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“There is room for everyone in esports.” Exclusive Q&A with Ashley Washington, Head of VCT Game Changers
There is an old, now-defunct saying in football that women can’t understand the offside rule. While there was no such explicit quote, the feeling has been pretty much the same in esports, if you go by the low number of women playing the sports.
Now, who will do something to change the gender disparity in esports? Enter VCT Game Changers.
VCT Game Changers is an esports program exclusively for women where gamers play Riot Games’ hit video game VALORANT. The Game Changers tournament is into its third edition this year.
We have here with us Ashley Washington, Head of VCT Game Changers. She talks about, well, the game-changing situation in esports. Her responses are insightful and stats-rich. Don’t miss it.
Q. Let’s start with a quick intro. How did you land in the gaming industry?
A. This is a very reductive version of the story but I was working in account management and sales in NYC after graduating from New York University. Though I did study game design, I wasn’t really sure of myself when it came to making a career in the industry. There was an evening in January of 2016 when I’d just paid my rent—a paycheck and a half—and I just decided that I wanted to move to Berlin. I knew it was fun and cheap because I studied abroad there. I bought a one-way ticket and did that. Berlin is the kind of place where you can make almost anything happen for yourself career-wise, so I chased my dreams and made the switch! I’ve done quality assurance work, data science, journalism and, it turns out, I’m strongest as a product leader.
Q. Tell us about Valorant Game Changers: Mission, vision, mode of operation and all that?
A. VCT Game Changers is a program meant to introduce women to the VALORANT ecosystem, guide them in the cultivation of their skills and, ideally, see them make their way out of the program and into the rest of the VALORANT competitive space. The goal is to have a diversified ecosystem where people from a variety of identities and backgrounds can excel at the highest levels of play. So far, we’ve set out to achieve this by running the tournament circuit that most are familiar with but, in the future, we are working to find additional ways we can make this vision into a reality.
Q. How do you analyse your performance so far? Could you talk about the changes you have brought about in esports, especially in terms of the participation of women?
A. I think there are some obvious things we are looking at and some less obvious things. Really high on the list is participation. We recently maxed out signups for the first time with 130 teams registered out of 128, meaning two teams were on the waitlist when signups closed. Ultimately we saw 126 teams participate, this is over 600 players which is great to see. We set out to create a safe space, so seeing more and more women choose to enter it is absolutely a win. One of the other stronger indicators of success, at least from my perspective, is to see women in rosters in the rest of VALORANT Champions Tour EMEA . Whilst it’s not yet exactly standard, mixed rosters can already be seen in third party VALORANT tournaments, like BLAST Spike Nations, and that’s a beautiful thing as well.
Q. Valorant Game Changers tournament is into its third series now. How has the tournament evolved and progressed over the three series?
A. Growth is probably the biggest evolving factor for Game Changers at this stage. For example, just this year, we saw 91 teams participate in the second series. In the third series, we had 126 teams. In addition to more teams, we are seeing the strength of the teams grow as well. The players are becoming increasingly more skilled and the competitive spirit among EMEA teams is a lot more dynamic. There are a lot of really interesting team and player stories developing and a notable increase in participation from regions that are usually not represented like Turkey and MENA (and some parts of Europe). So, the community that we’ve grown with the tournament is maturing in many ways.
Q. The number of women participating in esports is still low, with reference to an ideal scenario. What do you think are the hindrances women face in entering and excelling at esports?
A. I’ve spent a lot of time talking to women in the scene playing different titles and coming from different backgrounds. The things I hear referenced the most come down to the lack of opportunities (both perceived and actual—they’re equally as bad when the result is the same) and a fear of career instability should they decide to go all in with esports. Many of these women have a hard time convincing orgs to give them a chance or, when they do, getting adequate pay that allows them to focus on doing their best. The women end up needing to maintain their studies or another job so that they have a backup plan in the event that things don’t work out. This happens in esports in general but it would seem that this is a very common experience for women entering the space.
It’s very important that any organisation interested in providing these opportunities to women is also committed to investing in their careers as well. Bringing a group of women together just to have that roster there without paying any mind to what they need to thrive and grow is a costly and painful mistake. It leaves its mark and it can be incredibly discouraging for those that it affects.
