New Partnerships

RubyPlay new family member to 888casino

888 Holdings, one of the biggest gaming organisations, has recently added RubyPlay to its gaming platform. It is keeping its August momentum going and getting off to a great start in September. Recently, 888 has entered a number of content-based partnerships and continues to do so. Therefore, it keeps on adding even more games to its already impressive selection. Not only are there the in-house 888 games, but there is also a variety from other global gaming providers.

A Big Deal

Understandably, RubyPlay is delighted to enter into a partnership with 888 as one of the world’s leading operators. This is a great opportunity for them to get their games out there on a huge scale. They are hoping “to enjoy a long and prosperous relationship” with 888. But also provide them with unique content. This deal will see plenty of well-known slot games hit the 888 brands. Which will include titles such as Hot and Heavy, Dragon Prophecy and Medusa Money. This should bring a whole new load of excitement to their players. 888 is clearly looking to expand its titles even more. Therefore, customers will have even more choice, which means an even wider appeal. Games from a new provider can often mean new players.

Years of Experience

888 will benefit from this partnership as RubyPlay is a very well-respected provider. And the company has over 20 years of experience in the industry. It also creates some of the most entertaining games around. There is no doubt that the players at 888 will love the new games on offer. As they now will have an even more rewarding experience. This looks to be a very promising partnership for the future. Just last month 888 announced several new additions. It has made agreements with other developers including Northern Lights Gaming. But also in recent times, they included High 5 Games, ReelPlay, and Pragmatic Play. There are lots of new experiences available to 888 players now. The content is expanding, and the experience is ever-improving. It looks as though there will be even more to follow.

New Changes from UKGC

The UK Gambling Commission put a spoke in the wheel

In its ongoing work to offer a safe and secure online environment for the UK population. The UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) has taken yet another step. And this time around, they are targeting the game content suppliers. The proactive adjustment requested from the UKGC is the heavy debated Bonus Buy feature. Also known as Feature Drop or Feature Pass. The somewhat controversy option first saw the light of day in November 2017 when Big Time Gaming launched the Slot White Rabbit. And it didn’t take long for the industry to jump on the success train. And game providers such as Relax, NextGen, and Yggdrasil also wanted a part of the market. But, what does this mean for the online gambling community in the UK?

Hard Coding or not

Like it or not, when the UKGC pulls out the wand and points, operators and providers in the UK need to fall in line. In the request, the UKGC prompts all game aggregators to remove the feature from the games. Or if not possible, disable the game as a whole. This is where the development of the games comes interesting. As there can only be three likely scenarios. First one, simply just deactivate the feature. The second one, remove the game. The third and final alternative, temporary remove the game and make necessary adjustments. It all comes down to how the programer coded the game. However, if option number three is the only one on the table, it means the game needs to go through a new cycle of auditing. Which will not only drag out in time but also affect potential revenue for the operator and the provider.

Nothing is changing

Although this new regulation might have come as a surprise, indication shows that most of the UK facing brands housing these games continued business as usual. In the end, it’s not a huge portion of the game portfolio that are affected by the new guidelines. According to sources, the UKGC has not set a hard deadline on the feature removal. And at this point, the necessary precautions need to happen within a reasonable time-line. All in all, the news is not that big of a deal for the UK players. As none of the titles with the feature has proven to become a Blockbuster.

New Quicker Games

NetEnt Launches its New Auto-Roulette Studio

NetEnt has just released a unique new live roulette game. As such, they have combined VIP Auto-Roulette, Classic Auto-Roulette and Rapid Auto-Roulette to create a top new experience. This comes together to give players a new and exciting roulette experience the new roulette studio looks fresh and vibrant. It looks and feels like a traditional casino room. However, this one comes with a cool technological twist. Not only does it use HD Streaming, but also brilliant camera work and angles and blue screen technology. Overall, this is a real state-of-the-art roulette experience. With red and gold colouring, this is a classy and impressive new game

Three Wheels

The studio has three wheels in view. This means you can change from one wheel to the next very quickly and easily. Furthermore, it is scalable to a variety of markets. As well as that, it offers voice-overs in 12 languages, which makes it easy to use for all. NetEnt Live is one of the first companies that provides its players with a multi-reel experience. As such, this is a huge release and one that provides huge potential. So, why not give the new wheels a spin.

