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Here’s a Look at the Top Trends Shaping the Online Gambling Market

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The global online gambling market size is projected to reach USD 158.20 billion by 2028, exhibiting a CAGR of 11.4% during the forecast period. This information is given by Fortune Business Insights in a new report, titled, “Online Gambling Market, 2021-2028.”  As per the report, the market was USD 66.72 billion in 2020.

List of Key Players Covered in this Market Report:

  • Slots Heaven Casino (Slots Heaven Casino)
  • Sky Betting & Gaming (Leeds, United Kingdom)
  • SPIN Casino (Canada)
  • DraftKings Inc. (Massachusetts, United States)
  • Betfred (Warrington, United Kingdom)
  • BetAmerica (California, United States)
  • LeoVegas AB (Stockholm, Sweden)
  • Betsson AB (Stockholm, Sweden)
  • StarsGroup.com (Ontario, Canada)
  • Kindred Group Plc. (Valletta, Malta)
  • Mansion Casino (Gibraltar)
  • Evolution Gaming AB (British Columbia, Canada)
  • Scientific Games Corporation (Nevada, United States)
  • Buffalo Partners (New York, United States)
  • bet-at-home.com AG (Germany)
  • 888 Holdings PLC (Gibraltar)
  • Bet365 (Stoke-on-Trent, United Kingdom)
  • Flutter Entertainment Plc. (Dublin, Ireland)
  • William Hill Plc. (London, United Kingdom)
  • Entain plc (GVC Holdings Plc.) (Douglas, Isle of Man)

REPORT SCOPE & SEGMENTATION:

Report Coverage Details
Forecast Period 2021 to 2028
Forecast Period 2021 to 2028 CAGR 11.4%
2028 Value Projection USD 158.20 Billion
Base Year 2020
Market Size in 2020 USD 66.72 Billion
Historical Data for 2017 to 2019
No. of Pages 130
Tables, Charts & Figures 92
Segments covered Type;  Devices; and Region
Growth Drivers Ease of Online Payment to Drive Online Gambling Market Growth
Restrictions of COVID-19 on Land-based Casinos to Boost Demand for Online Gambling
Rapid Adoption of Smartphones to Fuel Demand for Mobile Gambling
Pitfalls & Challenges Rising Adverse Impacts on Mental Health and Bans on Online Gambling May Impede Market Growth

Quick Adoption of Online Gambling amid COVID-19 to Boost the Market

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The global health and economic crisis triggered by the COVID-19 pandemic forced governments in several countries to impose strict lockdowns and social distancing measures. Companies rapidly adopted remote working models, leading to huge portions of working populations working from home. With most non-essential services and places, including casinos, being closed down, gamers and gamblers have swiftly shifted to virtual platforms, boosting the online gambling market growth in the process. For example, an article published by New York University revealed that digital gambling platforms have gained speedy momentum in Canada after the coronavirus broke out. In Australia, according to a report by Concordia University, Canada, spending on online casinos rose sharply by 67% in April 2020. The coronavirus pandemic has, thus, proved favorable for this market, enabling it to register a healthy CAGR of 11.2% and reach a value of USD 74.17 billion in 2021.

Market Segments

Based on type, the market has been classified into sports betting, casinos, poker, lottery, bingo, and others, with the lottery segment holding a share of 15.1% in the global market and a share of 15.4% in the UK market in 2020.

On the basis of devices, the market segments include desktop, mobile, and others. By region, the market has been divided into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, the Middle East & Africa, and South America.

Highlights of the Report

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The report offers a granular examination of the various factors shaping the growth trajectory of the market, as well as a holistic analysis of the hindrances obstructing the market. Furthermore, a microscopic study of the regional and competitive dynamics influencing the market has also been provided in the report, along with an in-depth assessment of the individual market segments. The insights contained in the report are based on industry-leading research conducted through primary, secondary, and tertiary sources.

