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Rewarded User Acquisition: Transforming Mobile Gaming with James Crabb, Head of Gaming Partnerships at Almedia

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Introduction:

In the rapidly evolving world of mobile gaming, innovation is the key to staying ahead. Rewarded User Acquisition (UA) is emerging as a game-changing strategy, enabling developers to attract and retain players by incentivizing engagement. At the forefront of this movement is James Crabb, Head of Gaming Partnerships at Almedia, a leader in Rewarded UA through platforms like Freecash. With over a decade of experience in mobile gaming and partnerships with major titles, James provides invaluable insights into the potential and challenges of Rewarded UA, the shifting landscape of the mobile games industry, and trends shaping the future.


Rewarded UA: Transforming Mobile Gaming Engagement – An Interview with James Crabb, Head of Gaming Partnerships at Almedia

Can you describe Rewarded UA to our readers?

Rewarded User Acquisition is a marketing strategy commonly used in mobile app and game development. It involves incentivizing users with rewards like Amazon or Google Play vouchers for engaging with an app or game. This approach not only increases engagement but also helps developers acquire high-quality users more likely to make in-app purchases or interact with ads. Platforms like Freecash excel at scaling this model without relying on third-party networks, creating a frictionless experience for studios.

“The key to success in Rewarded UA,” James explains, “is continuously testing different rewards and strategies, adding deeper-level events to maintain user engagement and maximize outcomes.”


What is your career background?

With over 13 years in the mobile gaming space, James started his journey at Kabam, working on the successful Kingdoms of Camelot: Battle for the North. He has since held pivotal roles at renowned studios like Outfit7 (My Talking Tom), Huuuge Games (Huuuge Casino), and Wargaming (World of Tanks, World of Warships). Recently, he ventured into the web3 space with MoonGaming (Medieval Empires).

James joined Almedia nine months ago, diving deep into Rewarded UA through the Freecash platform. “We’ve seen tremendous growth as developers realize how scalable our audience is,” he shares.


How do developers benefit from giving away cash?

“The idea that developers are ‘giving away cash’ is a misconception,” James explains. Instead, developers pay a cost per install (CPI) to platforms like Freecash. This investment is structured to drive user engagement with short-, mid-, and long-term activities. As players progress through challenging levels motivated by rewards, developers monetize through in-app purchases and ad engagement.

By carefully designing reward structures, developers ensure they acquire users who remain invested and engaged in their games while generating revenue.


Why is Rewarded UA growing?

Traditional UA channels have become competitive, expensive, and difficult to scale, especially after privacy regulations like Apple’s App Tracking Transparency. Rewarded UA, by contrast, bypasses these challenges, offering direct access to users keen to engage with games and earn rewards.

James notes, “Rewarded UA platforms provide an invaluable alternative, especially for studios looking to scale effectively amidst increasing privacy constraints.”


You’re based in Berlin; how is the mobile games industry performing locally?

Berlin continues to thrive as a gaming hub with notable studios like Wooga, Wargaming Mobile, and Ubisoft’s Kolibri Games. It also fosters a vibrant ecosystem of newer studios such as TrailMix, Metacore, and Playflux. “The city’s talent pool spans developers, producers, designers, and marketing specialists, all supporting the local industry,” James says.


What are some common misconceptions about ‘Rewarded UA’?

Many in the industry still equate Rewarded UA with the outdated concept of incentivized traffic, which focused on boosting app store rankings without delivering quality users.

James points out that modern Rewarded UA is far more sophisticated. “Platforms like Freecash are delivering measurable results for studios like Plarium, where new user registrations rose by 30%, and the lifetime value (LTV) of users was 20% higher compared to other channels.”

While the model is powerful, James emphasizes the importance of anti-fraud measures to maintain trust and quality.


At Almedia, you lead gaming partnerships. How do you approach building connections in the games industry?

“The gaming industry is incredibly well-connected, so we focus on building relationships for the long term,” James explains. Events play a significant role in fostering these connections, and maintaining authenticity in conversations is key. “Don’t treat discussions as transactions; view them as opportunities to build meaningful partnerships.”


As we look toward 2025, what industry trends are on your radar?

James predicts a more equitable and accessible mobile games industry, driven by policy changes like Epic’s court victory against Google. Additionally, he foresees a surge in user-generated content (UGC), with platforms like Roblox and Unreal Editor for Fortnite paving the way for new creative opportunities.

“Increased payouts to creators and emerging platforms to support UGC will be a significant trend,” he adds.


Conclusion

Rewarded UA is reshaping mobile gaming, providing scalable and effective user acquisition strategies while enhancing the gaming experience. With industry leaders like James Crabb championing innovative approaches, the future of mobile gaming looks brighter than ever. From advancements in Rewarded UA to new opportunities in UGC, developers have much to look forward to as the gaming landscape evolves.

The post Rewarded User Acquisition: Transforming Mobile Gaming with James Crabb, Head of Gaming Partnerships at Almedia appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.

