20 minute read
Casino
from SBC Leaders Issue 14
by SBC Global
type of product simply for it to be sustainable.
“If, as many have done in recent times, we compare it to something like Netflix - roughly £10 a month is considered to be a manageable investment for the entertainment provided. So, from a slots perspective, if we can achieve a higher volume of players with less reliance on VIPs over time, it makes sense. This will allow us to compete with the other forms of entertainment out there to capture a bigger audience.
“The real challenge though is going to be capturing that high player volume. Regulations are already dictating slower gameplay, with lower stakes likely to come along soon. There’s also the whistle to whistle bans on TV ads, bonusing and promotions essentially being shut down in some markets, so we have to consider how to capture the bigger audience and build the player base.
“To compete on a larger scale in terms of player numbers, the industry needs to become more socially acceptable. We’ll then see the effect of that, allowing for more ads and the industry being more visible, but also, even more powerful, word of mouth.”
Issuing a slight disagreement was Ondrej Lapides, CEO of Tom Horn
Gaming, who asserted that a balance approach is key, and that operators and providers must adjust to the changing regulatory climate if they want to survive.
“In recent months many jurisdictions including the UK, Sweden and Germany have introduced proposals for further regulatory changes on online gambling - temporary or permanent,” he said.
“Generally, regulators have good intentions and introduce these measures to protect players.
On the other hand, with the economy crippled by the pandemic, stringent regulatory measures are also impacted by more complex recovery plans governments embrace in order to offset the economic consequences of 2020.
“Either way, there has been a growing appetite for sweeping reform of the gambling industry. It started with the casino segment and I’m sure similar restrictions are not going away and will likely impact all verticals such as sports betting, horse race betting, poker, or virtual sports.
“The maximum stake limit is only one part of the equation. However, as such it might have far-reaching implications for the future of our beloved industry with online casino games likely to be stuck with the label of ‘low-stake entertainment’ sector.”
Lapides added: “It is important to reiterate that tighter regulations must strike the right balance between protecting the vulnerable, while not spoiling the enjoyment of millions of people who play online casino games on a regular basis in a safe manner and driving them into the arms of the online black market.
“The latter is especially quite worrying as it will cause more harm to the perception of the industry in the long run.”
As regulators impose extra restrictions in the digital makeup of igaming, would it be fair to suggest - as it has previously in certain quarters - that a wider-mass appeal but with a lower expenditure per individual, is the way that the industry is, or should be, heading?
Should that be the case, what changes would be necessary in such a competitive marketplace, and - as
James Marshall, CEO of Push Gaming,
LONGER TERM, I CERTAINLY SEE SLOTS BECOMING A LOW STAKE, HIGHER VOLUME TYPE OF PRODUCT SIMPLY FOR IT TO BE SUSTAINABLE
previously alluded to - would any components of the development process have to be forfeited to achieve such an outcome?
“Limiting online casino stakes won’t necessarily lead to gaming having a mass appeal to a wider population,” continued Lapides. “The reason why players enjoy playing online slots is the variety of options, including bet values, slot games offer.
“Some favour low stakes, others find excitement in the thrill of wagering big amounts of money potentially leading to proportionally higher winnings. The beauty of online casino entertainment now is its diversity and the option to adjust the course of play to one’s circumstances, including a player’s salary or personal taste and preference.
“Enforcing limits on the amounts players are allowed to gamble on online slot games is likely to see a decline in players as many of them, especially so-called high rollers, will no longer consider games with the lower stakes entertaining and will look elsewhere.
“In order to retain players in different
markets providers will have to differentiate their game development to comply with a number of measures. We will witness the rise of bespoke games supplying markets with tougher regulations such as the UK, whilst at the same time we will be prepping these same games for less ‘restrictive’ markets without depriving players of the full player experience.
“I believe the industry will be able to stay sustainable through further strengthening their ranges of products and new verticals, whilst ensuring these are rolled out responsibly and adhere to national gambling regulations.