Cutting-Edge Game

The Director of NetEnt Live describes it as an “engaging title”. He also says that it boasts “fantastic design and cutting-edge technology”. Furthermore, he believes that it will “set a new standard in Auto-Roulette”.
This game comes hot on the heels of the Network Branded Casinos (NBC). These take the traditional casino feel to your online device. As such, any punter that likes to hit the casino can enjoy it from anywhere they like.
NetEnt is constantly growing and improving. This new game release proves that its live casino is also enjoying success. This is the perfect end to an impressive 2019 for the NetEnt Live Casino. Bring on 2020…

New Gambling Rules UKGC

The UK all fired up

The past years we have learned a lot about the UK and its regulations. Where we saw propositions to end the use of credit card, ID verification before use of an account, and much more. But now we learn that and media source has obtained documentation via the freedom of information request from the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC). Which apparently outlines 9 different casino operators and its way to deal with the VIP segmented players. Where they put a focus on that the segment figures more frequently in problem gambling cases. But also that the same VIP players account’s for a huge chunk of depositing customers. In fact, it says that the VIP players are counts for a “disproportionate amount.”

Percent tells the tale

To give you some meat on the bones lets dissect the reported numbers. Where one of the biggest operators tells that roughly 83% of all deposits and earnings come from a 2% pool of players. While another provider indicates the same. And 58% comes from a 5% player base. And the same is true for yet another unnamed operator. Claiming that 3% of the customers produce 48% of the deposits. Although, what the report is not telling us, is that how much of these funds actually saw withdrawal. Meaning that we are only given one side of the story, those far. Which means that the overall statistics could sway in a somewhat different direction. As this document retrieved is currently not released to the general public. As such, we will keep on guarding this story to get the full scope of things.

The UKGC keeping secrets

According to the media source and the publication of the said document, there is more interesting information. And apparently, the same document contains 47,000 VIP players in the UK. But what’s more, it indicates that around 8% of these VIP’s experience some version of problem gambling. Though, the document doesn’t go into the depth of what type of problem it involves. What it does tell us is that about 0.8% of the UK population as a whole is experiencing some type of problem gambling.

A fair statement from the UKGC

Taking this from an operators perspective. And to be fair, no operator has indirectly broken any rules set by the UKGC. In fact, all they did was to follow the guideline. Or at least stay on the right side of the law. However, the UKGC recently told that they would “challenge the industry to make faster progress to improve how they manage their customers.” Which more specifically point to the VIP segment. And are willing to apply “robust actions” to any operator failing there consumer protection obligations. And on top of that. They will go even “tougher” on the offenders that show any ill will to change their way of doing things. In other words, the finger of justice is up, and any operator will do wisely in following the recommendations from the UKGC.

Popular TV-Show Slot

Game of Thrones is back

The immensely popular TV show might be long over. However, in recent news, we learned that Microgaming is ready to ignite the torch once more. And deliver an updated version of its 2014 Game of Thrones video slot. Indeed, it was over 6 years ago we saw the first adaptation of the series. Although Microgamings first take on the series performed moderately, with a lukewarm welcome from the online slot community. Expectations on the second attempt are much higher. Even if its to early to do a full review of the slot. As it set to release sometime later this year. We can still explore the information released on Game of Thrones: Power Stacks.