Of course I also hear from women who have terrible experiences due to toxicity and the lack of confidence that can come from that or just not seeing enough representation in general. This kind of thing can strike when they’re so young that they don’t even consider trying to play competitively when they get older. It doesn’t end with players either, underrepresentation is happening in every area—women working in talent or esports-related companies might also face these issues.
Q. What kind of activities is Valorant Game Changers undertaking for training and mentoring women in esports?
A. Our approach to this varies regionally. Since Game Changers is still young, not every region has a training supplement, EMEA included. But we are hoping to introduce something like this relatively soon. The most important thing is finding something that is best suited to the region and what the Game Changers community is looking for, so we’ve been doing a lot of listening for now.
Q. How are you looking into the future regarding women’s participation in esports? In which countries do you hope to see a surge in numbers in terms of women players?
A. EMEA is already so strong when it comes to this. The interest in esports among women is high and every year, the landscape for opportunities to play is looking brighter and brighter. Continuing with this is the first thing I hope and fully expect to see. When it comes to regional representation, I dream of higher numbers from MENA—so North Africa and the Middle East. This is already happening so tapping into what players from these regions need to feel comfortable taking the leap is one of many focus points I have looking ahead to the future. Though I can safely say that I wouldn’t complain about an increase from any space in the region. This is one of the rare occasions in life where more is absolutely better.
Q. Finally, what kind of initiatives do you want to see in the esports industry in general –- by governments and other organisations — to ensure the number of women in esports continues to increase?
A. I would love to see more support for younger fans who are curious about playing or being in the industry in general. I think it’s very easy to write off “gaming” as a viable job option but I think that has a lot to do with how few resources there are for school-aged players and their families to have an idea of what this could really look like—whether that’s playing, organising or being part of a broadcast. I mean, I have a pretty standard job that I’m pretty sure my parents never imagined would fall under “working with games”. I think they’re not the only ones.
And, ultimately, I would love to see more initiatives tap into intersectionality. It’s so important to help women feel comfortable in the space, but once that’s begun, there are so many groups within this identity that could use a bit of a lift. For example, I didn’t see many other black women in the industry growing up and it’s a lot of the reason why I didn’t bother doing anything beyond studying games for a while. Eventually, I felt brave enough to go for it anyway but there are so many others like me who won’t even make it that far with it without knowing for sure that it’s possible. Initiatives connecting young players from underrepresented groups is one way to kind of combine both of these things. There are already programs like this out there and I am really excited about seeing that continue to develop in the future.
There is room for everyone in esports. If they truly want to be there, they can be—I really do believe that.
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Digitain Group Founder Honored with Outstanding Contribution to Gaming Award at SiGMA Central Europe 2025
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Digitain Group is proud to announce that its Founder, Mr. Vardges Vardanyan, has been recognized with the Outstanding Contribution to Gaming Award at SiGMA Central Europe 2025.
For over 26 years, his vision and leadership have brought remarkable value to the iGaming industry — driving innovation, setting new standards in technology and compliance, and championing a culture of responsibility and integrity that continues to elevate the entire iGaming ecosystem.
Vardges Vardanyan, Founder of Digitain Group, commented: “I am deeply honored to receive this special award at the SiGMA Central Europe. This recognition is not only a personal milestone but a reflection of the dedication, innovation, and integrity that highlight Digitain Group’s vision. For over two decades, our mission has been to empower partners with technology that drives progress and responsibility across the industry. I am extremely proud of what we’ve built together — and even more inspired by what lies ahead as we continue to evolve.”
As a global B2B technology provider, Digitain Group remains dedicated to creating, delivering, and enhancing advanced software solutions that empower partners worldwide. Digitain’s platforms, products, and services are built to provide operators across diverse markets with reliable, flexible, and secure iGaming solutions.
With over 5,000 professionals and offices in Armenia, Romania, Malta, and Spain, and with an upcoming expansion into LatAm, Digitain continues to drive forward with the same passion and purpose inspired by Mr. Vardanyan’s legacy.
The post Digitain Group Founder Honored with Outstanding Contribution to Gaming Award at SiGMA Central Europe 2025 appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.
