Latest News
New GambleAware-commissioned Research Warns of High Risks from Gaming Machines, Online Casino Games and Loot Boxes
GambleAware, the leading charity and commissioner of gambling harms prevention and treatment services in Great Britain, has published a new report looking at which types of gambling pose the highest risks of harm.
GambleAware commissioned Bournemouth University to conduct research exploring the relative risks of harm associated with different types of gambling including land-based electronic gaming machines, online casino games, loot boxes and the National Lottery draw.
The research found that land-based electronic gaming machines in bookmakers and casinos and online casino games, which both offer the possibility of quick rewards and a fast pace of play, were associated with the highest level of risk. Usage of electronic gaming machines was the biggest predictor of someone going on to experience future gambling harms and those using land-based electronic gaming machines were found to be over 10 times more likely than average to be experiencing “problem gambling” while those using online casino games were four times more likely than average to experience harm.
The report calls for more restrictions on the availability and design of electronic gaming machines, including reducing the number of machines in venues, lowering stakes and implementing mandatory breaks. More restrictions are also called for on online casino games, to focus on responsible design, as well as for gambling operators to continue to develop and enhance systems to provide personalised support for online customers displaying signs of risk indicators such as spending large amounts of time or money.
The research also looked at other products which are often not viewed as traditional gambling including loot boxes and the National Lottery.
Loot boxes, which often feature in games aimed at children, can blur the lines between gaming and gambling, and were also found to carry risks. The research discovered that fifty percent of people who use loot boxes in computer games are at any level of risk. Those who used loot boxes exhibited a high likelihood of experiencing “problem gambling”, as using them inherently increases the risk due to their accessibility, immersive nature, and the blending of gaming and gambling environments. The report recommends that the effects of gambling-like elements in video games, such as loot boxes, should be investigated and more should be done to restrict their use among young people aged under 18.
The research also showed the National Lottery draw has a high reach into communities experiencing gambling harms. An estimated 600,000 people experiencing “problem gambling” were found to be using the National Lottery draw, while 500,000 people experiencing “problem gambling” use scratch cards. The report recommends that the National Lottery should signpost people to support services such as GambleAware, to help any lottery players who may be experiencing gambling harms.
The number of different types of gambling people take part in was also found to have a major impact on the risk of gambling harm. The report showed that the level of “problem gambling” increases in line with the number of types of gambling activities people participate in, and increases more after two activities. Therefore the report also calls for gambling operators to create shared databases to identify people doing several different types of gambling who are at an increased risk of gambling harms.
Zoë Osmond, CEO of GambleAware, said: “No form of gambling is completely without risk. However this new research shows that there are some particular types of gambling which can lead to an increased chance of experiencing gambling harm, which can have a corrosive effect on people’s lives, finances, careers and relationships.
“The research also brings into question some of the measures outlined in the Gambling White Paper such as relaxations in land-based gambling , which could lead to an increase in electronic gaming machines in venues, and having different online slot stake limits for those aged over 25 – we believe people over 25 should have the same lower limits as those who are younger. The report suggests the measures do not go far enough to protect people. This is why we are calling for the recommendations in this report to be adopted as they will help ensure that people can be better protected.”
Dr Ruijie Wang, from Bournemouth University, said: “This research was designed to explore the risks of harm from different types of gambling in the context of regulatory changes that were proposed within the UK government’s Gambling White Paper. The results highlight the need for more stringent gambling regulation, particularly in online slots and land-based electronic gaming machines due to their high risk of harm to young adults. More regulation is also needed to limit gambling-like practices in video gaming, such as loot boxes, to individuals aged over 18 years as the interaction between video gaming and gambling should not be ignored.”
The post New GambleAware-commissioned Research Warns of High Risks from Gaming Machines, Online Casino Games and Loot Boxes appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.
Booming Games
Treasure Hunt Revival — Booming Games Launches Gold Gold Gold Hold and Win
Booming Games, a top supplier of high-quality gaming content, has introduced Gold Gold Gold Hold and Win today. The game features a 5×3 layout with 25 paylines, offering significant risks with a top payout of 2,000 times the wager. Offering instant cash prizes at the end of each spin, Gold Gold Gold Hold and Win delivers an exceptional experience for players in search of high-stakes excitement.
The game includes a variety of bonus features. Landing six or more coin symbols activates the Hold and Win bonus, initiating a high-stakes re-spin round. Beginning with three re-spins, each additional coin resets the re-spin total, continuing the round. The opportunity to win immediate cash rewards, including Mini, Major, or Grand bonuses that can reach up to 1000 times the total wager, significantly enhances the thrill of the game.
In addition, players who hit three Scatter symbols will receive eight Free Spins. From this point onward, only premium symbols show up on the reels, including Wilds, Bells, Stars, Gold Bars, and Clovers. Featuring only high-paying symbols, each spin is designed to enhance the likelihood of securing significant combinations, and Free Spins can be retriggered, generating payout possibilities with every spin.
