Game industry veteran Yoshiki Okamoto has called on players not to buy Palworld. The former Capcom developer argued that the game “crossed a line” in relation to Nintendo’s ongoing lawsuit. The case accuses Palworld of infringing on several Nintendo patents.
Yoshiki Okamoto Speaks Out
Okamoto is a legendary Japanese game designer with a career spanning four decades. He worked on classics like Street Fighter 2, Resident Evil 2, and Devil May Cry 2. Today, he leads the Japan Game Culture Foundation, which supports indie developers.
In late September 2025, Okamoto posted a video on YouTube. He urged consumers not to purchase Palworld, describing it as “unacceptable.” He added that the game “crossed a line that should not be crossed,” echoing Nintendo’s accusations. His comments quickly sparked debate.
Fan Reactions and Ongoing Lawsuit
The video gained over 22,000 views in three days. Many fans criticized Okamoto, arguing that a lawsuit alone does not prove wrongdoing. Others noted that Okamoto’s own projects often borrowed from other games. Still, Nintendo’s claims against Palworld are more specific.
Pocketpair, the game’s developer, denies infringing on patents. The studio even adjusted gameplay by removing rideable flying creatures, replacing them with gliders. This move was seen as a precaution, not an admission of guilt.
The lawsuit, filed in Japan, continues. Nintendo recently amended one of its patents, slowing the process. Experts believe the case may not resolve until mid-2026 unless a settlement happens. For now, Okamoto’s comments add another layer to an already heated dispute.
