The deal, unveiled on March 12, 2025, sees Scopely, which owns titles like Monopoly Go, acquiring Niantic’s successful Pokémon Go, an augmented reality game that has captivated millions since its inception in 2016. The Saudi Public Investment Fund has shown a significant interest in gaming, pledging to invest $38 billion by 2030 to bolster the country's entertainment sector.
Pokémon Go continues to attract over 20 million weekly players and remains a profitable venture. Following the acquisition, Scopely plans to retain all employees from Niantic’s gaming teams. The Saudi fund, managing assets close to a trillion dollars, is focusing on diversifying beyond oil by venturing into various industries, including e-sports. However, some view these investments as efforts to improve Saudi Arabia's global image amidst ongoing human rights critiques.
Pokémon Go continues to attract over 20 million weekly players and remains a profitable venture. Following the acquisition, Scopely plans to retain all employees from Niantic’s gaming teams. The Saudi fund, managing assets close to a trillion dollars, is focusing on diversifying beyond oil by venturing into various industries, including e-sports. However, some view these investments as efforts to improve Saudi Arabia's global image amidst ongoing human rights critiques.
