Tag: Pokémon GO

  • Pokemon Go Developer Sold to Saudi-Owned Scopely

    Pokemon Go Developer Sold to Saudi-Owned Scopely

    Key Takeaways

    1. Niantic is selling its video game division to Scopely for $3.5 billion.
    2. CEO John Hanke believes the deal will ensure ongoing support for Niantic’s games.
    3. The agreement includes rights to popular games like Pokémon Go and Pikmin Bloom, along with Niantic’s development team.
    4. Despite challenges, Niantic generated $1 billion in revenue last year.
    5. The sale is pending approval from regulatory bodies.

    Niantic is getting ready to cash in.

    The company known for Pokémon Go and various augmented reality (AR) games, many of which are based on established video game franchises, has announced a deal to transfer its video game division to Scopely, a mobile app developer located in Saudi Arabia. The transaction is valued at a whopping $3.5 billion. This potential sale had been hinted at weeks ago but has now been officially confirmed.

    CEO’s Insight on the Future

    John Hanke, Niantic’s CEO, shared his thoughts about the agreement:

    “Our games have always served as a way to bring folks together and spark a sense of adventure, and I truly believe they will keep doing just that under Scopely’s wing. This collaboration is a win for our players and offers the best path to ensure our games receive the ongoing support and funding they need to be ‘forever games’ that last for future players.”

    What’s Included in the Deal

    Along with the rights to Niantic’s popular games, which comprise Pokémon Go, Pikmin Bloom, and Monster Hunter Now, Scopely will integrate Niantic’s development team into its own staff.

    Pokémon Go had a strong start but has faced challenges in staying relevant over the years. Niantic attempted to replicate its success with AR games based on other video game franchises, but none matched the massive appeal of Pokémon Go. However, Niantic still appears to be doing well financially; Scopely reported that Niantic generated $1 billion in revenue last year.

    Regulatory Approval Needed

    The sale of Niantic is still pending approval from regulatory bodies.

    Source:
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  • Niantic May Sell Pokémon Go Division for $3.5 Billion

    Niantic May Sell Pokémon Go Division for $3.5 Billion

    Key Takeaways

    1. Pokémon Go reached over 147 million monthly active users by May 2018 and achieved one billion downloads by 2019.
    2. The game generated more than $6 billion in revenue for Niantic by 2020.
    3. Niantic is rumored to be negotiating a sale of its video game division to Scopely for at least $3.5 billion.
    4. Scopely was acquired by Savvy Games Group in April 2023 for $4.9 billion and has a portfolio of popular games.
    5. Pokémon Go Plus+ is a Bluetooth device that tracks sleep and performs functions like spinning PokéStops and throwing Poké Balls, currently priced at $61.92 on Amazon.

    Released in July 2016, Pokémon Go quickly gained popularity, reaching over 147 million monthly active users by May 2018. Less than a year after that, it achieved a remarkable milestone of one billion downloads worldwide. By 2020, this augmented reality sensation had generated more than $6 billion in revenue for its publisher, Niantic. Now, there are rumors that Niantic might sell its video game division to Saudi-owned Scopely, with a hefty price tag of at least $3.5 billion.

    Ongoing Negotiations

    Sources close to Niantic, who chose to remain anonymous, shared with Bloomberg that discussions about the sale are still in progress. They mentioned that Pokémon Go will likely be part of the acquisition, but did not provide any details on Niantic’s other successful augmented reality game, Ingress. Launched in late 2013, Ingress celebrated reaching 20 million downloads by November 2018. Once the deal gets final approval, it will be made public, though this process is expected to take a few weeks.

    Scopely’s Recent Acquisitions

    The company looking to buy Niantic, Scopely, was itself acquired by Savvy Games Group in April 2023 for $4.9 billion. Prior to that, Savvy Games Group had purchased ESL and FACEIT in 2022, with those deals totaling around $1.5 billion. Scopely’s portfolio includes popular titles such as Monopoly Go, The Walking Dead: Road to Survival, and Marvel Strike Force, among others.

    Pokémon Go Plus+

    Besides being a standalone mobile game, Pokémon Go has also led to the creation of the Pokémon Go Plus+, a Bluetooth device designed to track sleep. Its main functions, however, are to automatically spin PokéStops and throw Poké Balls. This device is currently available on Amazon for $61.92.

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  • PoGoskill Introduces GPS Spoofing for Pokémon GO on iOS 18

    PoGoskill Introduces GPS Spoofing for Pokémon GO on iOS 18

    PoGoskill has introduced GPS location spoofing for Pokémon GO on iOS 18 through the launch of PoGoskill Location Changer version 2.10.0. This app allows users to simulate movement around the globe, making it easier for gamers who prefer not to do the physical walking required to catch all those virtual Pokémon.

