Online casino games are extremely popular
Due to this, many developers started to focus on creating quality games. There are hundreds of online casino software providers out there, and my aim with this article is to give you an in-depth look at how important a role game developers play in online gambling, why and how they have reshaped the iGaming industry, and which developers you should keep an eye on if you are (or want to be) part of the online gaming casino world.
The game developers and online casinos I'll be talking about will give you the opportunity to enjoy their games without the expectation to authenticate yourself, download the game or to make a deposit. And if you decide to take your gaming to the next level and want to win money, you can of course do that too. All the games at these developers and casinos offer great bonuses, usually right after your registration, but also on a daily, weekly, regular or VIP membership basis.
It's not hard to see that they understand you as a player and are committed to providing you with the best gaming environment. Of course, they are forced to do this if they don't want to disappear from the scene, and one of the reason of this is the growing popularity of online casino games.
This popularity is due to a number of factors: convenience, constant availability, a huge range of games, regular and seasonal bonuses and promotions, a high level of security when it comes to handling your personal and banking details, nonstop innovation and technological advances, and not least the social experience.
Overview of the online casino industry
One of the most dynamic and fastest growing sectors of our time. The reason behind it is the unstoppable evolving of digital technology and people's continuously growing interest in entertainment.
It's no coincidence that countless new online casino sites have been launched in the last few years, accessible from all over the world, and COVID-19 has certainly contributed to this. As a result, this competitive landscape is getting tougher, and casinos are trying to stand out and attract new players to their sites by offering the most generous bonuses and promotional offers possible. Game developers are contributing to this by enriching the casino experience with their casino games. The creativity and innovative approach they bring to the table is undeniable, as evidenced by the wide and varied game selection - every player is guaranteed to find what they are looking for.
What's more, everyone already has some kind of smart device, be it a phone, tablet or other. This means that casinos and gaming providers are trying to take advantage of the fact that people are always available: they are always available too, which means you can play anywhere, anytime, whenever you feel like it. There are many online casinos that are specifically designed for people playing from a smart device, but the majority of casinos that can be accessed from a browser are also fully mobile-optimized and/or have a mobile app.
You're probably aware that the online space not only offers positive and beneficial opportunities, but also a fundamentum for various types of fraud. For this reason, security and the protection of data and financial transactions are of paramount importance for any online casino that takes itself seriously, and also for the best casino software providers when they are creating games.
Recognizing this, the gaming authorities have also established strict criteria for determining whether or not a new online casino and new online games can be granted an operating license. If they get one, you'll find it listed on their main site, and that's a good indicator that you're in for safe, fair play.
The regulations and legal requirements for online casinos and for developing software vary from country to country and, in the case of Canada, even from province to province. It's a good idea to check these out to make sure you're aware of them before you embark on your luck-based gaming career.
Significance of casino game providers
Most players check the casino's payment policy and bonuses before signing up, but I would also recommend looking at the featured casino software developers, as it can tell you a lot of how reputable and trustworthy a particular online casino is. With that being said there are usually 2 types of casinos you will come across when playing online.
The first type of online casino is the one that only uses the software of one casino provider. These are most often Playtech-powered casinos. Any casino powered by Playtech is trustworthy and reputable enough since this provider is considered as one of the biggest casino game provider in the industry.
There are also casinos that utilize the software of multiple providers on the market. In the case of these casinos, you can easily tell how good the entire casino is by looking at its featured game providers.
The landscape of casino game providers
As there are many developers active in the iGaming industry, they all try to draw on their strengths and specializations. Obviously, there are big names that strongly influence the direction of game development, but the determined, emerging, smaller software providers try to creatively exploit their own specialties while following the trends. So the variety you can expect in this area is limitless.
There are game developers who produce mostly one type of game, for example, software for slot machines - they are the slot providers, who provide you with the best video slots, progressive jackpot slots (like Mega Moolah by Microgaming) and other online slots.
Others try to create in all categories, making slots, table games, card games, video poker, live casino games etc. - they often supplement their gaming content and the casino portfolio with one of a kind games, online scratch cards (if you enjoy lotteries), dice games and such games that are great add-ons to virtual sports (e. g. horse racing).
Some try to cover as wide a range of themes and offer as many different features as possible in their games, while others stick to a single theme and experiment less with features. These features are often bonus features - many casino software providers run network promotions and/or seasonal (e.g. Christmas) promotions.
Furthermore, the rapid pace of technological development has led to blockchain-based games and virtual reality, just like artificial intelligence are increasingly being used to design new games and experiences. Of course, this is not a universal feature of all providers, many of them prefer to create games in the simpler, more established way, which is not necessarily a bad thing, as there are many casino players who like to play 'classic' games in digital form.
Software providers are also regulated by the gaming authorities, which means that they can only launch games if they have the appropriate licensing and security measures in place. As they operate in a global market, in order to reach as many players as possible, they have to take the protection of players' personal and financial data very seriously.
