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Nintendo has secured a new US patent that could have broad implications for future game design, especially for titles with summoning systems.
Nintendo’s New Gameplay Patent
According to a report, Nintendo was granted a US patent last week covering the ability to summon a secondary character who fights on the player’s behalf.
The patent describes a system where a video game runs on a console or similar device. The player controls a main character in a virtual space. At any point, they can perform an input command to summon a “sub character” into the game.
If an enemy is nearby, the summoned sub character engages in combat under the player’s control. If no enemy is present, the sub character still moves freely around the field. The player can also reposition the sub character, which may trigger battles with enemies in that area.
The most obvious example is a Pokémon game, where trainers summon Pokémon to fight others. However, the scope also applies to Nintendo titles like Pikmin, where players summon Pikmin to complete tasks and battle enemies.
Beyond Pokémon and Pikmin
Although the patent seems designed with Pokémon in mind, its language is broad. It could also describe mechanics seen in non-Nintendo titles. For example, in Persona, players summon Personas during battles, which fits the description.
This has sparked concern among fans and developers. Summoning systems are common across RPGs and strategy games, and some worry Nintendo may challenge their use.
Lawsuits and Industry Concerns
Unlike trademarks, patents do not need constant enforcement. Nintendo is not required to pursue every possible infringement. Instead, it can act only when it believes its IP is at risk.
That was the case with Palworld. In 2024, Nintendo and The Pokémon Company sued developer Pocketpair in Japan, claiming the game copied multiple Pokémon mechanics. Alleged infringements included summoning creatures with Pal Spheres and using them as vehicles.
What This Could Mean Going Forward
It is unclear whether Nintendo will enforce this new patent against other developers. The move highlights the company’s strong stance on protecting its IP.
At the very least, the patent creates uncertainty for studios working on summoning systems. Fans and developers will be watching closely to see if Nintendo uses the patent defensively—or as a weapon against competitors.
