Pickmos Removed From Steam After Publisher Complaint
▼ Summary
– The game Pickmos was removed from Steam after its publisher, Networkgo, intervened in its development.
– The game copies character designs from popular titles like Palworld, Pokémon, and The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild.
– Networkgo stated the removal was to supervise development and improve the game, not directly citing the copying controversy.
– The developer, PocketGame, confirmed it is revising the game to ensure a “controversy-free experience” before a potential re-release.
– The article suggests the publisher’s true motive is likely to avoid potential lawsuits from companies like Nintendo.
The game Pickmos has been pulled from the Steam storefront after its publisher, Networkgo, stepped in to halt its distribution. Previously known as Pickmon, the title developed by PocketGame faced immediate criticism for its unoriginal and derivative nature. Its creature designs bear a striking resemblance to iconic Pokémon characters, while the main protagonist is a near-identical copy of Link from The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild. The overall aesthetic also draws heavy, obvious inspiration from Palworld, a game already noted for its own lack of creative originality.
Networkgo addressed the sudden removal in a public statement on social media platform X. The publisher framed its action as a developmental intervention, stating it would now supervise the PocketGame team “from a player’s perspective to ensure the game keeps getting better.” While this official communication avoids citing the widespread allegations of intellectual property theft, the context strongly suggests the move is a direct response to the brewing controversy. The primary goal appears to be preempting potential legal action from major rights holders like Nintendo, which is famously aggressive in protecting its franchises.
Adding weight to this interpretation, a separate message attributed to PocketGame itself confirmed the title is undergoing revisions to guarantee a “controversy-free experience.” The studio indicated the game will only return to Steam after receiving final approval from its publisher. Given the extent of the borrowed assets and the blatant copying evident in the original build, the required overhaul is likely to be substantial. This suggests players should not expect a re-release of Pickmos anytime soon, as the developers face the significant task of redesigning core visual elements to distance themselves from clear sources of inspiration. The episode serves as a stark reminder of the legal and reputational risks associated with derivative game design in a highly litigious industry.
(Source: Nintendo Life)