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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Week 46/2025 slot games releases

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Here are this weeks latest slots releases compiled by European Gaming

Spinomenal has expanded its Demi Gods Series with the launch of its epic new title, Majestic Atlas. Set high above the clouds, Majestic Atlas is a 5×3 game that’s framed within a grand celestial temple inspired by the beauty of ancient Greece. A powerful, atmospheric musical score evokes the might of Atlas and lifts the entertainment to new heights.

GAMOMAT has continued the sweet life of the beloved La Dolce Vita with the highly-anticipated La Dolce Vita 2. This new title picks up the love affair of the original with fresh gameplay, engaging features, and a beautiful new Italian location. Charming Giovanni returns to take centre stage within the bustling Italian village marketplace, where a heartfelt soundtrack creates a joyful atmosphere.

Amusnet has released its latest video slot, Ancient Coins. This captivating release transports players deep into the heart of the jungle, where adventure and ancient treasures meet across 5 reels and 25 fixed paylines. Rich with colour, atmosphere and detail, Ancient Coins is designed for those who seek excitement in every moment of their gameplay.

Promatic has released Apollo’s Garden of Riches – a new 5×3 slot game that combines elegant design, rewarding gameplay and a heartfelt connection to the company’s roots in the Karkonosze Mountains. The Karkonosze region – where Promatic was founded and continues to draw inspiration – is a place of amazing landscapes, legends and rare species.

 

PG Soft has released its uplifting game, Skylight Wonders. This game welcomes players aboard a hot air balloon traversing across a dreamlike world high above the clouds. There are increasing multipliers and three reel frames that transform winning symbols into Wild symbols.

Amusnet has released its new video slot game, 40 Mystic Gem. This gem-inspired title is set to light up the reels with brilliance, blending vibrant fruit symbols and radiant jewels in a game that captures both style and excitement. Featuring 5 reels and 40 fixed paylines, 40 Mystic Gem brings together a sparkling mix of modern design and timeless gameplay.

Evoplay has released Piggy Bank 3 Pots Bonanza, a vibrant and joyful slot where players can crack the safe for generous wins. With the inclusion of the popular 3 Pots mechanic and several thrilling features, the 5×3, 20-line game offers a colourful world of gold bars, diamonds, and the three titular Piggy Banks for an action-packed adventure.

Tom Horn Gaming invites players to step into a world of emerald fields, leprechauns, and hidden treasures with its latest release, 3 Ribbon Pots. Launched on 11 November, this fast-paced slot delivers a new take on the popular Hold&Win mechanic, adding depth, variety, and smoother gameplay.

SlotMatrix is bringing the fire with the launch of Hula Moolah, an explosive new slot from Powderkeg Studios. Set in a tropical paradise where Tiki gods rule and volcanoes erupt, Hula Moolah turns every spin into a molten-hot chance to win. The game’s centrepiece is the Hold & Spin Feature, ignited when the vibrant Tiki Wilds leap into the volcano.

Reflex Gaming is turning up the heat once again with the launch of 8 Balls of Fire Blazing Bounty, a thrilling sequel to one of the company’s most popular titles. The original 8 Balls of Fire became a breakout hit across multiple channels, and this follow-up brings even more action, jackpots and explosive potential to the reels.

BGaming summons a mystical cat-genie to help players’ wishes come true in the brand-new Golden Paw Hold & Win slot. Golden Paw Hold & Win provides a fresh perspective on the classic Hold and Win gameplay mechanic. The game boasts 1,024 ways to win on every spin, with a variety of five exciting progressive bonus rounds, expanding reels, and a mesmerising leading character.

Inspired Entertainment, Inc. is pleased to announce the launch of Cops ‘n’ Robbers Bigger Big Money Christmas developed by Inspired’s Bell-Fruit game studio. Set on a 3×5 reel set with 10-win lines, Cops ‘n’ Robbers Bigger Big Money Christmas is packed with thrilling features.

Inspired Entertainment, Inc., has launched Gold Cash Free Spins Super Wheel, a supercharged evolution of Inspired’s classic hit slot, Gold Cash Free Spins. Available across the UK and Malta iGaming markets.

Thunderkick has launched Pink Elephants Trinity, the third instalment of its mystical franchise, where six bonus game levels unveil a journey towards deep synesthetic immersion. The Swedish supplier has traded the desert landscape and starry sky for an ethereal jungle backdrop, where a tribe of monkeys gather around the Pink Flame for a ritual honouring the Pink Elephants.

 

Belatra has proudly released Slattors Battle – Orcs vs Elves, a slots saga that puts the fate of the world in players’ hands. Inspired by an ancient rivalry between the radiant Elven kingdoms and the fearsome Orc hordes, Slattors Battle – Orcs vs Elves unfolds on a 5×5 reels battlefield.

Play’n GO presents Rings of Prosperity, a slot rooted in ancient mysticism and the power of celestial guidance. Play’n GO’s Rings of Prosperity draws on the influence of Eastern mythology, placing players under the protection of the Dragon God – a symbol of strength and abundance. 

