While not ruling out a Switch version entirely, Palworld boss Takuro Mizobe has expressed concerns over technical difficulties with bringing the game to the Nintendo platform.
In a recent interview with Game File, Pocketpair CEO Takuro Mizobe shared insights on the challenges of bringing Palworld to the Nintendo Switch and hinted at the game's future developments. While not completely dismissing the possibility of a Switch version, Mizobe highlighted significant technical hurdles. He mentioned ongoing discussions about expanding to "new platforms," but emphasized that Pocketpair currently has no concrete announcements to make.
Despite the game's demanding PC specifications posing challenges for a Switch port, Mizobe remains hopeful about broadening the game's accessibility. Earlier this month, he commented on the feasibility of a Switch port, stating, "Palworld’s specs on PC are higher than the Switch’s specs. So, it might be technically challenging to port to Switch."
Mizobe has not specified whether Palworld could be released on PlayStation, Nintendo, or mobile devices. In an earlier interview with Bloomberg, he confirmed that Pocketpair is exploring options to bring the game to additional platforms. Additionally, Mizobe indicated the company's openness to partnership or acquisition offers, though they have not engaged in buyout talks with Microsoft.
Beyond platform expansion, Mizobe shared his vision for enhancing Palworld's multiplayer features. He introduced the upcoming arena mode as "kind of an experiment," setting the stage for richer multiplayer experiences. Mizobe expressed his ambition to introduce a true PvP mode, inspired by games like Ark and Rust, saying, "My dream is to achieve a true PvP mode in Palworld. I want more of the Ark or Rust style."
Ark and Rust are renowned for their survival gameplay, featuring challenging environments, intricate resource management, and extensive player interactions, including alliances and tribal warfare. Both games blend PvE and PvP elements seamlessly. In Ark, players face threats from dinosaurs and prehistoric creatures, as well as environmental challenges like extreme weather. Rust similarly tests players with its harsh environment, including wildlife and radiation zones.
Since its release, Palworld, Pocketpair's unique blend of creature collection and survival shooting, has captured the gaming community's imagination. Players can capture creatures known as Pals, utilize them for base-building, and engage in various survival activities.
Palworld's launch was nothing short of spectacular, selling 15 million copies on PC within its first month. The game also attracted 10 million players on Xbox through its inclusion in the Game Pass subscription service. A significant update, the free Sakurajima update, is scheduled for release on Thursday, promising a new island, the eagerly awaited PvP arena, and more.