Latest News
TIGA reveals shortlist for UK Games Education Awards 2023
TIGA, the trade association representing the UK’s video games industry, has revealed the shortlist for the TIGA UK Games Education Awards 2023.
These awards recognise outstanding students, education providers and best practice.
The winners of the 12 categories will be announced in a virtual ceremony on Friday September 29th 2023, together with the winner of a special award that will be revealed during the programme.
Creative Assembly, the studio behind the Total War series and new FPS title Hyenas, is the headline sponsor of the TIGA UK Games Education Awards 2023. As a multi-award winner for their education work, Creative Assembly utilises the skills and passions of 850 employees to provide industry outreach to students across the globe.
The Awards are further supported by: Gold sponsor Sumo Group, the award winning international family of game development studios; and Bronze sponsor, Lockwood Publishing.
Dr Richard Wilson OBE, TIGA CEO, said: “The TIGA Education Awards shortlist highlights leaders in games education: outstanding students, excellent providers and good practice in education. Thank you to Creative Assembly, our headline sponsor, Sumo Group, our Gold Sponsor and Lockwood Publishing, our Bronze Sponsor, for supporting excellence in skills and learning, and for making the TIGA UK Games Education Awards 2023 possible. We look forward to revealing the crème de la crème when we announce the winners of the Awards on September 29th.”
Sophie Bryan, Head of HR, Creative Assembly, said: “We are pleased to sponsor yet another year of the TIGA UK Games Education Awards and to present the Creative Assembly Best Student Game Award. It is an opportunity to support and promote excellence in games education which is a priority for our Legacy Project education outreach work. Each year, through the awards, we see an incredible calibre of students and educational practice and this year is no different; congratulations to all shortlisted.”
Christina Haralambous, Group Director of Communications & Marketing, Sumo Group, said: “Sumo Group is delighted to be sponsoring the TIGA UK Games Education Awards for 2023. Nurturing, supporting and celebrating future talent, and those that help educate that talent, is important to continue to move our industry forward. Congratulations to all those on the shortlist for these prestigious awards.”
Halli Bjornsson, CEO of Lockwood Publishing, said: “The TIGA Games Education Awards recognise achievements and spur further progress in education and skills. Congratulations to all of our finalists and I look forward to seeing the winners.”
TIGA’s charity partner for the Games Education Awards 2023 is The Passage. The Passage’s vision is of a society where street homelessness no longer exists and where everyone has a place to call home. Founded in 1980, The Passage provides practical support and a wide range of services to help transform the lives of people experiencing, or at risk of experiencing homelessness. Guided by their Vincentian values, The Passage offers their clients resources and solutions to prevent or end their homelessness for good. The charity runs a modern Resource Centre in London, helping people to find routes to employment, benefits and stable accommodation; four residential projects, outreach and health services and homelessness prevention schemes.
TIGA GAMES EDUCATION AWARDS 2023 SHORTLIST
OUTSTANDING TIGA GRADUATE OF THE YEAR: ARTIST
- Abertay University: Daniel Tolland
- Birmingham City University: Joseph Gordon
- Norwich University of the Arts: George Kee
- Norwich University of the Arts: Salene Tarling
- Staffordshire University: Megan-Louise Morris
- Staffordshire University: Aaron Burnhope
- University of Gloucestershire: Sam Carrier
- University of Hertfordshire: Maxine Lugg
- University of Hertfordshire: Diana Karakushyan
- University of Portsmouth: Victoria Primmer
OUTSTANDING TIGA GRADUATE OF THE YEAR: AUDIO
- Birmingham City University: Zih-Syuan Yang
- Norwich University of the Arts: Rhys Anthony
- Staffordshire University: Felype Goncalves Fernandes
- University of Portsmouth: Antti Liakka
OUTSTANDING TIGA GRADUATE OF THE YEAR: COMPUTER GAMES TECHNOLOGY
- Abertay University: Rhys Duff
- Abertay University: Justin Syfrig
- Birmingham City University: Nadia Nadeem
- Bournemouth University: Annie Holliday
- Staffordshire University: Davide Pelino
- Staffordshire University: Conner Pittaway
- University of Portsmouth: Siddhesh Swamy
- University of Portsmouth: Victoria Primmer
- University of the West of England: William Whitehouse
- University of the West of England: Zac Collins
OUTSTANDING TIGA GRADUATE OF THE YEAR: DESIGNER
- Abertay University: Dominik Gawron
- Brunel University: Rui Silva
- Bournemouth University: Archie McGrath
