Garena Announces Palworld Online, a Mobile MMO Spin-Off

Hannan Mundia Published 05/08/2026

After the success of Palworld, Garena has announced that the game is coming in the form of a mobile MMO spin-off.

Palworld divided many fans when it first came out. The resemblance to Pokémon was uncanny, though the entire premise was much more mature and violent than its inspiration. Still, the full release has been a massive success, breaking records and creating Palworld’s trading card game line as well.

Hoping to capitalize on the game’s success, Garena announced Palworld Online. This upcoming mobile MMO game is more than just another port, giving an entirely new story, setting, and co-op exploration that could compete with established mobile titles such as Genshin Impact.

What is Palworld Online?

Palworld Online is an upcoming mobile MMO spin-off game for iOS and Android devices developed under an official license.

Garena and PocketPair announced Palworld Online, a new spin-off game for Palworld. The game is being developed for iOS and Android devices under an official license from PocketPair. PocketPair hasn’t shared the exact release date, but it is set to launch sometime this year, with other big-name video games still due for release in 2026.

palworld online

Garena president Terry Zhao said in a press release that Palworld is a widely recognized franchise and he is excited to bring the PC experience to mobile so more players can enjoy it. He added, “We are working closely with PocketPair to focus on delivering an experience optimized for mobile while maintaining the depth, immersion, and freedom that define Palworld.”

Seeing how Palworld’s version 1.0 also came out this year, there’s a good chance that work started on this mobile game a while back. Partnering with Garena is likely a smart idea, considering the developer has experience with games such as Garena Free Fire and Arena of Valor.

However, some fans have voiced their concerns given that Garena is known for its practices surrounding lootboxes and other in-app purchases. This suggests that even if Palworld Online is a free-to-play title, there’s a good chance that it’ll have multiple in-app purchases. The looming question is whether these purchases will push Palworld Online toward a more pay-to-win direction.

How does Palworld Online differ from its PC and console versions?

Palworld Online will take place in a new setting and feature elements that aren’t in its PC and console counterparts.

This version will be an MMO with a huge interconnected open world filled with players. Unlike the main version, this spin-off will be an internet-only game. The general premise will be similar to the main game, with players collecting, raising, and battling with their Pals. However, the story and setting will be entirely original.

Garena says the game has mobile-friendly controls and an easy interface designed for handheld devices. This means Palworld Online will use simple touch-based layouts and one-tap controls. These changes will make in-game tasks, such as base management and deploying Pals, easier.

Image credit: PocketPair

Hannan Mundia

About Hannan Mundia

Hannan Mundia is a lifelong gamer. Don’t believe us? Just ask him. But don’t ask how many hours he’s spent playing. He’s been gaming since the age of three, and much of his live revolves around video games and the video game industry. Whether it’s a classic Legend of Zelda game from Nintendo, the newest Bethesda RPG, or something else entirely, you can bet that Hannan is ready and willing to play it.

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