Driving Factor

Introduction of Sophisticated Technologies in Virtual Gambling to Fuel the Market

Advanced, intelligent technologies, such as artificial intelligence (AI) and blockchain, are being increasingly employed by online gambling platforms to ensure a secure and safe space for enthusiasts. Heralding this trend are startups that are developing and offering novel gambling platforms powered by smart technologies. For example, Edgeless, which was started in 2018, became the first Ethereum-based virtual casino that uses distributed ledger technology to ensure payouts. Similarly, Tombola is a popular lottery and gambling platform driven by cryptocurrency and other blockchain-enabled tools. Another example is the Canada-based startup, Quarter4, which leverages AI to offer simulations, content, and predictions for sports bettors. The incorporation of new-age solutions in digital gambling is, thus, opening new pathways of development for this market.

Regional Insights

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Europe to Headline the Global Market, Forecasts Fortune Business Insights

Europe is expected to dictate the online gambling market share during the forecast period on account of the heavy investments being made by sports enthusiasts across the continent in online sports betting. Moreover, a healthy betting culture in Europe will further bolster the prospects of the market in the region. In 2020, the Europe market size stood at USD 30.92 billion.

The presence of secure connectivity infrastructure and strong gambling regulations will propel North America in the second-leading position in the market in terms of revenue generation. On the other hand, growing investments in online gambling in South America, driven by regulations in Colombia and Argentina, are anticipated to speed up the expansion of the market in this region.

Competitive Landscape

Key Players to Strengthen Businesses through Innovative Collaborations

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With online gaming picking up pace amid the COVID-19 pandemic, key players in this market are entering into strategic collaborations with gambling industry giants to deepen their market footprint. These companies are engaging in developing innovative online gambling platforms to attract gamblers and gain momentum in this rapidly evolving market space.

Industry Developments:

  • December 2020: BetMGM launched the BetMGM Casino in Pennsylvania, with an aim to bring its online gambling portfolio to players in the state. The platform will offer sophisticated mobile casino games, which will be available on iOS, Android, and desktops.
  • February 2020: CBS Sports and William Hill inked a deal under which William Hill will become the exclusive provider of Wagering Data and Sports Book across all CBS Sports platforms. The partnership will integrate sports betting, media, and technology to enhance fan engagement.

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New Gamification Academy at SBC Summit to Present Fresh Approaches to Player Engagement

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With gamification emerging as a driving force in the casino industry, SBC Summit introduces the Gamification Academy, an initiative built to confront pain points in engagement, retention, loyalty, and differentiation by exploring what truly keeps players coming back.

Launched in partnership with leading iGaming turnkey solutions provider Soft2Bet, the Gamification Academy will take place on Tuesday, 16th September, at the Sala Tejo, MEO Arena.

The programme forms part of SBC’s newly introduced Tech Academies,  a series of immersive learning streams designed to arm summit attendees with practical know-how in AI, marketing, Web 3.0 & blockchain, and gamification.

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Delegates can anticipate discussions examining the role of personalisation in driving loyalty, strategies for balancing gamified features with brand authenticity, and honest reflections on both the successes and challenges of gamification in the industry.

“Gamification has transformed how people interact with digital products across industries, and iGaming is no exception,” SBC Founder and CEO Rasmus Sojmark said.

“Players now expect fun, engaging, and rewarding experiences, and that’s exactly what gamification delivers. The Gamification Academy will show the industry how to apply these proven principles to build deeper connections, keep players returning, and create more meaningful player journeys,” he added.

Kicking off the Academy, Soft2Bet’s Chief Product Officer Yoel Zuckerberg will lead the ‘Introduction to Gamification & Player Engagement’ workshop. Setting the stage for the day, the session offers a comprehensive overview of gamification’s power and how it has shaped the industry in recent years.

Chief Business Development Officer Toni Jermaniš (SofaScore), CEO & Co-Founder Josh Jones (Rise & Hustle), and Senior Solutions Engineer Alec Gehlot (Optimove) will focus on the player retention angle through their ‘Why Personalisation is the Key to Retention‘ panel moderated by Soft2Bet’s Chief Business Development Officer Martin Collins.  The session will explore how tailored offers, customisable interfaces, and personalised recommendations are giving players more control over their experience and, in turn, strengthening loyalty and long-term value.

Following a networking break, two case studies will spotlight real-world lessons from gamification, dissecting what works, what doesn’t, and how to measure success.

