Gaming1

Gaming and sports betting operator Gaming1 has boosted its c-level ranks with the appointment of Stars Group marketing veteran David Carrion as its chief marketing officer.

Selected for his data-driven skills and approach, the role will see Carrion tasked with building upon the international awareness of the firm’s brand name, as well as taking the helm at Gaming1’s data science team.

Sylvain Boniver, Gaming1 COO & co-founder, explained: “On behalf of everyone here at Gaming1, I’d like to wish David the warmest of welcomes. A world-class addition to our team, his appointment forms part of a recruitment drive aimed at accelerating our continued international expansion into crucial markets such as the US.

“We are a data-obsessed company so with David’s precise, data-driven approach, as well as a remarkable skillset and experience portfolio, he’s perfectly placed to help take our brand to the next level.”

Rivers Casino Philadelphia

Rivers Casino Philadelphia, which recently celebrated 10 years on Delaware Avenue, has named Las Vegas gaming and hospitality executive Eric Fitzgerald as general manager, pending approval by the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board.

Most recently Fitzgerald served as president and COO of Excalibur Hotel & Casino, which boasts 3,900 hotel rooms and 3,000 employees, following a period as Circus Circus Hotel & Casino president and COO, and a near-decade run as senior VP of operations for Luxor/Excalibur Hotel & Casino.

“Eric’s experience in running large-scale, multifaceted destination properties in Vegas provides the perfect runway for landing at Rivers Casino in Philly,” said Greg Carlin, CEO of Rush Street Gaming.

“He has a track record of growing customer loyalty in highly competitive markets, under challenging market conditions.”

Crucial Compliance

Responsible gaming and AML experts Crucial Compliance has announced the appointment of Andy Masters as partner and chief operating officer.

Masters’ initial responsibility is to advance the professional services and software development team by bringing together experts in their fields. He will drive compliance management solutions; building a suite of products to match the global ambitions of the company.

Paul Foster, managing director of Crucial Compliance, commented: “We are very proud to welcome Masters as both a partner and fellow Board member to help deliver the sustainable but ambitious targets. As COO, he is bringing a depth of knowledge and experience which will help take us to the next level of company growth and development and, crucially, compliments the existing team and client base perfectly.”

WWE

Barstool Sports’ chief executive officer Erika Nardini has been elected to the board of directors of World Wrestling Entertainment.

Nardini was named Barstool Sports’ first CEO in 2016, and since that time the company has experienced tremendous brand and business growth as one of the fastest-growing lifestyle brands on the internet, generating hundreds of millions of dollars in revenue.

During her tenure at the company, Nardini has launched more than 35 brands, including breakout franchises in sports, entertainment, female lifestyle, business and sports betting.

“Erika is a seasoned executive with a tremendous track record of building businesses, developing experiences, and engaging different audiences across the media ecosystem,” said Vince McMahon, WWE chairman and CEO.

“Her entrepreneurial spirit, business acumen and understanding of today’s consumers will serve as a perfect addition to our board of directors.”

ESA Gaming

ESA Gaming has confirmed the appointment of Maria Luisa Malfasi as business development manager in a bid to accelerate the company’s next level of growth.

Malfasi has over 15 years experience from the online gambling sector and joins the ESA Gaming team from iSoftBet where she held the role of senior account manager for three years.

In her role, Malfasi will lead ESA Gaming’s commercial efforts and pursue strategic opportunities by fostering new partnerships and identifying new markets.

Zorica Smallwood, Director at ESA Gaming, added: “We are thrilled to welcome Maria Luisa to the ESA Gaming family. She has a wealth of knowledge of the industry and will be an invaluable addition to our team as we continue our commercial expansion in a number of jurisdictions.”

The post Part 44 | On the move: Recruitment round-up appeared first on CasinoBeats.

Amber Gaming

Multi-jurisdictional gaming compliance consultancy Amber Gaming has strengthened its international team with the appointment of Shaun Parmar as business development manager.

Parmar will be based in Amber Gaming’s Malta office and will be responsible for driving awareness and growth of the firm’s licensing, regulatory compliance, corporate services, accounting and training solutions.

