Pocketpair, the studio behind Palworld, has declared that its newly established publishing division will not support games built on generative AI, Web3, or NFT technologies. The move reflects the company’s commitment to traditional, artist-driven game development rather than automation or blockchain integration.
The company’s leadership emphasized that its focus will remain on projects that showcase human creativity and originality. Developers using AI or blockchain features are encouraged to seek partnerships elsewhere, as Pocketpair intends to distance itself from trends it views as harmful to creative quality.
Since its launch in January 2025, the publishing division has drawn significant attention, receiving hundreds of emails and game pitches in its first week. Its debut project will be an untitled horror title from Surgent Studios, the developer behind Tales of Kenzara: ZAU, featuring notable voice talent from Baldur’s Gate 3 and Final Fantasy 16.
Pocketpair’s stance partly arises from concern over the rapid influx of AI-generated content flooding digital storefronts. The company anticipates that this trend could lead to both a decline in content quality and an increase in false accusations targeting legitimate developers.
The studio itself has faced scrutiny in the past, following accusations that Palworld relied on AI-generated assets after its record-breaking early access launch in 2024. Pocketpair denied the claims, attributing the designs to its in-house artist. The publisher now aims to establish its new arm as a supporter of authentic, hand-crafted game experiences.
Source: Game Developer