Pokémon Go developer Niantic has agreed to be acquired by Savvy Games Group subsidiary Scopely.
The deal, valued at $3.5 billion, matches the details that leaked last month. It includes Niantic’s entire game development team as well as its the games Pokémon Go, Pikmin Bloom, and Monster Hunter Now.
The deal also includes companion apps and services “Campfire” and “Wayfarer” and will see Scopely assume control of Niantic’s popular live events like Pokémon Go Fest.
“Niantic games have always been a bridge to connect people and inspire exploration, and I am confident they will continue to do both as part of Scopely,” said John Hanke, founder and CEO of Niantic.
“Scopely shares our focus on building and operating incredible live services, has exceptional experience working with the world’s biggest and most beloved intellectual properties, and cares deeply about its player communities and game-making teams.
“I firmly believe this partnership is great for our players and is the best way to ensure that our games have the long-term support and investment needed to be ‘forever games’ that will endure for future generations.”
Scopely was acquired by Saudi Arabian multinational game investment group Savvy Games Group back 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 more and more active in the games and esports industry over the past few years, having invested $38 billion via its Public Investment Fund. The PIF has stakes in companies including Electronic Arts, Nintendo, Nexon, and Capcom. It is also hosting the inaugural Olympic Esports Games, which are now set for 2027.
These investments have been controversial due to Saudi Arabia’s poor human rights record, most notably on gender inequality and the criminalization of homosexuality, which is still punishable by life imprisonment or execution.