Just Slots, has announced the release of its latest slot title, Book of Abyss. In this dark fantasy adventure, players descend into the realm of Abyss, a fallen queen demoness bound to a cursed diary. Every spin of the reels echoes Abyss’s torment, and when the mystical Book feature opens, players peer into forbidden chapters of her soul.

Playson ups the ante in its electric new release, More Energy Coins: Hold and Win, with an enlarged 5×4 reelset, special Collect Feature and 10,000x Royal Jackpot supercharging the excitement on offer. Inspired by Playson’s data-proven mechanics, the game’s starring Energy Bonus symbol unlocks the Collect Feature if it combines with any Bonus Symbol.

Blueprint Gaming has turned up the heat in its latest release, Lava Lock Jackpot King, with the sweltering title leading with a new Volcano feature and a host of refreshed modifiers for an enriched gameplay experience. Pele, the goddess of volcanoes, takes centre stage in the 5×3, 30 payline slot.

Gallop into Big Wins with Mustang Hold and Win from Booming Games! Step into the wild and untamed world of Mustang Hold and Win, where the free-spirited mustangs rule the reels. With a 5×3 grid and 25 paylines, this slot delivers an exhilarating experience with stunning visuals of the American wilderness.

BGaming boldly goes where no slot studio has gone before with the release of Star Trek: The Next Generation. The slot honours the legacy of the show, beaming players into a new dimension with an entertainment-first approach that will please Star Trek fans and newcomers alike.

 

The post Week 46/2025 slot games releases appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.

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Best in Sports named as “Sports Betting Supplier of the Year” by 5 Star iGaming Media Starlet Awards

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FIRST – Best in Sports, the Tier-1 sportsbook technology provider redefining global performance standards, has been honoured as “Sports Betting Supplier of the Year” at the 5 Star iGaming Media Starlet Awards 2025, recognising the company’s innovation, expansion, and leadership across regulated markets.

The award marks another milestone in a transformative year for FIRST, as the company continues to lead the sportsbook vertical with measurable results, a performance-driven product vision, and a growing footprint across LATAM, Europe, and Africa.

Built from the ground up for speed, scale, and absolute reliability, FIRST’s sportsbook engine has become the driving force behind more than 35 of Brazil’s leading operators, expanding rapidly through Mexico, Peru, and Argentina – markets that reward real technological power, not promises.

In regions where regulation is tightening and competition intensifying, FIRST has set a new benchmark for what performance means: instant automation, real-time data orchestration, AI-driven personalisation, and a seamless architecture that adapts faster than the market itself.

2025 was the year FIRST stopped chasing momentum and started defining it. With new strategic partnerships alongside Light & Wonder, Pixbet, and others already in motion, the company is not just participating in the race for innovation – it’s setting the pace. These collaborations are not about validation but about leadership: where others adapt, FIRST dictates direction.

Beyond commercial growth, FIRST has also advanced its regulatory roadmap, securing approvals and pursuing licences in multiple regulated markets, ensuring full compliance and future-ready scalability for its operator base.

Tom Light, Founder & CEO of FIRST – Best in Sports, commented:
“This recognition reflects our commitment to building the most advanced sportsbook technology in the market – one that’s fast, scalable, and truly local. But more than that, it celebrates the mindset of our entire team: we don’t follow trends, we create them. We set the standard for what a sportsbook partner should be.”

As the industry continues to evolve, FIRST remains focused on innovation that drives measurable impact – delivering the performance, reliability, and intelligence that define the future of sports betting.

The post Best in Sports named as “Sports Betting Supplier of the Year” by 5 Star iGaming Media Starlet Awards appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.

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SA Gaming partners with EGT Digital to offer extraordinary gaming experiences

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SA Gaming is delighted to announce our new partner, EGT Digital, one of the largest gaming platforms in Europe. This agreement will see our games available on EGT Digital’s platform.

This collaboration marks an important milestone for both of us as it enhances our brand visibility and allows us to reach a broader audience. This alliance is also bringing elevated gaming experience to players on the platform of EGT Digital.

As one of the fastest-growing brands in Europe, EGT Digital has an extensive network and a comprehensive product portfolio that attract a diverse player base from numerous markets around the world. As players of EGT Digital now have access to our wide range of Live Games, which are certain to attract players – this new partnership certainly fulfills the business objectives of both EGT Digital and SA Gaming.

EGT Digital’s spokesperson commented, “For us at EGT Digital, the priority number 1 is always to give our customers the best gaming experience. That is why we are very pleased to have the opportunity to offer them SA Gaming’s titles, standing out with great thematic diversity, highly engaging mechanics and captivating bonuses. We believe that this partnership will both enrich our platform and enhance the game developer’s reach, while providing players with access to the high-quality gaming content they are looking for.”

As we continue to provide top-notch entertainment, this agreement creates new room for both of us to grow and flourish. We are eager to embark on this journey together and look forward to the infinite possibilities that would deliver exceptional value to all players.

The post SA Gaming partners with EGT Digital to offer extraordinary gaming experiences appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.

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