decided not to raise the price of Palworld following the 1.0 release and will keep it at $29.99," Pocketpair said in a social media statement. "We are incredibly proud of how far Palworld has come. Thanks to the amazing support of our players, it has become a success beyond our wildest dreams. As a small way of saying thank you, we'll be keeping the price at $29.99. Thank you for your continued support."

'Success' might be an understatement. Palworld has attracted 40 million players since its Early Access launch, a number likely to grow with the 1.0 update. It broke sales and concurrent player records at launch, with Pocketpair boss Takuro Mizobe noting that the massive profits were overwhelming for the developer. The company quickly capitalized on this success by partnering with Sony to form Palworld Entertainment, tasked with expanding the IP, and later launching the game on PS5.

However, it hasn't been smooth sailing. After launch, comparisons to Pokémon arose, with some accusing Pocketpair of copying Pokémon designs. Instead of a copyright lawsuit, Nintendo and The Pokémon Company pursued a patent route, seeking 5 million yen (about $30,000) each plus late payment damages and an injunction against Palworld. A verdict is expected later this year.

For now, Palworld 1.0 is imminent, and release times are available. John "Bucky" Buckley, head of publishing and communications, has teased 27 pages of patch notes. He also told existing players that wiping data isn't necessary but recommended: "Players can continue their existing saves if they wish... However, due to the large number of changes... we believe that starting a new character will give you the best experience of Palworld! We will leave that choice up to you, Pal Tamers!"