Introduction: A Major Shift in Pokémon Go’s Ownership

Earlier this year, Niantic announced the sale of its mobile gaming portfolio, including Pokémon Go, to Scopely, the company behind Monopoly Go, for a hefty $3.5 billion. This move sparked a spectrum of reactions among dedicated players—some saw it as a chance for the game to shed Niantic’s AR-heavy focus, while others worried about increased monetization and external influences.

Continuity Amid Change: What Has Remained the Same

During a recent interview at the Pokémon Go Fest 2025 in Paris, Pokémon Go’s director Michael Steranka explained that, despite the ownership change, the game’s day-to-day operations have remained largely unaffected. The team has moved into a new office just a block away, making the transition smooth and seamless.

“It’s been business as usual,” Steranka emphasized. “We continue to run in-game events, release new Pokémon, and organize large physical gatherings like Go Fest 2025 and the upcoming Pokémon Go Road Trip 2025 series, which will start in the UK and conclude in Cologne this August.”

He also highlighted that the acquisition process was completed during Osaka Go Fest, ensuring minimal disruption. The team’s leadership and development structure largely stayed intact, with key figures like Ed Woo still overseeing operations within Scopely.

What Will Change? A Focus Shift Away from Augmented Reality

One of the most notable anticipated changes concerns the game’s focus on augmented reality (AR). Steranka acknowledged that AR features have not always resonated with players, and moving forward, any future AR integrations will be carefully considered based on their potential for fun and engagement.

• The emphasis on AR is expected to decrease.
• New AR features will only be introduced if they genuinely enhance the player experience.

Unlike Niantic, a company primarily invested in AR and real-world technology, Scopely is a dedicated gaming publisher. Steranka describes this shift as a “breath of fresh air,” providing the Pokémon Go team with more focus and flexibility to develop content aligned with player interests without the pressure of pushing AR technology at all costs.

Roadmap and Future Content Plans

Despite recent additions like the Lucky Trinket and the upcoming Golden Bottle Cap—priced around $20—Steranka reassures players that these updates are part of a pre-planned roadmap, not reactions to ownership changes. The team already has plans laid out for the next two years, with ongoing feature updates and new event series.

“We’ve been working on these features for a while, and Scopely has been very supportive,” Steranka said. “They haven’t interfered with our plans, and we’re excited to roll out more features later this year that players will love.”

Community Sentiment and Trust in the New Ownership

When asked about the community’s perception, Steranka acknowledged that skepticism persists but emphasized the importance of actions over words. Since the acquisition, the team has worked to demonstrate stability and a commitment to the game’s future.

“People who are skeptical will remain so, but we’re focused on proving that this is a positive direction,” he said. “Our actions so far have been encouraging, and I believe that will continue over the coming years.”

Ownership and Company Philosophy: A Focus on Community and Long-Term Growth

One concern often discussed is the influence of Saudi-backed companies like Savvy Games, which owns Scopely. Steranka addressed this directly, explaining that the Pokémon Go team operates independently with minimal direct engagement with Savvy. The company’s internal philosophy centers around community building, face-to-face interactions, and long-term development rather than quarterly shareholder pressures.

“The team is rarely involved with Savvy directly,” he clarified. “Instead, the focus remains on investing in the game’s growth and supporting our community-first approach. This independence allows us to prioritize the long-term health of Pokémon Go without external pressures.”

What About High-Profile Crossovers? Not in Pokémon Go’s Vibe

Steranka also commented on recent trends, such as the inclusion of football star Cristiano Ronaldo in other Saudi-backed games, like Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves. When asked if similar collaborations might happen in Pokémon Go, he was clear:

“That’s not our vibe,” Steranka said with a smile. “There won’t be any Ronaldo appearances in Pokémon Go. We prefer to keep the game’s focus on its core experience and community.”

Conclusion: Steady Progress with a Bright Outlook

While community members may remain cautious, Steranka’s outlook suggests that Pokémon Go’s new chapter under Scopely’s ownership will prioritize stability, meaningful content updates, and a focus on player enjoyment. With the backing of a dedicated gaming company and a clear roadmap, fans can look forward to continued growth and innovation in the beloved mobile game.

Alex Hunter

Alex is a passionate gamer with over a decade of experience exploring everything from AAA blockbusters to indie gems. He specializes in uncovering hidden secrets, mastering complex mechanics, and creating in-depth walkthroughs. Whether it’s a challenging boss fight or a puzzling questline, Alex breaks it all down in a way that’s fun, clear, and engaging for readers of all levels.