- Bournemouth University: Ethan Shellard
- City, University of London: Ayotunde Norman-Williams
- Norwich University of the Arts: Szymon Garczynski
- Staffordshire University: Jade Staines
- Staffordshire University: Olivia Cross
- Staffordshire University: Tyler Timlin
- University of Portsmouth: Liam Peachey
OUTSTANDING TIGA GRADUATE OF THE YEAR: PROGRAMMER
- Abertay University: Bridget Casey
- Birmingham City University: Ryan Westwood
- Bournemouth University: Ethan Shellard
- Sheffield Hallam University: Chae Taylor
- Sheffield Hallam University: Benjamin Kimberley
- Staffordshire University: Arnav Mehta
- University of Gloucestershire: Pheobe Pudge
- University of the West of England: William Whitehouse
- University of Portsmouth: Kian Bennett
- University of Portsmouth: Ethan Crooks
OUTSTANDING TIGA GRADUATE OF THE YEAR: PRODUCTION/ENTERPRISE
- Abertay University: Lyes Oussaiden
- Bournemouth University: Anita Oyebola
- Bournemouth University: Dario Splendido
- Bournemouth University: Giorgos Karambasis-Rodriguez
- University of Hertfordshire: Zuzana Remenarova
- University of Hertfordshire: Darina Koycheva
- University of Portsmouth: Joshua Hammond
- University of Portsmouth: Zane Oliver
- University of Portsmouth: Patrick Rotzetter
OUTSTANDING TIGA POST-GRADUATE OF THE YEAR
- Sheffield Hallam University: Benjamin Kimberley
- Sheffield Hallam University: Chae Taylor
- Staffordshire University: Jamie Linnell
- University of Hertfordshire: Muthuramalingam Ponnilavan
- University of Hertfordshire: Reshu Shrestha
- University of Hertfordshire: Safwan Sadik
- University of Portsmouth: Adam Jerrett
DIVERSITY AWARD
- London College of Communication, University of the Arts, London
- University of Greenwich
- University of Hertfordshire
- University of Portsmouth
EXCELLENCE IN UNIVERSITY/COLLEGE – INDUSTRY COLLABORATION
- Abertay University
- Birmingham City University
- Staffordshire University
- University of Hertfordshire
- University of Portsmouth
INNOVATIVE TEACHING
- Abertay University
- Birmingham City University
- University of Hertfordshire
- University of Portsmouth
EXCELLENCE IN GAMES RESEARCH
- Abertay University
- Birmingham City University
- Bournemouth University
- EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training in Intelligent Games and Game Intelligence (IGGI)
- Sheffield Hallam
- Staffordshire University
- University of Greenwich
CREATIVE ASSEMBLY BEST STUDENT GAME
- Abertay University: Slipways
- Birmingham City University: Checkmate Evolution
- Bournemouth University: Rum Runner’s Revenge
- City, University of London: WAFFLE
- London College of Communication, University of the Arts London: Letter Wars
- Norwich University of the Arts: Dog Walking Simulator
- Sheffield Hallam University: Death Rebuke
- Staffordshire University: Prepare to Dine
- University of Gloucestershire: Burger Zombies
- University of Greenwich: Void Edge
- University of Hertfordshire: My Shadow
- University of Portsmouth: Malltopia
- University of the West of Scotland: Project Retro Museum
TIGA has also today unveiled its Graduates of the Year, listing 89 outstanding graduates and post-graduates in games.
Atlaslive
Why Customer Support Defines Platform Performance in 2026
Technology powers iGaming platforms—but customer support defines their stability, resilience, and long-term performance. As regulation matures and competition intensifies, support has evolved from a reactive function into a critical operational pillar.
In this article, Atlaslive examines how customer support is shaping platform performance in Brazil’s regulated iGaming environment in 2026, playing a decisive role in risk mitigation, compliance, and scalable growth.
When Minutes Translate Into Losses
In Brazil’s regulated market, even brief disruptions can have immediate and measurable consequences. Payment interruptions, bonus logic errors, KYC friction, or odds instability directly impact regulatory compliance, player retention, and revenue performance.
During high-traffic sporting events, minutes of downtime can quickly escalate into financial losses—making rapid response and issue resolution a non-negotiable requirement for operators.
System Interconnectivity and Operational Risk
Modern iGaming platforms are deeply interconnected ecosystems. Sportsbook engines, casino modules, CRM systems, payment providers, anti-fraud tools, business intelligence layers, and regulatory integrations must function in perfect coordination.
Customer support sits at the center of this ecosystem, ensuring continuity across systems and acting as the first line of defense against cascading failures. Whether it’s a boost malfunction before kickoff, withdrawal bottlenecks, or mobile instability during traffic spikes, operational speed and technical precision are essential to protect both short-term revenue and long-term player value.
