Connect with us

728x90 banner available here

Latest News

HIPTHER Community Voices: Interview with the CEO and co-founder of Nordcurrent Victoria Trofimova

Published

on

Reading Time: 4 minutes

 

In this edition of HIPTHER Community Voices, we talk with Victoria Trofimova, the CEO and co-founder of Nordcurrent, the biggest game studio to come out of Lithuania and the Baltics. Since starting the company in 2002, Victoria has led Nordcurrent from a small team to an international gaming success story — all without external funding.

She shares how key decisions like focusing on mobile games, building a diverse team, and staying true to their creative vision helped shape Nordcurrent’s growth. We also dive into how she’s helping put the Baltics on the global gaming map, supporting young talent, and what advice she has for the next generation of women leaders in tech.

 

Nordcurrent has grown into a Baltic powerhouse since its  founding in 2002. What were some of the pivotal moments that  shaped the studio’s identity and success—especially as a bootstrapped company?

One key moment was our decision to focus fully on mobile gaming early on. That shift, around 2010, allowed us to scale globally with titles like Cooking Fever, which became a long-term success story. Another pivotal step was building and retaining in-house capabilities, from development to marketing, while staying self-funded. Being bootstrapped taught us discipline, resilience, and how to make bold yet thoughtful decisions without external pressure.

 

You’ve scaled a 360-person team across multiple countries.  What have been the biggest challenges—and advantages—of  growing Nordcurrent without external funding?

The biggest challenge has been growth pacing. We had to build sustainably, without shortcuts. But that’s also been our advantage; we’ve kept creative control, built long-term trust with our team, and stayed focused on profitability and product quality. It’s a different rhythm, one that favors deep thinking over hype.

 

Diversity in gaming is still lagging behind. What concrete steps has Nordcurrent taken to drive inclusion, and how do you embed this into studio culture, hiring, and leadership?

We don’t overcomplicate it, we hire the best people who want to build great games with us. We don’t separate or label by gender, background, or title. If someone brings talent, drive, and a collaborative mindset, they belong here. That approach has naturally led to a diverse team, including strong female leadership across departments. We focus on creating an environment where everyone is treated equally, trusted, and heard.

 

You’ve spoken about attracting global talent to Lithuania and the Baltics. What makes the region appealing—and what misconceptions do you often have to overcome when recruiting internationally?

The Baltics offer a great work-life balance, strong tech ecosystems, and a tight-knit creative scene. But we still need to overcome outdated perceptions; for example, that it’s cold, isolated, or lacking opportunity. The truth is, Vilnius and other cities here are dynamic and are increasingly being recognized for innovation.

 

In such a saturated gaming market, how does Nordcurrent approach innovation and stay relevant without falling into trend-chasing?

We listen deeply. To players, to data, and to our instincts. With over two decades of experience, we’ve built a rich internal library of what works, what lasts, and what connects. Innovation for us isn’t about reinventing the wheel every time. It’s about layering insight, emotion, and cultural nuance onto strong foundations. We don’t chase trends, we ask how a game fits into people’s lives. That’s why titles like Airplane Chefs resonate. They’re familiar yet fresh, culturally rich but globally accessible. Years of learning has given us the confidence to trust our gut and the clarity to know when to try something bold.

 

From mobile hits to console and PC publishing—how has your portfolio strategy evolved, and how do you decide what kinds of games to invest in today?

Our mobile success gave us the freedom to diversify. With Nordcurrent Labs, we now publish PC and console games that align with our values: original IP, strong storytelling, and long-tail potential. We look for teams with vision and grit, whether it’s cozy games or narrative-rich adventures.

 

You recently acquired River End Games and the Cinemaware catalog. What’s the strategic thinking behind those moves, and what can players expect from these legacy properties going Forward?

River End Games brings deep narrative talent and AAA craftsmanship, which complements our publishing ambitions. With Cinemaware, we’re reimagining classics for a new generation. These acquisitions aren’t about nostalgia only, they’re about unlocking untapped creative value in ways that feel both respectful and bold.

 

How are you helping to nurture the next generation of game developers in the Baltics, and what role do you think studios should play in education or early talent development?

