The two things Palworld has proved itself to be more than anything else are popular and controversial, even attracting the attention of PETA. Unsurprisingly, the animal rights organization is less than impressed with the animal cruelty present in Pocketpair’s creature-collection sim. Unlike Pokemon and similar titles, Palworld allows players to subject their Pals to various unsavory experiences. That includes butchering and eating them or even feeding them to their friends. Regardless of whether or not such actions amount to animal cruelty, PETA’s statement adds to a compelling discussion about in-game ethics.
Animal Cruelty and Ethical Eating in Palworld
Palworld isn’t just a creature-collecting sim; it’s also a survival game. Not eating means starvation for you and your Pals, which raises the question: what should you eat? In a statement provided to Insider Gaming, PETA’s VP of Programmes, Elisa Allen, floated the idea of creating a vegan guide for the game. That way, players who want to actively avoid harming Pals wherever possible would have the option to do so. Nothing in Palworld prevents the player from doing just that, although the mechanics subtly encourage omnivorousness over the veganism PETA suggests.
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Palworld Starter GuideBaked Berries, Baked Mushrooms, and other vegan meals don’t provide nearly as much nutrition as those made from Pals such as Reindrix Stew. This mechanic rewards players willing to either butcher their Pals or at least hunt Pals in large numbers. The game doesn’t force anyone to eat meat, just like it doesn’t force anyone to increase their Pals’ working hours even as their stress climbs and their mental health deteriorates. Like poaching and even slavery, meat-eating exists as an option for players who want it. It’s ultimately in your hands (and on your conscience) if you like to go that route.
Palworld is available for PC in early access.
