Pokémon Go Developer Niantic Reportedly in Talks to Sell Video Game Business to Saudi-Owned Company Behind Stumble Guys

Niantic, the developer behind the wildly popular augmented reality game Pokémon Go, is reportedly negotiating a potential $3.5 billion sale of its video game division to Scopely, a Saudi-owned gaming company. According to a Bloomberg report, the sale would encompass Pokémon Go, the hit mobile game that has captivated millions with its location-based gameplay. While a source speaking to Bloomberg on condition of anonymity indicated the deal is not finalized, a confirmation could arrive within weeks if approved. Niantic, Scopely, and its parent company, Savvy Games Group, have declined to comment publicly on the reported acquisition.

Scopely, acquired by Savvy Games Group in April 2023 for $4.9 billion following a Saudi Arabian government declaration of intent to purchase a leading games publisher, boasts a portfolio of successful mobile games, including The Walking Dead: Road to Survival, Stumble Guys, Marvel Strike Force, and Monopoly Go. Savvy Games Group further solidified its position in the gaming industry with the $1.5 billion acquisition of esports giants ESL and FACEIT in 2022.

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz previously stated that Savvy Games Group is a key component of a broader strategy to establish Saudi Arabia as a global leader in the gaming and esports sector by 2030. The initiative aims to diversify the Saudi economy, foster innovation within the gaming industry, and expand entertainment and esports competition within the Kingdom.