Palworld is well-known for being a monster-capturing game that takes the concept of the genre in a different direction. While other similar titles have turn-based RPG-like gameplay, an influence made popular due to the massive success of Pokemon, Pocketpair's creation strays away from that by incorporating survival game elements. The difference between Palworld and Pokemon-like games is clear, with the former reaching a level of success and popularity that its competitors can only dream of because of its unique qualities. And because of what it has accomplished, it may lead to the monster-collecting genre being taken in new directions with many interesting results.
Even before the game's official release, Palworld managed to grab people's attention by introducing itself as a monster-capturing title unlike any other. Because of how different it is, the game is one of the most highly recognizable and well-received video games, with people continuing to enjoy it even after a year of being made available for play. With Pocketpair showing that its take on the monster-capturing formula is a success, other companies might also try their hand at taking a different approach. This could result in games incorporating elements from genres other than survival, creating many possibilities for speculation.
Palworld's Pals Might Benefit From Keeping One Early Access Possibility Long-Term
Palworld has the opportunity to do something for its Pals during and after its early access state to continually uplift the core gameplay.
How Other Monster-Capturing Games Can Follow Palworld’s Footsteps in Taking a New Approach
Aside from being a fantastic monster-capturing title, Palworld is also one of the best open-world games with crafting and survival elements. Pocketpair has shown that a new formula can work so long as the combined elements of different genres can synergize well in gameplay. If other companies choose to create a monster-capturing game of their own with that in mind, there are a few ways they can go about it:
- A monster-capturing game that incorporates horror elements could be made, allowing for more emphasis and detail on creature designs and the creation of a terrifying but exciting new gameplay atmosphere.
- It could go a route similar to that of action-adventure games in terms of combat, incorporating numerous movement and attacking mechanics, and layering them in ways that make for more engaging fights and monster-capturing situations.
- The game could be a mix of monster-capturing and real-time strategy, resulting in large-scale battles that would not have been possible in other genres, and more tactical methods of laying claim to different creatures
Palworld, being one of those games that have become major success stories, shows that taking a new approach to an established formula can be accepted by many if done right. Given that there hasn't been much experimentation in the monster-capturing genre's gameplay, other companies have many opportunities to try something different, with the likelihood of it being popular and well-received with the right execution and an interesting enough concept.
Why the Monster-Capturing Genre Needs To Take More New Directions
The majority of monster-capturing titles are often known for being some of the best turn-based RPG games, and while that sounds great, that has also led to a big problem. Because of huge successes like Pokemon that incorporate the elements of that genre, many other companies have decided to follow suit when creating similar titles, hoping to earn the same achievements. This has resulted in oversaturation and predictable expectations, which is why Palworld can be seen as a relief, as it shows there are ways to make monster-capturing titles interesting other than by following the same formula. By going in different directions in terms of gameplay, monster-capturing games can reach out to and attract a wider audience, leading to new avenues of success that companies can take advantage of. Also, it could lead to new mechanics or features, creating many more unique and enjoyable experiences that will help cement the genre as a staple in the video gaming industry.
Likely, one of the things Palworld checked off of people's wish lists the moment it was released is a monster-capturing game that's different from all the others. Being unique has allowed it to remain relevant and successful today, which cannot be said for its other competitors. Hopefully, it incentivizes other companies to take the same risk Pocketpair took in trying something different with the genre, helping draw more eyes to it and leading to newer innovations.
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OpenCritic Reviews
- Top Critic Avg: 71 /100 Critics Rec: 58%
- Released
- January 19, 2024
- ESRB
- T For Teen Due To Violence
- Developer(s)
- Pocket Pair, Inc.
- Publisher(s)
- Pocket Pair, Inc.
- Engine
- Unreal Engine 5
- Multiplayer
- Online Multiplayer
- Cross-Platform Play
- Xbox Series X|S, pc
WHERE TO PLAY
- Genre(s)
- Open-World, Shooter, Survival