Ted Pepper, managing director of Amber Gaming, said: “I am delighted to welcome Shaun to the team; he has a real enthusiasm and talent for connecting client’s needs and aspirations with the solutions that can help them.

“Our simple but powerful range of products and services help organisations protect their players, their staff and their bottom lines by ensuring compliance. Shaun will be key to helping prospective clients find that balance at which compliance and commercial benefit perfectly align.”

ESA Gaming

Games provider ESA Gaming has significantly bolstered its team by adding six new staff as the group aims to fuel a further period of growth.

With a wide-ranging upscale of its personnel, the supplier has hired a product owner, two senior developers, a QA engineer, as well as two members of the burgeoning support and account management team dedicated to the regulated markets in Latin America.

Zorica Smallwood, director at ESA Gaming, commented: “We are delighted to welcome six new members to the ESA Gaming team. With a diverse array of appointments, we are clearly stating our intent to grow rapidly.

“The new hires highlight the impressive period we have had recently, with the launch of our EasySwipe offering as well as continued commercial growth in a number of jurisdictions across the globe, as it remains an exciting time at ESA Gaming.”

Bluberi

Bluberi has appointed Casey Whalen as chief commercial officer to lead expansion and drive growth in market share across North America, becoming the first executive hire since CEO Andrew Burke joined the company at the turn of the year.

Whalen joins Bluberi with more than 15 years of gaming and sales experience, having most recently served as the senior vice president for North American Sales at Konami.

In his new role, Whalen will manage all aspects of the commercialisation of new products including sales, marketing, and new market entry. He will also be responsible for developing a high performing commercial team focused on growing Bluberi’s North American footprint.

“With Casey, we are welcoming a proven leader with a breadth of commercial experience that will be invaluable as we launch new products and enter new jurisdictions,” noted Andrew Burke, CEO of Bluberi.

“Casey will be instrumental to our ongoing strategic and operational transformation into a customer focused, culture driven and nimble gaming supplier.”

FSB

Gambling tech provider FSB has strengthened its business development team with the appointment of Russell Colvin as head of retail sales.

Colvin will be responsible for driving sales of FSB’s retail products, including its self service betting terminal and EPoS systems, in regulated markets around the world.

Colvin brings with him over 20 years of experience in sports betting, from both the operator and supplier side, having worked for industry giants such as Coral, Global Draw and Scientific Games along the way.

Dave McDowell, CEO of FSB, stated: “I am thrilled to welcome Russell to the team and for us to leverage his knowledge and experience as we continue to drive our retail product forwards.”

“Our retail products are market leading and Russell will play a key role in ensuring operators are aware of what we have to offer and the value we can deliver.”

The post Part 30 | On the move: Recruitment round-up appeared first on CasinoBeats.

Tatiana García Barrenechea, Commercial Director for LatAm at Light & Wonder, Thomas Smallwood, Chief Commercial Officer at ESA Gaming, Izabela Słodkowska-Popiel, Head of Account Management for North America and Latin America at Wazdan, Helena do Couto, Regional Legal Officer LatAm at Eeze, Alvaro Camargo, Country Manager Brazil at Xtremepush, and Thiago Calmon, Online Sales Manager at R. Franco Digital, conclude the latest CasinoBeats roundtable by addressing critical factors to consider to achieve success and issuing a vision as to what the market could ultimately look like.

CasinoBeats: What are the key factors operators need to consider when putting together a profitable offering that appeals to players and bettors and how important is localisation?

Tatiana García: Without a casino-floor heritage, Brazil requires a bespoke approach to content, and it will be intriguing to discover early trends that emerge once the regulated market goes live.

We believe certain game types will appeal to a large segment of players in the country, with crash games being one in particular. They offer quick-fire, unpredictable entertainment that is engaging while also simple to understand for those players who are not acquainted with feature-rich slot experiences.

Our analysis also suggests that video bingo games will be a big hit for operators, along with three-reel slots that are accessible and engaging. 

Thomas Smallwood: Selecting the right local partners is crucial. We pride ourselves on offering our game aggregator system as a localised product, not only in terms the game suppliers we offer but also the experience we can add.

Having relevant themes and popular game types, such as our mine games, which have proved very popular in the past in Brazil can make a significant difference. 

