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Palworld developer Pocketpair has acquired a stake in Japanese publisher Bushiroad, joining Animate subsidiary Acos in the deal. The move reshapes Bushiroad’s shareholder structure while hinting at Pocketpair’s growing ambitions beyond video games.
On August 14, Bushiroad announced that its CEO and president, Takaaki Kidani, would sell part of his shares. Pocketpair and Acos will receive roughly 4 million of Kidani’s 7 million directly-owned shares. Starting August 15, Kidani no longer holds the position of majority shareholder. His total stake falls from 55.9% to 49.9%, dropping his voting power below the controlling threshold.
Pocketpair Expands Beyond Palworld
Bushiroad has built its reputation on trading card games like Cardfight!! Vanguard, merchandise production, and anime tie-ins. While the company has not disclosed how influential Pocketpair’s stake is, the move clearly aligns with the developer’s recent ventures.
Last year, Pocketpair launched Palworld Entertainment with Sony Music Entertainment and Aniplex. That joint venture focuses on licensing and merchandising the Palworld IP, signaling Pocketpair’s intent to strengthen its multimedia reach.
A Possible Palworld Card Game?
The acquisition sparked speculation among fans about a potential Palworld trading card game. Bushiroad’s proven expertise in TCGs and merchandising provides a strong foundation for such a project. Still, neither Pocketpair nor Bushiroad has announced anything official. For now, the idea remains fan speculation until further updates arrive.
Competition with Pokémon Intensifies
Pocketpair continues to position Palworld as a rival to Pokémon, gaining viral attention as the “Pokémon with guns” game. Its merchandising push with Sony mirrors the strategy that helped Pokémon achieve global success. By acquiring shares in Bushiroad, the company may now aim at another cornerstone of Pokémon’s empire—the Pokémon Trading Card Game.
Meanwhile, Nintendo and The Pokémon Company have filed a lawsuit claiming Palworld infringes on multiple patents. The legal battle creates uncertainty, but Pocketpair continues to pursue its expansion plans.
Despite the challenges, Pocketpair projects confidence in its future. The company’s publishing manager recently teased that “big things” are underway, though details may remain secret for another year or two. Until then, the partnership with Bushiroad and Acos highlights Pocketpair’s determination to grow Palworld into a lasting multimedia franchise.