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From mechanical levers to exciting digital reels, pokies have come a long way. What began as a simple one-armed bandit with spinning symbols is now a multi-billion-dollar entertainment industry powered by top technology and creative design.
Today’s online pokies are more than pressing the “spin” button – they are about storytelling, strategy, and sensory excitement. With themes inspired by pop culture, advanced graphics, and interactive features, modern pokie machines have transformed into one of the most exciting parts of the iGaming world.
In this post, we will explore how pokie machines have evolved, the innovative technologies shaping their future, and how players can find trusted online casinos offering the best pokie experiences. If you are a casual spinner or a serious player, the next era of online pokies is one you will want to be part of.
A Quick Look Back – How Pokie Machines Became a Global Phenomenon
Before today’s high-definition reels and complex bonus rounds, pokie machines started as simple mechanical devices with a lever, spinning reels, and a few lucky symbols. What began in the late 19th century as a novelty game quickly evolved into one of the most iconic forms of entertainment, both offline and online.
The first pokie machines relied on gears and springs, with players pulling a lever to spin three reels. But as technology advanced, so did the game. The move from mechanical to electronic slots in the 1960s and 70s introduced more paylines, exciting themes, and flashing lights that drew crowds.
The internet changed everything for pokies. Players could now explore thousands of games with unique designs, bonus rounds, and progressive jackpots from the comfort of their homes. This shift made pokies the most played category in online casinos worldwide. Every major gaming platform offers an extensive collection of titles from top software providers, turning pokies into the driving force in the iGaming world.
What Makes Modern Pokies So Engaging
Modern pokies go far beyond simple spinning reels. Today’s games combine cutting-edge technology, interactive features, and immersive storytelling to create an experience that keeps players coming back for more.
Next-Level Visuals and Sound Design
Pokies usually feature stunning 3D graphics, vibrant animations, and thematic soundtracks that bring each game to life. From cinematic visuals to dynamic audio cues, these sensory elements make players feel emotionally connected to the game. These graphics and sounds boost the enjoyment and make wins, bonuses, and big moments feel far more exciting.
Interactive Gameplay and Bonus Mechanics
Modern pokies include advanced mechanics like Megaways, cluster pays, expanding wilds, and cascading reels. Mystery symbols, free spins, and progressive jackpots keep players engaged while introducing a sense of unpredictability. These features are designed using behavioral psychology principles, frequent rewards, and interactive elements to maximize excitement and maintain attention throughout gameplay.
Mobile-First Gaming
With most players gaming on smartphones and tablets, modern pokies are optimized for mobile-first play. HTML5 technology ensures smooth performance without the need for apps, offering instant access to games with high-quality visuals, responsive controls, and fast load times. Mobile optimization makes it convenient to play anytime, anywhere, without compromising the experience.
How to Choose the Best Modern Pokie Casinos
Finding the right casino is crucial to enjoying modern pokies safely and maximizing your chances of winning. Players should focus on game fairness, security, and the overall gaming experience to ensure their time and money are well spent. The most popular pokies we recommend are:
- Book of Dead
- Gates of Olympus 1000
- Starburst
- Le Bandit
- Sugar Rush
- Big Bass Bonanza
- Sweet Bonanza
- Starlight Princess
- Divine Fortune
- Wanted Dead or a Wild
- The Dog House
- Etc.
Let’s see how to choose the best variations and which are the factors you should consider for it:
Check RTP Rates and Volatility
Return to Player (RTP) percentages indicate the expected payout over time. Higher RTP games generally offer better long-term returns, while volatility affects how often and how much you can win. Low-volatility pokies give frequent, smaller wins, ideal for longer sessions, whereas high-volatility games provide bigger but less frequent payouts. Understanding these metrics helps players choose games that fit their bankroll and style.
Trusted Licensing and Security
Always play at casinos licensed by recognized authorities such as Curacao, Malta, or the UKGC. Licensing ensures fair play, secure deposits, and responsible gambling practices. Look for SSL encryption and verified payment methods, which protect personal and financial information while maintaining a trustworthy gaming environment.
