Palworld, a game that I’ve long been convinced was not real and would never release, is launching in early access very soon on January 19th for Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One and PC. In addition, it’s also been announced that it’ll arrive on Xbox Game Pass on the same day.
Broadly, Palworld is a bit like a Pokémon MMO/multiplayer crafting survival game, complete with catching and battling the “Pals” as you explore the world. The difference here though, is you’ll also be enslaving them for manual labour, eating them and straight-up shooting them with actual guns. It’s like Pokémon if Pokémon were set in the real world, basically.
Here’s what to expect from the game courtesy of developer Pocketpair:
“Palworld is an open-world survival crafting game that supports up to 32 players and is set in a world where mysterious creatures called “Pals” live.
“Along your adventures, you will encounter many Pals. Capture them, make them work, fight, breed and even sell them. You can adventure in a large world alongside your Pals.”
- Over 100 Different Pals – Palworld is home to over 100 unique Pals, each equipped with a diverse set of skills to enhance the player’s adventure. Along your journey, you will also encounter formidable boss Pals that pose a challenge even for the most seasoned Pal tamers. Naturally, these boss Pals are also capturable.
- Engage in Battles and Capture Pals – Palworld seamlessly integrates elements of battle, monster-capturing, training, and base building. Players wield a range of weapons, from classic bows and spears to modern assault rifles and rocket launchers. The process of capturing Pals involves strategically throwing a sphere, with a higher likelihood of success when weakening the target. Captured Pals become powerful allies in combat, each possessing distinct attributes and skills, even among those of the same type.
- Base Building with Pals – Players can enjoy the experience of constructing bases alongside their Pals. Within the created base, players can assign Pals to various tasks, automating item collection, production, farming, and even electricity generation. Each Pal works uniquely based on its personality, requiring food and rest. The care provided directly influences the Pal’s motivation, playing a pivotal role in base operations.
- Open-World Multiplayer – Work together with fellow players for shared adventures in an open-world setting. Multiplayer not only allows for cooperation but also conflict, enabling players to attack one another, steal Pals, and even steal items. Players can engage in Pal battles, pitting their Pals against each other in combat.
Take a look at the slightly-ominous Early Access Release Date Announcement Trailer for Palworld below and you’ll hopefully get a tiny glimpse into why this game is melting my brain a little:
