Scopely, the Studio Behind Monopoly GO, Is Acquiring Pokémon GO Developer Niantic

Scopely's acquisition of Niantic, a deal valued at $3.5 billion, unites some of the biggest names in augmented reality gaming under one roof. This means popular titles like Pokémon GO, Pikmin Bloom, and Monster Hunter Now are now part of the Scopely family.

Pokémon GO, despite its longevity (nearly a decade!), continues to dominate, boasting over 100 million unique players in 2024 alone and consistently ranking among the top 10 mobile games since its 2016 launch.

Pikmin Bloom, a 2021 collaboration with Nintendo, also saw a significant surge in popularity in 2024. Players logged an astounding 3.94 trillion steps, and in-person events across Japan, the U.S., and Germany drew thousands of enthusiastic participants.

Niantic's newest addition, Monster Hunter Now, launched in September 2023 and has already surpassed 15 million downloads. The acquisition also includes Niantic's development teams and companion apps, Campfire and Wayfarer. Campfire facilitates real-world gameplay connections, while Wayfarer allows players to contribute new locations for Niantic games—over 11.5 million since its 2019 launch, with over six million players using Campfire for in-person events in 2024 alone.

What Does This Mean for Players?

For players, the immediate impact is minimal. Scopely's existing portfolio, which includes successful games like MONOPOLY GO!, Stumble Guys, Star Trek Fleet Command, and MARVEL Strike Force, suggests a commitment to continued success for Niantic's titles. Scopely has pledged increased resources for development and hinted at exciting new AR experiences for Niantic games. The future holds the potential for innovative enhancements.

Don't miss Pokémon GO's Festival of Colors, available now on the Google Play Store. And for more gaming news, check out our coverage of KartRider Rush+'s Season 31, featuring a "Journey to the West" theme.