Scopely Acquires Niantic's Gaming Division, Including Pokémon Go for $3.5 Billion

Niantic has agreed to sell its video game business, featuring the popular Pokémon Go franchise, to Scopely for a whopping $3.5 billion, further advancing Saudi Arabia's ambitious investment in the gaming sector.

Niantic, renowned for creating the global phenomenon Pokémon Go, announced on Wednesday that it would sell its gaming division to Scopely for $3.5 billion. This acquisition reflects a growing trend of investment from Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF) in the video game industry. Originally launched in 2016, Pokémon Go became an iconic augmented reality mobile game, attracting millions of players who ventured outdoors to catch virtual creatures inspired by the beloved Japanese series.

The deal signifies Scopely's determination to expand its gaming portfolio. Based in Culver City, California, Scopely already boasts popular titles, such as Monopoly Go, and plans to incorporate Niantic’s staff into its operations; Pokémon Go continues to engage more than 20 million active players per week, according to Scopely.

Scopely was acquired by Saudi Arabia's Savvy Games Group in 2023 for $4.9 billion, aiming to spearhead the country’s ambitious drive into gaming and e-sports. The Saudi government has pledged to invest up to $38 billion in the gaming sector by 2030, working towards diversifying its economy, which is heavily reliant on oil.

However, Saudi Arabia's investments have drawn criticism from human rights advocates, who argue that the country's spending on sports and entertainment is aimed at improving its global image amidst ongoing concerns about its human rights record.