Movers and Shakers: The Power of Visual Storytelling in iGaming

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“Movers and Shakers” is a dynamic monthly column dedicated to exploring the latest trends, developments, and influential voices in the iGaming industry. Powered by GameOn and supported by HIPTHER, this op-ed series delves into the key players, emerging technologies, and regulatory changes shaping the future of online gaming. Each month, industry experts offer their insights and perspectives, providing readers with in-depth analysis and thought-provoking commentary on what’s driving the iGaming world forward. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or new to the scene, “Movers and Shakers” is your go-to source for staying ahead in the rapidly evolving iGaming landscape. 

By Qianqian Liu, Head of Art and Animation at Gaming Corps

In iGaming, attention is fleeting. Players scroll through lobbies packed with hundreds of titles, and their decision to click on a game often happens in the space of a second or two. While mechanics and math models keep players engaged over time, it’s usually the artwork that determines whether they choose to play in the first place.

Over the course of my career in game art, I have seen how critical those first impressions are. High-quality visuals instantly communicate professionalism, entertainment value, and trustworthiness. They set the stage for the entire player experience. A game that looks polished and approachable has a far greater chance of being tried, while a title that looks confusing or underdeveloped risks being ignored entirely.

A clear example of this philosophy in action is Gaming Corps’ hugely popular title 3 Pigs of Olympus. The game takes familiar Greek mythology and reimagines it through the lens of humour and charm, with Zeus, Poseidon, and Hades brought to life as playful piggy banks. The reinterpretation not only provides an immediate hook in the lobby but also creates a warm, entertaining atmosphere that resonates once the reels begin to spin.

Artwork as the emotional bridge

Artwork does more than simply attract attention; it acts as the emotional bridge between mechanics and the player. Even the most innovative math model will fall flat if it is not supported by visuals that spark curiosity, delight, or connection. In 3 Pigs of Olympus, what could have been a straightforward “three pots” mechanic is transformed into something more memorable through character-driven design. The piggy gods inject humour and personality, transforming a familiar structure into an engaging journey.

When players feel amused, intrigued, or invested in the visual world, they are more likely to keep playing. That emotional response extends gameplay beyond outcomes, making the process enjoyable in itself.

Collaboration from concept to delivery

At Gaming Corps, this philosophy is embedded in the creative process. Artists, designers, and developers work together from the very beginning of a project to ensure that visuals are not only beautiful but functional and aligned with gameplay.

During concept development, sketches and ideas are exchanged with constant input from design and development teams. This ensures clarity in symbols, smooth performance across devices, and readability in fast-paced play. By working as one unit, the final product achieves balance: artwork that is aesthetically striking while seamlessly supporting the game loop.

In a space where milliseconds of attention matter, this alignment makes a huge difference.

The measurable impact of artwork

The impact of quality artwork can be seen in tangible performance metrics. Games with clear, polished, and charming visuals tend to perform better in lobbies, as players are naturally drawn to them. Over time, strong visuals also influence retention, as players enjoy not only the mechanics but the personality and atmosphere of the game.

Clarity plays an important role in this. When symbols are instantly understandable, players can grasp the rules quickly, without unnecessary cognitive effort. This lowers friction and allows them to focus on enjoyment.

In the case of 3 Pigs of Olympus, this combination of charm and clarity translated into strong lobby performance and improved long-term engagement. These results reaffirm what I have long believed: visuals are not just surface-level appeal, but an integral driver of success.

Elevating visual design

For studios and artists looking to elevate their visual design, several principles can make a significant impact. Clarity should always come first: every symbol and element must be instantly readable, no matter the screen size. Personality, however, is what makes clarity memorable. A symbol that is both clear and charming creates a lasting impression.

Drawing from familiar themes can also be powerful, but the key lies in reinterpreting them in unexpected ways. Myths, stories, and cultural motifs are instantly recognisable, but when paired with humour or novelty, they stand out from the crowd. Consistency across all elements, from background art to UI, reinforces trust and gives the game a polished identity.

Most importantly, artists should not work in isolation. Visuals must be part of the game loop, enhancing the mechanics rather than sitting apart from them. When art is integrated into the full development process, it becomes more than decoration; it becomes a core driver of readability, emotion, and excitement.

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