The team behind Palworld isn't thrilled about their game being labeled as "Pokemon with guns," despite the term contributing to its massive popularity. Since its launch, Palworld has drawn inevitable comparisons to Pokemon due to its creature designs and monster-taming mechanics. However, Pocketpair has clarified that the game's true inspiration comes from ARK: Survival Evolved, with a focus on creating more dynamic and unique creatures.

John Buckley, Pocketpair's communications director, revealed during the 2025 Game Developers Conference that Palworld was heavily influenced by ARK. The studio admired ARK's emphasis on dinosaurs and wanted to replicate that depth but with creatures that had more personality and versatility. Buckley explained that while the "Pokemon with guns" label helped market the game, it oversimplifies Palworld's unique mechanics, such as base-building, combat, and exploration with firearms.

Latest Game Information

Despite Pocketpair's efforts to distance Palworld from the Pokemon comparison, the nickname stuck after the game's 2021 reveal trailer. Buckley admitted that while the label boosted initial interest, it also led some players to underestimate the game’s complexity. He urged newcomers to try Palworld for themselves, emphasizing its survival elements and creative creature interactions.

Currently available on PC, Xbox, and PlayStation, Palworld continues to expand with updates, including the April 2025 patch. Rumors of a Nintendo Switch 2 port remain unconfirmed, but the game's cross-platform success suggests a bright future. Whether you're a fan of survival games or creature collectors, Palworld offers a fresh take on the genre—far beyond just "Pokemon with guns."