Key trends include the fast-growing mobile gaming segment, the impact of recent regulations, the integration of blockchain and AI, and the investments in equity and inclusion across the gaming industry.

Xsolla, a global video game commerce company, published the Spring 2024 edition of “The Xsolla Report: The State of Play” today. Launched on the heels of the Game Developers Conference (GDC) 2024, this extensive report provides invaluable insights into the emerging trends and pivotal shifts impacting the gaming industry in the short and long term. ​ It sets the stage to significantly shape the future of mobile gaming, deepen academic connections within the gaming ecosystem, and redefine investment patterns.

In an era where mobile gaming commanded a 49% share of the global market in 2023, this edition of “The State of Play” sheds light on the evolving landscape of mobile gaming. The report navigates through the advancements in global compliance and regulation, including the Digital Markets Act in Europe’s new player engagement strategies, offering a glimpse into the potential future of mobile gaming monetization and distribution. It discusses the impact of cross-platform play and the importance of innovative monetization models, providing actionable insights for developers and industry stakeholders.

“The State of Play” emphasizes the importance of academia in the growth and diversification of the gaming industry. It explores how educational programs and initiatives develop talent and promote diversity and inclusivity within the gaming community. This edition underlines the symbiotic relationship between the gaming industry and academic institutions, highlighting programs that significantly impact students and the industry.

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Berkley Egenes, Chief Marketing and Growth Officer at Xsolla, comments: “As we introduce the latest edition of ‘The State of Play,’ we’re not merely sharing industry insights but advocating for a transformative vision: Equal Access for Everyone. This initiative goes beyond our commitment to innovation and growth within the gaming industry. It’s about breaking down barriers to ensure that every developer, regardless of company size, has the opportunity to showcase their creativity and reach a global audience. Our focus is on providing platforms and tools that foster creative opportunities, international exposure, and the development of unique projects, ensuring that the future of gaming is accessible to all. We aim to empower every player and developer worldwide, ensuring the gaming landscape is as diverse and dynamic as its community.”

The report offers an in-depth analysis of the gaming industry’s current investment climate, including funding trends, mergers, and acquisitions. It outlines the shifts in investment patterns, from the heights of the pandemic-induced boom to a more measured approach in 2024. “The State of Play” provides a roadmap for navigating the industry’s financial aspects, offering insights into strategic investment opportunities and forecasting future trends.

Featuring expert commentary from industry voices like:

• Mukul Aurora, Co-founder of Appsoleut Games;
• Mariusz Gasiewski, CEO of Mobile Gaming and Apps Lead at Google;
• Karla Reyes, Founder and Studio Director,

Anima Interactive, the Xsolla Report: The State of Play is now available for complimentary download. To secure your copy and gain invaluable insights into the gaming industry, visit our website.

Tipico, a leading sports betting and iGaming operator, has been named the 2024 SBC Rising Star of the Year. The honor was announced and presented to Tipico at the fourth annual SBC Awards North America, held at the Hilton Midtown in New York City on May 9, 2024.

Tipico was selected for its pace of growth and innovation, differentiating with proprietary technology built entirely in-house to personalize the online sports betting experience. Since January 2023, the brand has increased app processing speeds by 56% and increased app withdrawal speeds by 733%.

Since its US market entry in 2020, Tipico has leveraged its operational advantages to launch several new product features, promotions, and strategic partnerships across its operating states. Additionally, the company recently revamped its New Jersey-based proprietary casino platform to complement its sportsbook offerings with a focus on customer retention and cross-promotion.

“I am so proud to see Tipico recognized at one of the industry’s most prestigious events,” said Adrian Vella, Tipico US CEO. “Our team’s collective vision since we entered the US market four years ago was to disrupt the online gambling landscape with tech-powered, customer-first solutions. We’ve grown into a resilient organization with passionate colleagues, and so many of them helped us reach this milestone. With this achievement, we’re reminded of the remarkable journey we’ve undertaken together.”

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The SBC Rising Star of the Year award is judged based on rigorous criteria, including operational efficiency, market growth, innovative marketing strategies, the introduction of unique features, commitment to responsible gambling, and customer satisfaction.

Tipico has also been recognized by Eilers and Krejcik Gaming (EKG) for its sportsbook and casino platform operations. Tipico Sportsbook ranked fourth in the nation in In-Play Betting in EKG’s July 2023 Product Analysis Report. Additionally, EKG tested and ranked Tipico Casino as the top casino app in the nation in September 2023, recognized for its clean, intuitive, and fast UX.

For more information on Tipico, please visit the website.

Enteractive, the leader in player conversion and reactivation services, today announced a strategic partnership with Optimove, the #1 CRM Marketing solution for the iGaming sector. The partnership means Enteractive’s expertise in outbound calling for conversion and reactivation of players will complement Optimove’s existing marketing channels suite that includes email, mobile, SMS, in-app messaging, as well as web and mobile push.

Through Enteractive’s unique services, operators are empowered to boost player retention as well as identify and help tackle problematic gambling issues by adding a personal interaction with their players in a seamless integration with Optimove’s holistic Customer-Led Marketing approach.

Enteractive helps iGaming operators improve player retention, increase customer lifetime value, enhance overall profitability, and tackle problematic gambling issues in a personal, first-hand manner using personalized communication and customer engagement strategies facilitated by a robust technology platform, from dialing to deposit confirmation.

For example, an operator can activate Enteractive’s outbound calls channel for two key purposes: 1) to reactivate players who lapsed as part of their holistic, orchestrated CRM marketing strategy and 2) to empower the operator to identify players who display signs of problematic gambling behavior, often triggered by specific events; plus provide problem players with personal, hands-on advice to help them manage their gambling habits.

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“Sometimes you need a bit of human touch,” said Dan De Souza, Director of iGaming Partnerships at Optimove. “We’re thrilled to kick off this strategic partnership with Enteractive.  This new marketing channel represents a significant addition, offering operators an impactful avenue to rekindle connections with inactive players and bolster their efforts in addressing problematic gambling issues more effectively.”

“Addressing player churn is a pivotal marketing challenge within the iGaming industry, and this partnership marks a significant step forward in empowering operators to address this challenge effectively,” said Pedram Padidar, Enteractive COO. “Our service aligns perfectly with the capabilities of Optimove’s comprehensive all-in-one CRM Marketing platform. Combining Enteractive’s well-established services with Optimove’s advanced CRM marketing functionalities provides a formidable marketing tool that spares no resource in reactivating churned players.”