Danica Davidson
March 12, 2025 
On February 19, Otaku USA covered a report that Scopely Inc., which has Savvy Gamers Group as a parent company, which in turn is a subsidiary of the Public Investment Fund of Saudi Arabia, was allegedly in talks to buy Pokémon Go. It’s now official — Scopely is putting down $3.5 billion to purchase the gaming business of Niantic, the company behind Pokémon Go. Scopely will also get games like Pikmin Bloom and Monster Hunter Now, as well as companion apps and services Campfire and Wayfarer.
Games that Scopely previously released include Marvel Strike Force, Monopoly Go!, and Star Trek Fleet Command.
Senior VP of Pokémon Go Ed Wu remarked, “Our mission remains clear: to inspire people to discover Pokémon in the real world together. With Scopely’s full commitment, experience, and resources, we’re going to make Pokémon Go the very best it can be — from incredible battles for thousands of Trainers at a time at our live events to new ways to connect to your friends and community. Most importantly, we’ll remain focused on the excitement and experience of discovering Pokémon in the real world.”
Wu further explained, “The entire Pokémon GO team is staying together through this partnership. The same people who have been guiding and building the game for years will continue doing what we love. We’re always continually adding to the game – Raid Battles, friends, GO Battle League, Routes, Dynamax/Gigantamax, and, of course, Pokémon GO Fest and our live events – which I look forward to continuing to do for many years to come.”
Chief revenue officer and board member of Scopely Tim O’Brien likewise put out a public statement, saying, “After spending time with the Niantic team, it quickly became clear that this organization shares our inclination to create industry-leading outcomes and exceptional player experiences. We look forward to a bright future ahead.”
Saudi Arabia is also making a giant Dragon Ball theme park and is interested in getting more involved in video games to “diversify its economy.”
Source: The Hollywood Reporter
____
Danica Davidson is the author of the bestselling Manga Art for Beginners with artist Melanie Westin, plus its sequel, Manga Art for Everyone, and the first-of-its-kind manga chalk book Chalk Art Manga, both illustrated by professional Japanese mangaka Rena Saiya. Check out her other comics and books at www.danicadavidson.com.
Related Posts
