Nintendo contends that modifications should not be classified as "prior art" in the patent lawsuit involving Pocketpair

In a patent infringement case, Nintendo has contested the recognition of mods as "prior art" against Pocketpair, the creators of Palworld.

Reporting from Games Fray indicates that Nintendo seeks to prevent mods from being used as prior art, which is defined as previously published work that could invalidate patents. This case involves Pocketpair's defense, which asserts that Nintendo's patents might be invalid due to existing mods predating the patents.

Earlier in February 2025, Pocketpair submitted several "preparatory briefs," as detailed by Games Fray, claiming Nintendo's lawsuit should not have proceeded. Pocketpair cited examples like the mods Dark Souls 3 meets Pokémon, Pixelmon for Minecraft, and NukaMon for Fallout 4 as prior art.

Nintendo argues these mods don’t qualify as prior art since they are not standalone; they require the original games to function.

"From our patent law perspective, this is unconvincing," Games Fray reported. "The essential inquiry is whether game developers seeking fresh ideas would consider mods for inspiration, and they undoubtedly would."

The decision on whether mods qualify as prior art now rests with the judge. According to Games Fray's sister site, ip fray, judicial bodies tend to oppose attempts to restrict potential prior art unduly.

The case has experienced delays, and it seems there may be no further developments this year, as noted by Games Fray. Despite the ongoing legal battle, Pocketpair has revealed plans to move Palworld out of early access by 2026, as mentioned in a recent announcement from GamesIndustry.biz.