Saudi Arabia Looks To Extend Death Grip Over Game Industry With New $6 Billion Acquisition
Kotaku
by Ethan GachFebruary 14, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Saudi Arabia's strategic move to strengthen its presence in the global gaming industry has taken a significant step forward with a new $6 billion acquisition. The deal involves ByteDance, the Chinese tech giant behind TikTok, which is reportedly considering selling Moonton, the developer of the wildly popular mobile game *Mobile Legends: Bang Bang*, to Savvy Games Group. This move underscores Saudi Arabia's growing influence in the gaming sector as part of its broader Vision 2030 plan to diversify its economy and position itself as a key player in entertainment and technology.
The acquisition highlights the increasing importance of mobile gaming, particularly in emerging markets where *Mobile Legends* has become a cultural phenomenon. With over 1 billion active players globally, the game's success positions it as one of the most valuable assets in the gaming industry. ByteDance's potential sale to Savvy Games, which is backed by Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF), signals a shift in the industry landscape, with state-backed investments playing a more prominent role.
For gamers and enthusiasts, this deal could mean further innovation and global expansion for *Mobile Legends*. The financial backing from Saudi Arabia may also pave the way for enhanced game features, new partnerships, and increased accessibility. Additionally, the move aligns with growing trends of national investment in gaming, as governments recognize its economic potential and cultural influence. This strategic acquisition not only boosts Saudi Arabia's position in the gaming industry but also sets a precedent for other nations looking to leverage this lucrative sector for growth and innovation.
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Originally published on Kotaku on 2/14/2026