Scopely Has Bought Pokémon GO From Niantic – What Happens Next?

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Back in 2016, there was a popular mobile game called Pokémon GO that became available worldwide. By utilizing advanced augmented reality (AR) technology and the extensive Pokémon universe, the app aimed to provide an engaging experience where players could not only capture Pokémon but also interact with other users in the real world.

Currently, one of the most widely played mobile games globally is Pokémon GO, boasting a substantial user base of more than 100 million players monthly, as reported by Dexerto. The game remains vibrant due to consistent updates. In essence, it’s a highly successful example of a live-service game.

It came as quite a shock to numerous players when it was revealed that popular games like Pokémon GO, along with other Niantic titles such as Pikmin Bloom and Monster Hunter Now, would be transitioning from Niantic’s control to Scopely. This transfer is part of a massive deal, and the US-based developers behind games like Monopoly Go and Stumble Guys will now be responsible for these titles.

Today, we’re unveiling significant shifts at Niantic, paving the way for a daring new journey. We’ve struck a deal where Scopely will take over Pokemon GO, Pikmin Bloom, Monster Hunter Now, and the exceptional teams responsible for crafting these experiences. Additionally, we’re launching an independent entity to continue our trailblazing work in augmented reality.

— Niantic (@NianticLabs) March 12, 2025

So, now that we’ve discussed it, what will happen in the game next?” This version maintains the original meaning while using more natural and conversational language.

What Will Happen to Pokémon GO Now That It Has Been Acquired By Scopely?

Ed Wu, Senior Vice President of Pokémon GO, shared his thoughts on the game’s future trajectory shortly after the announcement. In his statement, he referred to this move as a “constructive stride” and expressed that Scopely is committed to carrying forward their goal of delivering an exceptional Pokémon GO experience for all players.

Additionally, Wu emphasized to the gamers that the entire Pokémon GO team would remain united during this collaboration. He clarified:

The same people who have been guiding and building the game for years will continue doing what we love. We’re always continually adding to the game – Raid Battles, friends, GO Battle League, Routes, Dynamax/Gigantamax, and, of course, Pokémon GO Fest and our live events – which I look forward to continuing to do for many years to come.

According to Niantic, their game development team has ambitious long-term plans that they will keep expanding within the framework of Scopely.

From a player’s perspective, it seems like the Pokémon GO game will continue much as it always has, with no significant modifications to its core structure or gameplay planned in the near term.

Although these comforting statements are made, some gamers continue to express doubts about the game’s ad strategy. Numerous players have shared their worries on various platforms, fearing that Pokémon GO may incorporate more regular in-app advertisements, much like Scopely’s other mobile games.

What Will Happen To Players’ Pokémon GO Accounts and In-Game Progress?

Indeed, you may have questions about the future of your accounts with the transition of Pokémon GO to Scopely from Niantic. Rest assured, your player accounts will not be deleted or affected in any way during this change. Moreover, the progress you’ve made within the game will remain intact.

It bears repeating that nothing will affect the player experience during this transition period.

Regarding Niantic’s future endeavors, they are delving deeper into the field of geospatial artificial intelligence by establishing a new company, named Niantic Spatial Inc. Their goal is to construct “intelligence for space” that assists people in gaining a clearer perspective, moving more effectively, and interacting more meaningfully with the real world around them.

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2025-03-13 18:31