The Public Investment Fund (PIF) of Saudi Arabia is set to acquire the gaming division of Niantic, creators of the globally successful mobile game Pokémon Go, for a staggering $3.5 billion. This acquisition includes not only the flagship title but also other games developed by Niantic, such as Monster Hunter Now and Pikmin Bloom, along with the talented team behind them. The deal highlights Saudi Arabia’s ambitious strategy to bolster its presence in the gaming sector, where it has already invested billions over recent years. With this move, the nation aims to strengthen its position in both gaming development and competitive eSports arenas.

This significant transaction positions Scopely Inc., which was acquired by PIF subsidiary Savvy Games Group in 2023, as a central player in the mobile gaming landscape. Scopely, known for its hit game Monopoly Go, adds another prominent name to its portfolio through this acquisition. Pokémon Go, despite launching nearly a decade ago, remains one of the highest-grossing mobile games globally, attracting 30 million players monthly. The game leverages augmented reality technology to create an immersive experience where users physically explore their surroundings to capture digital creatures.

Ed Wu, the leader of the Pokémon Go team at Niantic, expressed optimism about the future direction of the game. In a blog post, he emphasized that while the essence of Pokémon Go will remain consistent, the creative process driving its evolution will stay unchanged. Wu described the game as more than just entertainment; it represents his life’s work. He envisions opportunities to further enhance the user experience.

Beyond this acquisition, Saudi Arabia continues to expand its influence within the gaming industry. PIF holds stakes in several major publishers, including Nintendo, Electronic Arts, and Take-Two Interactive. Additionally, the country has made strides in eSports by hosting prestigious events like last year’s eSports World Cup, boasting a prize pool exceeding $60 million. Riyadh is scheduled to host the 2027 Olympic eSports Games, underscoring its growing prominence in this field.

This strategic investment aligns with Saudi Arabia’s broader efforts under Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to diversify its economy away from oil dependency. By channeling substantial resources into sectors like sports and gaming, the nation seeks to establish itself as a global hub for these industries. While controversies persist regarding human rights issues, Saudi Arabia remains resolute in denying any wrongdoing and advancing its vision for technological and cultural leadership.

Through this acquisition, Saudi Arabia solidifies its role as a key player in the gaming world. The integration of Niantic’s gaming division into Scopely promises to amplify innovation and growth in mobile gaming. As Saudi Arabia continues to invest heavily in high-profile ventures across various domains, its impact on shaping the future of gaming and beyond becomes increasingly evident.