Palworld's Live Service Potential: A Lucrative Path for PocketPair

Pocketpair's CEO, Takuro Mizobe, recently spoke with ASCII Japan about Palworld's future, specifically addressing the possibility of transitioning the game to a live service model. While no final decision has been made, Mizobe acknowledged the potential benefits and challenges involved.

Live Service: A Profitable but Complex Path

Mizobe confirmed continued updates for Palworld, including a new map, Pals, and raid bosses. However, he outlined two potential future directions: completing Palworld as a one-time purchase (B2P) title or transitioning to a live service (LiveOps) model. He openly stated that a live service approach offers significant business advantages, extending the game's lifespan and revenue potential. However, he also emphasized the considerable challenges. Palworld's initial design wasn't built for live service, making the transition complex.

Player Preferences: A Crucial Factor

Crucially, Mizobe highlighted the importance of player sentiment. Live service models often work best with initially free-to-play (F2P) games, gradually introducing paid content. Palworld's B2P structure presents a significant hurdle to this transition. While successful F2P conversions exist (like PUBG and Fall Guys), Mizobe noted the considerable time and effort required for such a shift.

Alternative Monetization Strategies

Mizobe also discussed alternative monetization strategies, such as ad monetization. However, he expressed skepticism about its viability for a PC game like Palworld, citing the generally negative player reaction to ads on platforms like Steam.

The Current Focus: Growth and Player Satisfaction

Currently, Pocketpair is prioritizing player growth and retention. The recent Sakurajima update and the introduction of PvP arena mode demonstrate their commitment to expanding the game's appeal. Ultimately, the decision regarding Palworld's future direction remains under careful consideration. The game is still in early access, and the developers are weighing the various options to ensure the best possible outcome for both the game and its community.