“As an industry we will have to take a far more faceted and complex approach to game development. For online casino games to remain the source of entertainment and enjoyment, we will have to look further afield to implement tools and solutions that will curb problem gambling. Transparency and accountability will be essential for the future of the industry.”
Marshall concluded by touching upon some of the potential challenges that lie ahead. “It is going that way, regulators are pushing for that, and the industry will become more sustainable long term, which of course is great, but this will bring challenges for game design,” he said.
“Thinking about other forms of entertainment such as mobile games, you have low spend, a small one-off cost to purchase or in-game purchases and that’s a key area we’re competing against.
“In terms of design; speed and pace are incredibly important to how we entertain users - you can even have a lower stake game and that’s fine, but this means the income is lower and if you start slowing games down, ultimately it’s going to affect engagement - it’s a huge risk to sustainability. Timing and pace are vital in capturing your audience and these are the sorts of potential sacrifices we’re very much aware of as a studio.
Ondrej Lapides, CEO of Tom Horn Gaming
FINDING THAT BALANCE WHERE PRODUCTS ARE SAFE, RESPONSIBLE, ENTERTAINING AND COMMERCIALLY VIABLE IS ABSOLUTELY KEY
“It’s our job to look at the regulatory
environment and work out how we can make something fun while reducing the pace of the game – as well as maintaining the level of engagement on lower stakes. The risk is losing players to other forms of entertainment as a result, or they leave the regulated space altogether to find faster, alternative games without restrictions.
“Finding that right balance is absolutely key; safe, responsible products that are entertaining and are commercially viable and we’re confident we can achieve that.” •
JEFF MILLAR: WHY THE US HAS BECOME THE TOP PRIORITY FOR NETENT
JEFF MILLAR, Commercial Director of North America at Evolution, reflects on the company’s longawaited US entry, the long-term potential of the market and the crucial roadmap that lies ahead
The US market has been high on the agenda for many since the repeal of PASPA back in 2018, and Evolution Group is no exception, having previously dubbed America as “an absolute priority market”.
Michigan has become the latest state on the brand’s radar as it continues to expand stateside. Since entering the Great Lake State on 22 January 2021 following the launch of the region’s online gaming and sports betting market, Evolution looks poised for further growth.
Following this development, Jeff Millar - Commercial Director of North America at Evolution - explained that the igaming supplier already has plans to add a live casino broadcast studio in Michigan, its third in the US after New Jersey and Pennsylvania.
SBC: Michigan finally made its longawaited digital debut in January, why was the region considered such a priority for the group?
JM: The US has become NetEnt’s primary market in terms of commercial
WE EXPECT THE MARKET TO CONTINUE TO GROW AS RESIDENTS IN MICHIGAN BECOME AWARE THAT ONLINE CASINO GAMING IS NOW PERMITTED BY LAW AND REGULATED
revenues. This has been driven by the momentum of new states opening; by the time they go live we have already spent many months – and often years – planning for that first day of trading. Clearly, a populous state like Michigan is going to make it a priority.
With approximately 10 million residents, an established landgaming operator infrastructure and player base, there’s a large potential audience that can be reached quickly. Additionally, Michigan has fair tax rates and licence fees, a well-established and respected regulatory environment, and the opportunity to work with both commercial and tribal operators.
SBC: The jurisdiction’s 10-day launch window in January brought record results, with its digital gambling debut going from strength to strength in the following month. What do you envisage is the longer term potential for Michigan?
JM: The volumes during that window show how keenly-anticipated the launch was. A couple of months on and those numbers are holding firm. There’s a lot of excitement in the state and the consensus is that there’s plenty of growth in the market. As it becomes better established this will be met with a wider range of games, product types and exclusive launches.
We expect the market to continue to
grow as residents in Michigan become aware that online casino gaming is now permitted by law and regulated. Most Americans still presume online gaming is an unlawful activity.