We take this responsibility seriously. As the largest Lithuania-born game developer, we feel a strong duty to help grow the industry, not just our studio. We actively collaborate with the Lithuanian Game Developers Association, support local game jams, and organize major meetups that bring the community together. Our goal is to make the gaming industry more visible, more accessible, and more appealing, especially to young people who may not yet see it as a real career path.

It’s not just about hiring talent, it’s about helping to create it. We believe studios should take an active role in popularizing the industry, opening doors, and building a future where game development is seen as a creative and respected profession.

 

You’re leading a company that’s rooted in Eastern Europe but competing on a global stage. How do you balance local values with global ambitions?

We don’t see it as a conflict. Our roots give us authenticity and resilience, and these are qualities that resonate globally. We build games that are grounded in strong craft and cultural richness but are universally relatable. Staying true to who we are has been our best strategy for going global.

 

And finally—what advice would you give to aspiring women leaders in tech and gaming who want to break into this industry and rise through the ranks?

Own your voice. You don’t need to fit a mold to lead. Surround yourself with people who challenge and support you. And remember, leadership isn’t just about a title, it’s about taking responsibility, lifting others, and staying curious. Tech and gaming need your perspective, and there’s room for you at the table.

The post HIPTHER Community Voices: Interview with the CEO and co-founder of Nordcurrent Victoria Trofimova 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.

Continue Reading
Advertisement
Prague Gaming & TECH Summit 2025 (25-26 March)
Click to comment

You must be logged in to post a comment Login

Leave a Reply

Latest News

LiveScore 6 player lands incredible €250,000 jackpot with six correct score predictions

Published

on

Reading Time: 2 minutes

LiveScore 6 player, Shane, 68, from County Limerick, Republic of Ireland, secured an incredible quarter-of-a-million-euros prize last weekend by predicting six correct football scores on the LiveScore app.

Sunderland’s 1-1 draw with Aston Villa on Sunday afternoon confirmed Shane’s fifth correct score prediction, making him the only remaining player in with a chance of winning the jackpot.

Fittingly, as Wilson Isidor’s equaliser hit the net, Sunderland players were wearing the LiveScore Bet logo on their sleeves, with LiveScore a principal partner of the Premier League club for the 2025/26 season.

Manchester United fan Shane then had Arsenal’s Gabriel Martinelli to thank, as the Brazilian’s late equaliser in another 1-1 draw, against Manchester City, secured his sixth and final correct score, sealing the life-changing jackpot.

The full list of scores correctly predicted were:

  • West Ham 1-2 Crystal Palace
  • Burnley 1-1 Nottingham Forest
  • Manchester United 2-1 Chelsea
  • Fulham 3-1 Brentford
  • Sunderland 1-1 Aston Villa
  • Arsenal 1-1 Manchester City

A long-time LiveScore 6 player, Shane says his winning strategy comes down to persistence, recent form analysis and keeping an eye on squad injuries.

On the win, Shane said: “It’s unbelievable. I play LiveScore 6 every week so to hit the jackpot like this just shows persistence can pay off!”

Asked what he’ll do with his winnings, he added: “I’m unsure at the moment. I might get some work done around the house, but a holiday to celebrate is certainly tempting! I’m keen to go to Gran Canaria!”

LiveScore 6 is a free-to-play in app promotion available on the LiveScore app for iOS and Android. Download the app and start predicting to be in with the chance to win the £250,00 prize money.

18+ UK and Ireland residents only. For full details on how to play, check the terms and conditions on the LiveScore app. Bet Responsibly. BeGambleAware.org

 

The post LiveScore 6 player lands incredible €250,000 jackpot with six correct score predictions appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.

Continue Reading

Latest News

Greece Bets Big: Regency Casino Thessaloniki Launches Europe’s First Gaming Piazza With Global Giants

Published

on

Reading Time: < 1 minute

Regency Casino Thessaloniki has unveiled The Piazza Project, a ground-breaking gaming and leisure complex that unites three of the world’s leading slot machine manufacturers, Aristocrat GamingIGT, and Light & Wonder, within a unique open-air venue. 

Featuring four state-of-the-art gaming halls, world-class dining, and live entertainment, The Piazza marks a first-of-its-kind destination in Europe. With its bold design and dynamic calendar of events, it promises to remain a magnet for visitors and a leisure landmark on the European stage.

