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

Niantic, the creator of the 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 Bloomberg, the sale would encompass Pokémon Go, the immensely successful mobile game that integrates real-world locations into its gameplay.

An anonymous source cited by Bloomberg indicated that while the deal isn't 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.

Savvy Games Group acquired Scopely in April 2023 for $4.9 billion, following a declaration by the Saudi Arabian government of its intention to acquire a leading games publisher. Scopely's portfolio includes prominent mobile games such as The Walking Dead: Road to Survival, Stumble Guys, Marvel Strike Force, and Monopoly Go.

In 2022, Savvy Gaming Group also invested $1.5 billion in the acquisition of two major esports organizations, ESL and FACEIT.

“Savvy Games Group is a key component of our ambitious plan to establish Saudi Arabia as the premier global hub for gaming and esports by 2030,” stated Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz at the time. He further explained the initiative's purpose as leveraging the gaming and esports sector's potential to diversify the Saudi economy, foster innovation, and expand entertainment and esports competition within the Kingdom.