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YoYo Games launches GameMaker Studio 2 version 2.3
Biggest update since GameMaker Studio 2 combines GML and IDE improvements with powerful new tools to create and manipulate animation
YoYo Games announced the release of GameMaker Studio 2 version 2.3 – the biggest update of the multi-million downloaded 2D development technology since the release of GameMaker Studio 2.
The highly-anticipated update comes packed with a host of GameMaker Language (GML) and Integrated Development Environment (IDE) improvements, alongside a raft of powerful new features designed to make creating beautiful games as easy and accessible as possible.
“With version 2.3 of GameMaker we’ve not only changed the best practices for doing almost everything in GML, but with new features like Sequences and Animation Curve we’ve introduced incredibly powerful new tools which continue to open-up GameMaker Studio 2 to people who are less experienced with code and who prefer a more visual approach to making games”, said Stuart Poole, General Manager, YoYo Games. “This ability to synchronise audio and animation and invoke instances of it at any point through game logic is going to increasingly add a huge amount of polish to games, by giving content creators a very high level of control over how their designs are implemented within the game.”
One of the most anticipated new features is Sequences – an easy-to-use tool for adding sound and animation to visual assets. Used in conjunction with another new top-level feature, Animation Curves, Sequences enables artists to unleash their creativity to create dynamic animations and cut-scenes, all without needing a coder to change every pixel.
“Developing cutscenes or complex animations may have been difficult before but has been streamlined tremendously with Sequences. With just a couple of keyframes, I’m able to see my animation come to life immediately and make small adjustments to get it just right,” said version 2.3 closed-beta participate Sam Baylus from MashArcade, adding: “Sequences allow me to work quickly, efficiently, and more intuitively than ever before and developers have only begun to scratch the surface of what Sequences is capable of.”
Developer and closed-beta participant Gurpreet Singh Matharoo is also excited by the potential of Sequences: “There is so much I like about v2.3, but Sequences outshines them all. There’s so much you can do with them. Animations and cutscenes are the obvious ones, but even GUI design, audio sequencing, template design (for example, pattern of incoming enemies in a space shooter game), and so much more that is yet to be discovered.”
In addition to the streamlined new project format, the latest update also sees the Resource Tree replaced with the Asset Browser, in a significant IDE upgrade which offers developers a completely redesigned way to create, manage, tag and filter their assets. Developer JuJu Adams, who has been using version 2.3 during closed-beta, was particular impressed by the new Asset Browser: “The biggest workflow improvement is ensuring merge conflicts in source control no longer require Bletchley Park to decrypt. That resources can be anywhere is a game-changer for many reasons, not least because you can communicate a lot of information about the underlying structure of a game just through your Asset Browser tree.”
With no barriers to entry and powerful functionality, the engine enables both experienced and novice video game developers to create the games they imagine. GameMaker Studio 2 version 2.3 combines easy-to-use drag-and-drop tools, tutorials and game assets with the powerful GameMaker Language (GML) and advanced, professional functionality, like the physics engine, particles and advanced shaders.
GameMaker Studio 2 can be purchased for Windows desktop, Mac OS X, Ubuntu, Android, iOS, Amazon Fire, Microsoft UWP, HTML5, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, and Xbox One, starting from $39usd.
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AI gaming platforms
BetConstruct AI Sets the Tone for 2026 iGaming with Harmony Choice Event in Barcelona
BetConstruct AI defines a new era of iGaming at Harmony Choice in Barcelona
On January 17, BetConstruct AI officially ushered in the 2026 iGaming season with Harmony Choice, an exclusive industry gathering held in Barcelona just days ahead of ICE Barcelona. Hosted at one of the city’s most iconic venues, the event brought together senior industry leaders for an evening of strategic dialogue, collaboration, and high-level networking.
Designed to set the tone for the year ahead, Harmony Choice became the stage for a series of major announcements that highlight BetConstruct AI’s ambition to reshape the iGaming ecosystem through artificial intelligence and scalable technology.
Choice Gaming officially launched
Taking center stage, Vigen Badalyan, Co-founder of BetConstruct AI, announced the official launch of Choice Gaming. The platform has already demonstrated rapid adoption, going live on more than 1,000 websites at launch.
Looking ahead, BetConstruct AI revealed an ambitious growth plan, projecting integration across 5,000+ websites by the end of February. To reward early adopters, the company announced that every 51st integrator will receive the entire Choice Gaming slot portfolio free for one year.
KISS AI Live Casino debuts
Harmony Choice also marked the unveiling of KISS AI Live Casino, a groundbreaking live casino solution powered entirely by advanced artificial intelligence. Positioned as a next-generation product, KISS AI Live Casino aims to redefine player interaction and operational efficiency within live gaming environments.
To accelerate adoption, BetConstruct AI introduced a limited-time incentive: partners integrating KISS AI Live Casino by February 25 will receive the platform free for one year.
Faster scaling with Open API integration
Further streamlining partner onboarding, BetConstruct AI announced that Open API integration would be available on both BetConstruct AI and Choice Gaming websites starting January 19. The updated system enables online contract sign-offs, allowing operators to integrate products and scale operations faster and more efficiently.
Leadership insights and new product reveals
The evening also featured strategic insights from senior leadership across the group:
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Vahagn Badalyan, CEO of Badalyan Brothers, reviewed recent milestones and unveiled two new live casino games from Creedroomz, reinforcing the group’s live casino offering.
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Leonid Kirakosyan, CEO of BetConstruct AI, introduced Betting Mate, an AI-powered recommendation engine designed to enhance sportsbook engagement through personalized, data-driven betting suggestions.
