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How remakes and remasters are driving the UK gaming economy
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With 37.3 million gamers, the UK gaming industry is the biggest in Europe
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New report finds remastered games to be a driving force behind industry growth
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Gaming is more accessible than ever thanks to the rise of mobile gaming
Nineties teens are 69%1 more likely than the national average to spend between 21 and 28 hours gaming every week. And with this age group 47% more likely to have access to a Nintendo Switch, PS4 (42%) and Xbox One (44%), a new report reveals how developers are tapping into this market to drive the UK gaming economy.
From the impact of remakes and remasters, to how digital downloads are changing the industry, online smartphone retailer, Mobiles.co.uk, has taken an in-depth look at how the UK’s gaming industry is evolving.
The study reveals that the UK gaming industry has experienced huge growth in the past 10 years, with retail sales revenue between 2009 and 2019 increasing by a huge 72.6%2. Further insight also reveals that in 2019, the entire UK video game industry generated a huge £5.35 billion1 in revenue, with £3.77 billion3 of that total generated from video game software sales. But with an impressive 37.3 million4 gamers in the UK alone, what exactly is contributing to this growth?
According to Mobiles.co.uk’s report, the trend for remastered games including Crash Bandicoot N.Sane Trilogy, Resident Evil 2 and The Legend of Zelda Link’s Awakening, all play significant roles in the growth of the gaming industry here in the UK.
The new UKIE UK Top Selling Games List for 2019 revealed the below remakes/remastered games were amongst the top 100 best selling boxed games sold in 2019, while the more recent Final Fantasy VII remake quickly became one of the PS4’s best selling game to date:
|
Rank |
Title |
Monthly Search Volume |
|
16 |
Crash Bandicoot N.SaneTrilogy |
6,6005 |
|
21 |
Resident Evil 2 |
27,1005 |
|
32 |
The Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening |
8,1005 |
Still remaining in the top 20 for the UK’s best-selling games of 2019 two years after its release, Crash Bandicoot N.Sane Trilogy receives around 6,600 unique searches every month4, its continuing popularity indicates that British gamers are becoming increasingly nostalgic when it comes to their gaming choices.
Crash Bandicoot also features at number 21 in the 2019 list. The remaster spiked the interest of gamers in the UK with a huge 49% increase in search volume over the past 12 months alone5. With an average of 27,100 monthly searches5, the franchise’s decision to reboot this classic was certainly welcomed by the industry, indicating there is a huge appetite for nostalgic gameplay here in the UK.
The final remaster included in the list of the top-selling games is The Legend of Zelda Link’s Awakening. Originally launched on the Game Boy in 1993, the remake was designed for the Nintendo Switch. As of March 2020, the new Link’s Awakening had sold more than four million copies globally6, and it’s one of the best-selling games of all time for the Nintendo Switch.
Lee Chambers, Psychologist and gaming expert, commented on the research: “Gaming and nostalgia are heavily interconnected, to the point where it fuels trends and shapes the industry direction. Video games are incredible triggers for nostalgia, anchoring us back to an often carefree time, when we had fewer responsibilities and gaming became a social construct as groups of children all sat around in a bedroom socialising while playing.
“The reality of the industry is that nostalgic gamers are now the ones with purchasing power to relive past glories fighting dragons of their youth, while being decision-makers for buying games as presents for their children. And that is gradually shaping the industry, risk aversion for the new, settling for the old. Your average early millennial is approaching 40. They don’t have the time they did as a child to form an emotional bond to a game’s story with life’s distractions, but a remake removes that barrier, making it all the more attractive.”
The new study also reveals the impact digital downloads are having on the industry, with over two thirds (70%)6 of the UK’s total video game sales revenue, generating a total of £2.63 billion6, coming from digital downloads. Even more remarkably, 42%6 of this revenue came directly from mobile games, indicating a shift in the industry towards smartphone gaming.
The report indicates that UK gamers are not only changing the way they purchase games but thanks to recent advancements in smartphone technology – including cinematic displays, advanced GPUs and even the introduction of high-speed 5G – they’re also expanding the devices they play on.
With a projected 2%7 compound annual growth rate, the huge surge in the mobile gaming sector is predicted to maintain its momentum in 2020 and beyond. An estimated 21 million people in the UK played a mobile game in 20197, with 19% of users aged 18 to 24, 37% falling in the 25-34 age bracket and 23% aged 35-447.