For newly regulated markets like Michigan, it does take some time for consumers to realise they can now play legally, on a regulated website or mobile app. With this in mind, we view Michigan as having plenty of runway for growth as player fears subside and they become more comfortable with the technology.
SBC: What major lessons have been learned in the early going?
JM: The most immediate observation – as seen from those initial results – is that everyone’s faith in the market has been justified. NetEnt has been built on flexibility and cooperation so we’re constantly looking for learnings to adapt our service offering to individual customers and markets. Michigan has its own ways of working and we’ve proven that we’ve been able to adapt to that and capitalise on the earlystage hype.
SBC: A roadmap of high-profile game launches across all markets was pledged upon making the Michigan entry, and while we may have seen the first stages of this, could you tell us more?
JM: In Michigan, the first step was to
go live with a selection of our greatest hits and games that are tailored more towards land-based players exploring the added features and functionality of online slots.
This year our sensational Megaways titles have debuted in the US. They have been instant successes and are a key element of our rollout strategy across Michigan, New Jersey, Pennsylvania and West Virginia.
Every state has its own bespoke roadmap of NetEnt game releases, but our overriding aim is to deliver the hottest titles to as many markets in the quickest possible time. The regulatory frameworks of a market will impact on how quickly a game can be certified and this is especially the case for less mature ones.
In addition to more NetEnt game releases, we will also have games from our Red Tiger portfolio and of course, our live casino games. Both should be available later this year. Our new live casino studio is being built just outside the city of Detroit in Michigan.
Live casino is always a welcome surprise to American players. Many players have never been exposed to our video-streaming, live casino technology. Players are simply amazed that they are playing against real casino dealers, just as they would in a land-based casino.
SBC: The US has always been considered a high priority for the group, what further developments do you envisage as we proceed through 2021?
JM: Is there anyone in this industry who doesn’t recognise the US as the principal opportunity? The year ahead will see us do what we do best – create and launch great games with the leading operators.
We expect more states to pass legislation for online casino gaming. There are already many states that have passed laws for sports betting, including remote sports betting over the internet. This is usually the first step to allowing online casino gaming as well. •
Tom Horn Gaming Wheel of Luck. Hold & Win
Basic Info: During the base game, if the player lands three Scatter symbols, it triggers 10 Free Spins. Moreover, if five Wheel symbols land on the reels within this mode, then players get to advance into the Hold&Win respin where Cash and Wheel symbols enhance the players’ win potential. When appearing on the reels, Cash symbols remain fixed on the reels for the duration of Free Spins and reset the spin count to three. The suspense builds with every Wheel symbol landing on the grid as they are the ones to watch out for to get to spin the Wheel of Luck. After securing three Wheels, players have one chance to spin the wheel. Its three levels take this bonus game up a notch, with each ring on the wheel presenting players with higher winnings. When reaching the top level, players can maximise their winnings by 1000x their bet.
Reels: 3x5 Paylines: 25 RTP: 94.097% Volatility: Medium to high Key Features: Free Spins, Hold&Win respins and Wheel of Luck bonus round Ondrej Lapides, CEO at Tom Horn Gaming, noted: “We constantly look for ways to enhance our content offering. In 2021 we plan to deliver more fun and a variety of slots with thrilling features to engage and excite players in different markets. “Wheel of Luck. Hold&Win is the first in line of many unique titles we have in the pipeline. We’re positive the game’s features, dynamic gameplay and wellknown theme will resonate with players, keeping them entertained and immersed throughout the game.”
SG Digital Rainbow Riches Race Day
Basic Info: During the base game, when one or more winning combinations land, winning symbols will explode with new symbols taking their place. If players land four or more Scatter symbols, it will trigger the Free Spins feature. Landing a Horse symbol on the reels will contribute to the Horses feature. Above the reels are five horses, each with an associated pot. When one of these horses appears on the reels, that horse will move forward on the track. When a horse reaches the pot, that prize is awarded to the player. If multiple horses reach their respective pots on the same cascade then both prizes are awarded. During the free spins round, each pot will start with a value equal to x10 stake. The player can distribute another 90x stake to the pots before the Free Spins start.