Your favourite characters is back

There is no hiding the fact, that since the tv show launched in 2011 the following has turned its head and are one of the most-watched fantasy drama in TV history. Where over 19.3 million people tuned in to watch the final episode of season 8. As such, it has turned into a modern classic with a huge following. Making it a perfect time for Microgaming to bring out a new video slot version. That according to sources, will include some of the main characters. But also some of the more influential personalities in the story. Plus, bringing the project to one of the industries more successful game provider, Slingshot Studios will certainly help Game of Thrones: Power Stacks out.

Known facts from London ICE 2020

So far what we know after watching the reveal at ICE in London is that it plays on a 5-Reels 4-Row setup, with spectacular clips from the show guiding the player in the journey. That will feature characters like white Walker and dragons, but also Free Spins and Multipliers. However, one of the more exciting features is the 4 stage jackpot. That starts with a lower Bronze level, followed by the Silver and Gold and the final Valyrian jackpot. If that is not exciting you for the upcoming release, we do not know what will. With that in mind, stay tuned for a more elaborate review once Game of Thrones: Power Stacks goes live for all Microgamings customer. On that note, let see what Microgamings Chief Commercial Officer, Jean-Luc Ferriere had to say about the new upcoming edition.

From Isle of Man to Westeros

To say that the game provider needs to get it right to please the fan base is an understatement, which Mr Ferriere touched on when saying. “The Game of Thrones brand has garnered a devoted following among viewers, along with incredible media attention.” But he also points out that they have gone all in to bring out the best and hopefully meet expectations by adding. “In the spirit of the show, we will be working hard to deliver quality and a feature-rich slot game. So that players can enjoy an authentic Game of Thrones-themed gaming experience.” Now, all we have to do is wait and see.

New slot provider 2020

Videoslots load both barrels with Rocksalt

In the latest line of trusted partners, Videoslots recently announced a newcomer. In fact, they are adding Rocksalt Interactive to the mix. Which will, in the long run, increase the number of games the operator has to offer to its UK customers. Currently, Videoslots has almost 4000 slots. Delivered from over 100 games developers like Thunderkick and Microgaming. But also Yggdrasil, Evolution, and NetEnt to mention some of the bigger names. Although, the name might be relatively new to you. It’s worth to mention; the game service provider is actually a veteran in the industry. With almost 20 years of experience in the field of gaming entertainment. And according to themself, “We develop artwork, for visually and technically superior games.”

Who is Rocksalt Interactive

Founded in early 2011 by a talented and innovating group of people. Excelling in the field of 3D modelling and animation. With broad understanding in concept art, and texturing across multiple platforms. And now after many years of success, they are kicking things into a higher gear. And set the goal to become a notable player in the industry on a global scale. Currently, the company employees more than 100 dedicated and multi-level skilled people. Which, according to sources, has a 95% first acceptance rate on their products. With such an impressive and proven track record and years of experience. The signing with Videoslots is just one of many we are going to see in the years to come.

Firts to add new game povider

Indeed, Videoslots is well known in the industry to attract and add new talented game studios. And its lead is usually quickly followed by the rest of the igaming industry. After all, who better to check and approve a game provider then Videoslots. By now, they are more than aware of how to integrate a new provider successfully. Plus, with an ear to the ground, Videoslots know what the customers actually want and are missing. And this time around, UK players have the opportunity to be one of the first on the ball. And try out games like Woodland Fairy. So, Good luck and have fun with the new addition to the online gaming scene.

Big Wins and Bonuses

Two big wins from LeoVegas

The self-proclaimed “king of mobile” recently backed there claim in 2020 EGR Nordic awards, where they went home from the ceremony with two trophies. That’s right folks, not only did LeoVegas take home the prestige filled mobile operator of the year. But they also stood tallest in the category, casino operator of the year, by which are two of the more sought after prizes to have in your collection. But, how did this operator go about to secure these titles? And more importantly, how will this impact the year laying ahead? Luckily for you, we are about to dive deeper into the wins itself. But also see what the company plans and where they see themselves going forward in 2020.

