Pokémon Go will be sold to Saudi-backed Monopoly Go maker Scopely as part of a $3.5bn deal, developer Niantic has confirmed.
Word that a deal was in the offing was first reported last month. As expected, the sale includes Niantic’s entire third-party games business, which also includes Monster Hunter Now and Pikmin Bloom.
“Few games in the world have delivered the scale and longevity of Pokémon Go, which reached over 100 million players just last year,” said Tim O’Brien, Scopely’s chief revenue officer.
“The experience also stands apart for its unique ability to foster in-person connections, with Pokémon Go live events attracting millions of attendees. After spending time with the Niantic team, it quickly became clear that this organisation shares our inclination to create industry-leading outcomes and exceptional player experiences. We look forward to a bright future ahead.”