Setting the benchmark for 2026
More than a networking event, Harmony Choice served as a clear statement of intent. By blending human creativity with artificial intelligence, BetConstruct AI demonstrated its commitment to equipping operators with flexible tools, advanced AI solutions, and diverse gaming portfolios.
As the industry turns its attention to ICE Barcelona 2026, BetConstruct AI has set a high benchmark for innovation, scalability, and strategic vision — positioning Harmony Choice as one of the defining moments at the start of the iGaming year.
The post BetConstruct AI Sets the Tone for 2026 iGaming with Harmony Choice Event in Barcelona appeared first on Eastern European Gaming | Global iGaming & Tech Intelligence Hub.
Casino Technology
Danny Wu Wins Cubeia’s ICE Barcelona VIP Poker Tournament Featuring Henrik Larsson & Johan Mjällby
Danny Wu triumphs at Cubeia’s ICE Barcelona VIP Poker Tournament
Cubeia, the Sweden-based iGaming software solutions provider, has announced Danny Wu as the winner of its inaugural ICE Barcelona VIP Poker Tournament, held in partnership with QTech Games. The standout event featured a special table that included Swedish football icons Henrik Larsson and Johan Mjällby, drawing significant attention from ICE attendees.
A high-profile showdown at ICE Barcelona
Hosted on Day 2 at Cubeia’s eye-catching stand, the VIP poker tournament quickly became a focal point of the exhibition floor. Danny Wu emerged victorious after an entertaining and competitive session, taking home the top prize of €1,500.
The table combined serious poker action with relaxed conversation, as players swapped hands and shared football stories, creating an atmosphere that resonated with both poker enthusiasts and industry professionals.
A premium VIP experience
Cubeia elevated the experience with a curated VIP setting, complete with champagne and beer, reinforcing the social and celebratory tone of the event. The lively ambience helped generate buzz throughout the day and showcased Cubeia’s ability to deliver memorable, community-driven activations at major industry events.
Spotlight on Cubeia Originals
Alongside the tournament, visitors explored Cubeia’s Originals portfolio, including upcoming titles such as Chicken Cross Tower, Multiplier Roulette, Baccarat, Blackjack, and Snakes. The showcase highlighted Cubeia’s commitment to innovative content and engaging game mechanics.
Industry praise
Tove Nilsson, Marketing & Event Coordinator at Cubeia, commented:
“The VIP Poker Tournament exceeded all expectations and was a major highlight of ICE Barcelona. Working with our partners, QTech Games, we delivered a truly premium experience. The atmosphere around the table was exactly what we hoped for — competitive, social, and genuinely fun. Congratulations to Danny on a deserved win, and huge thanks to Henrik Larsson and Johan Mjällby for being such great sports.”
Bringing the industry together
The success of the ICE Barcelona VIP Poker Tournament underlines Cubeia’s strength in creating unique, high-impact experiences that connect partners, players, and visitors. By blending celebrity appeal, quality gameplay, and premium hospitality, Cubeia reinforced its position as a brand that values community and innovation within the iGaming industry.
The post Danny Wu Wins Cubeia’s ICE Barcelona VIP Poker Tournament Featuring Henrik Larsson & Johan Mjällby appeared first on Eastern European Gaming | Global iGaming & Tech Intelligence Hub.
affiliate marketing
N1 Partners Takes Flight in Barcelona: Helicopter Awarded at iGB Affiliate 2026 Finale
The curtains have closed on iGB Affiliate 2026, but the echoes of N1 Partners’ massive presence are still vibrating through the halls of the Fira de Barcelona. After two days of high-stakes networking and over 500 business meetings, the company concluded the event by awarding a Robinson R22 Beta II helicopter to the grand winner of the N1 Puzzle Promo.
A Hub of Industry Activity
From January 20 to 21, the N1 Partners stand (80-C80) served as a primary nervous system for the expo floor. The team maintained a relentless pace, facilitating hundreds of discussions regarding traffic strategies and custom deals.
Beyond the boardroom-style meetings, the stand offered a more interactive “Plinko” activity and distributed over 300 branded merchandise packs, ensuring the N1 brand remained visible across the entire conference.
Media Spotlight and Thought Leadership
The company’s influence extended beyond the booth, with leadership participating in more than 10 interviews and podcasts. These sessions focused on sustainable growth within the iGaming sector and evolving affiliate expectations, further solidifying N1 Partners’ reputation as a transparent and performance-driven program.
The Grand Finale: A Night to Remember
The highlight of the week was undoubtedly the N1 Puzzle Promo Party, an exclusive, closed-format celebration that saw over 2,000 registrations. While only 600 guests could be accommodated, the venue was packed with the industry’s top decision-makers and affiliates.
The atmosphere reached a fever pitch as the winners of the N1 Puzzle Promo leaderboard were announced:
| Rank | Partner Name |
| 1st Place (Helicopter Winner) | Cash Splash |
| 2nd Place | Advertise |
| 3rd Place | Traffic Squad |
| 4th Place | Seven Group |
| 5th Place | Alfaleads Network |
The evening concluded with a live performance from a surprise headline guest and high-energy DJ sets, marking the successful end of a campaign that was recently named Best Advertising and Marketing Campaign at the European iGaming Awards.
The post N1 Partners Takes Flight in Barcelona: Helicopter Awarded at iGB Affiliate 2026 Finale appeared first on Eastern European Gaming | Global iGaming & Tech Intelligence Hub.
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