Scopely Seals $3.5 Billion Deal to Acquire Niantic, Creator of Pokémon Hasten

The developer of Pokémon Go, Niantic, has consented to be acquired by Scopely, a subsidiary of Savvy Games Network.

The agreement, estimated at $3.5 billion, aligns with the key details that emerged last month. It includes Niantic’s entire game development team except for its titles Pokémon Go, Pikmin Bloom, and Monster Hunter Now.

The agreement also encompasses associated applications and services “Campfire” and “Wayfarer,” allowing Scopely to oversee Niantic’s popular live events such as Pokémon Go Fest.

“Niantic’s games have consistently served as a link to unite people and promote exploration, and I am confident they will continue to do so as part of Scopely,” stated John Hanke, founder and CEO of Niantic.

“Scopely shares our focus on developing and managing outstanding live services, possesses unique expertise in handling some of the world’s largest and most beloved intellectual properties, and is deeply committed to its player communities and game development teams.

“I firmly believe this collaboration is beneficial for our players and is the best way to ensure that our games receive the long-term support and investment necessary to become ‘evergreen titles’ that will endure for future generations.”

Scopely was acquired by the Saudi Arabian multinational gaming investment company Savvy Games Network back in July 2023 for $4.9 billion. In January, Nika Nour was appointed as SVP and head of global business development.

Saudi Arabia has become increasingly active in the gaming and esports industry in recent years, having invested $38 billion through its Public Investment Fund. The PIF possesses stakes in companies such as Electronic Arts.