Pickmos shelved: networkgo intervention signals deep trouble

The nascent creature-collecting RPG, Pickmos, is effectively on ice. Just weeks after a chorus of accusations regarding derivative design flooded the internet, publisher Networkgo has taken drastic action, pulling the game's Steam page and initiating an overhaul that could significantly alter its final form – or even its release altogether.

A cascade of concerns: more than just pokémon

The controversy surrounding Pickmos began gaining serious traction in early March. Players didn't just point out the game's undeniable resemblance to Pokémon; the criticisms extended to clear influences from The Legend of Zelda, Overwatch, and even the notoriously controversial Palworld. The initial announcement, complete with a name change from Pickmon to Pickmos, only seemed to amplify the concerns, hinting at an ambition that many felt exceeded the developer, PocketGame’s, capabilities.

Networkgo's swift intervention, outlined in a series of posts on the game's official X/Twitter account, suggests a far more significant crisis than initially perceived. The publisher stated it would be “supervising” development “from a player’s perspective,” a phrase that, while seemingly innocuous, carries the weight of a potential creative reset. “We are revising the game to ensure a controversy-free experience,” one post declared, adding ominously, “It will be re-released once our publisher gives the final approval.”

The abrupt removal of the Steam page further complicates matters. The initial launch plan, encompassing PC, PlayStation, and Nintendo Switch, now hangs in the balance. Where and when Pickmos will ultimately appear – if it materializes at all – remains a question mark.

Artistic allegations add fuel to the fire

But the design plagiarism accusations are not the only storm clouds gathering. Adding another layer of complexity, Pickmos is also facing allegations of stolen artwork. Specifically, a concept piece depicting an alternate Mega evolution for Pokémon’s Meganium, created by X user @ElpsyFake01, bears a striking resemblance to assets featured in Pickmos. Networkgo acknowledged these claims, stating, “Hello, I am an editor from the publisher, and we are currently gathering some information. We will be actively reaching out to @ElpsyFake01.” The situation demands immediate and transparent investigation, and the outcome could prove decisive for the game's future.

The saga of Pickmos serves as a stark reminder of the precarious nature of game development, particularly in a landscape where inspiration and imitation often blur. Networkgo’s intervention is a desperate attempt to salvage a project teetering on the brink, but whether they can successfully steer Pickmos away from controversy remains to be seen. Nintendo’s recent rejection of a Pokémon patent, while a separate matter, underscores the company’s stringent protection of its intellectual property – a lesson PocketGame and Networkgo would do well to heed.