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“My vision was to create a game that can deliver excitement and anticipation with every spin” – Exclusive interview with Toby Woolhouse, PO at Push Gaming

Published

4 years ago

January 21, 2021

George Miller

Exclusive interview with Toby Woolhouse, PO at Push Gaming

Reading Time: 5 minutes

Push Gaming has made a name for itself as a supplier that always looks to deliver on quality over quantity. In one of our latest exclusive interviews, we sat down with Push Gaming’s youngest PO to talk through his vision for their latest slot, Wheel of Wonders, as well as how we should expect player preferences to evolve this year when it comes to entertainment.

Wheel of Wonders marks the final slot released by Push Gaming in 2020, what made this title your favourite?

As one of the younger POs on the team, I’m very much drawn to providing a gaming experience that can really offer something different. As a passionate gamer, I’ve always been into Ways and the Cascading style of games, so I really wanted to deliver something that matched the same aesthetics, but also offered a real twist with something fresh and exciting.

The mathematics behind the game also provide something entirely new, especially when it comes to balancing the gameplay. My vision was to create a game that can deliver excitement and anticipation with every spin. As a result, Wheel of Wonders is absolutely crammed with exciting features that ensures that every single part of the game can bring in massive wins of over 1000x! But more importantly, anything can happen along the way, which is what makes the game hugely unpredictable and fun. For me, Wheel of Wonders is a truly entertainment-first product. Every feature is there to engage the player, rather than the usual mode of waiting for free spins to trigger.

Can you tell us a bit about the inspiration behind the game’s features?

Features were a massive part of the thought process behind Wheel of Wonders, and we wanted to develop something that would really stand the test of time. I’ve used a lot of the cascading influences from our games – and rather than your usual 5×3 slot, it instead dynamically expands through each spin, bringing layers ever-changing win possibilities for each spin to really keep things interesting.

To a certain extent it’s a relatively new concept, but it’s something I really think players will buy into given what we’ve seen from games with similar ideas. Elk’s Gold series has plenty of shared characteristics, as well as Cygnus – which makes me confident that players will really enjoy the hugely changeable gameplay as the fundamentals of the game continue to shift throughout.

Last but not least, for the theme, we wanted to do something that centred around the best of the ancient middle east. Mesopotamia, Babylon, Assyria – we were influenced by them all. Our team put in some serious research into the music and sounds to ensure we could really bring together a disparate set of cultures, and I’m absolutely delighted by the result.

Are there any particular features that you wanted to incorporate that would particularly resonate with current player preferences?

I’m very excited about Wheel of Wonders’ variable reel set because it provides the player with a fantastic level of additional engagement. Games with progressive elements such as these are proving particularly popular right now, and I believe the inclusion of gamified features is something that is resonating very strongly with players.

Whether that’s randomised sequences that evolve as the game continues, or the expansive selection of completely new combinations of elements, there was a gameplay flow that we wanted to capture, and expanding reels proved to be a great option for doing that.

We took the slot through plenty of rigorous tests and we actually refocussed the game on this mechanic during the creation process. We saw what would make the game even more exciting and we incorporated it into the development, which really allowed us to elevate the parts that were entertaining. For me, the key learning is that we didn’t start out looking to tap into a fundamental formula, but rather evolving the title as we created it to come out with a game we were really happy with, and ready to share with our players.

Can you give us some insight into some of the standout moments players can expect in Wheel of Wonders?

For me, there’s two things players should look for. The first, and this is the same as any top-quality cascading game; a really fantastic element of unpredictability that will keep you engaged throughout each stage.

The second, and it’s something I’m really excited about, is the Base Game wheels – you can effectively work out the prizes you want to see. Because of how variable the game is, and the raft of different prizes and multipliers that come with it, there’s just so many ways you can move advance through the slot and begin to really understand what will be the most valuable on the reel at any moment. I think this type of entertainment will really keep players hanging on to their seats, and we’ve had some really great feedback since its launch.

When it comes to development, is there a signature style at Push Gaming and one that players can recognise across your catalogue?

On one hand, we put a lot of stock into the elements that go into the gameplay experience, as we want to make sure it emotionally satisfies the moment that comes with the pay-out.

When we’re making a game, the Push team is always looking to be as flexible as possible during the development process to find ways we can make our games deliver that little bit extra. We’re always ready to leverage that during production, and we do everything we can to ensure our games can deliver something that is truly fun to play. Key here is to make sure that our games can still be broadcast years later as a flagship for the brand. Jammin’ Jars, Fat Rabbit and Razor Shark are great examples of this from our catalogue, and I’m proud to be part of a brand that really pulls all the stops out to make sure we deliver a premium level of gameplay.