Reels: 6x4 Paylines: 4,096 RTP: 96.25% Volatility: High Key Features: Free Spins, Horse Reel and Multiplier
Rob Procter, content specialist director, digital at Scientific Games, added: “Rainbow Riches Race Day marks another stellar addition to our portfolio this year and offers a unique gameplay that evolves the Rainbow Riches franchise to a new level.
“Those familiar with horse racing arcade machines will appreciate the way in which we’ve incorporated the format into the game, while for Rainbow Riches fans there’s a new concept to experience that includes all the iconic characteristics they love.
“We believe Rainbow Riches Race Day will appeal to a wide audience and prove to be a huge hit with players.”
BGaming Four Lucky Diamonds
Basic Info: Only available during the bonus round, the Wild symbol substitutes any symbol in a line to complete a winning combination. Furthermore, within the Lucky Spins mode, four playable reels become available in case the wins in the main game reach the fourfold size of the bet (or higher). Moreover, the Stacked Wilds, which are only available in the bonus round, can appear on the third central reel. Stacked Wilds helps to complete winning combinations by substituting other symbols on the reels, increasing the players' chances of winning. Additionally, if Stacked Wilds appear on one of the four bonus reels, they are duplicated on the subsequent reels.
Reels: 5x3 Paylines: 10 RTP: 94% Volatility: Medium to high Key Features: Lucky Spins mode and Stacked Wilds Yulia Aliakseyeva, the project manager at BGaming, noted: “It’s the first time for BGaming to use gemstone symbols in its slots. We wanted to make something traditional but with a special charm. The game has bright and attractive visual and sound effects.
“Besides great features like Lucky Spins, there is also a very interesting detail in the slot. A player can see possible winning combinations before the reels completely stop.”
Kalamba Games Agent 51
Basic Info: Every 10 base game spins, players accumulate special character symbols. Selected symbols then turn into Special Expanding symbols. These expand to cover all three positions on the reel and pay for any on selected lines. If players hit the UFOs in the Free Spins game, they will be awarded additional Free Spins and a chance of higher wins. Furthermore, players can go straight to the Free Spins game through the HyperBonus.
Reels: 5x3 Paylines: 20 RTP: 96.17% Volatility: High
Key Features:
K-Loop and Free Spins mode Alex Cohen, COO and co-founder of Kalamba Games, commented on the launch: “Agent 51 is a galaxy of fun – our much-loved features and the cool, classic theme makes for an amazing new sci-fi thriller.
“It promises to be an exciting launch and players will be able to indulge themselves in an innovative gaming experience while hunting elusive aliens. The loot is out there.”
SG Digital Spartacus Super Colossal Reels
Basic Info: The Super Colossal Reels mechanic takes the excitement to the next level featuring a 5 x 4 grid, as well as a Super Colossal 5 x 12 set where reel five is double the size and includes multiplier symbols. Before the reel spin initiates, some Spartacus symbols on the reel spin commences, Mega Wild symbols may spin reels one to four of the main reel may be replaced with over two adjacent reels on one to four of the main reel Super Spartacus symbols. set. Mega Wilds observe the same rules as normal Wilds A respin is awarded whenever a Super Spartacus Wild in regard to transfers and respins. Transfer occurs. The In the Base Game, if a combination of Gold Mega Wilds originating spin is and Spartacus symbols cover the whole reel on the main
Reels: 5x4 reel set as as well as a Super Colossal 5x12 grid Paylines: 100 RTP: 96.75% evaluated, and Super Spartacus symbols become Spartacus and are held in place for set, an entire reel of Spartacus symbols is transferred to the corresponding reel on the Super Colossal. If an entire reel of Spartacus symbol or Super Spartacus symbol appears on the main set, an entire reel of the
Volatility: Medium to high one respin. same symbol is transferred to the corresponding reel
Key Features: Super Mega Wilds are on the Super Colossal. Wild Transfers will not cover Wild
Spartacus symbols, Wild oversized Spartacus multipliers.
