Gaming

mod.io reaches 100 million mod downloads served since opening its UGC platform to games on consoles

Published

5 years ago

June 8, 2021

Reading Time: 2 minutes

mod.io, a cross-platform pioneering mod support service has surpassed the impressive milestone of 100 million UGC downloads on consoles following the launch of mod support for Skater XL and SnowRunner on Xbox and PlayStation in December. The first of its kind, catering to developers, modders and players alike, mod.io expands where UGC can be supported and makes it easy for game developers to seamlessly adopt, and interact with their creators in a brand safe and positive manner. The launch day of both games shattered expectations with 1.6 million downloads and 300,000 players participating. Skater XL is a skateboarding simulation game from Easy Day Studios, that aims to give players unparalleled control of the skating experience in iconic real-world locations. More than 250 unique pieces of modded content including decks, clothing, and new locations are now available through an in-game mod menu, across PC, Xbox and PlayStation platforms.

SnowRunner is a popular off-roading simulation game, developed by Saber Interactive, and is a sequel to the hugely successful MudRunner. Mods have been available on the PC since its release in April 2020, and have recently become available to enjoy on consoles for the first time.

“SnowRunner’s modding community has greatly expanded the game’s experience for dedicated players. The constant influx of fresh content is certainly a key driver of the title’s long-term success,” said Tim Willits, Chief Creative Officer of Saber Interactive. “We could not have achieved this without mod.io – their tech and support are unmatched.”

Console players already consume as much UGC content as PC gamers on mod.io, which is incredible given it’s still early days. Making support more accessible, giving studios greater control to launch their own UGC community beyond just PC where mods have traditionally thrived, will remain a core focus of mod.io.

“If studios aren’t thinking of games as a place for players to hang out, create and express themselves they’re missing the direction the whole industry is moving in. Since launching our mod.io integration in one month, we’ve had 6.5 million mod downloads, this is a huge part of what drives the life and vibrancy of the Skater XL world.” said Dain Hedgpeth, CEO of Easy Day Studios.

UGC is fast becoming the latest video-game trend, as a viable and cost-effective alternative to traditional in-house content creation such as DLC. mod.io believes these launches have proven that mods and UGC on consoles are a clear path for growth – and that this will only continue as more titles bring their UGC communities to console over the next few years.

“UGC has the potential to become a major positive disruption in the ways games are made and consumed in the gaming industry,” says Scott Reismanis, co-founder of mod.io. “But it needs to be accessible, cross-platform, and moderated, with detailed metrics, creator events, and marketplaces attached. We’re here to push the boundaries with UGC, and enable game developers to do the same across every platform.”

Brazil

EGT to showcase its gaming portfolio for Brazil at SiGMA Americas 2026

Published

5 days ago

April 1, 2026

Wladimir P.

egt-to-showcase-its-gaming-portfolio-for-brazil-at-sigma-americas-2026

Following a strong showing at SBC Summit Rio earlier this month, EGT is set to present its Brazil-focused portfolio once again at BiS SiGMA South America 2026, taking place in São Paulo from April 7–9. Visitors can explore the company’s latest solutions and partnership opportunities at stand L146.

“Don’t miss the chance to experience our products firsthand and discover how we can work together,” said Celina Guedes, Regional Director Brazil at EGT.

Advanced Land-Based Solutions

A key highlight will be EGT’s Super Sorte Video Lottery Terminals. The range includes the slant-top Super Sorte 27/27 ST, featuring dual 27-inch full-HD touchscreens with 4K UHD resolution, and the vertical Super Sorte 43V, equipped with a single 43-inch curved display. Both models are designed to deliver an immersive, next-generation gaming experience.

Also on display will be EGT’s latest online betting terminals, Top Estrela and Bar Estrela. The Top Estrela unit features a sleek 24-inch portrait touchscreen, while Bar Estrela offers a compact solution ideal for bars and smaller venues. Both are supported by an intuitive platform that ensures smooth navigation and secure access to a broad content library.

All terminals will feature the Gold VLT multigame package, offering 50 titles across diverse themes. This includes popular classics such as Amazons’ Battle and Rise of Ra, fruit-themed favourites like Burning Hot, and regionally popular games such as Keno Universe.

Expanding Digital Capabilities

EGT Digital will also present its growing iGaming portfolio, including more than 180 in-house slot titles. Among the highlights are established jackpot series such as Bell Link, Clover Chance, and Gods & Kings Link, alongside newer releases like Panda Ventura, which has quickly gained traction with players thanks to its distinctive style and engaging gameplay. The title also marks the beginning of a new character-driven series, with Tiger Ventura set to follow.