Explore Top Pokie Collections Online
A wide selection of games enhances enjoyment and strategy. For a curated list of casinos offering the best pokie machines with high RTP rates, visit the website PokieMachines.com. This resource highlights safe, well-regulated platforms with exciting game libraries.
Trends Shaping the Future of Online Pokies
Online casinos are increasingly introducing community-based and competitive features. Multiplayer slot tournaments, leaderboards, and social challenges allow players to interact, compete, and share achievements. These features make pokies more immersive, creating a sense of camaraderie and excitement beyond traditional solo play.
Modern pokies platforms emphasize responsible play too. Tools like deposit limits, session reminders, loss tracking, and reality checks help players manage time and spending. Integrating these features ensures that gaming remains fun and controlled, allowing players to enjoy cutting-edge graphics, interactive features, and big wins responsibly.
The Future Spins Bright
Modern pokie machines represent the perfect blend of entertainment, technology, and innovation. From classic reels to interactive story-driven slots, they have evolved into a global phenomenon that continues to shape the online casino experience.
As technology advances, players can expect even more immersive gameplay, enhanced social features, and tools that promote responsible gaming. If you are in it for fun, competition, or the thrill of the spin, the future of pokies is brighter than ever.
The post Modern Pokie Machines and the Future of Online Gambling appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.
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SOFTSWISS, a global tech leader in iGaming solutions, has won the Best Marketing Campaign 2025 title at the SiGMA Central Europe Awards for its ‘Hungry for Success? Dive in with SOFTSWISS’ campaign. The award recognises outstanding creativity, innovation, and execution in marketing campaigns that drive measurable engagement and have a significant industry impact.
The campaign made its debut at ICE Barcelona 2025, where SOFTSWISS introduced the image of a shark as a symbol of its strength, precision, and the drive to stay ahead. It encouraged partners to ‘dive in’ and grow together with SOFTSWISS, reinforcing the brand’s position as a technology leader in iGaming.
Alongside an interactive stand experience, the campaign featured a collaborative art performance by a renowned Spanish street artist Slim Safont, who created a striking shark mural live at the entrance of the expo venue. This activity reinforced the campaign’s message, leaving visitors with an unforgettable experience of interacting with the SOFTSWISS brand.
Across digital channels, ‘Hungry for Success’ achieved exceptional results, delivering strong visibility and engagement on LinkedIn, Instagram, and Google Ads. The campaign outperformed expectations in terms of impressions and reach, while earning outstanding participant feedback for its creativity and execution.
Valentina Bagniya, Chief Marketing Officer at SOFTSWISS, shares: “Hungry for Success isn’t just a campaign – it’s our mindset. It captures who we are as a brand: ambitious, brave, and determined to lead. Winning at the SiGMA Central Europe Awards proves that when creativity meets clarity and conviction, it resonates and delivers real results.”
Earlier in 2025, the company received the Best Marketing Campaign award for its ‘Cheers to 15 Years’ anniversary concept at SiGMA Africa. Later in the year, SOFTSWISS earned double recognition at the EGR Marketing & Innovation Awards. The team was named Marketing Team of the Year for its creative use of data and technology, while Valentina Bagniya, CMO at SOFTSWISS, was honoured as B2B Marketer of the Year for transforming the company’s marketing function into a global brand powerhouse.
Expanding its influence, SOFTSWISS has released the 2026 iGaming Trends Report, the fourth edition of its annual data-driven study. The ebook provides fresh insights into the industry’s future for operators, suppliers, and industry stakeholders. Visitors of the SiGMA Central Europe Summit can learn more about these trends during the 2026 iGaming Trends Marathon, which will take place on 5 November 2025, from 12:00 to 16:00, on the People, Partners & Performance Stage.
About SOFTSWISS
SOFTSWISS is an international technology company with over 15 years of experience in developing innovative solutions for the iGaming industry. SOFTSWISS provides comprehensive software for managing iGaming projects. The company’s product portfolio includes the Casino Platform, the Game Aggregator with over 36,700 casino games, Affilka Affiliate Platform, the Sportsbook Platform, and the Jackpot Aggregator. The expert team, based in Malta, Poland, and Georgia, counts over 2,000 employees.
The post SOFTSWISS Wins Best Marketing Campaign Award in iGaming appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.
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