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

Pokémon Go developer Niantic is reportedly in discussions to sell its video game division to the Saudi-owned company Scopely for a staggering $3.5 billion. According to Bloomberg, this potential deal would encompass the immensely popular augmented-reality mobile game Pokémon Go, which has revolutionized the gaming world by encouraging players to explore the real world in search of Pokémon.

A source, who spoke to Bloomberg under the condition of anonymity, indicated that although the deal is not finalized, it could be announced within weeks if all parties agree. Neither Niantic, Scopely, nor its parent company, Savvy Games Group, have issued public statements regarding the speculated acquisition.

This move comes on the heels of Savvy Games Group's acquisition of Scopely in April 2023 for $4.9 billion, following the Saudi Arabian government's declaration of intent to purchase "a leading games publisher." Scopely is known for publishing a variety of successful mobile games, including The Walking Dead: Road to Survival, Stumble Guys, Marvel Strike Force, and Monopoly Go.

Additionally, Savvy Gaming Group made significant strides in the esports arena by purchasing two of the world's largest esports companies, ESL and FACEIT, for a combined total of $1.5 billion in 2022.

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz highlighted the strategic importance of these acquisitions, stating, “Savvy Games Group is one part of our ambitious strategy aiming to make Saudi Arabia the ultimate global hub for the games and esports sector by 2030. We are harnessing the untapped potential across the esports and games sector to diversify our economy, drive innovation in the sector, and further scale the entertainment and esports competition offerings across the Kingdom.”