Andrew Cartledge, mobile expert at Mobiles.co.uk, says “In the UK, and all across the world, there’s no doubt that the gaming industry is growing at a rapid speed. The excitement for the next remake or remaster makes sure there’s still a place for the old, while the huge shift towards digital assures the industry and its consumers can keep up with the new.
“Mobile gaming is already huge in 2020 and will only get bigger in the years to come. If you’re interested in trying out some of the very best mobile games like PUBG and Fortnite for yourself, make sure you have a powerful handset to play on.”
For the full report on the UK gaming industry, mobile gaming, remasters and more, please visit: https://www.mobiles.co.uk/blog/understanding-the-uk-gaming-industry-mobiles-remasters-and-more/#fn1
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Anja Ortmanns Account Manager at Push Gaming
Push Gaming strengthens Dutch market presence with Starcasino.nl partnership
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B2B gaming supplier Push Gaming has broadened its profile in the Netherlands through a new commercial deal with prominent operator Starcasino, increasing access to its award-winning content within the regulated market.
Now live, the partnership makes Push Gaming’s full portfolio available on www.starcasino.nl, giving players access to popular titles across Push Originals, Push Action, and Reel Hot Games. These include hits such as Razor Returns, Goat Getter, and Wild Swarm 2.
The deal strengthens the strong relationship between the two companies, following a successful rollout with Starcasino in Belgium. It also supports Push Gaming’s wider growth strategy in the Netherlands, one of its key regulated markets in Europe.
The agreement marks the latest milestone in Push Gaming’s ongoing expansion, as the supplier continues to grow its operations with trusted partners and proven content strategies.
Anja Ortmanns, Account Manager at Push Gaming, said: “The Netherlands remains a key market in our European strategy, and we’re pleased to be expanding our presence there with Starcasino in the Netherlands.
“It’s a trusted name with a strong local following, and this partnership enables us to reach even more Dutch players through a platform that shares our commitment to quality content and regulation growth.”
Pieter Van den Bos, Director at Starcasino.nl, said: “Push Gaming’s reputation precedes it, and we’re excited to bring its acclaimed content to our players in the Netherlands.
“Our mission is to provide the best possible experience, and this partnership is another step towards achieving that. We look forward to a fruitful relationship together.”
The post Push Gaming strengthens Dutch market presence with Starcasino.nl partnership appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.
ICE 2026
Setting the benchmark for 2026: NOVOMATIC at ICE Barcelona
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At ICE 2026, NOVOMATIC will once again take to the global stage in Barcelona with a showcase that sets a clear direction for the year ahead. As the largest exhibitor at the Fira Barcelona Gran Via, the Group – together with its subsidiaries and technology partners NOVOMATIC Italia, NOVOMATIC Spain, NOVOMATIC Gaming UK, LÖWEN ENTERTAINMENT, APEX, and Ainsworth Gaming Technology – will present a portfolio shaped by performance, player engagement, and future-oriented innovation. And the centerpiece of this presentation is XTENSION LINK
, accompanied by a range of powerful new multi-feature progressives, as well as a brand-new premium cabinet that is designed to unlock fresh dimensions of immersive play.
XTENSION LINK
: Expanding the global success story
Building on the proven success of the global hit series, XTENSION LINK
will headline NOVOMATIC’s appearance at the show, introducing entirely new game worlds and evolved feature mechanics that broaden the entertainment spectrum across international markets. The XTENSION LINK
brand has become a standout performer in casinos around the world, consistently demonstrating strong and sustainable floor results in a wide range of jurisdictions.
On top of this, NOVOMATIC will unveil a lineup of brand-new multi-feature progressives, each designed to offer distinctive engagement dynamics, compelling bonus features, and lasting floor performance. The development of these game concepts reflects a clear focus: more choice for operators, deeper engagement for players, and sustained results over time.
Elevating cabinet design to a new galaxy of experience
To accompany this expanded multi-feature offering, NOVOMATIC will present a new premium cabinet that is engineered to elevate the player experience and broaden the entertainment landscape. With an expanded visual stage, refined ergonomics, and powerful sound performance, this cabinet sets a new benchmark for immersive gameplay presentation on the casino floor. Its design supports the full depth and energy of the XTENSION LINK
universe, enabling operators to create standout entertainment zones with strong visual impact and player appeal.