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First up is the case study titled “Baking in Gamification During Design”, led by Alexis Wicen (CEO, Scatters Group). In this session, delegates can learn how to weave gamification into their products without losing brand authenticity. Drawing on real-world examples, the session will examine where brands have succeeded in integrating gamification into their games and platforms, and where they have fallen short, showing delegates how to approach gamification more effectively in their own projects.

The second case study, ‘The Metrics of Gamification’, will examine where the impact of gamification is most evident and how brands can measure it effectively. Featuring Uri Admon (CEO, Captain Up), the session will cover key factors such as retention, loyalty, engagement, revenue, and player enjoyment, helping delegates understand how to balance player needs with company goals.

The Academy will close with ‘The Five Steps of Gamification,’ a panel hosted by Soft2Bet’s Head of Sales, Alon Eshed, joined by Helen Walton (Founder & CCO, G Games), David Olim (CEO, FootAR), and Tom Jang Lemke (CEO and Founder, SavageTech). By breaking down the fundamental building blocks of gamification, including rewards, progression, competition, and storytelling, the session will highlight how these principles form the foundation of more engaging and personalised player experiences.

The Gamification Academy will feature at the upcoming SBC Summit 2025, SBC’s global flagship event, taking place at Feira Internacional de Lisboa and MEO Arena from 16–18 September. The summit will also host a six-track conference, a 135,000 square meter exhibition, the Affiliate Leaders Summit and Payment Expert Summit, plus a full schedule of evening networking events.

Participation in the Tech Academies is exclusively for VIP Event Pass and Expo+ holders only.

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You can RSVP to attend our tech academies here.

VIP Event Pass: Access to the show floor, all networking areas and conference sessions, complimentary food and drink from the summit’s food festival and access to exclusive evening networking sessions and parties.

Group VIP Event Pass: Get your passes for just €400 each when you purchase for three or more people (a saving of €200 per ticket!) – perfect for bringing your team along.

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Expo+ Pass: Access to the show floor, conference sessions and daytime networking only.

Expo Only Pass: Our free option, which gives you access to the show floor only. This is perfect for individuals from outside the gaming industry who want to explore potential partnerships. Please note that this will not grant you access to our academies.

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Operator and Affiliate Passes: Operators and affiliates are eligible for a free VIP event pass. Simply apply.

The post New Gamification Academy at SBC Summit to Present Fresh Approaches to Player Engagement appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.

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Casino Games and Console Games: Are They Really That Different?

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Games come in many shapes and sizes. This has long been the case. The digital age brings everything from slot machines to sprawling console adventures. Casino titles and console games might look like they live in two different worlds. One is often focused on quick play and chance. The other leans into storylines and hours of immersion.

There are definitely a lot of differences. But there are similarities and overlaps that not everybody has considered.

Two Industries, One Trend: Growth and Choice

One of the clearest similarities between casino games and console gaming is how both industries have grown in recent years. Players now face huge menus of choices.

Casino fans know that there can be some very big libraries and even new titles appearing by the week. They are all trying to stand out with a new theme or mechanic (or just new characters). New and emerging markets like Canada still benefit from the huge libraries that are available. Bodog Canada is a casino that has a lot of different slot games as well as a lot of traditional table games. Blackjack and similar options are ubiquitous – there are even new developments and tweaks to the gameplay.

Big slot developers and brands may even create a lot of different new games for the market. There are enough for brands to even advertise regular slots of the week or similar.

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Meanwhile, the console market has exploded. There are AAA open-world adventures and indie gems. The huge number of games caters to different tastes. Just like casino libraries, console platforms thrive on variety. This abundance means players in both spaces are never short of something new to try.

The numbers definitely back this up. A record number of new titles were launched in 2024 on Steam. There were over 15,000 new titles. Nobody could possibly try all of the games that have been put out on the market. Steam is a PC platform – we have seen a similar pattern in other console games.

Different Styles of Play

There’s no denying that the styles of play differ. Casino games are designed around quick interactions. A spin of a roulette wheel or a few seconds on a slot machine. All of these fit neatly into short bursts. Console games often ask for long sessions. They draw people in with depth and are designed to be longer. Some even take hundreds of hours to complete or give open-world designs people can explore endlessly.

