Pickmon is a multiplayer open-world survival crafter game that has recently gained attention for its unique gameplay and the creatures known as Pickmon that players can explore with. The game was developed by PocketGame and published by NETWORKGO, and it was officially revealed via a trailer on Steam on March 9, 2026. However, the game has quickly drawn criticism for its striking similarities to established franchises such as Pokémon and The Legend of Zelda.
Controversy Surrounding the Game
Critics have pointed out that Pickmon bears a resemblance to both Pokémon and Zelda, with the protagonist in Pickmon notably resembling Link from Zelda: Breath of the Wild. Additionally, the trailer for Pickmon features music that many have described as distinctly Zelda-like. This has led to accusations that Pickmon is a knockoff of these beloved games, indicating a troubling trend in game development where originality is questioned.
Legal Concerns
Nintendo, known for its aggressive protection of intellectual property, has a history of suing companies for infringement. Currently, the company is embroiled in a legal battle with Pocketpair over another game, Palworld. Observers are speculating that it is only a matter of time before Nintendo takes action against PocketGame for Pickmon as well. “It’s only a matter of time before Nintendo sues PocketGame,” one industry expert noted.
Initial Reception and Player Engagement
Despite the controversy, Pickmon has seen a significant player engagement on Steam, with around 28,000 players currently active and a peak of 40,000 players within a 24-hour period. In total, approximately 2,000,000 players have checked out the game since its release. This level of interest suggests that, regardless of the criticisms, there is a market for games that blend familiar elements from popular franchises.
The gaming community has reacted with mixed feelings. Some view Pickmon as a blatant copy of existing games, while others are intrigued by its potential. One commentator stated, “This is one of the most brazen cases of intellectual property borrowing the gaming world has ever seen.” Another added, “Nintendo’s lawyers will almost certainly be watching closely,” highlighting the anticipation of potential legal action.
Future of Pickmon
As of March 2026, no legal action has been announced against Pickmon, but the uncertainty surrounding its future remains palpable. With the gaming industry closely monitoring the situation, many are left wondering whether Pickmon will ever release in its current form. Details remain unconfirmed.
As Pickmon continues to make waves in the gaming community, its fate hangs in the balance. The ongoing scrutiny over its similarities to Pokémon and Zelda may shape not only its future but also the broader conversation about originality and intellectual property in the gaming industry.