A comprehensive list of casino game providers
Online casino providers are multi-faceted, it's difficult to write a comprehensive list of them, but I've tried to do so as much as possible. I've separated the really big online casino software providers, the newer, fast emerging online casino software developers and the latest online gaming trends into subheadings below. Below I list those that do not fall into the categories listed, but still play a key role among online casino providers.
Play'n GO: this casino game software provider operates since 1997, when it was founded in Sweden. It mainly focuses on the European gaming content and is characterized by a versatile game style, different themes and tries to make all its casino games mobile friendly. Perhaps its biggest distinctive feature is that it focuses on quality rather than quantity, and therefore has fewer games and releases less frequently than other providers. However, when it does release a new casino game, you can be sure that it is technically and graphically polished to the smallest degree. With every game they make, you can feel that they focus on you, the player, first and foremost.
International Game Technology (IGT): worldwide recognized and widespread slot providers, be it online casinos or land based casinos - meaning they make physical gaming machines for different casinos in addition to online slots. Their video slots provide you with a brilliant and memorable gaming experience.
Quickspin: another Swedish software provider that has grown into an international company with passionate people who strive to create the best casino software. Therefore, they focus on innovation and unique themes. Their motto is 'We love slot machines.' - a game provider that also focuses on slot machines.
Red Tiger Gaming: has become one of the world's most successful software provider in the online slot area for its exciting, immersive games. The games are feature-rich, with creative graphics and an extremely innovative jackpot system.
Betsoft: their games offer a full 3D experience. Their slots games are also enriched with 3D animations and are graphically excellent.
Analysis of major players in the industry
The following companies are among the best game provider, because they have done an amazing job of leveraging their own strengths to become leading players. Whether it's quality, innovation, game type (slots for example) or market share, the following operators could be role models for all other providers.
Microgaming: established in 1994, it is one of the oldest and best known casino software providers, having launched many popular slots and table games over its 30-year history. So it's a highly respected, trustworthy software provider. Its specialty lies in its progressive jackpot games, and it is a leader in this area, as evidenced by its Mega Moolah game, which holds the record for the largest online casino progressive jackpot payout - in 2015, one player won nearly €18 million with it.
Net Entertainment (NetEnt): when it comes to innovative games, NetEnt is the first name a gambler thinks of when it comes to gaming providers. Their online casino software, aka their slots games and live casino games are unrivalled in beauty, optimization, animation and originality. It's clear that their fun, high quality games are considered by many as the best games, which is no wonder, because they themselves have the highest expectations of their own games. They don't just create in one genre - they also create online slot, table and live casino games with a live dealer. Their most unique and well-known games are Starburst, Mega Fortune and Gonzo's Quest.
Playtech: is a globally recognized full-service casino game provider, with a strong presence in all online gaming genres, including live casino, virtual sports, poker rooms, but with its most significant presence in online video slots. It is also a publicly traded company, working with some live dealer and big names such as Disney - making it a producer of many Marvel-themed casino game. You can also find their casino software in retail casinos in Las Vegas and also in Canada.
Evolution Gaming: when it comes to live casino games, the first thing that comes to mind is guaranteed to be the specialist of this area, Evolution Gaming, a casino software provider that is a world leader in this field. Evolution Gaming is serving everyone's favorite live dealer games such as Live Blackjack, Live Poker and Live Roulette. Without exception, their games are all of the highest quality and innovation. It offers the most advanced live dealer platforms that allow real-time interactions without any delay. Its global presence and live studios also allow this game provider to localize and personalize its games in all markets.
Pragmatic Play: is one of the fastest-growing game provider in the market, and its presence has been already significant. Pragmatic Play has grown by offering a wide range of games as a casino software: slots (in all themes), table games, video poker, live casino games - all in a mobile-friendly way. Moreover, creating mobile-friendly games is the focus of Pragmatic Play, giving you the freedom to relax as a casino player anytime, anywhere. They regularly introduce new features and game mechanics, whether it's in an online slot or any other type of game.
NextGen Gaming: if you're looking for a casino game provider that excels in unique game features and creative slots with a lot of character, then the casino game selection of NextGen Gaming will surely serve to your satisfaction. They have been part of SG Digital for many years, so you can count on their stability and reliability. One of their most famous games is Foxin' Wins, you might have seen it among the other slots or played it already.
NYX Gaming: also part of SG Digital. It is a game provider that offers solutions to problems that mainly arise in connection with casino slots. It also makes its own games, and has a very wide range of them. Its focus is to make its casino slots easy to integrate into other platforms, i.e. slots are flexible and easily convertible, providing greater convenience to the casino that uses its games.
SG Digital (Scientific Games): is the game provider that has already merged with several others to offer a complete service to casinos. It enables them to get quality content and technological infrastructure by helping them with operations, platform and content development. To do this, it needs to be at the forefront of innovation, so it is always involved in the development and dissemination of the latest technologies and trends.
Emerging trends and new entrants
Last year's trends will not fade away, on the contrary, they will carry over into this year and surpass the previous one. VR (virtual reality) and AR (augmented reality) games are becoming more and more prevalent, and technological advances are enabling better integration and more fluent gaming experience. Thanks to this, outdated graphics solutions are disappearing, and developers are also increasingly designing games that offer a 3D experience. This visual appeal naturally attracts more players.