Player loyalty will also be essential in a market where tax impacts operators, suppliers, and players alike. Those operators who adopt innovative cross-selling techniques, like our EasySwipe games accessible through our sportsbook widget, can gain an edge by driving conversion from sports to casino without cannibalising existing revenue streams.

Izabela Słodkowska: To develop a profitable offering in Latin American markets, operators must prioritise player demographics and preferences, tailoring content and promotions for each specific region.

Localisation is essential: adapting to diverse regulations, preferred payment methods, and responsible gaming standards helps foster trust among players. A strong, region-specific approach not only enhances credibility but also boosts long-term growth potential across Latin America.

Helena do Couto: Beyond gathering data from current player behaviour, it’s essential for operators to present themselves to potential players in ways that captivate, connect and build trust.

When comparing Brazil to Europe, its territory covers an area roughly 80% the size of the entire continent. So, although Brazil is just one country, it is crucial for operators to explore the cultural diversity of each region. This approach helps players feel recognised and connected to the operator. 

The Brazilian tendency to bargain for discounts and love of giveaways translates into a market preference for bonus offers. Connection can also be enhanced by integrating the operator’s brand into elements already familiar to players.

Trust will be built on a license to operate in Brazil, clear games rule, and efficient customer service, given the country’s strong consumer protection system. And of course, a portfolio featuring the most popular games among Brazilians, with a dash of new releases.

Alvaro Camargo: This is a good question. While entering the market with a set of services and products that have been successful in other markets is a reasonable strategy, it is also vital to remember that you are dealing with a very specific audience.

You need to understand your customer and the ways that things are run in Brazil. There are local habits and cultural differences that have a big impact on the way customers relate to brands and operators. 

It is also important to understand that Brazilians are impulsive, emotional customers. Well-structured support teams and service levels are required to allow players to make quick deposits, interact and offer real time incentives in a dynamic way, constantly keeping them engaged.

Brazil is also a very visual culture, too. By packaging services attractively, this will help to keep players within an ecosystem.

Thiago Calmon: To succeed in the competitive gaming and betting industry, operators must prioritise a seamless user experience. This involves optimising both website and app interfaces to ensure intuitive navigation and accessibility for all players.

Coupled with this is the importance of offering flexible payment options tailored to local preferences. By accommodating various payment methods that resonate with regional habits, operators can enhance user convenience and build greater trust among their clients.

Localisation within content is also essential; understanding local interests, such as favoured sports and cultural nuances, enables operators to engage effectively with their target audience. Additionally, emphasising responsible gaming practices is crucial in establishing a trustworthy brand.

By promoting a safe and responsible gambling environment, operators not only foster player loyalty but also contribute to the integrity and sustainability of the industry as a whole.

CB: Finally, amid reports that Brazil won’t be quite as lucrative for operators as was first predicted, what is your ideal vision for the future of the regulated market in the country?

TS: My ideal vision for Brazil’s regulated igaming market is one that strikes a sustainable balance for all stakeholders—operators, suppliers, players, and the regulator. For regulators, this shouldn’t just be about blocking unauthorised sites; they also need to create an environment where regulated operators can flourish.

Such an approach would benefit players, maintain industry integrity, and ensure long-term growth. A balanced ecosystem, where regulation doesn’t stifle opportunity, would make Brazil a leading example in LatAm and beyond.

It can also lead to Brazil becoming a hub for companies looking to establish a corporate presence to target the wider LatAm region and to lessen the impact of withholding tax.

IS: The ideal future for Brazil’s regulated market would strive for a balance between fair profitability and sustainable growth.

This includes streamlined licensing processes, moderate tax rates, and flexible payment solutions. Such an environment would encourage investment, enhance market competitiveness, and serve as a benchmark for regulatory practices in Latin America, fostering trust and promoting growth across the region.

HdC: It depends on what was previously forecast as profitable. There is, of course, a difference between the period prior to the regulation and the one that will begin on January 1, 2025, but Brazil will continue to be a major force in the betting sector.

As for my ideal vision, I imagine an industry recognised by everyone for what it is: a form of entertainment. People will understand that regulation – not prohibition – is the best path.

Regulations will be consolidated, discussions about interpreting the rules will be minimised to almost zero, data published by institutions and the media will be accurate, and we’ll be able to focus all our energy on improving the product and player experience.

