Latest News

Diving Deep into the US Gambling Landscape: An Exclusive with Mr. Gamble

Published

2 years ago

October 31, 2023

Reading Time: 4 minutes

The US gambling market stands as a testament to the evolving landscape of global gambling, where state-specific regulations, technological advancements, and shifting consumer preferences continuously redefine the boundaries of the industry. In this candid discussion, Paul Puolakka, Chief Marketing Officer at renowned casino comparison portal Mr. Gamble, will share insights into navigating the multifaceted US gambling market.

It seems that the United States are in the sights of most casino affiliates nowadays. Why is that?

The US gambling scene is legendary. From the neon lights of Vegas to the poker tables of Atlantic City, it’s a market that’s both iconic and evolving.

The 20th century saw the rise of Las Vegas as the gambling capital, with New Jersey’s Atlantic City joining the fray in the late 1970s. The past two decades have witnessed a surge in online gambling, with states gradually legalising various forms of it.

Despite the regulatory maze, the US offers a goldmine of opportunities. We’re not just entering a market; we’re diving into a rich history and culture of gambling. And we’re ready to make our mark.

Are there any potential difficulties with regards to tackling the US market?

The US is unique. Instead of a one-size-fits-all approach, each state has its own playbook.

Without going into too much detail, let’s take a look at Nevada where casino gambling has been legalised since 1931. And then there’s California, with its rich history of tribal gambling, but no official decision on real money online gambling.

One would think it’d be the other way around, but here we are.

With each state playing by its own rules, how does Mr. Gamble plan to tackle this diverse landscape?

It’s like a jigsaw puzzle, each state a unique piece. Our strategy is to be agile, adapting our offerings to resonate with each state’s ethos. It’s a challenge, but it’s also an opportunity to craft bespoke experiences for every market segment.

The US has been a trendsetter in the gambling world. How has it influenced global trends?

The US is the birthplace of modern gambling. Icons like Las Vegas have not just been entertainment hubs but trendsetters. Even the word “Vegas” has become synonymous with gambling.

The world looks to the US for the perfect blend of entertainment and gambling. While Europe has led the online space, the US’s legacy gives it a unique edge. We’re here to merge the best of both worlds.

In the diverse US gambling market, how can companies ensure their offerings resonate with local audiences?

First things first, localization is key. By understanding the local culture, preferences, and regulations, companies can tailor their offerings to truly resonate with local audiences, setting their brand apart in the process.

Partnerships are also invaluable. Collaborating with local entities, whether they’re casinos or other businesses, can provide a solid foothold in new markets and offer mutual benefits. By actively engaging with the community, you can create lasting relationships with users.

Lastly, technology. By leveraging cutting-edge tech, you can offer seamless experiences, from mobile apps to VR casinos, appealing especially to the tech-savvy younger demographic.

Speaking of the younger demographic, how has the US gambling market evolved over the generations?

Historically, the US gambling market was centred around brick-and-mortar establishments like casinos in Las Vegas and Atlantic City. The older generation, the Baby Boomers, saw the rise of these iconic destinations. However, with the advent of technology, Millennials and Gen Z are now more inclined towards online platforms, mobile apps, and eSports betting.

What are the primary differences in gambling preferences between older and younger generations?

Baby Boomers and Gen X often prefer traditional casino games like slot machines, poker, and blackjack. They value the tactile experience and the social aspect of visiting a casino. On the other hand, Millennials and Gen Z are drawn to online slots, virtual sports, and fantasy leagues. They value convenience, tailored experiences, and the integration of gaming with social media.

Are there differences in attitudes towards responsible gambling across generations?

Absolutely. While all generations value responsible gambling, younger generations, armed with more information and digital tools, are more proactive. They often set betting limits, use self-exclusion tools, and are more aware of the signs of gambling addiction.

With the generational shift, do you see any challenges for the traditional gambling establishments in the US?

Right now, traditional establishments face the challenge of staying relevant. While they’ll always have a charm of their own, they need to innovate to attract younger crowds. This could mean integrating digital experiences, hosting eSports tournaments, or offering tech-driven amenities.

