Pokémon-Like Game ‘PokeyQuest’ May Be Too Close for Comfort

PokeyQuest, a new game in the Telegram tap-to-earn genre that has recently gained a notable following, with approximately half a million players.

The game stands out where many other games, like Hamster Kombat and X Empire, offer basic visuals and gameplay mechanics—a significant point of criticism from both fans and reviewers.

However, PokeyQuest’s visual design and characters bear a strong resemblance to those from Nintendo’s Pokémon franchise, which may lead to potential legal complications.

Potential IP Concerns

PokeyQuest is a straightforward tap-to-earn game where players collect coins by tapping the screen.

What sets it apart is its vibrant animations and character designs, echoing the beloved classic Pokémon franchise. The game’s main character, reminiscent of May from Pokémon’s third generation, along with a companion named ZapZap, evoke a sense of nostalgia that appeal to many players.

The game also features in-game items called Pokey Cards, which provide additional rewards and can be upgraded. The creatures on these cards bear a strong resemblance to Pokémon, with similar but not identical names and designs. For instance, creatures like ClawDash, LeafShell, and ShadowPup visually resemble Sandslash, Turtwig, and Poochyena, respectively.

However, PokeyQuest’s close resemblance to Pokémon could lead to legal issues from Nintendo or The Pokémon Company. The game’s potential for monetization through in-game tokens might even further complicate its legal position.