Niantic CEO John Hanke said that this move is in line with the company’s vision of making “forever games” (long-lasting games). He said, “Scopely’s focus is on building and operating the best live service games.
Niantic, the maker of Pokemon Go, has announced that it is selling its gaming division to mobile gaming company Scopely for $3.5 billion i.e. about Rs 30,481,06,08,200. The deal includes popular games like Pokemon Go, Pikmin Bloom, and Monster Hunter Now. The sale is part of Niantic’s strategy to focus more on geospatial AI.
Scopely’s vision for Pokemon GO
The mobile game development company Scopely maintains its reputation through its popular titles like MONOPOLY GO! and MARVEL Strike Force. Pokemon Go has earned praise from company leaders because it uses AR experiences and live events to unite people. The mobile gaming market features GO at the top 10 position thanks to its 100 million unique players in 2024.
The substantial investment supports the company’s dedication to sustaining the game’s relevance through numerous upcoming years. The company uses its strengths in producing live-service games and generating community content to improve GO’s social connection features regardless of events and in-game capabilities.
How will Scopely’s Acquisition of Pokemon Go impact the players?
The acquisition changes will have no significant immediate effects on Pokemon Go players. The core GO development team continues their work without changes while the game maintains its existing planned events and mechanics as well as new ones. Future Pokemon collaborations with The Pokemon Company will remain unchanged because the partnership continues without interruption in Pokemon Go.
Long-term investment from Niantic will bring forth enhanced matchmaking and additional large-scale events as well as new real-world integration options through AR technology. With Scopely’s backing both financially and strategically GO would develop in a different direction that attracts casual and competitive players better.
Why is Niantic Selling its Gaming Business?
Niantic CEO John Hanke said the move is in line with the company’s vision of creating “forever games”. He said, “Scopely’s focus is on building and operating the best live service games. Also, they are experts in working with big brands and taking care of the community of players. So, it’s the right platform for our games.” The deal also includes an additional $350 million cash distribution from Niantic, bringing the total deal value to $3.85 billion.
Scopely, a subsidiary of Savvy Games Group, the gaming group of Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF), will now expand its portfolio with AR (Augmented Reality) games like Pokemon Go. The company has already developed successful mobile games like Marvel Strike Force and Star Trek Fleet Command.
Will Pokemon Go get an Update?
Statement from Niantic: “Our game teams have long-term plans, and they will pursue them together with Scopely. Players will continue to get the same games, apps, services, and events they know and love.”
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