Pokémon Go developer Niantic is reportedly in discussions to sell its video game division to the Saudi-owned company Scopely for a staggering $3.5 billion. As initially reported by Bloomberg, this potential sale would encompass Pokémon Go, the immensely popular augmented-reality mobile game that encourages players to venture into the real world to capture Pokémon.
According to an anonymous source cited by Bloomberg, although the deal is not finalized, it could potentially be confirmed within weeks if all goes through. Neither Niantic, Scopely, nor its parent company Savvy Games Group have issued any public statements regarding this rumored acquisition.
Savvy Games Group, which is backed by the Saudi government, previously acquired Scopely in April 2023 for $4.9 billion. This acquisition followed the Saudi government's announcement of its intent to purchase "a leading games publisher." Scopely is known for publishing a variety of successful mobile games, including The Walking Dead: Road to Survival, Stumble Guys, Marvel Strike Force, and Monopoly Go.
Additionally, Savvy Gaming Group made significant moves in the esports industry by purchasing ESL and FACEIT, two of the world's largest esports companies, for a combined total of $1.5 billion in 2022.
Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz has articulated a vision for the future, stating, “Savvy Games Group is one part of our ambitious strategy aiming to make Saudi Arabia the ultimate global hub for the games and esports sector by 2030.” He emphasized the broader goal of harnessing the potential within the esports and gaming industry to diversify the economy, foster innovation, and expand entertainment and esports competition offerings throughout the Kingdom.