In addition, the company will demonstrate its modular X-Nave platform, which integrates casino, CRM, payment gateway, bonus management, and an aggregator offering over 20,000 games from 200+ providers. The platform also includes a high-performance sportsbook with flexible integration and advanced personalisation features, supported by AI-driven tools that enhance engagement and automate key processes.

Strengthening Regional Partnerships

“Our main goal at BiS SiGMA South America is to strengthen strategic partnerships with operators, platforms, and stakeholders shaping Brazil’s regulated market,” Guedes added. “It’s also an opportunity to showcase our full technology and content ecosystem, supporting both online growth and potential future land-based developments such as VLT operations. Ultimately, we’re focused on building long-term relationships and positioning EGT as a trusted partner across Brazil and Latin America.”

The post EGT to showcase its gaming portfolio for Brazil at SiGMA Americas 2026 appeared first on Eastern European Gaming | Global iGaming & Tech Intelligence Hub.

Gaming

Soft2Bet launches MEGA Islands, a new gamification engine designed to increase player retention

Published

1 week ago

March 30, 2026

Wladimir P.

soft2bet-launches-mega-islands,-a-new-gamification-engine-designed-to-increase-player-retention

Soft2Bet has unveiled MEGA Islands, the latest addition to its MEGA Suite, designed to enhance player engagement and retention across both casino and sportsbook offerings.

The new engine introduces a persistent progression system that carries over across sessions, giving players an ongoing reason to return. Through island-building, resource collection, and continual advancement, players embark on a long-term journey that transforms short play sessions into sustained engagement.

First previewed in Soft2Bet’s recent Lodur release, the MEGA Islands system allows players to develop their own islands over time. Resources earned through gameplay can be used to construct new buildings, upgrade existing structures, and unlock further stages of progression. Each upgrade opens new goals, creating a loop of continuous advancement that keeps players invested.

The engine also incorporates plundering mechanics, giving players an additional path to gather resources by raiding other islands. This feature not only accelerates growth but also maintains a dynamic and engaging progression loop. With no fixed endpoint, MEGA Islands is built to encourage repeat play through a satisfying cycle of building, collecting, and advancing.

“MEGA Islands is designed to make retention feel natural by providing players with a progression journey they want to return to,” said Yoel Zuckerberg, CPO at Soft2Bet. “By building islands, collecting resources, and unlocking upgrades—including through plundering—each session becomes part of a longer experience. It gives players a clear reason to come back while providing operators with a retention tool that integrates seamlessly across casino and sportsbook.”

The launch of MEGA Islands underscores Soft2Bet’s commitment to gamification as a driver of long-term growth. As part of the MEGA Suite, the new engine offers operators a powerful tool to extend player journeys, increase engagement cycles, and deliver consistent value in competitive markets.

The post Soft2Bet launches MEGA Islands, a new gamification engine designed to increase player retention appeared first on Eastern European Gaming | Global iGaming & Tech Intelligence Hub.

Arcade

Pragmatic Play Elevates Arcade Roster with the Im-Peck-Able Chicken+

Published

2 weeks ago

March 26, 2026

Wladimir P.

pragmatic-play-elevates-arcade-roster-with-the-im-peck-able-chicken+

Pragmatic Play, a prominent content provider for the iGaming sector, has enhanced its arcade collection with the debut of Chicken+, a retro-themed game showcasing fast-paced action and significant winning opportunities.

Brought to existence with retro 8-bit visuals, the game tests players to evade approaching vehicles and various dangers, leading the chicken safely over the road.

With each lane successfully cleared, the win multiplier increases. Players can withdraw their earnings whenever they choose or try to navigate all lanes for the top reward, but a single random mishap concludes the round as a defeat. Players are able to view the possible winnings and the likelihood of success in reaching each lane to aid in their decision-making.

There are four levels of risk – Easy, Mid, Hard, and Daredevil. Raising the level reduces the number of lanes per round and increases the volatility, enhancing the maximum win potential from 24x in Easy mode to over 3,000,000x in Daredevil.

Blending nostalgic visuals with an eccentric theme, a user-friendly interface, and rapid betting rounds, Chicken+ meets the increasing demand for engaging, fast-paced games.

The title signifies the newest entry in Pragmatic Play’s continually growing arcade collection, succeeding the launches of Plinko+, Spire+, and Mines+.

Sharon McHugh, Director of Public Relations at Pragmatic Play, said: “Chicken+ blends retro charm with simple, high-engagement mechanics. With configurable risk levels and significant win potential, it stands out as another compelling addition to Pragmatic Play’s diverse arcade portfolio, inviting players to test their nerve and cross the road.”

The post Pragmatic Play Elevates Arcade Roster with the Im-Peck-Able Chicken+ appeared first on Eastern European Gaming | Global iGaming & Tech Intelligence Hub.