But even here, there are overlaps. Casual console games like mobile ports and indie titles can mimic the quick pace of casino games. Think of puzzle games or arcade-style shooters that are all about instant gratification. They echo the same “jump in and jump out” model seen in many casino titles.

Shared Themes and Visuals

Themes are another place where links appear. Casino developers know that visuals matter. Slots come dressed in everything from mythology to sci-fi to jungle adventures. Console games also lean heavily on themes. They build entire worlds around specific styles.

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In both spaces, developers reuse familiar ideas because they work. Things like mythology and science fiction appear across slot libraries and console releases. The art and atmosphere can often feel strikingly similar, even if the gameplay itself is very different.

Mechanics: Skill vs Chance

One of the biggest differences lies in mechanics. Casino games are usually driven by chance. Spins and card draws are random – strategy often plays a secondary role. In contrast, console games usually rely heavily on skill.

Some casino titles do bring elements of strategy into play. Poker requires both luck and skill, and blackjack asks players to think carefully about probability. Console games sometimes lean into randomness, too. Loot systems or even dice-roll mechanics mimic the uncertainty of chance found in casinos.

Social Experiences

Another interesting similarity is the social side. Some casino games have turned into shared experiences. Players can sit at the same table virtually in a live dealer game and interact with others. Console gaming has mirrored this with online multiplayer. This could mean teaming up in a shooter. It could also be facing off in a sports game; the social element keeps people engaged.

Both industries understand the power of community. It’s no longer just about the game itself. The social element is huge.

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Technology Driving Both

Technology has been the engine behind the rise of both casino and console games. Casino developers have embraced mobile play and used HTML5. Console makers have pushed graphics and processing power to create lifelike worlds.

Interestingly, both industries borrow from each other here. Casino games sometimes mimic console-style graphics and storytelling. Some console games sneak in casino-style mini-games, like card tables or slot-style mechanics tucked inside larger adventures.

The post Casino Games and Console Games: Are They Really That Different? appeared first on Gaming and Gambling Industry in the Americas.

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Strategies that Scale: Evoplay’s Alex Malchenko on Cracking the Code of Localised iGaming Success

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Alex Malchenko, Head of Sales at Evoplay, joins us for an exclusive conversation ahead of HIPTHER’s European Gaming Congress 2025.

Evoplay, proud Pen & Paper Sponsor of this landmark event, continues to pave the way in iGaming with pioneering content, creative game design, and strategic market expansion.

With over a decade of B2B sales experience, Alex has played a lead role in entering regulated territories, forging new Bingo and Lottery partnerships, and launching fresh business directions – making him the ideal voice to explore insights around localising content for different markets: challenges, nuances, and successful strategies.

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Alex, with your background scaling new markets and products, what challenges have you encountered with content localisation in the iGaming space?
When we enter or grow in a new market, we look at its own specifics. In some markets, the main challenge is regulation, whether it’s strict certification rules, requirements on game content and promotions, RTP levels, or even small details like how session time is displayed. That’s why we take time to understand the rules, the culture, and what local players actually want.

One good example is our instant game Penalty Shoot-Out: Street, which we created for Brazil and its strong football culture. The challenges there were both technical and regulatory, since Latin American markets often have very different rules. In some countries, just certifying the game isn’t enough — additional RGS and RNG certificates and official confirmations are also required.

On top of that, we had to make sure the gameplay matched what players expected. With Penalty Shoot-Out: Street, we achieved this by combining fast bets, quick results, a familiar theme and the thrill of every goal, and it worked.

Another case is our Hot Triple Sevens, a worldwide-popular slot, which we’ve refreshed with new mechanics like Hold & Win. Then we re-skinned the game to suit different audiences — for example, American Sevens and Fogo do Brasil 777 — to make them resonate more with local styles and tastes.

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When games are built with the right themes and mechanics for a specific market, they feel more engaging and relevant to players, which can significantly boost their appeal. That’s why localisation is something we put thought into every time, learning from experience, working with partners, testing locally and improving as we go.

