Today we’re announcing changes at Niantic that will set us on a bold new course. We have reached an agreement for Scopely to acquire Pokémon GO, Pikmin Bloom, Monster Hunter Now, and the incredible teams working on these experiences. And we’re spinning off our pioneering…
— Niantic (@NianticLabs) March 12, 2025
Niantic, the creator of the popular augmented reality game “Pokemon Go,” has agreed to sell its game division to Saudi-owned gaming company Scopely for $3.5 billion. The decision is part of a strategic shift for Niantic, which aims to focus more on its core technology and augmented reality platform. John Hanke, CEO of Niantic, expressed optimism about the sale during his keynote speech at the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona.
To the @PokemonGoApp, @PikminBloom, and @MH_Now_EN communities: We deeply admire what you’ve built. These will remain the games you know and love, and we’re here to support them for the long run. Read our message to the vibrant community of players here ?… pic.twitter.com/WKnM8oJs5I
— Scopely (@scopely) March 12, 2025
“Scopely has a proven track record of building and growing successful games, making them the ideal partner to take our game division to new heights,” Hanke said. “This sale allows us to concentrate on building the future of augmented reality and expanding our platform.”
Scopely, known for its interactive entertainment and mobile games, has been expanding aggressively through acquisitions in recent years.
Niantic sells division to Scopely
Why @NianticLabs’ games? Why now? Our co-CEOs explain @Scopely’s perspective on acquiring @PokemonGoApp, @PikminBloom, and @MH_Now_EN — and how we’re approaching this next chapter with respect for the vibrant, engaged communities that enjoy these games. Read more ?… pic.twitter.com/nwrt3qlkE1
— Scopely (@scopely) March 12, 2025
CRV partnered with @nianticlabs in 2018. We’ve proudly watched this company evolve into a geospatial AI model for perceiving the world. Congrats to @johnhanke, Tim O’Brien, Ed Wu and the @scopely team. We’re as excited for this next chapter.https://t.co/fl3pO5A0FS
— CRV (@CRV) March 12, 2025
The purchase of Niantic’s game division is expected to bolster its portfolio and enhance its foothold in the mobile gaming market. The transaction, anticipated to close later this year, will see Scopely acquiring popular titles developed by Niantic, including the beloved “Pokemon Go,” which has generated billions in revenue and amassed a dedicated global player base since its launch in 2016. Niantic’s pivot towards its augmented reality platform is seen as a move to capitalize on emerging technologies and applications beyond gaming.
The company has hinted at upcoming projects that leverage AR for real-world applications, although specific details have yet to be disclosed. The transaction underscores the growing influence of Middle Eastern investment in the global gaming industry, with Saudi-owned entities such as Scopely playing prominent roles in high-value deals.
Photo by; David Grandmougin on Unsplash
