Savvy Games Group in Talks to Buy MOONTON Games

ByteDance is currently in advanced negotiations to sell its gaming studio, MOONTON Games, to Savvy Games Group. The potential acquisition, valued between $6 billion and $7 billion, is expected to be finalized within the first quarter of 2026. This move aligns with ByteDance’s ongoing efforts to restructure its gaming division, a process that began in 2023 following an internal review of its business operations.

MOONTON Games is primarily recognized for its development of the popular mobile multiplayer online battle arena (MOBA) title, Mobile Legends: Bang Bang, and its associated global esports ecosystem. The acquisition would represent a significant expansion for Savvy Games Group, a subsidiary of the Saudi Arabian government’s Public Investment Fund (PIF). Savvy Games Group already maintains a substantial portfolio in the gaming and esports sectors, including ownership of SNK Corporation, the ESL FACEIT Group, and Scopely, alongside various minority investments in major industry players like Nintendo and Ubisoft.

The reporting relies on industry sources and reflects the broader trend of consolidation within the global gaming market. While the companies involved have declined to comment on the specific terms of the deal, the transaction highlights the continued aggressive investment strategy of the Saudi Arabian government in the international gaming industry. Critics have frequently characterized these investments as a form of sports washing, noting concerns regarding the government's human rights record.