Upcoming Survival Game “Pickmon” Hints at Significant Borrowing from Nintendo’s Legacy
A newly announced survival game, titled Pickmon, has captured attention with its trailer, suggesting a potential future release on platforms such as Switch and PlayStation 5. Early impressions indicate that Pickmon may draw heavily from established franchises, notably Pokémon and The Legend of Zelda, raising questions about originality in game design.
Developed by PocketGame, the title bears an uncanny resemblance to Palworld, another game that similarly channels Pokémon aesthetics. However, a deeper examination reveals that Pickmon might be leaning even further into Nintendo’s iconic visuals. The protagonist notably mirrors Link from The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild in both appearance and attire. From the character’s hairstyle to their clothing, the similarities risk crossing the line into copyright territory, evoking comparisons that might remind players of Link’s adventurous spirit—particularly the classic trope of awakening from a prolonged slumber, a narrative device that fans may find familiar.
Beyond the main character, the collectible creatures in Pickmon appear to skirt the line between homage and imitation. For instance, one notable creature features bright yellow fur with black accents, while another resembles Ceruledge, a character from Pokémon. This trend of near-duplication raises eyebrows about the game’s creative sourcing.
Furthermore, the presence of a supporting character executing the famed “Akira slide” on a motorcycle adds another layer to the ongoing discussion about originality in gaming. While notable for its style, it is possible that this could be construed as borrowing from other intellectual properties, particularly as similar maneuvers appear in titles like Metroid Prime 4: Beyond.
Though it is common for games to take inspiration from one another, the extent to which Pickmon appears to reference Nintendo’s characters and mechanics is striking. The involvement of publisher NETWORKGO, alongside PocketGame, raises potential legal questions, particularly regarding a possible release on the Nintendo eShop. The current trajectory suggests that a litigation scenario might not be out of the question should the game reach market.
As anticipation builds, the gaming community is left to ponder whether Pickmon represents a legitimate homage or strays into the realm of direct imitation. Feedback from players and industry observers is increasingly crucial in determining the public perception of this upcoming title.
What are your thoughts on Pickmon’s similarities to Nintendo’s beloved franchises? Share your opinions in the comments below.
Source: Original Source
