Scopely has acquired Niantic, the developer behind Pokémon Go, in a transaction valued at $3.5 billion

Niantic, known for developing Pokémon Go, is being acquired by Scopely, a part of Savvy Games Group.

The purchase, priced at $3.5 billion, aligns with prior leaks. Niantic's entire game development team, along with games such as Pokémon Go, Pikmin Bloom, and Monster Hunter Now, are included in this acquisition.

Alongside these, services like "Campfire" and "Wayfarer," as well as major events like Pokémon Go Fest, will come under Scopely's management.

John Hanke, founder and CEO of Niantic, stated, “Niantic games have always been a bridge to connect people and inspire exploration, and I am confident they will continue to do both as part of Scopely.”

Hanke also mentioned that Scopely respects player communities and gives importance to their gaming teams, which aligns with Niantic's objectives of creating lasting games.

This merger, he believes, will offer players enduring games that receive the necessary support and investment for the future.

Previously, in July 2023, Savvy Games Group had acquired Scopely for $4.9 billion. In January, the company appointed Nika Nour as SVP and head of international business development.

Saudi Arabia has been enhancing its presence in gaming and esports, having invested $38 billion via its Public Investment Fund (PIF), which also holds shares in companies like Electronic Arts, Nintendo, Nexon, and Capcom. The nation is set to host the first-ever Olympic Esports Games in 2027.

These investments have sparked controversy due to Saudi Arabia's poor human rights history, particularly concerning gender inequality and the severe punishment of homosexuality, which could lead to life imprisonment or execution.