How do you think player preferences towards slots have changed this year?

There are a few conflicting schools of thought here. For me, two things are really popping off right now. I’m a big believer in ‘in your face potential’ when it comes to the gaming experience, and I think super-clear, big numbers, exciting gameplay and a clear understanding of the mechanics are what’s needed right now. Easy-to-understand gamified elements are really taking off too, such as progressive jackpots and the like, and players are really buying into it.

Games crammed with plenty of different mechanics and a wealth of symbols to choose from can create massive wins – which is the holy grail for many, but with it comes plenty of challenges for design and mathematics. From what I’ve seen over the last few years, there’s a strong risk that players may find too many instructions as a barrier to engagement, but I also think that’s really opened the door for a massive variation of elements that players can connect with.

Players always look for new experiences and shifting preferences are starting to open the door for mechanic-driven titles, as well as feature-rich slots that offer multiple additional levels of gameplay. As a PO, I’m going to be very happy if that is the case, because it opens the door for us to get even more creative with our content.

Source: Latest News on European Gaming Media Network
This is a Syndicated News piece. Photo credits or photo sources can be found on the source article: “My vision was to create a game that can deliver excitement and anticipation with every spin” – Exclusive interview with Toby Woolhouse, PO at Push Gaming

Related Topics:gambling industry in Europe

George Miller

George Miller (Gyorgy Molnar) started his career in content marketing and has started working as an Editor/Content Manager for our company in 2016. George has acquired many experiences when it comes to interviews and newsworthy content becoming Head of Content in 2017. He is responsible for the news being shared on multiple websites that are part of the European Gaming Media Network.

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Latest News

Oddsgate launches 2025 trend guide for the iGaming market

Published

9 hours ago

January 30, 2025

George Miller

Reading Time: < 1 minute

The post Oddsgate launches 2025 trend guide for the iGaming market appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.

Latest News

Quick Custom Intelligence and Modulus Celebrate Success at ICE

Published

9 hours ago

January 30, 2025

George Miller

Reading Time: 2 minutes

Quick Custom Intelligence (QCI), a leading provider of cutting-edge business intelligence solutions for the casino industry, and Modulus, an innovator in advanced gaming system technology, are pleased to announce a successful showcase at the International Casino Expo (ICE).

Throughout the event, both companies met with dozens of current customers and new prospects, demonstrating the latest in AI technology and data-driven business intelligence tools.

By joining forces in the Modulus booth, QCI and Modulus underscored the synergy of their combined technologies, generating excitement among attendees. The live demos highlighted how these next-generation solutions can empower casinos to make data-driven decisions, enhance customer engagement, and streamline operations.

“The energy at this year’s ICE was truly inspiring,” said Marc Attal, COO of Modulus. “Our newest technology received an exceptional response, and our digitalization strategy for slots and tables resonated deeply with clients who clearly saw the benefits of optimization it brings. Showcasing QCI’s solutions in our booth amplified our message and created an immersive experience that highlighted the potential of the cutting-edge AGI55 platform. The excitement and enthusiasm from both existing and prospective clients made this one of our most successful shows yet, reaffirming our commitment to innovation and excellence.”

“It was fantastic to be part of the show,” remarked Andrew Cardno, CTO of QCI. “Meeting so many new customers and prospects has sparked a sense of excitement and optimism for what lies ahead for QCI in the global casino market. We are grateful to Modulus for the opportunity to partner in showcasing how our integrated solutions can help casinos operate more efficiently and profitably.”

Both companies look forward to expanding their footprint in international gaming markets, fueled by the success and enthusiasm generated at ICE. QCI and Modulus remain committed to developing innovative technologies that drive real-world results for casino operators everywhere.

The post Quick Custom Intelligence and Modulus Celebrate Success at ICE appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.

Latest News

TEAM VITALITY PRESENTS ITS NEW ROSTER VALORANT THROUGH THE LEGACY CAMPAIGN

Published

9 hours ago

January 30, 2025

George Miller

Reading Time: 4 minutes

After achieving an exceptional end to the 2023-2024 season, Team Vitality returns with strong European and International ambitions.
Since the start of the season, two superstars have joined the ranks of the Team Vitality roster: Derke and Less, alongside Sayf (IGL), Kicks and Trexx. The club’s new ambassador: Ardiis, will cast their matches all year round. With this team, the goal is simple but audacious: lay the foundations for a new legacy, make history on this new stage and qualify for the VALORANT Champions.
Thus, Team Vitality is preparing to write a brand new FPS game story supported by the LEGACY campaign. And its first Ice & Fire chapter begins today!

