In just three days since its early access launch on January 19th, Palworld, the Pokémon-inspired game with a unique twist, has become a sensation in the gaming world. Boasting over 5 million copies sold and currently holding the title of the most played game on Steam, Palworld has managed to capture the attention of players globally.

Developed by the relatively unknown studio PocketPair, Palworld's success has been nothing short of impressive, considering its unconventional take on the monster-catching genre. The game, which introduces elements of survival, crafting, and edgy humor, has struck a chord with players looking for something different in a market saturated with similar titles.

The journey into Palworld begins with a vibrant and colorful world populated by creatures called "pals." What sets Palworld apart is its unexpected twist: these cute pals are not just for catching and nurturing but can also be armed with weapons like AK-47s and put to work as virtual slave labor. This dissonant tone has raised eyebrows and sparked discussions about the game's unique approach.

The tutorial in Palworld is well-designed, guiding players through the basics of character creation, world building, and survival mechanics. Players start with the familiar task of gathering resources by punching trees and rocks, but Palworld takes a dark turn when it comes to capturing pals. Crafting the game's version of pokéballs involves a series of steps, adding a layer of complexity to the familiar catch-and-train mechanic.

Survival features, such as hunger bars for both characters and pals, as well as dynamic weather conditions, further enhance the immersive experience. Building and managing a base becomes crucial, as assigned pals work to harvest resources and aid in crafting.

However, Palworld hasn't been without controversy. Multiple outlets and social media users have pointed out striking similarities between Palworld's pals and Pokémon. Some users have even created videos overlaying the models, revealing an uncanny resemblance. PocketPair's CEO, Takuro Mizobe, has vehemently denied any infringement, addressing accusations of model ripping or tracing as baseless.

The game's success hasn't shielded it from criticism, with accusations that Palworld may have been created with the use of AI. Mizobe's discussions on AI in game development and PocketPair's other game, "AI: Art Impostor," have fueled speculation, though no concrete evidence has surfaced.

Despite the controversies, Palworld's popularity continues to soar. With over 870,000 players on Steam, it has become the most played game, approaching the all-time record held by Counter-Strike. The game's timing in a relatively quiet gaming landscape and its distinctive blend of popular mechanics make it a noteworthy addition for players seeking a fresh take on the monster-catching genre.

As Palworld remains in early access with a full release expected in at least a year, the gaming community eagerly awaits what the next chapters hold for this unconventional and polarizing title.