Systems that power performance
Beyond cabinets and game content, NOVOMATIC will also highlight its latest advances in Electronic Table Games. The presentation of the Novo Unity
Pro platform, with its expanded functionality and flexible configuration options, will demonstrate how operators can combine live, automated, and virtual game formats within a single seamless environment. With new interface experiences and scalable multi-game capabilities, Novo Unity
Pro continues to offer a powerful solution for venues that are aiming to diversify their table game offering while maximizing floor efficiency.
For the systems sector, NOVOMATIC presents the NOVOVISION
Casino Management System, a modular suite of applications built to handle the complexities of modern gaming operations. From biometrically supported cashless gaming and real-time analytics to sophisticated player tracking and loyalty dynamics, NOVOVISION
equips operators with tools to run smarter floors and cultivate deeper player engagement.
With their own spectacular Booth #2M70 in the iGaming area, Greentube – the digital gaming and entertainment division of NOVOMATIC – will showcase its latest iGaming offerings, perfectly complementing our land-based portfolio. Dive into an ever-expanding range of online content that includes classic NOVOMATIC hits and exclusive proprietary brands and developments. This is where innovation meets tradition in a truly thrilling way!
The stage is set for Barcelona
As one of the industry’s most anticipated annual gatherings, ICE 2026 will once again provide the ideal setting for international operators, partners, and industry stakeholders to experience NOVOMATIC’s latest developments firsthand. With XTENSION LINK
as the leading theme, alongside an expanded multi-feature game portfolio, the debut of a next-generation premium cabinet, and a strengthened systems and ETG offering, NOVOMATIC will present a comprehensive vision for the future of gaming entertainment. Adding to the on-site experience, Max Hopp – one of Germany’s most acclaimed professional darts players – will join the program at the NOVOMATIC booth with a special highlight for attendees. Visitors can look forward to an exciting challenge as well as the opportunity to collect exclusive prizes.
“This year’s showcase reflects our continued commitment to meaningful innovation,” says Thomas Schmalzer, Vice President Global Sales and Product Management, NOVOMATIC AG. “From multi-feature progressives to immersive cabinet design and intelligent system architecture, we are focusing on solutions that deliver sustained value for operators and compelling experiences for players worldwide.”
“ICE Barcelona is a key platform to demonstrate the strength of our localized development and customer-focused approach,” adds Bernhard Teuchmann, Managing Director Product and Technology, NOVOMATIC Spain. “We look forward to welcoming our partners and presenting innovations that are aligned with the needs and dynamics of these markets.”
Visitors are invited to explore this showcase at the NOVOMATIC Booth #3P70 and to see how these developments can shape stronger performance and more engaging gaming experiences.
The post Setting the benchmark for 2026: NOVOMATIC at ICE Barcelona appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.
Brightstar Lottery
Brightstar Lottery Gains Exclusive Omnichannel Lottery Licensing Rights to Rubik’s® brand
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Brightstar Lottery PLC announced that it has signed a five-year exclusive licensing agreement with Spin Master Toys UK Limited (“Spin Master”) to develop and distribute Rubik’s-themed omnichannel lottery games worldwide, including instant tickets, innovative draw-based games and engaging iLottery games.
Created in 1974, the Rubik’s Cube is an iconic puzzle that inspires creativity and problem-solving across generations, with millions of cubes sold worldwide. Spin Master’s partnership with Brightstar to bring this cultural phenomenon into the lottery space creates fresh ways for fans and players to engage.
“The Rubik’s Cube is one of the most iconic symbols of pop culture and Brightstar is thrilled to extend its timeless legacy into compelling, next-generation experiences for lottery players to enjoy,” said Matthew Whalen, Brightstar Senior Vice President, Global Instant Ticket Services. “We look forward to producing exciting omnichannel games featuring Rubik’s Cube, which will include innovations such as our revolutionary Infinity Instants technology, creating an infinite number of possibilities to customize each ticket.”
The post Brightstar Lottery Gains Exclusive Omnichannel Lottery Licensing Rights to Rubik’s® brand appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.
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