AC: We have a unique tax structure, so that presents a challenge to companies entering the market. The government has proposed a lot of questions that will affect profitability, but there has to be an understanding that it’s all about scalability.

In the pre-regulated market you had small, profitable operations that did not spend much on marketing and instead went down the route of affiliation. With the new structure in place, the margins that were in play no longer are and that means businesses will need to go big. Otherwise, it will be very difficult to become profitable. 

This is where customer engagement also becomes invaluable, interacting with existing players in the right way. If operators gain highly relevant data about their customers and leverage that effectively, connecting with them effectively at the right times, this can help to extract so much value compared to chasing new players.

TC: In the gambling industry, it’s crucial to understand that although initial profits may not meet expectations, a well-regulated market can bring significant long-term benefits. Establishing a transparent environment protects players and encourages fair competition among operators.

Clear regulations enhance trust, promoting responsible gambling practices and instilling confidence in stakeholders. This transparency attracts investment, as stability and integrity are appealing to investors.

For Brazil, creating a reliable market not only benefits local operators but also enhances its global competitiveness. Supporting innovation through strong regulations will ensure the industry meets consumer expectations while respecting ethical standards, contributing to long-term sustainability and growth in Brazil’s gambling landscape.

TG: Brazil is the biggest country in Latin America and with a population of 250 million people, the potential for our industry to flourish is substantial. It is really important that within the regulated market, players are presented with the widest possible range of content that appeals to every segment.

This will help channelisation efforts, enabling Brazilian operators to deliver entertainment that is fun, wide-ranging and above all, safe and secure. I am optimistic this will be the case once regulations kick into effect early next year.

It’s a very exciting time and we look forward to continuing to work with operators, alongside our commercial and games teams, to ensure that this is a very successful market for Light & Wonder.  

The post What does a perfect Brazilian market comprise? appeared first on CasinoBeats.

In the first of a two-part special, CasinoBeats spoke to Alvaro Camargo, Country Manager Brazil at Xtremepush, Thiago Calmon, Online Sales Manager at R. Franco Digital, Tatiana García Barrenechea, Commercial Director for LatAm at Light & Wonder, Thomas Smallwood, Chief Commercial Officer at ESA Gaming, Izabela Słodkowska-Popiel, Head of Account Management for North America and Latin America at Wazdan, and Helena do Couto, Regional Legal Officer LatAm at Eeze, about the current standing within the country, as well as how critical it is for the continent as a whole that Brazil becomes a raging success.

CasinoBeats: How optimistic are you about the current state of play in the regulated gambling industry in Brazil?

Alvaro Camargo: We are very excited, because we have seen the regulators have understood what is at stake. Many companies were concerned about whether the regulations being put in place would be attractive, but there has been a significant movement in terms of applications for Brazilian licenses.

There are also many foreign suppliers and operators looking to make a big play in the market, bringing with them major investment and top-level industry expertise. All of this contributes to the raising of the quality within the market, in terms of services, the professional teams involved and ultimately, the customer experience.

Thiago Calmon: I hold an optimistic view on the Brazilian market’s future. There is significant potential for growth, driven by rising interest from both local and international operators. With the regulatory framework launching early next year, a foundation is beginning to form, which is a positive step towards market maturation.

However, it is important to acknowledge that specific challenges must be addressed to facilitate the market’s full development. These hurdles will need strategic navigation to unlock the full advantages of this burgeoning landscape.

Tatiana García: The region’s biggest country embracing regulation is a highly significant event not only in LatAm, but across the entire world of online gaming. The number of licence applications that have been submitted ahead of the market’s launch at the start of next year shows that there is a strong appetite to become actively involved in what is an exciting opportunity.

I expect a wide range of industry stakeholders will want to be heavily involved very early on, including Light & Wonder, supplying the market with the content and services that will help to create a highly entertaining, safe gaming environment.

Thomas Smallwood: I’m cautiously optimistic about Brazil’s regulated gambling market. It’s a promising yet complex space with strong potential. We’ve seen significant growth in recent years, although this has slowed somewhat as regulation approaches. However, in general, it bodes well for content providers as it signals a maturing market.

