Niantic has sold its gaming division, which includes Pokémon GO, to Scopely for $3.5 billion. This transaction marks a significant change in ownership for the popular mobile game, while the development team is expected to remain intact under Scopely’s management
In a significant development that will impact the future of Pokémon GO, Niantic has sold its gaming division, including the popular augmented reality game, to Scopely for $3.5 billion. This transaction, which was finalized in March 2025, encompasses not only Pokémon GO but also other Niantic titles such as Pikmin Bloom and Monster Hunter Now.
The deal transfers Niantic’s entire game development team of over 2,300 employees to Scopely, ensuring continuity in the management and evolution of these games. Scopely, a major player in the mobile gaming industry known for titles like MONOPOLY GO! and Stumble Guys, has committed to maintaining the spirit and integrity of Niantic’s games.
While Niantic divests its gaming division, the company will refocus its efforts on developing real-world 3D maps through a new entity called Niantic Spatial, led by founder John Hanke. This strategic shift aims to create advanced geospatial AI technologies for future applications in smart glasses and robotics.
The acquisition, subject to regulatory approvals, marks a new chapter for Pokémon GO and its sister games, potentially bringing fresh perspectives and resources to these beloved titles under Scopely’s management.
Why the transition from Niantic to Scopely matters.
Ed Wu, the head of Pokémon GO at Niantic, assured players that the game’s transition to Scopely ownership will be a positive step for its future. He emphasized that the development team will remain intact and continue working on the game, ensuring continuity and quality. Wu expressed confidence in Scopely’s shared passion for the community and commitment to enhancing the game experience for years to come
To the @PokemonGoApp, @PikminBloom, and @MH_Now_EN communities: We deeply admire what you’ve built. These will remain the games you know and love, and we’re here to support them for the long run. Read our message to the vibrant community of players here 👉… pic.twitter.com/WKnM8oJs5I
— Scopely (@scopely) March 12, 2025
Scopely, renowned for its highly successful mobile games, has recently acquired Niantic’s gaming division, including the immensely popular Pokémon GO. This acquisition, valued at $3.5 billion, brings several beloved titles under Scopely’s umbrella, such as Pikmin Bloom and Monster Hunter Now.
The deal aligns with Scopely’s strategy of creating and supporting long-term, community-driven games. Pokémon GO, which has maintained over 20 million weekly active players and remained a top 10 mobile title since its 2016 launch, fits perfectly into this vision.
Scopely, now the second-biggest mobile game developer globally in terms of revenue, has a track record of success with titles like MONOPOLY GO!, which generated $1 billion in just seven months. The company’s expertise in engaging and retaining players, combined with Niantic’s innovative location-based gaming technology, promises an exciting future for these acquired titles.
This acquisition further solidifies Scopely’s position in the mobile gaming market, adding to its portfolio of successful games like Star Trek Fleet Command, The Walking Dead: Road to Survival, and Stumble Guys.
Today we’re announcing changes at Niantic that will set us on a bold new course. We have reached an agreement for Scopely to acquire Pokémon GO, Pikmin Bloom, Monster Hunter Now, and the incredible teams working on these experiences. And we’re spinning off our pioneering…
— Niantic (@NianticLabs) March 12, 2025
As Niantic shifts its focus, it will retain control of its geospatial AI division, now operating under the name Niantic Spatial Inc. This newly formed company will concentrate on advancing technologies in augmented reality (AR), artificial intelligence (AI), and mapping for industries such as logistics, construction, and entertainment. With $250 million in funding, Niantic Spatial aims to pioneer innovations in spatial intelligence, pushing the boundaries of AR applications beyond gaming
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