Palworld, the latest sensation on Steam, has attracted over two million users within 24 hours and sold 5 million copies in just three days. Despite facing criticism on social media for allegedly borrowing creature designs from Pokémon and utilizing AI, neither accusation has been substantiated. Surprisingly, the speculation surrounding AI implementation has not impacted player engagement or reviews, prompting discussions on the emergence of a new trend known as AI-washing.
Developed by Pocketpair, Palworld was launched in early access on PC and Xbox, causing a surge in demand that even led to disruptions in Epic Games’ servers. Described as a blend of “Pokémon with guns,” this survival game is poised to become the next big trend alongside Fortnite. The looming cloud of AI controversy hovering over Pocketpair does not seem to deter the game’s success, indicating that popularity and acclaim can overshadow concerns about AI ethics.
Derrick Bitner, co-founder of Good Vibes Gaming, expressed his views on Twitter, highlighting how Palworld’s triumph underscores a broader acceptance of AI products despite initial resistance. This trend raises concerns about the potential implications for various creative industries such as literature, music, and art.
While some fans have drawn parallels between Palworld’s creatures, known as ‘Pals,’ and Pokémon’s designs, not everyone is convinced of blatant plagiarism. Game developer Rami Ismail emphasized the distinction between inspiration and imitation, noting the similarities while refuting claims of direct cloning. Furthermore, there is no concrete evidence to support allegations of AI involvement in Palworld’s character creation.
The controversy stems from Pocketpair’s open embrace of AI technology in game development. CEO Takuro Mizobe’s public endorsement of AI-generated content and the release of AI: Art Imposter, a game utilizing AI image generation, have sparked debates on the ethical use of AI in creative endeavors.
The ongoing discourse surrounding AI’s role in Palworld reflects a broader industry shift towards integrating AI in various aspects of game development. While the specifics of AI utilization in Palworld remain unverified, the overarching question pertains to the responsible and ethical application of AI in the creative process. As the gaming community navigates these complexities, the notion of AI-washing and the normalization of AI integration in gaming experiences prompt critical reflections on the evolving landscape of game development.