Companies are investing heavily in digital platforms, ensuring their offerings are mobile-friendly, and integrating with social media. They’re also collaborating with tech companies, exploring areas like virtual reality casinos and augmented reality games. Additionally, there’s a focus on responsible gambling tools tailored for digital platforms.

How do you ensure this responsible gaming experience?

We’re all about fun, but not at the expense of safety. We partner only with licensed casinos and have a vigilant team ensuring we’re always compliant. Plus, our focus on responsible gaming ensures players enjoy a balanced experience.

In short, what is Mr. Gamble’s vision for the US?

We’re here for the long haul. Our aim? To be the top choice for US online casino enthusiasts. We’re here to forge partnerships, understand the US pulse, and showcase what makes Mr. Gamble stand apart.

It’s also a learning opportunity, aligning our strategies with the market’s heartbeat. While we are in many ways experts, we still like to think of ourselves as students of the game (no pun intended).

Latest News

From ‘Mummyverse’ to Crash Games: Belatra Reviews a Landmark 2025

Published

2 hours ago

December 23, 2025

George Miller

Editor’s Take

Why this matters: Belatra has been a steady hand in the slots world for a long time, but 2025 marked a distinct shift in strategy. By entering the Crash vertical with Goose Boom Bang and winning big at SiGMA Africa, the studio is clearly pivoting to capture the high-growth, high-frequency players in emerging markets. They are no longer just a “classic slots” developer; they are diversifying the portfolio to ensure relevance in regions like LatAm and Africa.

The Full Story

Belatra Games, the specialist online slots developer, has issued a strategic review of its 2025 operations, celebrating a 12-month period defined by entry into new game verticals, significant franchise expansion, and high-profile industry recognition.

The year was characterized by a dual strategy: deepening engagement in established markets while aggressively expanding its content portfolio to suit local preferences in emerging territories.

Portfolio Evolution: Crash and Battles 2025 saw Belatra move beyond its traditional slot roots. The company made its debut in the high-demand Crash game vertical with the launch of Goose Boom Bang, a title designed to tap into the fast-paced gameplay preference of younger demographics.

Additionally, the studio introduced a fresh game concept with the launch of Battles, a new format unveiled for the first time in 2025, with further development planned for 2026.

The ‘Mummyverse’ Expands For fans of classic slots, the highlight of the year was the aggressive expansion of the Mummyverse. Belatra nearly doubled the size of this franchise over the year, making it the most extensive game universe in their entire catalog.

The developer also focused on B2B localization, releasing a number of exclusive bespoke games created specifically for selected operator partners to meet specific local market tastes.

Awards and Recognition The company’s strategic shifts were validated by industry accolades. Belatra secured over 30 nominations throughout the year, with standout wins including:

Best Slot Provider (awarded by BitStarz).
Most Played Game of 2025 for Make It Gold at the SiGMA Africa Awards.
Player’s Pick Award.

Management Commentary Misha Voinich, Head of Business Development at Belatra, commented on the studio’s momentum:

“This year has truly defined who we are as a studio – ambitious, creative and focused on building long-term partnerships. We’ve expanded our universes, launched new ones and entered exciting new markets that will all help us carry this momentum into the New Year.”

The post From ‘Mummyverse’ to Crash Games: Belatra Reviews a Landmark 2025 appeared first on Gaming and Gambling Industry Newsroom.

Latest News

‘Chaos and Soul’: Ebaka Games Plots Global Expansion After Viral Launch

Published

2 hours ago

December 23, 2025

George Miller

Editor’s Take

Why this matters: The “Instant Game” vertical (Crash, Plinko, Mines) is becoming crowded, but Ebaka Games is cutting through the noise with a distinct brand personality. By securing BMM Testlabs certification so quickly after launch, they are signaling to Tier 1 operators that despite their “chaotic” marketing vibe, the math underneath is solid and compliant. The backing of industry veteran Dmitry Belianin also adds immediate commercial credibility to the startup.

The Full Story

Ebaka Games, the fledgling studio that promises to bring “chaos and soul” to the iGaming sector, has outlined an aggressive growth strategy for 2026 following a landmark launch period in late 2025.

