Pocketpair claims that its success with Palworld enables the company to offer more favorable publishing agreements to independent developers

The developer behind the popular title Palworld, Pocketpair, has announced that its success has enabled it to offer more favorable publishing agreements to independent developers than typically available.

In a discussion with The Games Business, John Buckley, who oversees communications and publishing for the company, remarked on the challenges Pocketpair has previously encountered. He mentioned that the acclaim Palworld has received has positioned the company to assist smaller development teams. Contrary to the usual industry practice where indies surrender a substantial portion of their earnings to repay publishers and investors, Pocketpair takes a different approach.

Pocketpair initiated its publishing division in January 2025.

Buckley expressed, “For years, we faced difficulties, managing only to release moderately successful games that just covered the expenses for our next venture. We know the hardship of going it alone.”

He continued, “Once Palworld launched, we were approached by many developers offering their projects. Despite not having extensive publishing resources, we were caught off-guard by the industry norms where small teams often relinquish large shares of early revenues. It seemed extraordinary that developers, truly passionate about their projects, accept these conditions that leave them with minimal profits for extended periods.”

He added, “Currently, we can afford to provide funding to indie developers without demanding high revenue shares. Our arrangements are designed to support their financial viability right from the first sale, unlike traditional models which delay substantial earnings.”

Palworld, which Pocketpair is renowned for, debuted in January 2024 and garnered 25 million players in its inaugural month, with 15 million purchasing through Steam and another 10 million accessing via Xbox and Game Pass services.

In September 2024, Pocketpair faced a lawsuit from The Pokémon Company and Nintendo, alleging resemblances between Palworld and the Pokémon franchise.