 

When it comes to Evoplay approaching localisation for a new market, what are the first strategic frameworks or priorities you put in place?
In short: regulation, communication with partners, and understanding players. When entering a new market, we carefully study all aspects, analyse the situation, and build a strategy. This includes legal, commercial, marketing and financial components, among others. Of course, for a complete picture, we also look at competitors’ experience, talk extensively with local participants, and study players — sometimes launching special campaigns independently, sometimes in collaboration with partners.

In this regard, Evoplay has made significant progress this year, reaching a new level. To support this approach, we also run campaigns that help us better understand players and their preferences. For example, the Oath of Steel campaign with SlotsCalendar, featuring a shared prize pool, invited players to take part and share their feedback, which we looked at thoughtfully. Similarly, we worked on a joint game with SlotCatalog, drawing on insights from their player preference analytics. Initiatives like this give us a better sense of what players enjoy and help us shape our games for different audiences, supporting our broader approach when entering or growing in new markets.

 

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Could you share an example where you had to adapt a game significantly – theme, mechanics, or language – to resonate with local players? What were the specific market nuances you had to tune into?

In our business, every game must meet regulatory requirements, and it’s normal that adapting a game for a specific market requires some extra adjustments. A good example of this is the lottery vertical, which is quite different from standard iGaming. In our business, every game must meet regulatory requirements, and it’s normal that adapting a game for a specific market requires some extra adjustments. A good example of this is the lottery vertical, which is quite different from iGaming. Here, we need to follow particular rules regarding content and promotions, along with other market-specific restrictions.

Other bright examples of our games adapted to local markets include mythology-inspired hits like Temple of Thunder II Bonus Buy and Roman Rule, as well as the previously mentioned American Sevens and Penalty Shoot-Out: Street. These games work well because everything comes together — the theme clicks with players, the visuals fit the concept, and the mechanics are engaging. I’d also highlight the simplicity of the games and their user-friendly UX/UI, which players appreciate no matter the region.

 

Operating in regulated markets obviously adds complexity. How do you strike the balance between compliance (e.g., legal, cultural mandates) and maintaining the brand’s creative integrity during localisation?
In situations like this, branded games are a good approach. Creating them involves working closely with partners, discussing details such as logos and technical settings like RTP or bet ranges.

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At the same time, we like to experiment with small creative touches to see what really clicks with players. A good example is The Easter Catch slot, an updated version of our worldwide popular The Greatest Catch, especially designed for the Easter holidays. Taking this approach keeps the game flexible, meets legal and cultural requirements, and still feels like our brand. Tailoring it for the partner and their audience also makes the game more engaging and usually leads to better performance.

 

You’ve been instrumental in forging Bingo and Lottery partnerships. How does localisation differ when tailoring for those verticals versus standard casino-style titles?

First of all, I want to emphasise that Bingo and Lottery are quite different from standard iGaming. These are established verticals with their own history, unique communities, and regulatory features. The lottery market is also largely monopolised and moves at a slower pace compared to the fast-moving world of iGaming.

Some online lotteries, while offering more dynamic and engaging experiences than paper versions or traditional online formats, are subject to many restrictions. For example, design themes common in slots are often prohibited, RTP requirements differ, and other regulatory rules apply.

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When it comes to trends in this area, the World Lottery Association sets the pace, and other lotteries tend to follow their lead.

Evoplay entered this sector to bring a fresh, innovative perspective, showing how classic games can be reimagined for a new generation of players and enthusiasts seeking new experiences. The projects we’re currently developing here hold great promise and add a fresh spark to this traditional space.

 

Thank you, Alex, for walking us through Evoplay’s thoughtful approach to content localisation and the art of balancing strategy with respect for local flavor. We can’t wait to hear more from you and other industry leaders live at the European Gaming Congress 2025.

 

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Join us at the European Gaming Congress 2025 | 30–31 October | Warsaw

👉 Secure your spot today, network, and dive deeper into how industry leaders like Evoplay shape the future.

The post Strategies that Scale: Evoplay’s Alex Malchenko on Cracking the Code of Localised iGaming Success appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.

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