The studio, which officially debuted in November, reports that its initial rollout reached more than five million people worldwide. The launch saw its portfolio go live with the operator Menace, serving as the initial testbed for its mechanics and “Ebaka modes.”

The Product: Instant Games with Personality Ebaka is bypassing traditional slots to focus on the high-growth vertical of fast-paced, instant-win games. Their initial lineup includes:

Plinko
Mines
Tower
Limbo
Crash

Differentiation is achieved through unique mascots and signature gameplay tweaks designed to offer high win potential and distinct visual identities, moving away from the generic interfaces often found in this genre.

Regulatory Milestone Crucially for its 2026 roadmap, Ebaka Games has confirmed it has secured certification from BMM Testlabs. This accreditation validates the fairness and integrity of its RNG (Random Number Generator) and game engines, removing a major barrier to entry for regulated markets. With this certification in hand, the studio plans to launch with a number of “major brands” in the coming year.

Management Commentary Vitalii Zalievskyi, CEO of Ebaka Games, commented on the studio’s unorthodox approach:

“It’s only been a few weeks since we first introduced Ebaka Games to the world. The feedback has been breathtaking, and it vindicates the decision for us to take a different path to the rest of the industry. You don’t need huge marketing budgets to grab people’s attention if you are building something truly innovative.”

Industry Backing The studio describes itself as being “created by players for players” but boasts significant industry firepower in its corner. The team includes Dmitry Belianin, a well-known figure in the sector who is the co-founder of Blask and Menace, as well as Managing Partner at Already Media.

The post ‘Chaos and Soul’: Ebaka Games Plots Global Expansion After Viral Launch appeared first on Gaming and Gambling Industry Newsroom.

Latest News

Racing Meets Nightlife: SBK Backs ARC’s New ‘Friday Night Live’ Series

Published

2 hours ago

December 23, 2025

George Miller

Editor’s Take

Why this matters: British racing has a well-documented demographic problem; its core audience is aging. “Friday Night Live” is a direct attempt to fix this by blending high-stakes racing with the “experience economy” (DJs, nightlife vibes) that appeals to Gen Z and Millennials. Bringing SBK on board—a mobile-first, app-only sportsbook—is a perfect demographic fit, while the Racing Post adds the necessary credibility to ensure the actual racing product remains the focus.

The Full Story

Arena Racing Company (ARC) has unveiled the strategic commercial lineup for its upcoming Friday Night Live series, confirming SBK as the Exclusive Betting Partner and The Racing Post as the Official Media Partner.

Set to launch in January 2026, Friday Night Live is a new initiative created in collaboration with youth-focused events company INVADES. The series is designed to overhaul the traditional race day experience, featuring fast-paced fixtures under floodlights, DJ sets, and significant entertainment elements sandwiched between races.

The Commercial Deal

SBK: As the exclusive betting partner, the Smarkets-owned sportsbook will take naming rights and on-course branding for all 35 races. Crucially, these races will be broadcast live on mainstream television via ITV Racing as well as Sky Sports Research.
The Racing Post: As the Official Media Partner, the publication will provide content, coverage, and promotion across its digital platforms, aiming to bridge the gap between established racing purists and the new audience ARC hopes to attract.

A High-Stakes Experiment The series is not just a marketing exercise; it carries serious sporting weight. Each of the five scheduled nights will feature over £200,000 in prize money. The fixtures will rotate across three of ARC’s all-weather tracks: Wolverhampton, Newcastle, and Southwell.

Management Commentary David Leyden Dunbar, Group Director of Commercial Strategy at ARC, was clear about the target audience:

“We have been very clear that one of the aims of Friday Night Live is to engage the next generation of racing fans… Both [partners] have shown real enthusiasm to work with us… as well as using the platform that these fixtures will offer them to also engage with more established racing and sports fans.”

Adam Baylis, Marketing Director at SBK, added:

“Friday Night Live [is] a fresh and engaging concept that brings a new energy to British racing. SBK has always been built around sport… our focus is on enhancing the live race day experience in a fun, social and responsible way.”

The 2026 Schedule The series kicks off immediately in the new year: