Scopely acquires Pokémon Go developer Niantic in deal value $3.5bn
Pokémon Go developer Niantic has agreed to be acquired by Savvy Video games Group subsidiary Scopely.
The deal, valued at $3.5 billion, matches the details that leaked last month. It contains Niantic’s total recreation improvement workforce in addition to its the video games Pokémon Go, Pikmin Bloom, and Monster Hunter Now.
The deal additionally contains companion apps and providers “Campfire” and “Wayfarer” and can see Scopely assume management of Niantic’s fashionable stay occasions like Pokémon Go Fest.
“Niantic video games have at all times been a bridge to attach folks and encourage exploration, and I’m assured they’ll proceed to do each as a part of Scopely,” stated John Hanke, founder and CEO of Niantic.
“Scopely shares our concentrate on constructing and working unimaginable stay providers, has distinctive expertise working with the world’s greatest and most beloved mental properties, and cares deeply about its participant communities and game-making groups.
“I firmly consider this partnership is nice for our gamers and is one of the simplest ways to make sure that our video games have the long-term help and funding wanted to be ‘endlessly video games’ that can endure for future generations.”
Scopely was acquired by Saudi Arabian multinational recreation funding group Savvy Video games Group again in July 2023 for $4.9 billion. In January, it appointed Nika Nour as SVP and head of international business development.
Saudi Arabia has been increasingly more energetic within the video games and esports business over the previous few years, having invested $38 billion via its Public Investment Fund. The PIF has stakes in firms together with Electronic Arts, Nintendo, Nexon, and Capcom. Additionally it is internet hosting the inaugural Olympic Esports Games, which are now set for 2027.
These investments have been controversial as a result of Saudi Arabia’s poor human rights document, most notably on gender inequality and the criminalization of homosexuality, which continues to be punishable by life imprisonment or execution.
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