As the survival crafting game Palworld captures the gaming community's attention, it has also sparked ongoing debates and controversies. Recently, PETA has even weighed in on the discussion, focusing on the game and its creatures known as Pals.
Palworld, the new multiplayer survival title featuring the adorable little Pals that have captured our hearts, is reaching new sales milestones almost every day.
However, the similarities between these cute Pals and the well-known Pokémon have sparked various controversies. Not only do the developers have to defend themselves against accusations of plagiarism, but the animal lovers among us gamers also have their problems with the game.
After all, these charming Pals are primarily used for us to exploit. Whether in battles, breeding, or hard labor in factories, Pals in Palworld are not just showered with love.
Are Pals Suffering From Animal Cruelty In Palworld?
With Palworld's setting populated by these adorable Pal creatures, it was only a matter of time before a debate about "animal cruelty" arose.
With players able to capture, kill, and force various animal creatures to labor under excruciating pain, there has already been some discussion on social media.
Animal cruelty at its finest. #PalWorld pic.twitter.com/0aXMxu0xfT
— Arctic (@TheArcticSniper) January 22, 2024
Now, PETA has issued a statement regarding Palworld. PETA, or People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals, is an animal rights organization that advocates for the ethical and humane treatment of animals in various industries and contexts.
Elisa Allen, PETA's vice president of programs and operations, said:
PETA has already heard from many Palworld fans who have no interest in eating Pals and want a vegan guide created for the game. It’s ‘Veganuary’ after all, and gamers want to help animals by eating vegan in their game worlds and outside.
And while it is certainly an important issue in the real world to prevent and stop animal abuse and cruelty throughout society, we are not quite sure how this issue is relevant in a video game where little monsters bear little resemblance to real animals.
We really do live in a society...