Scopely has announced a strategic investment in Studio Auknow, a new mobile game developer founded by the former director of Uma Musume: Pretty Derby.
The investment forms part of Scopely's long-term push into the Japanese market. The company, which is owned by Saudi Arabia's Savvy Games Group, said it will offer multifaceted support to the studio.
Studio Auknow was established by Takuma Akitsu, who directed Uma Musume: Pretty Derby until 2024. Other team members have worked on titles including Pokémon Pocket, Onmyoji, Final Fantasy VII Rebirth and Sonic World Adventure.
The studio is currently developing a new mobile IP and is recruiting for multiple roles. This move follows Scopely's acquisition of Niantic for $3.5 billion in 2025.