If the regulatory rollout is smooth and taxation does not stifle the industry, we could see sustained growth and continue attracting international operators and developers keen to tap into this lucrative market.

That said, challenges do remain, such as multiple layers of taxation and uncertainty around how various costs will be shared between operators and suppliers, not to mention the current time constraints around regulation by January 1 this may be delayed in the near future.

Izabela Słodkowska: The outlook for Brazil’s regulated gambling industry is highly optimistic. Recent regulations for online betting and casino games are expected to drive significant growth, potentially reaching a $3b market by 2027.

Although the regulatory landscape poses operational challenges, Brazil’s framework is aligned with the growing trend of responsible gambling in Latin America, making it a promising opportunity for operators looking to invest. 

Helena do Couto: I would say I’m a realistic optimist. Regulation has been necessary for years, and today, we have it in a comprehensive format. However, it is new, and the administrative authority responsible is also new.

While it is certainly composed of competent people, it is still in its first year of operation. We also have some conflicts between state and federal jurisdictions as operators and the entire chain involved are adapting to the rules and conducting tests. 

In other words, we have the theory – the legislation and ordinances – ready. Now, we’re creating practical experience from this theory, adapting operations that previously followed other regulations, such as those from Curaçao. So, the current state is one of intensive learning, but I am certain that this somewhat turbulent adaptation period we’re experiencing has its days numbered.

CB: How vital is it for the continued growth of regulation in Latin American markets for Brazil to be a success story?

TC: Brazil’s success is of paramount importance within the context of Latin America’s regulatory landscape. As the largest market in the region, Brazil has the potential to set a benchmark for other countries to follow. If Brazil can develop an effective regulatory framework, it could pave the way for similar strategies across Latin America.

This would not only drive growth and attract investment, but also contribute to creating a more cohesive and unified regional market. Thus, in my opinion, Brazil’s regulatory journey is essential for fostering a stable and favourable business environment that benefits the entire region.

TG: Brazil is undoubtedly a very important country and its impact after launch will inevitably have a ripple effect across other countries considering putting regulations in place. The balance of a thriving, competitive market with all-important protections for players is one that we believe can act as a model for others to follow. 

At the same time, what operators need to offer players to thrive does not necessarily translate easily across the region. Brazil has not had legal land-based casinos in place in most people’s lifetimes, meaning it is slightly different to many other existing regulated markets across LatAm from a player and content perspective.

We have seen that Argentina, with its land-based casino heritage, has become a success in several regulated regions despite challenging economic circumstances. It is a similar story in Mexico, where that casino heritage has helped our popular, recognisable omnichannel franchises to perform well.  

TS: Brazil is in a prime position to become Latin America’s gambling hub, offering ample opportunities for both domestic and international stakeholders. As the largest economy in the region, with a population exceeding 200 million and a deep-rooted sports culture, Brazil could set a strong precedent for other markets in the region.

Success will depend on a model that balances operator and supplier profitability with robust player protections, making regulated markets more attractive across LatAm. If tax burdens, for instance on player winnings and gaming companies, are carefully managed, the country could become an exemplary case for sustainable growth.

IS: Brazil’s success in establishing a regulated gambling market is critical for the broader regulatory progress in Latin America. It sets a vital precedent for market stability, revenue generation, and responsible gaming practices across the region.

As one of the largest potential markets, Brazil’s effective regulatory framework could encourage neighbouring countries to adopt similar measures, enhancing Latin America’s appeal to international operators and investors.

HdC: Brazil plays a central role in Latin America, and this influence extends beyond the igaming industry. Brazil borders nearly every country in South America, spans continental dimensions, and is the largest economy in LatAm. It acts as the main driver of investment, innovation, and serves as a strategic hub for market expansion and regulatory developments in emerging areas.

Brazil’s success – which is already underway – will inspire other countries on the continent who have not yet regulated the sector to do so and will draw the attention of both local and global investors to a region with clear potential for investment and growth.

AC: While we already have regulated markets across LatAm, the relevance of Brazil in the region cannot be overstated. Once a market of this size goes through the process of creating and rolling out a regulatory model, implementing its policies successfully, it speaks to what is possible for neighbouring countries.

