After weeks of intense community backlash, the publisher behind Pickmos has taken drastic measures to distance the project from mounting criticism. Following widespread allegations that the game is a derivative "rip-off," publisher Networkgo has officially removed the game's Steam page.
The sudden disappearance of the store page prompted an official statement from Networkgo via the Pickmos X/Twitter account. The company confirmed they have stepped in to manage the situation, stating: "Networkgo has officially intervened in the development of PocketGame."
Networkgo Intervenes to Resolve Controversy
According to the publisher, their new role involves supervising developer PocketGame "from a player’s perspective." This intervention is a direct response to the heavy scrutiny the game has faced over the last month.
The primary goal of this move is to steer the title away from constant comparisons to established franchises. The developers are currently working on several changes to mitigate these issues:
- Revised Gameplay: The team is actively revising the game to ensure a "controversy-free experience."
- Publisher Oversight: A new release schedule will be determined only after Networkgo gives final approval.
- Content Audit: The publisher is investigating claims of unoriginality to protect the game's reputation.
Allegations of Stolen Art and Unoriginal Design
The controversy surrounding Pickmos isn't limited to gameplay mechanics. Since early March, players have accused developer PocketGame of lifting elements from a wide variety of successful titles, including:
- Pokémon
- The Legend of Zelda
- Overwatch
- Palworld
Beyond design similarities, the project has faced serious accusations regarding stolen art. Specifically, users pointed to a piece created by X user @ElpsyFake01, which featured concept art for an alternate Mega evolution of the Pokémon Meganium.
Addressing these specific claims, Networkgo stated they are currently gathering information and will be "actively reaching out to @ElpsyFake01."
An Uncertain Future for Pickmos
When the game was first announced under the name "Pickmon," it promised a multi-platform launch on PC, PlayStation, and Nintendo Switch. However, with the Steam page shuttered and the development process undergoing a massive overhaul, the project's future is murky.
It remains to be seen how much of the original vision will remain once Pickmos eventually returns to the market.