Localization as a Form of Risk Mitigation
In regulated markets like Brazil, local expertise is a strategic advantage. Understanding Pix payment dynamics, Brasileirão schedules, and local compliance reporting requirements significantly improves response times and decision-making.
Support teams that operate within the local context are better equipped to anticipate issues, communicate clearly with operators, and build trust through informed, culturally aligned interactions.
The Difference Between Coverage and Competence
While true 24/7 coverage is essential for global operations, competence—not availability alone—defines high-performance support.
Strategic support teams must possess deep technical expertise, capable of handling odds configuration, risk analysis, payment API integrations, and complex platform migrations. This level of proficiency separates proactive partners from standard call-center-style support models.
Proactive Support in Practice
At Atlaslive, customer support accompanies operators throughout the entire platform lifecycle. Direct communication channels, clearly defined SLAs, and continuous monitoring enable real-time optimization and early issue detection—often preventing incidents before they affect revenue or compliance.
As Bruno Almeida, Head of Sales LATAM at Atlaslive, explains:
“What clients consistently praise about Atlaslive is that our support goes far beyond issue resolution. Our managers understand the local culture, speak the operator’s language, and work in the same timezone, allowing us to identify needs faster, communicate more clearly, and act proactively before issues impact revenue.”
Regulation and Competitive Maturity
With Brazil’s regulatory framework fully active in 2026, operators are increasingly prioritizing platform stability, accountability, and long-term partnership value. In this environment, customer support becomes a defining competitive differentiator rather than a background service.
Atlaslive’s nomination for Best Customer Service at the European iGaming Awards reflects this approach—underscoring the industry’s growing recognition that operational excellence begins with support.
About Atlaslive
Atlaslive is a B2B software development company specializing in multifunctional, automated platforms for sports betting and casino operators. The Atlaslive Platform includes Sportsbook, Casino, Risk Management and Anti-Fraud Tools, CRM, Bonus Engine, Business Analytics, Payment Systems, and a Retail Module, enabling operators to optimize performance across the entire value chain.
Follow Atlaslive on LinkedIn to stay up to date with the latest developments in iGaming technology.
This document is provided for informational and discussion purposes only and was prepared by the Atlaslive team using publicly available sources. It does not constitute legal, financial, or business advice, nor an offer to buy or sell any gambling-related product. Atlaslive does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of the information and accepts no liability for losses arising from its use.
The post Why Customer Support Defines Platform Performance in 2026 appeared first on Eastern European Gaming | Global iGaming & Tech Intelligence Hub.
Latest News
Launch Of A Fresh Online Casino Guide 2026
SouthAfricanCasinos.co.za, the leading gambling guide for South African players and active since 2003, has launched its refreshed 2026 Online Casino Guide, designed to help players navigate the local online gambling landscape with greater clarity and confidence.
The updated guide places a stronger focus on clear bonus explanations, ZAR-friendly banking insights, and a curated shortlist of standout casino brands, reflecting what South African players are actively searching for as 2026 begins. Key topics include South Africa online casino options, free spins, and free no deposit-style offers that allow players to try a platform before committing meaningful funds.
According to SouthAfricanCasinos.co.za, the 2026 refresh brings these high-demand topics together in one streamlined resource, alongside practical “what to check first” guidance for anyone comparing a casino in South Africa or looking for a ZAR-focused online casino experience.
What’s New in the 2026 Guide
The 2026 update focuses on simplifying bonus-led casino browsing and reducing confusion for players. Key improvements include:
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A clearer bonus hub showcasing popular promotion types—especially free spins and free no deposit bonus offers—while explaining how they work, which games they apply to, and why they are so popular with South African-facing players.
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Expanded ZAR and banking context, with content tailored to South African payment preferences and familiar local deposit options.
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A refined “Star List” for 2026, spotlighting a select group of brands chosen for specific strengths such as bonuses, mobile usability, game variety, or combined sportsbook and casino access.
2026 Star List: Highlighted Online Casinos in South Africa
The 2026 Star List focuses on what truly matters to players when choosing an online casino in South Africa: the value of the welcome offer, clarity of bonus terms, quality of the game library, and overall reliability beyond the headline promotion.
Rather than overwhelming users with dozens of options, the guide presents a curated shortlist for players comparing free spins, free no deposit offers, and long-term value.
Hollywoodbets
Best for: A quick, low-commitment start.
Hollywoodbets stands out with its free R25 sign-up bet, making it easy for new players to get started. The addition of Evolution live casino content adds a premium feel, while the refer-a-friend feature offers extra value.
ZARbet
Best for: Free spins and game variety.
The guide highlights ZARbet’s 50 free spins on Big Blue Fishing (via coupon code) and a 125% match bonus up to R3,750. A strong provider lineup including NetEnt, Red Tiger, and Evolution adds depth.
