Palworld Remains Buy-to-Play: Developer Quashes F2P Rumors
Following reports suggesting a potential shift to a free-to-play (F2P) or games-as-a-service (GaaS) model, Palworld developer Pocketpair has officially confirmed that the game will remain a buy-to-play title. The developer issued a statement on Twitter (X) clarifying their position after an interview sparked speculation about the game's future direction.
Pocketpair emphasized that a F2P/GaaS model was never part of their original vision for Palworld and adapting the game to such a model would be excessively demanding. They also acknowledged player preferences, stating that a shift to F2P was not something the community desired.
The statement further revealed ongoing internal discussions about the best path forward for Palworld's continued growth and development. While exploring various options, the decision to maintain the buy-to-play model is firm. The developer expressed their commitment to delivering the best possible Palworld experience.
Future Plans: DLC and Skins Under Consideration
While the core business model remains unchanged, Pocketpair did mention exploring future content updates. The team is considering the addition of downloadable content (DLC) and cosmetic skins as a way to support ongoing development, promising further community discussion on this matter as plans solidify.
PS5 Version Rumored for Tokyo Game Show 2024
Separately, reports suggest a potential PS5 version of Palworld may be announced at the upcoming Tokyo Game Show 2024 (TGS 2024). However, the source of this information, a list published by the Computer Entertainment Supplier’s Association (CESA), is not considered definitive confirmation.
Pocketpair apologized for any confusion caused by earlier reports and thanked the community for their continued support. The developer's commitment to a buy-to-play model, coupled with the potential for future DLC and skins, suggests a continued focus on providing a high-quality experience for Palworld players.