Thanks to strong policies and a layer of built-in protection for the supplier, operator, service provider and customer, Brazil presents a positive outcome that can certainly be emulated elsewhere.

The post Roundtable: is a Brazil success story critical for the whole of Latin America? appeared first on CasinoBeats.

Under the terms of the partnership, Betfair has agreed to host the supplier’s full roster of proprietary slot releases on its Italian online casino platform, in addition to the studio’s portfolio of aggregated content sourced from several supplier partners – the Game Aggregator System. 

Thomas Smallwood, Chief Commercial Officer at ESA Gaming, stated: “Partnering with a major Flutter brand is an exciting moment for us as we further consolidate our position as a leading aggregator and supplier in Italy.

“With a wealth of top-performing content, it’s another milestone deal for us and we look forward to working closely together.”

The deal will see ESA Gaming gain increased visibility for its own slot content in the nation, boosting the Italian presence of slots such as Chicken Bonanza and Santastic 4.

Meanwhile, several other suppliers will also gain exposure in Italy as ESA Gaming’s GAS offering becomes integrated into Betfair’s platform.

The aggregated offering includes titles from over 70 suppliers that have partnered with ESA Gaming, including Leap Gaming and Wazdan. 

ESA Gaming recently joined forces with Blueprint Gaming to strengthen its third-party content offering, adding the studio’s slot in a deal praised as “another important milestone”. 

Smallwood explained: “Blueprint Gaming has a wealth of top-performing slot content, and we’re delighted to add it to our aggregation platform.

“GAS has gone from strength to strength over the last 12 months, and we’re confident that this will be yet another important milestone in its growth as a business vertical for us.”

The post Flutter hands Italian expansion to ESA Gaming appeared first on CasinoBeats.

Novibet players will gain access to games from over 70 providers as a result of the integration, as ESA Gaming’s Game Aggregation System that consists of slots, live dealer experiences and non-traditional titles becomes available to the operator. 

Thomas Smallwood, Chief Commercial Officer at ESA Gaming, stated: “We’re thrilled to deepen our relationship with Novibet and bring even more value to their players through our comprehensive GAS platform.

“By providing access to a wider variety of games from some of the best providers in the industry, we’re confident that this will enrich the gaming experience and drive continued growth for both parties.”

The deal builds on an existing relationship between the supplier and Novibet, having added its proprietary content to the operator’s online casino platform in a previous deal formed in 2023. 

This provided Novibet players with access to games such as Dragon Mine, Goal Mine, and crash game Big Fish Bonanza. 

Following the recent extension, Novibet players will be able to play games provided by ESA Gaming’s network of over 70 supplier partners, including Blueprint Gaming, Leap Gaming and Wazdan.  

Foteini Matthaiou, Casino Product & CRM Director at Novibet, added: “Partnering with ESA Gaming has allowed us to elevate our offering and provide our players with an exceptional selection of titles.

“The integration of their Game Aggregation System is a significant step forward, ensuring that we remain competitive in an ever-evolving market. We look forward to continuing our collaboration and delivering even more engaging experiences to our customers.”

The post Novibet to ‘deliver engaging experiences’ via ESA Gaming’s aggregation hub appeared first on CasinoBeats.

As a result of the deal, online casino operators that have partnered with ESA Gaming will be able to offer their players an array of Blueprint Gaming content, including branded slot releases such as ted, The Goonies and recent release The Flintstones.

Thomas Smallwood, Chief Commercial Officer at ESA Gaming, explained: “Blueprint Gaming has a wealth of top-performing slot content, and we’re delighted to add it to our aggregation platform.

“GAS has gone from strength to strength over the last 12 months, and we’re confident that this will be yet another important milestone in its growth as a business vertical for us.”

The aggregation alliance will also see Blueprint Gaming’s flagship fishing slot series, Fishin’ Frenzy, integrated into the GAS. The platform provides operators with slots and other igaming content from over 60 suppliers. 

Samuel Haggblom, Director of Key Accounts at Blueprint Gaming, added: “We are thrilled to enhance our presence across key regulated markets in Europe with ESA Gaming’s GAS platform.

“Our games are proven to resonate well with players, and expanding our reach through trusted, dependable partners is key for us. We’re confident this will be a valuable two-way partnership.”