Lucky Fish
Best for: A simple test-the-waters bonus.
Lucky Fish Casino is featured for its R50 free sign-up bonus and straightforward bonus structure, supported by games from NetEnt, Red Tiger, and Evolution.
Pantherbet
Best for: One-account convenience.
Pantherbet is positioned as an all-in-one option for players who want seamless access to both sports betting and casino games without juggling multiple accounts.
YesPlay
Best for: A broad entertainment platform.
YesPlay Casino combines casino games, lotteries, and sports betting, offering over 200 live-dealer and RNG games for players who prefer variety in a single platform.
How the 2026 Star List Is Selected
Rather than following industry hype, SouthAfricanCasinos.co.za evaluates platforms based on practical, everyday player priorities. These include mobile usability, transparency of bonus terms, payment and withdrawal ease, game quality (including live casino options), and customer support responsiveness.
Each brand on the 2026 Star List is featured for a specific standout strength, helping players quickly identify which casino best suits their preferences.
What SouthAfricanCasinos.co.za Says
“Players are coming into 2026 looking for two things: a smoother online casino experience and clearer answers on bonuses,” a SouthAfricanCasinos.co.za spokesperson said. “This refresh is about cutting through the noise—highlighting our star list, explaining free spins and free no deposit casino bonus offers in plain language, and helping players understand what they’re actually signing up for.”
Website:
southafricancasinos.co.za
18+ only. Gambling can be addictive. Please play responsibly.
The post Launch Of A Fresh Online Casino Guide 2026 appeared first on Eastern European Gaming | Global iGaming & Tech Intelligence Hub.
Affiliate Succes
CasinoBarcelona.es Taps NetRefer for a Next-Generation Affiliate Marketing Solution
CasinoBarcelona.es, a well-known online casino operator in Spain, has teamed up with NetRefer, the top data-driven, AI-enhanced affiliate marketing platform in the industry, to enhance the growth and management of its affiliate program.
CasinoBarcelona.es, part of Casinos Grup Peralada, has established a solid reputation as a top online casino operator in Spain. Operating since 2012, the brand has dedicated over ten years to enhancing its digital services, merging industry knowledge with a strong emphasis on player experience, responsible gaming, and enduring sustainability. Although grounded in a wider legacy of leisure and entertainment, its expansion has been fueled by digital activities and the capacity to foresee market trends.
Casino Barcelona’s online offerings include casino games, sports betting, and poker, featuring a diverse array of game types like slots and live roulette. Throughout the years, the operator has consistently broadened its catalogue, becoming the first online casino in Spain to exceed 5,000 slot games. This wide range of content showcases a sustained approach aimed at diversity, creativity, and providing a premium gaming experience tailored to various player tastes.
Accountable and sustainable practices are fundamental to Casinos Grup Peralada’s overall strategy, and specifically for CasinoBarcelona.es. The operator fosters a secure and open gaming atmosphere via its Responsible Gaming Decalogue and collaborates closely with expert organizations like Acencas. Moreover, a collaboration agreement with Bellvitge University Hospital enhances ongoing prevention and training efforts that strengthen its enduring dedication to player safety.
Various acknowledged certifications and standards also bolster this dedication. The organization possesses ECA + G4 accreditation for responsible gaming, in addition to ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 certifications for quality and environmental management. The Biosphere certification given to Casino Barcelona highlights its dedication to sustainability and responsible practices in the entertainment industry.
Affiliate marketing is essential for enhancing CasinoBarcelona.es’s growth strategy. By choosing NetRefer, the operator secures a platform aimed at providing performance transparency, dependable tracking, and effective partner management. This allows CasinoBarcelona.es to confidently track affiliate activities, enhance partnerships, and foster sustainable growth throughout its online operations.
Alejandro Mayol, Marketing Manager at CasinoBarcelona.es, said, “We had been looking for a technology partner to support the next stage of our affiliate strategy. Feedback from our affiliates highlighted the need for a more competitive solution. From the early stages of our discussions, NetRefer demonstrated the technological robustness and reliability we were looking for, which gave us the confidence to move forward with the partnership.”
Michael Saliba, Global Acquisitions Manager at NetRefer, commented, “Casino Barcelona is a respected and established online brand in the Spanish market, with a strong commitment to responsibility and long-term sustainability. We are proud to support their affiliate programme with stable, scalable technology that delivers the clarity and operational confidence teams need to grow in the competitive European and global markets.”
The post CasinoBarcelona.es Taps NetRefer for a Next-Generation Affiliate Marketing Solution appeared first on Eastern European Gaming | Global iGaming & Tech Intelligence Hub.
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