    New Features and Updates

    In addition to compatibility with the latest operating system and a more user-friendly interface, the PoGoskill Location Changer now includes several new features. Gamers can set routes for auto-walking in Pokémon GO by designating starting and stopping points, with the option to add waypoints in between. Once the player sets their waypoints and adjusts their walking speed, PoGoskill automatically moves the player’s location across the game world, saving time and allowing players to engage in other activities while their virtual character travels.

    Exclusive Features for Taiwan Users

    Currently, a unique feature is available exclusively for users in Taiwan. This allows players to view and accept all available Field Research rewards and tasks simultaneously. This makes the process of achieving Research Breakthroughs much easier, helping players encounter more desirable Pokémon with less hassle.

    More Than Just Pokémon GO

    Besides its capabilities in Pokémon GO, PoGoskill also allows users to spoof their location in various other applications, including social media, navigation, mapping, and even dating apps. The software is compatible with Windows and Mac computers, along with Android and Apple smartphones. Pricing for PoGoskill on iOS is set at $14.99 for a one-month subscription, $39.99 for three months, $79.99 for a full year, and a lifetime license is priced at $99.99.

    For gamers who enjoy catching Pokémon in real life, the Pokémon Go Plus wristband can help make the process easier and is available for purchase on Amazon.

    PoGoskill, PoGoskill press release, and PoGoskill on YouTube have more information.

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  • Pokémon GO Unveils New Characters and Festive Activities in Winter Event

    Pokémon GO Unveils New Characters and Festive Activities in Winter Event

    Pokémon GO Winter Holiday Part 1 Event: An Enchanting Celebration

    With the onset of December’s frosty embrace, Pokémon GO is gearing up for an exhilarating Winter Holiday Part 1 festivity. This year’s event vows to infuse a touch of extra enchantment into the holiday air by introducing the endearing Cetoddle and its evolution, Cetitan, into the Pokémon realm. Spanning from December 18 to December 25, this event is positioned to enchant both seasoned veterans and fresh-faced players alike.

    Reviving Past Players

    More than just a mere game, Pokémon GO has evolved into a global sensation seamlessly melding the virtual and tangible realms. It beckons players to venture out, exploring their surroundings in quest of Pokémon, forging a sense of camaraderie and offering a motive to step outdoors and socialize. The Winter Holiday Part 1 event aims to lure back erstwhile players, inviting them to revisit the game and relish the jubilation of this festive period.

    Embracing Season 13: Enduring Journeys

    The current event harmonizes with Pokémon GO’s ongoing Season 13: Timeless Travels, highlighting Hisuian Pokémon. Trainers can anticipate encounters not only with Cetoddle and Cetitan but also with Hisuian Samurott and Wrydeer, heightening the thrill of this winter revelry. While the much-anticipated Pokémon GO Tour featuring Sinnoh Pokémon looms on the horizon, the Winter Holiday Part 1 event acts as an ideal interim source of excitement.

    A Jovial Roster

    What distinguishes this event is not solely the debut of new Pokémon but also the injection of a festive atmosphere into the gameplay. Pikachu and Raichu will don holiday garb, spreading merriment with each interaction. Ice-themed Pokémon like Alolan Sandshrew, Seel, and Galarian Darumaka will frequent the wild, alongside festive renditions of Eevee, Stantler, and Spheal. The revelries extend to raids too, with themed Pokémon gracing one-star and three-star raids.

    Options and Bonuses

    Beyond capturing Pokémon, the Winter Holiday Part 1 event proffers trainers with choices and rewards. Timed Research empowers players to cherry-pick their desired perks, whether that’s double XP or Stardust. Field Research assignments offer encounters with wintry Pokémon and dole out Mega Energy for Mega Abomasnow and Mega Glalie. Additionally, two premium tickets are up for grabs, each furnishing supplementary rewards that enrich the overall holiday experience.

    A Flourishing Universe

    The recent elevation in storage capacity for items and Pokémon unveiled this December underscores the game’s continuous expansion. It showcases the developers’ dedication to delivering a gratifying experience for players and catering to their evolving requisites. The concluding Community Day for the year, featuring Pokémon from previous events, pays homage to the game’s storied heritage and ardent fan base. As trainers worldwide unite in jubilation, Pokémon GO reaffirms why it perseveres as a cherished component of many individuals’ lives.

    The Pokémon GO Winter Holiday Part 1 event is poised to unfold as a jubilant spectacle, bestowing joy and exhilaration upon enthusiasts of all ages. With fresh Pokémon, festive encounters, and gratifying exploits, this event stands out as a must-attend affair for any Pokémon aficionado. So wrap up warmly, clutch your phone, and brace yourself for a winter escapade unlike any other!

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