With the widespread adoption of smartphones, there is almost no game anymore that is not mobile-optimized.
Newest games are being made to require strategy and skill, so you have to rely less on luck and you will have more control.
Thanks to blockchain technology, which burst onto the scene not so long ago, even beta version games are now transparent and fair, allowing for the use of cryptocurrencies and smart contracts.
An increasingly emerging branch of casino gaming (no, not slots, they're enjoying steady popularity) is live dealer games. These are starting to expand their live features, making the game even more interactive and creative.
The following providers are relatively new to the industry and are constantly developing and expanding their portfolios to build a bigger name for themselves. To this end, they seek to exploit the latest technologies, which will also help the development of all online casino games.
- Nolimit City: is known for its high volatility slots, which offer a great gaming experience and a host of special features.
- Relax Gaming: focuses on a wide range of game development solutions in partnership with smaller operators.
- Push Gaming: a creative, uniquely themed slots range, specifically designed for players playing from portable devices.
- Yggdrasil Gaming: graphically and innovatively stunning games created through a sustainable development approach.
- Big Time Gaming: Megaways games with a variety of interesting features.
- Playson: constantly seeks to collaborate with other operators, increasing its global presence and range of games, covering everything from slots to video poker.
The most successful casino game providers on the market
The great thing about having a high level of competition between all significant online casinos and game providers is the fact that you are given hundreds of choices and options, as the ‘fight' between the developers leads to high quality and extremely entertaining games.
Not only games have become more spectacular, but the bonuses offered are just simply hard to resist (but always read their terms). All providers are doing their best in convincing players to play their games, and they provide incredible gaming experience to make sure that players will start or continue playing these highly advanced slots and casino games.
Overview of success factors
Success factors contribute to lucrative product launches, player engagement and popular games. These include: game-play experience, graphics, innovation, mobile optimization, security, trustworthiness, regularity of content updates, compliance with local and international regulations, marketing, market research, and regular - as well as rapid - communication with players.
The combination of these, and doing them well, helps casino game providers to make a name for themselves in this highly competitive games industry.
How to choose the best online casino game providers?
If you're really serious about online gambling and want to know as much as you can about it, there are certain ways you can improve your chances, so you will have a better shot at winning more money. You wouldn't believe how much it matters to choose the right game provider.
How to choose the most appropriate for yourself? I'll share a few tips with you.
Pay attention to software features
No matter what kind of offers a casino has, the foundation of every online casino is the game software it uses. It powers the casino and provides players with content and entertainment they can enjoy and come back to.
Each casino has its unique settings and interface, but it's important that they incorporate their website with the software providers product. This is why you should always pay attention to how well the software is integrated within the casino's site, how many games there are from the provider, and how smoothly they run while you are in the game.
Look at the payout percentages
Although we mainly play online casino games for fun and entertainment, let's face it - the money factor is a big part of playing online. If you're like me, you not only want to look at it as a leisure activity but you may consider it as a business as well. The expected returns and winning odds should always be something you're aware of when choosing a game from a particular software provider.
I don't mean you have to do extensive research on this, but the most important thing that you should always pay attention to the RTP (return to player) numbers of the game you want to play.
I generally don't play a game that has under 90% RTP, and I would also advise you to look for games that offer 95% or better payout percentages. This can save you a lot of money and doesn't take up more than a couple of seconds just to look this up in the game review.
Online casino games: a small dive into popular genres
Nowadays, every online casinos game can be found online, and in every genre, with a huge variety. They all have their own unique appeal, their own strengths (similar to the strengths of game developers), which you can exploit to great effect as a player.
You must have your own individual preferences, because everyone does, and thanks to developers working in the digital space, you're guaranteed to come across at least one game that makes you cry out happily: 'This game was made for me!'
Below, I'd like to briefly outline some of the most common and popular online casino game types among Canadian players, and which online casino providers' names are worth remembering in that type, and additionally, what the latest trends are in the area.
Slot games
NetEnt, Microgaming, Play'n GO, Yggdrasil, and Pragmatic are all well respected and popular among slots players, as they all create slots of the highest quality.
They are also constantly adapting to the latest casino trends, so the design, graphics, interactivity and mobile compatibility of their slots are constantly evolving. What's more, they often innovate, so their games feature multiple paylines and multiple machines at the same time.
As a result, social features and communication between players are also increasing in every casino.
Table games
Evolution, Playtech, NetEnt, Microgaming, and Pragmatic - search for games from these casino game providers if you're a fan of table games. These developers are certainly ahead of the curve and keep up with the latest trends. These include the integration of digital technologies (VR, AR), mobile optimization and innovative game features.
Live casino games
It's no coincidence that this type of game is on the up, as it's the closest to the traditional casino experience, but with more convenience and extras. These benefits are embodied by Evolution, NetEnt Live, Playtech and Ezugi - the leaders in live casino games.
In terms of trends, VR and AR development are also prominent, and developers are experimenting with multi-camera systems, alongside live shows and mobile compatibility.