Patente - Softonic English

Nintendo intensifies its offensive against the creators of Palworld by registering a new patent

The legal dispute between Nintendo and the independent developer Pocketpair, related to the game Palworld, has captured the attention of the video game world. At the center of this conflict is the recent approval of a patent by Nintendo in the United States, which could have repercussions beyond Pocketpair’s title. This patent could affect practically the entire video game industry. The patent, registered in March 2023, describes a system in which players can summon a second character, referred to as a ‘sub character’, to fight enemies. Although this mechanic may seem specific, the […]

The legal dispute between Nintendo and the independent developer Pocketpair, related to the game Palworld, has captured the attention of the gaming world. At the center of this conflict is the recent approval of a patent by Nintendo in the United States, which could have repercussions beyond Pocketpair’s title.

This patent could affect virtually the entire video game industry

The patent, registered in March 2023, describes a system in which players can summon a second character, referred to as a ‘sub character’, to fight enemies. Although this mechanic may seem specific, experts point out that it is so generic that it could apply to numerous game genres, from action to MMORPGs, potentially impacting future releases from multiple developers.

Although the patent is not retroactive, meaning it cannot be applied to games already on the market, its existence poses a serious dilemma for independent developers. These studios often lack the necessary resources to face legal actions from large corporations like Nintendo, which could discourage innovation. The concern goes beyond Palworld; any new game, DLC, or expansion that uses similar mechanics could face legal issues.

The situation becomes even more complicated when considering the already established titles that include summoning mechanics, such as Diablo IV and Elden Ring, which would not be immediately affected, but imply that the ground for new creations becomes uncertain. The possibility that Nintendo could use this patent in a legal context has raised alarms among developers, fearful of a patent arms race that could limit creativity in the industry.

In an environment where large companies have the advantage in terms of legal resources, the community of small developers faces an uncertain future. This situation not only has immediate consequences but could also have a lasting deterrent effect on innovation in the sector.

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Nintendo, Sega, and Konami agree: emulation will not be illegal, but they know where their limit is

At a recent meeting at the Tokyo eSports Festa 2025, representatives from major companies in the video game industry, such as Nintendo, Sega, and Konami, addressed the crucial topic of intellectual property (IP) rights and their impact on the sustainable growth of the sector. Koji Nishiura, a patent attorney at Nintendo, emphasized that intellectual property rights are vital for the healthy development of the industry, highlighting the legal protection provided by different forms of IP, including trademarks, patents, and design rights. Nishiura, who is also the deputy manager of Nintendo’s IP division, stressed the […]

In a recent meeting at the Tokyo eSports Festa 2025, representatives from major companies in the video game industry, such as Nintendo, Sega, and Konami, addressed the crucial issue of intellectual property (IP) rights and their impact on the sustainable growth of the sector. Koji Nishiura, patent attorney at Nintendo, emphasized that intellectual property rights are vital for the healthy development of the industry, highlighting the legal protection provided by different forms of IP, including trademarks, patents, and design rights.

Nishiura, who is also the deputy manager of Nintendo’s IP division, emphasized the diversity of rights the company seeks to acquire to strengthen its ability to protect its brand and business. This protection strategy becomes even more relevant following the recent legal controversies Nintendo has been involved in, such as the lawsuit against a streamer for broadcasting leaked games and the patent infringement lawsuit against Palworld developer, Pocketpair.

From Sega’s perspective, Kikuo Masumoto, head of the Corporate Development headquarters, commented that game creators can build on the ideas of others, which is essential for the evolution of the industry. However, he warned that there is a limit to imitation before the situation becomes a legal issue. Unlike Nintendo, Masumoto noted that Sega does not seek to restrict the use of its technologies through patents, allowing their use in exchange for licenses.

Nintendo, making it clear when emulation is illegal

For his part, Shunsuke Murase, manager of the legal department at Konami, added that licensing game mechanics and technologies is essential to recoup investments, especially in a context where development costs are constantly increasing. Still, from Nintendo, it is noted that although an emulator is not illegal by itself, its legality depends on the use given to it, which adds a layer of complexity in the interpretation and application of IP law in different territories.

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iPod back from ashes? Perhaps if this patent becomes a reality

A simpler device and at a much lower price than the alternative AirPods-iPhone or AirPods-Apple Watch that allows us to enjoy quality music and is also much more all-terrain and resistant than other devices.

Patents are the best way to find out what Apple is working on, or at least what it is researching. In this case, what it is investigating is improving the AirPods charging case to turn it into a kind of wireless iPod. A patent for which there may be years to go, if it ever takes shape in a final product, but it clearly catches the eye.

Revolutionizing Wearable Tech: Apple’s Latest Patent Hints at Smarter Watch Bands

A new patent hints at smart straps for the Apple Watch. With a communication chip and the possibility of built-in sensors, the idea promises.

Technology never ceases to amaze us and one of the companies that most demonstrates this is Apple. It does so with its constant research and development of new accessories and technologies that give rise to the most unlikely and amusing patents.