In a move that has both excited and concerned fans, Niantic has announced its decision to sell its game development division, which includes the wildly popular Pokémon Go, to Scopely for a staggering $3.5 billion. As this transfer of ownership looms, players have been understandably anxious about what changes might be in store for a game that has united millions worldwide.
Senior product director Michael Steranka has taken to various media outlets, including Polygon, to reassure the loyal Pokémon Go community. In an interview dated March 19, 2025, Steranka emphatically stated that there will be no intrusive features introduced to the game under Scopely’s guidance. Specifically addressing concerns about disruptive advertising or gameplay restrictions meant to encourage spending, he declared, "If there’s one takeaway that I would love for people to have from this conversation, it’s that definitively no, that is not happening in Pokémon Go — not now, not ever."
This promise appears to stem from Scopely’s understanding of what has made Pokémon Go successful over the years. With Steranka having spent eight years with the game, he conveys not just authority but a deep commitment to its core gameplay experience, earning the trust of players who have dedicated their time and resources to the hunt for Pokémon in the real world.
In the wake of inevitable concerns regarding data privacy in a landscape increasingly riddled with digital controversies, Steranka has again offered reassurance. He insisted that the location data collected is not sold to third parties, emphasizing, "We do not sell player data to third parties, full stop." He elaborated that any data necessary for game operation is stored securely on U.S.-based servers. This commitment to player data protection plays a crucial role in addressing fears of exploitation under new ownership.
The acquisition not only includes Pokémon Go but also covers Scopely’s management of other popular games like Pikmin Bloom and Monster Hunter Now. Scopely has expressed considerable admiration for the remarkable audience that these titles have garnered, underscoring their desire to sustain the unique elements that have contributed to their successes. Steranka noted, "Scopely recognizes how unique Pokémon Go is, and they’ve told us themselves that they would be foolish to try to change the recipe of what’s made this such a huge hit and a success.”
Adding a bit more context, Niantic plans to continue its focus on augmented reality games post-sale. The company will also separate its location-based business, creating a new entity, Niantic Spatial Inc., helmed by founder John Hanke. This spin-off reflects a strategic decision to streamline operations allowing for dedicated attention on specific projects.
As they approach its ten-year anniversary in 2026, Pokémon Go boasts a staggering 20 million weekly active players, each averaging around 40 minutes of gameplay per day. Fans of the franchise eagerly anticipate new updates and events, hoping they will continue to foster the spirit of exploration and community that has been central to the game from its inception.
With such sweeping changes on the horizon, the statements from Steranka provide a glimpse into the future players can expect. His focus on preserving the game's integrity amidst significant ownership changes should alleviate player worries surrounding the integration of Scopely’s business practices. As they navigate this pivotal moment, the harmonious relationship between Scopely and Niantic is expected to prioritize the community's best interests.
Ultimately, the Pokémon Go experience appears set to evolve while remaining true to its roots, with reassurances from key figures suggesting continuity rather than upheaval. With the support from The Pokémon Company backing this new chapter, fans can hold onto hope that their beloved game, which revitalized mobile gaming upon its release, will continue to inspire countless adventures for years to come.