Team Vitality proudly presents its VALORANT roster for the 2025 season. After securing a second European place and qualification for the VALORANT Champions 2024 at the end of last season, the team will endeavour to maintain its high standards and continue to shine on the European (VCT) and international scene. The first key meeting for this team is at the VALORANT Bangkok Masters 2025 on February 27th.

With a combination of youth, talent and experience, Team Vitality is proud to welcome two new international talents to the roster, with an already established track record in the game: Finnish-Russian Derke, the Brazilian powerhouse Less, and a new coaching staff.

A FIVE STAR ROSTER TO CONQUER THE WORLD

Team Vitality returns more determined than ever to the VALORANT scene. With two new players joining Kicks, trexx and Sayf (IGL and Team Captain), hoping to win a VCT title. In addition to this brand new roster, Team Vitality also integrates a new experienced coaching staff with the arrival of Faded.

New players and coaching staff

Nikita “Derke” Sirmation (Finnish-Russian) – 21 years old: Former Counter-Strike player who switched to VALORANT. Considered one of the top three duelists of all time, Derke is known for his exceptional skills and decisive impact during matches and dominated the VCT:2023 LOCK//IN and the VCT Masters Tokyo in the same year – a feat never achieved before. With his international experience, Derke is ready to bring his strategic vision and talent to the team.

Felipe “Less” Basso (Brazilian) – 19 years old: A true VALORANT prodigy, Less quickly gained attention with his excellent mechanics and superhuman reflexes. At the age of 17, he won the VALORANT Champions in 2022 and the VCT Americas League in 2023 and is considered one of the best players in his role as Sentinel.

Daniel “Faded” Hwang (American) – 30 years as Head Coach: Faded has already coached within the TSM organisation and qualified for Ascension Finals in Mexico – all in his first year as a head coach! He has proven himself capable of developing talent and achieving exceptional results.

The new 2025 roster now stands as:

Kimmie “Kicks” Lassner
Saif “Sayf” Jibraeel (IGL)
Nikita “trexx” Cherednichenko
Nikita “Derke” Sirmitev
Felipe “Less” Basso

For this new season, the talented Sayf has taken on the key role of IGL within the team. Elected duelist of the 2024 season in VCT, Sayf will have the important task of leading his team to victory.

With the arrival of two additional superstars to the team, Team Vitality sends a strong message: VALORANT is a priority for the club. While the VALORANT Champions will take place in Paris, the club’s homeland, Team Vitality hopes to make an impression at home.

“VALORANT is a vital scene for us. We were keen to strengthen the existing team with even more experienced profiles as we seek performance and aim for excellence. And this season is special: we hope to be able to defend our chances of victory at home, in Paris.” explains Fabien “Neo” Devide, President and co-founder of Team Vitality.

LEGACY CAMPAIGN: AN ICE & FIRE ROSTER [CHAPTER 1]

Team Vitality is embarking on this new season with a clear and unwavering ambition: to write a new legacy on a key FPS game and shine at the VALORANT Paris Champions. To support this, Team Vitality is launching LEGACY, a campaign that will follow the team in three key chapters until the Champions next September.

https://x.com/TeamVitalityVAL/status/1879931306143887621

The first chapter of this campaign begins at the Bangkok Masters on February 27th and will notably feature the two new stars of the team. The campaign will play on the elements of the roster: Derke, a Finnish player, known for his exemplary composure, embodies serenity and concentration. Less, a Brazilian player, with an explosive style of play, flamboyant actions and an energy capable of igniting his teammates. Together, they symbolise a complementarity of qualities essential for the roster’s goal of reaching the top.

VCT BUNDLE VITALITY: PLAY LIKE LESS OR DERKE!

Team Vitality is proud to announce that its official VCT bundle is now available for purchase via the in-game shop. These exclusive bundles embody the club’s unique identity and allow fans to proudly wear Hive’s colours, while supporting the team in its quest for glory on the VALORANT scene.

Each piece has been carefully designed to reflect Team Vitality’s competitive spirit and boundless ambition.

https://x.com/TeamVitalityVAL/status/1876293118762315799

The post TEAM VITALITY PRESENTS ITS NEW ROSTER VALORANT THROUGH THE LEGACY CAMPAIGN appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.