King of mobile and casino

After securing the two wins, LeoVegas head of casino, James Ford had plenty of insider knowledge to disclose to the media. Where he admits that early on in 2019 they set their aim to be “the king of casino.” While still being true to its core, mobile-first. That in retrospect was the perfect game plane. However, the focus has more aspect tied down to it, where Mr Ford also hinted that hard work has gone into out of the box thinking and innovation. Including such things as LeoVegas Multi-play, but also their original series of video slots. Plus, that they poured a lot of resources into social responsibility. Which by its own rights is a crucial aspect to make an award-winning product or product in this case.

Not the time to slow down

Indeed, in the wake of an award ceremony, there is no time to stop and reflect and pet yourself on the back. In fact, you need to strike the iron while it’s hot. That, according to LeoVegas, is exactly what they are going to do. Well, at least that’s what we gathered from statements like. “We will build on our position as King of Casino and provide the greatest gaming experience.” But LeoVegas also means that to secure such a title, the area of attention needs to be on customers. Basically meaning, to offer the fans what they want you to need to drive the development leaning on collected data. In the end, if you manage your database correctly, all the answers are there for you to take part in.

Challenge the King

At this point, no video slot enthusiast has missed out on LeoVegas and their fantastic mobile casino product. Yet, with its new casino operator of the year award securely placed in its trophy cabinet. Why not give the site a go as well? In the end, according to EGR it’s the best casino operator currently available. But before signing up, make sure to read what we at CasinoAdvisers think about LeoVegas. But also what type of casino bonus you get for trusting them to guide you in your online casino venture.

Easter News

NetEnt adds new vertical to its offer

If we mention NetEnt, you will most likely think about all original titles. However, this all changed in 2019 when NetEnt announced its plans of becoming a content aggregation platform. That all kicked off with the introduction and acquisition of Red Tiger Gaming. Yet, now we learn that the plans of expansion are far greater than just to include one extra game provider to its arsenal. In fact, fitting into NetEnt’s mould and up for the task is no more than 3 other suppliers. That will not only bring fresh ideas to the platform. But also some new products for the ever-growing NetEnt fan base. And believe you us, the names that include in the list are impressive that comes with good provenance.

Now in the UK

As for now, you already have access to games from Red Tiger Gaming across multiple platforms via NetEnt’s aggregation platform in the UK. That even include some Bingo focused operators. Nevertheless, by adding providers like Games inc, G, and Scout Gaming Group, the vertical of game types, is taking off in rocket speed. Which, according to well-placed sources will include puzzle. But also strategy games, scratch cards, but more importantly for the UK players, video lottery. In fact, did you know that reports tell us that the UK love lottery so much it’s considered to be one of the most popular gambling product! As such, it makes perfect sense for NetEnt to include a product like a video lottery to its platform. But here is the kicker, all said products suppose to include massive jackpots! We have also created a list focusing on fast payout casinos so you quickly can withdrawal your lottery winnings.

We have some exciting news to impart

A surprising move from NetEnt is the introduction of sports. Yes, you read right, they are moving into the world of sports, well at least fantasy sports. By which are yet another well and timely executed move from NetEnt. Telling us one thing, the CEO Therese Hillman is still on a clear path on how to make capital and find new ways to raise popularity. That she hinted in the interim report way back in April 2019 after the January to March figures saw publication. “To respond to more competition in slot games, we make continuous improvements to our offering. Not only with more new games but also through a more diversified game portfolio.” And to be honest, it sounds like NetEnt has found a new gear and we are quite excited to see what 2020 has in store for us.

Offer diversity to conquer

It’s been a couple of years now since NetEnt being on top of its game. Sure they pushed out some great video slots, only to get beaten by its competition in innovation and crowd-pleasing. Where they went through some misfortune and struggled with leadership and a clear vision, banking on old merits and structure. However, it all is old news going into 2020 and everyone seems to be on board. Which Director of NetEnt, Rob Fell, points out by adding thing like. “Commitment of diversity” and “adding scratch cards and fantasy sports complements the content of NetEnt.” So get ready, NetEnt is most certainly back with a vengeance to once more lay claim to the throne.