Transfer, Mega Wild, Wild or Super Spartacus Finally, three or more Colosseum Scatters trigger the Free
Multiplier and Free Spins symbols that are two Spins bonus, these only appear on reels one, three, and reels in width. Before five of each set which can award up to 20 Free Spins.
Spinmatic World of Gods - Niflheim
Basic Info: As part of the game, the Hel symbol is the stacked Wild symbol. She appears fully or partially on the screen. When appearing as a full symbol, she awards the player two random Wilds. Wild and nudges down or up while giving two Wilds. Moreover, when all five Rune symbols appear anywhere Furthermore, during the Ansuz Free Spins round, low on the screen at the same time, the Bonus game is paying symbols are dropped from the reels. triggered. This round consists of 15 undefined runes If that wasn’t enough, the title also comes with a Dagaz which the player chooses at random. When three of the Free Spins feature. Once activated, all low paying same Rune symbols are symbols turn into its corresponding high paying symbol.
Reels: 5x3 RTP: 96.33% Volatility: Medium to high found, Free Spins are rewarded, depending on the Runes. The Tiwaz Free Spins mode includes multipliers. In each round, if a win occurs then it is multiplied. Each winning round multiplier is increased by one.
Key Features: Stacked Additionally, the Jera The final Free Spins round is the Perthro Free Spins.
Wild, five Free Spin Free Spins can occur, During this mode, the Hel symbol becomes Wild and rounds, Random Wilds, which guarantees stays sticky in the third reel. Further random Wilds may
Wild Nudges and Sticky random Wilds. During appear during spins.
Wilds this mode, the Hel symbol turns into a
SCOTT MORGAN: THE PANDEMIC HAS RESHAPED THE USE OF CRYPTOCURRENCY
THE IMPORTANCE OF CRYPTOCURRENCY has evolved as global economies have had to adapt to the COVID-19 pandemic explained Scott Morgan - a blockchain consultant and entrepreneur, as well as the Founder and CEO of Crypto Integrity Tao
SBC: Can you just explain why you think the pandemic has reshaped the climate for cryptocurrency?
SM: Crypto Integrity Tao actually took analysis to a new level by delivering 1,900 pages in six books correlating technology with other sciences like physics to realise the true potential of blockchain. This level of analysis also revealed the many limitations, dangers, and flaws in current blockchain categories.
The pandemic accelerated both blockchain DLT and cryptocurrencies by translating fear, doubt over governance, balkanisation, and monetary policy into innovation and risk-taking in an asset class that exploded in value. Some transfer of wealth into cryptocurrencies from traditional investment comes down to established financial systems’ refusal to innovate, with ripple taking future revenue from the SWIFT system.
Warning signs like banks limiting withdrawals urged wealthy people to transfer money to systems less directly controlled by governments. And then comes the actual thrill and pride people felt when investing in cryptocurrency; as the world swamped the spirit in people, cryptocurrency was the lifeboat sent to rescue them. In a phrase, cryptocurrency gave people a feeling of control over their lives and meaning for their futures.
SBC: What role can blockchain play in helping the entertainment industry’s recovery?
SM: For seven years, famous leaders in Hollywood exclaimed that Hollywood was not just sick, it was sick of itself. The art was dying due to unethical practices by studios and agents, highlighted by the WGA war with agencies.
Blockchain DLT comes to the rescue by delivering a complete solution to inflated budgets, restricted access to high-value original content, erasing advertising fraud that can be as high as $40 million for a single movie, and
