The close of the year ushers in a season not just marked by well-deserved breaks and familial reunions, but also by the celebration of standout gaming experiences through the fan-fueled Steam Awards. This year, the spotlight shone brightly on Hollow Knight: Silksong, which clinched the coveted title of Best Game. However, it was Palworld that truly captured attention, garnering four nominations and securing four medals: Silver for Most Played and Most Played (Steam Deck), along with Bronze for Top Seller and Controller Game. This remarkable achievement is particularly noteworthy for a title that remains in early access after two years.
In a heartfelt message shared on their official X account, the Palworld team expressed gratitude to their community: “Thank you so much, everyone. We are working hard on the official release of Palworld 1.0 this year!” The post tantalizingly concluded with a promise of “news soon,” hinting at exciting developments on the horizon for fans eagerly awaiting the game’s official launch.
As the team at Pocketpair diligently works to refine Palworld, they are also preparing to introduce a wealth of new content, reminiscent of the seasonal updates that have previously delighted players. The upcoming 2024 winter update is set to be particularly expansive, featuring a new island, fresh resources, and innovative mechanics.
However, the road ahead is not without its challenges. Palworld currently finds itself embroiled in a copyright dispute with Nintendo, which has raised concerns over certain gameplay mechanics that it believes closely resemble those found in the Pokémon franchise. In response to these legal pressures, Pocketpair has already implemented changes, including a patch that altered the gliding mechanics, requiring players to use a glider instead of relying on specific Pals for that function.
Despite the hurdles, the spirit within the Palworld development team remains resilient. Bucky, the communications director, reflected on the journey thus far, stating, “Two years later and we’re still humbled by our community’s endless support and kindness. Thank you so, so, so much, Palworld games. Not bad for a dead game!!”
