In a surprising move, Niantic has announced that Pokémon GO will be joining Scopely, a mobile game developer and publisher known for titles like Marvel Strike Force and Star Trek Fleet Command. The news was shared by Ed Wu, the head of Pokémon GO at Niantic, who reassured players that the game’s future remains bright under this new partnership.
Why Is Pokémon GO Moving to Scopely?
Ed Wu emphasized that Pokémon GO is more than just a game—it’s his life’s work. Having been with Niantic since 2012 and a key engineer in Pokémon GO’s development, Wu expressed confidence that this transition will allow the game to thrive well into its second decade and beyond.
Scopely reportedly shares a deep admiration for the Pokémon GO community and Niantic’s vision, and Wu believes that the move will bring fresh resources while keeping the core development team intact. The game’s partnership with The Pokémon Company will also remain unchanged, ensuring that Pokémon GO continues to evolve alongside the franchise.
What Changes for Players?
Wu assured players that Pokémon GO’s gameplay, events, and roadmap will remain in the hands of the same team. The transition to Scopely is intended to provide more support and autonomy to the developers, allowing them to improve the game without corporate interference.
- Live events, such as Pokémon GO Fest, will continue.
- New features and content will still be introduced, with Scopely investing in the game’s long-term growth.
- The community-driven aspects of Pokémon GO, including Ambassadors and local meetups, will remain a priority.
A Turning Point for Pokémon GO?
While some players may be concerned about the transition, Niantic reassures the community that Scopely’s focus on gaming will allow Pokémon GO to expand further. Unlike Niantic, which has experimented with multiple AR projects, Scopely is dedicated solely to gaming, which could mean a stronger focus on Pokémon GO’s future development.
Wu acknowledged that Pokémon GO is constantly evolving and promised that the core experience of exploring the real world and discovering Pokémon will remain unchanged. The game’s future will still be shaped by the developers, The Pokémon Company, and its passionate player base.
Final Thoughts
As Pokémon GO enters a new era with Scopely, many questions remain about what this transition will mean for the game in the long run. For now, Niantic assures players that Pokémon GO is in safe hands and will continue to grow, improve, and bring Trainers together for years to come.
