Nintendo Switch Port Confirmed for Palworld

Bad news for Switch gamers eager to dive into Palworld: a Switch version is currently off the table. Palworld, an early access survival game featuring collectible, Pokémon-esque creatures, enjoyed a surge in popularity upon its 2024 release, but interest has since cooled. However, a major upcoming update might reignite the flame.

The Sakurajima Update, launching June 27th, is Palworld's most significant update yet. It introduces a new island, Pals, bosses, a higher level cap, and dedicated servers for Xbox players. This substantial update is expected to lure back former players, but unfortunately, it's currently exclusive to PC and Xbox.

While Palworld is an Xbox console exclusive (with PlayStation plans in the works), a Switch port is unlikely. Pocketpair's Takuro Mizobe cited "technical reasons" in an interview with Game File (via VGC), suggesting the Switch's hardware limitations may prevent smooth gameplay. Future Nintendo consoles, however, remain a possibility.

Palworld's Nintendo Switch Prospects

The upcoming Nintendo Switch 2, with its anticipated power boost, could potentially run Palworld. Considering the game's availability on the nearly 11-year-old Xbox One, this seems plausible. However, Palworld's thematic similarity to Nintendo's Pokémon franchise might present a significant hurdle to its release on any Nintendo platform.

Although a Nintendo console release remains uncertain, portable Palworld gameplay is achievable. The game reportedly performs well on the Steam Deck, offering a mobile option for PC players. Furthermore, if rumors of an Xbox handheld materialize, Palworld's compatibility seems likely.