Craig Asling, Director of Games at Booming Games, said: “The treasure hunt is on. With a golden chance to strike it rich, Gold Gold Gold Hold and Win is our latest must-play slot. With thrilling bonus features that keep the action going, players can enjoy the potential to unlock massive returns and feel that they are always one spin away from striking gold.”
The post Treasure Hunt Revival — Booming Games Launches Gold Gold Gold Hold and Win appeared first on Eastern European Gaming | Global iGaming & Tech Intelligence Hub.
Blueprint Gaming
Blueprint Gaming names Mattia Luchesini Head of International Account Management
Blueprint Gaming has named Mattia Luchesini as Head of Account Management – International, enhancing its commercial leadership as the company continues to grow in regulated markets.
In his new position, Mattia will oversee Blueprint’s global account management function, prioritizing the establishment of strategic operator partnerships and fostering ongoing growth in vital regions. He will collaborate closely with commercial, product, and delivery teams to guarantee that partners receive support through a cooperative, value-oriented strategy.
Mattia comes to Blueprint from Games Global, where he dedicated more than two and a half years to senior account management positions, fostering robust relationships with operators throughout EMEA and acquiring substantial experience in international market dynamics.
This recent appointment demonstrates Blueprint Gaming’s ongoing investment in its commercial strengths, guaranteeing that partners receive support from seasoned leadership while the company advances its growth strategy.
Mattia Luchesini, Head of Account Management – International at Blueprint Gaming, said: “It’s a great opportunity to join Blueprint at a time of strong international momentum.
“The business has a clear vision and a reputation for working closely with its partners, and I’m looking forward to contributing to that approach while helping to drive growth across global markets.”
Matt Cole, Managing Director at Blueprint Gaming, added: “Mattia brings valuable international experience and a strong understanding of what operators need from a long-term content partner.
“His appointment supports our continued focus on strengthening relationships and delivering a high standard of account management as Blueprint grows its global footprint.”
The post Blueprint Gaming names Mattia Luchesini Head of International Account Management appeared first on Eastern European Gaming | Global iGaming & Tech Intelligence Hub.
Denmark
RoyalCasino Partners with ScatterKings for Company’s Danish Launch
Rapidly expanding provider enters one of Europe’s most established regulated markets with its initial local operator partnership now operational.
ScatterKings has launched in Denmark’s regulated iGaming sector through a collaboration with RoyalCasino, a major online casino operator in the country, following the acquisition of a licence from the Danish Gambling Authority (Spillemyndigheden).
Players at RoyalCasino will enjoy access to ScatterKings’ collection of carefully designed games, such as Coins of Cleo and the anticipated Big Bob’s Gold, introducing new innovation to one of Europe’s most regulated and advanced markets.
Featuring precise calculations, captivating audiovisual elements, and built on a dependable AI- and cloud-driven platform, ScatterKings’ games provide seamless integration, steady performance, and an immersive experience for players in various regions.
Denmark’s strict regulatory framework and advanced market conditions position it as a logical progression for ScatterKings’ international growth plan, subsequent to their expansion into Austria at the close of 2025. Approval from Spillemyndigheden highlights the studio’s dedication to high-quality, compliant entertainment of the utmost standard.
RoyalCasino.dk is managed by the RoyalCasino Group, which boasts over 30 years of experience in the Danish gaming sector. The organization initially launched Royal Casino Aarhus in 1991, then ventured online in 2016, establishing itself as one of the nation’s most reliable casino brands.
ScatterKings remains focused on quality and craftsmanship, with each title being a passionate effort that combines established mechanics with daring artistic vision and unwavering performance. Created by a skilled team and supported by knowledgeable industry experts, the provider’s content is crafted to be distinctive and function flawlessly.
Steven Cross, CCO at ScatterKings, said: “Securing our Danish licence is a huge achievement for the team as we expand our global footprint and is a clear signal of where we’re heading as a studio. Denmark is one of the most respected markets in Europe, so entering it with a partner like RoyalCasino makes this launch even more special.
“RoyalCasino’s heritage aligns perfectly with our ambitions for ScatterKings. We’re incredibly proud to see our games live with such an iconic Danish brand, and this is only the beginning.”
Per Petersen, CEO at RoyalCasino Group, said: “With their stellar iGaming track record and dedication to succeed, ScatterKings impressed us instantly. Their ever-expanding games portfolio offers up true quality games made with genuine craftsmanship, and I expect we’ll see a lot more from them in the future. As one of Denmark’s largest online casino operators, we are highly selective about the partners we work with, and we’re delighted to be partnering with ScatterKings.
“We’re excited to be ScatterKings’ first partner as they enter the Danish market and look forward to providing a truly excellent experience for our customers.”
The post RoyalCasino Partners with ScatterKings for Company’s Danish Launch appeared first on Eastern European Gaming | Global iGaming & Tech Intelligence Hub.
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