News for Week 14

The stick might have found the spokes of the online casino wheel

In yet another attempt to safeguard the UK population from self-gambling harm. The regulatory body, the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) is looking into the online max stake. If you live or are somewhat active in some sort of betting in the UK, you know that the latest cut came on the fixed-odds betting terminals (FOBT) down to £2. And now, the UKGC aim to look further into the possibility to do the same on the online portion as well. However, it’s all too soon to say if there will be any change to the current bet structure. But what is certain, the industry has already reacted on the far from fact situation.

What we know so far

We know that the UKGC is on a mission to clean up and streamline all gambling in the UK. Where a spokesperson from the UKGC relayed the following information. “We said last October that we would be looking at online stake limits as part of our ongoing work to reduce the risks of gambling-related harm. We will publish our assessment and next steps for online stakes and further protections later this year.” More accurate. It’s told that more precise information of findings and the possible knock-on effect will get published within 6 months. Which will get dissected by the Gambling Related Harm All-Party Parliamentary Group. That was instrumental and the driving force for the FOBT stake cut.

Trending down

After the news hit the press, some of the major bookmakers and online casino indicated a negative trend on the stock market. Where reports tell us that the recorded figures were around 5-8% down in general amongst all listed gambling firms. That culminated in around a £500 Million fall collectively. But once again, there is still not any final decision on the subject matter. And reaction may have come too soon by the industry? Whatever the case is. The story is far from over, and we will keep on reporting as more information get known.

Why is no one talking about it

That the age restrictions on the National Lottery and its products in the UK have more or less gone unnoticed in the press is quite astonishing. Is not UKGC’s one main goal to minimise the effect of early exposure to gambling. That they have pointed out multiple times and taken action on restrictions on the advertisement, for example, but yet, they allow 16 years’ old to utilise the National lottery. That yearly include around 650,000 “underage” players. That not only buy lottery tickets but also has the option to purchase scratch cards, and all online. So, in all honesty, the UKGC should first start with revisiting some of the more pressing matters than target a demographic that considers adults. That, in the end, is responsible for their actions, by definition.

New Table Games

Microgaming Adds Switch Studios Table Games to its Catalogue

Up until this point, Microgaming has been mainly known for its slot games. As such, it has built up a great reputation by offering some of the best slots in the industry. However, the company is now building on its table game portfolio with a number of new releases created by Switch Suppliers. Therefore, Microgaming will now be offering top table games that are exclusively for them. There will now be a range of new table games for customers including blackjack, baccarat, roulette and more.

Taking to the Tables with Blackjack

Earlier this year, they released European Blackjack, which was a huge success. As a result, they have followed this up with more variants of the game, with another six due in December. On 4th December, they released games including, Atlantic City Blackjack, Vegas Downtown Blackjack, Classic Blackjack and Vegas Strip Blackjack. They have also optimized these games perfect for both desktop and mobile. Furthermore, in the following week, 11th December, they released Vegas Single Deck Blackjack. Every one of these games is completely bespoke and concentrate on gameplay as opposed to just the look of the games. As such, you can enjoy the impressive game experience from your own home.

A Powerful Platform

Each of these new blackjack games benefits from a powerful engine. They also offer impressive features such as standard side bets, insurance, split hands and double down. Furthermore, they have created the Baccarat game on the same engine. This means that not only can you enjoy impressive sound and graphics, but it offers incredible gameplay. Also, it offers features such as card squeeze, and you can pull, peel, flip and rotate your cards. They launched this game alongside the Vegas Single Deck Blackjack on 11th December. All of these are multi-platform games that will appeal to a brand-new audience and should see Microgaming’s popularity grow further.