The post ESA Gaming gains Blueprint Gaming slots in aggregation move appeared first on CasinoBeats.

Targeting integration in Tanzania, Nigeria, Mozambique, Zambia and Malawi, ESA Gaming has offered Super Group-owned Betway a tranche of online casino content, including proprietary mine and crash games. 

Thomas Smallwood, CCO at ESA Gaming, stated: “Betway is a brand with a large global presence and we’re delighted to expand across Africa with this latest partnership. Our products have been immensely well received across the continent and we look forward to bringing our games to Betway’s player base.”

Betway players across the aforementioned African markets will gain access to an initial assortment of ESA Gaming hits, suggesting that further titles may be added to the partnership as it develops. 

The supplier highlighted that Africa is a ‘key target’ for expansion, with the company expecting its portfolio of ‘lightweight’ titles to become popular due to varying mobile connectivity speeds across the continent. 

Laurence Michel, CEO of Betway in Africa, added: “ESA Gaming’s mobile-friendly portfolio continues to resonate well with players across the continent and we’re very pleased to launch their top-performing titles to our customers in five of our key markets in Africa, further enhancing our offering with unique and popular content that we know our customers will enjoy the experience of playing.”

The post ESA Gaming expects to perform ‘immensely’ with Betway in Africa appeared first on CasinoBeats.

Under the terms of the agreement, ESA Gaming will upload assets such as game sheets, logos, images and videos for each of its online casino titles on the First Look Games platform. 

This, in turn, will allow First Look Games’ network of affiliate partners to host information regarding ESA Gaming’s slot release on their own individual websites. 

Thomas Smallwood, Head of Marketing at ESA Gaming, commented: “As an independent studio, we have the freedom to create truly unique games but driving awareness of our titles can be tough given the stiff competition we face from the industry’s power players.

“This is an important partnership with us, and we look forward to unlocking the full potential of the First Look Games platform as we level up the promotion and marketing of our games.”

While First Look’s affiliates can download game information and assets to create previews and reviews for each ESA Gaming title, they will also be able to use the platform to showcase demo versions of each game, with player verification carried out by 1account. 

The platform aims to ‘generate anticipation and excitement among players’ for each ESA Gaming title as affiliates can gain access to game information up to two weeks before each game is set to be released. 

Elliot Resnick, Managing Director at First Look Games, added: “ESA Gaming is an exciting studio responsible for some truly great content.

“By partnering with First Look Games, the studio can connect with players the best affiliates in the business and promote games to highly engaged audiences looking for the latest content to play.

“That First Look Games allows studios to do this in a way that is highly cost-effective is yet another reason why providers such as ESA Gaming come to us to turbo-charge game promotion.”

The post First Look Games strengthens affiliate offering with ESA Gaming slots appeared first on CasinoBeats.

Having previously received slot content from across the industry to enhance its proprietary GAS product, with the likes of Wazdan and Gaming Corps, this move sees ESA Gaming gain Leap Gaming’s portfolio of virtual sports content. 

This content package includes Leap Gaming products such as Virtual Races, Virtual Golf and Virtual Football League, while the aggregator has also gained a roster of slots, table games and lottery titles. 

Thomas Smallwood, Head of Marketing at ESA Gaming, said: “Embarking on this venture with Leap Gaming marks another significant step forward for our aggregation offering, providing a fusion of realism and excitement that transcends boundaries.

“With Leap Gaming’s cutting-edge titles, we are not just expanding our platform, we are elevating the gaming experience for our partners and players alike.”

Within Leap Gaming’s expanding online casino catalogue, ESA Gaming can now offer its network of affiliated operators igaming releases such as Shields of Troy, Magic Fusion and 3D Baccarat. 

Tal Yogev, Chief Operating Officer at Leap Gaming, added: “We’re delighted to add our products to ESA Gaming’s GAS platform for the igaming industry. We’re confident that its operator partners will love our engaging, exciting slot titles and look forward to reaching new heights together.”

Through the partnership, ESA Gaming has shifted its focus to aggregation, following the company’s deal to enhance the distribution of its own slot content in Serbia with MaxBet. 

The post ESA Gaming: Leap Gaming integration marks ‘another step forward’ appeared first on CasinoBeats.