The spectacular three-day launch welcomed more than 12,000 guests, who experienced world-class performances, gourmet dining, immersive cultural showcases, and exclusive VIP events.

Blending cutting-edge gaming technology with cultural programming and an open-air lifestyle, The Piazza introduces a model that industry leaders say could redefine the future of land-based casinos across Europe. This unprecedented alliance of global innovators makes it both a European first and a benchmark for integrated leisure.

“The Piazza Project represents a significant investment that brings together Aristocrat Gaming, IGT, and Light & Wonder for the first time in a single European venue. We’re not just expanding our facilities – we’re creating a year-round entertainment hub that will attract visitors from across the region and establish Greece as a leader in the European leisure and gaming market,” said Yiannis Tsirikos, CEO of Regency Entertainment.

Positioned as a year-round international hub, The Piazza Project is Regency Casino Thessaloniki’s newest asset under its commitment to establish Thessaloniki as a must-visit destination for those seeking a unique fusion of gaming, culture, and entertainment.

 

The post Greece Bets Big: Regency Casino Thessaloniki Launches Europe’s First Gaming Piazza With Global Giants appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.

Continue Reading

Latest News

Underdog and Sportradar Team Up to Enhance Player Protection and Support Responsible Gaming

Published

on

Reading Time: 2 minutes

 

Underdog is first U.S.-based operator to leverage Bettor Sense, Sportradar’s Responsible Gaming Solution

Underdog, the fastest-growing sports company in the U.S., today announced an agreement with Sportradar Group AG (NASDAQ: SRAD), to incorporate Bettor Sense, Sportradar’s AI-powered responsible gaming solution to identify high-risk players. As the first U.S.-based operator to leverage Bettor Sense, Underdog is furthering its commitment to creating a responsible gaming environment for its customers.

This unique player protection and wellbeing program not only identifies individuals exhibiting problem gambling behavior through Bettor Sense’s AI-powered technology, but also offers access to care services from Birches Health, a national leader in evidence-based treatment to address gambling disorders. This results in a comprehensive approach to meet rising expectations related to end user protection.

Launched in July 2025, Bettor Sense is Sportradar’s advanced responsible gaming solution that enables operators to take a proactive approach to detecting early signs of gambling-related risk and facilitates personalized interventions to protect users. Grounded in behavioral research, it enables efficient monitoring with continuous learning, real-time risk score checks, and clear analysis of player profiles to identify and address risks, while also being fully compliant with regulatory standards.

Adam Warrington – Underdog VP of Responsible Gaming, said: “Collaborating with Sportradar to integrate Bettor Sense is another step in Underdog’s proactive approach to enhanced player protection across all entry types. The integration of this leading player protection technology to detect problem play and provide clear resources to those who need it, now including treatment services from the clinicians at Birches Health, is a critical step forward for our players.”

Jim Brown, Head of Integrity Services & Athlete Wellbeing at Sportradar, said: “We applaud Underdog for taking this meaningful step to not only safeguard, but also to provide resources to players who exhibit potential problem gaming behavior. Sportradar’s expertise and innovative solutions are designed to not only address the needs of our clients but also support a secure and sustainable industry.”

 

The post Underdog and Sportradar Team Up to Enhance Player Protection and Support Responsible Gaming appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.

Continue Reading

Trending

EEGaming.org is part of HIPTHER, parent brand of various prominent news outlets and international conferences. These platforms and events span a wide range of industries, including Entertainment, Technology, Gaming and Gambling, Blockchain, Artificial Intelligence, Fintech, Quantum Technology, Legal Cannabis, Health and Lifestyle, VR/AR, eSports, and several others. This indicates that EEGaming.org is part of a larger network that focuses on a diverse array of sectors, particularly those related to cutting-edge technology and modern lifestyle trends.

Contact us: [email protected]

Editorial / PR Submissions: [email protected]

Copyright © 2015 - 2025 HIPTHER. All Rights Reserved. Registered in Romania under Proshirt SRL, Company number: 2134306, EU VAT ID: RO21343605. Office address: Blvd. 1 Decembrie 1918 nr.5, Targu Mures, Romania

We are constantly showing banners about important news regarding events and product launches. Please turn AdBlock off in order to see these areas.