Connect with us

Latest News

The Impact of Technology on Poker Store Monetisation: From Blockchain to NFT

Published

on

Over the years, poker has moved from once dim backrooms of dull backstreets to high‑stakes online arenas, and every step of the way, it was propelled by innovation. Today, it comes in the shape of blockchain technology with decentralised ledgers, unique NFT assets, and crypto wallets that allow for frictionless and borderless payments. These are more than fashion or flashy new tech, these novelties reshape the whole iGaming industry and fundamentally change how platforms monetise, how players engage, and how trust is built in online poker.

At EvenBet Gaming, we keep our ear to the ground and add blockchain‑ready features to our platform. In the following sections, we’ll explore traditional monetisation, introduce EvenBet’s enhanced toolkit, unpack the tech behind blockchain and NFTs, and examine the security, benefits and challenges operators face in this new era.

Traditional Poker Monetisation Models

We have already delved into the traditional poker monetisation streams in some of our previous articles, but let us recap. Online poker platforms have historically relied on a handful of core revenue streams:

  • Rake: a small percentage (typically 2–5 %) taken from each pot, it forms the main share of operator income.
  • Entry fees: tournament buy‑ins charged to participants, part of the fee is allocated to prizes and part to the house.
  • Freemium models: the core gameplay is free with additional paid chips, cosmetic items, or power‑ups.
  • In‑game purchases: sale of virtual goods — avatars, card backs, table themes — via traditional payment gateways.
  • Ads and sponsorships: brand partnerships and in‑client advertising generate additional income.

While reliable, these methods depend on centralised control, fee structures, and limited player ownership. EvenBet’s research shows that poker clubs where players purchase in‑app chips via a virtual store have grown rapidly in markets where real‑money poker is restricted (in Asia, for example). In club models, app owners set purchase prices and incentives, while club and union owners manage tournaments and liquidity — this illustrates the power of microtransactions in generating revenue.

EvenBet’s Enhanced Monetization Offering

EvenBet Gaming offers more than traditional monetisation models, but fresh integrated features designed to boost ARPU and engagement across both real‑money and social poker formats.

In‑Store Feature

Our In‑Store offers bundles (Play Money chips, Time Bank top‑ups, VIP Card upgrades) that generate an ongoing microtransaction revenue stream alongside the traditional rake. The store, rolled out for free‑to‑play environments, also unlocks casual boosters to monetise play‑money sessions and encourage demo‑to‑real‑money conversion.

Soft Gaming Options

Soft gaming titles like slots, lotteries, or bingo keep players engaged between hands. These casual games monetise through timed bonuses, in‑game purchases, and promotional bundles, thus extending session length and spend in non‑real‑money modes.

Cross‑Vertical Upsells

Operators can diversify revenues by cross‑selling casino games and sports betting to poker users within the same client. Such a cross‑vertical strategy increases wallet share and overall ARPU because it allows for capturing spend across several iGaming verticals.

Clubs Feature

Earn via chip‑commission models (~30 %) and upsells like custom emoji packs or stats bundles. Platform owners set the prices for in-app chip bundles, VIP cards, and optional features (e.g., Rabbit Hunting, advanced statistics). All revenue from these sales flows directly to the platform, allowing operators to optimize pricing and promotions for their community.

Dealer Tips

Our Dealer Tips feature replicates real‑casino etiquette, and players can now tip the virtual dealer. This microtransaction heightens immersion (particularly in tipping cultures) and also unlocks another revenue stream.

Blockchain, NFTs, and Crypto Wallets in iGaming

Blockchain is a decentralised ledger that records transactions across distributed nodes. This guarantees that the data is immutable and transparent. Key benefits for poker operators include provably fair gaming (because players can audit RNG and shuffle algorithms to verify fairness), immutable records (tamper‑proof logs of bets and game actions allow for better dispute resolution), and secure funds (because irreversible transactions reduce the likelihood of fraud).

Non‑Fungible Tokens (NFTs) are unique on‑chain assets representing, and in poker, they can represent anything from avatars to tournament tickets. EvenBet’s platform supports NFT avatars, table‑income sharing, and tournament segmentation via NFT ownership. This, in turn, opens the way for:

  • Secondary markets: players trade NFTs outside the poker platform, creating ongoing royalty streams for operators.
  • True ownership: verifiable asset provenance and scarcity, which is in the very nature of an NFT, increase perceived value.
  • Cross‑platform utility: an NFT can be used across multiple games and platforms.

Integrating crypto wallets into a poker platform gives players self‑custody of funds and assets. Crypto, which is becoming increasingly popular among players, allows for near‑instantaneous peer‑to‑peer deposits or withdrawals, more privacy thanks to its anonymity, and a seamless user experience thanks to removing reliance on third‑party payment processors. Making the most of this tech, EvenBet’s Crypto Poker integrates 140+ cryptocurrencies and multiple processors, enabling instant, low‑fee deposits and withdrawals. This attracts privacy‑focused and crypto‑native audiences, opening fresh monetisation channels.

New Monetisation Models Emerging from Blockchain Technology

Blockchain technology has unlocked several new ways of monetising an online poker platform, while offering transparency and security for players and operators who benefit from distributed ledgers and decentralised payments.

Play-to-earn dynamics: players can now earn cryptocurrency or NFTs simply by participating in games or tournaments. This turns traditional gameplay into a game of achievements with real-world value. The rewards often come in the form of token incentives or collectible assets, which can be traded on open marketplaces for profit.

NFT-driven marketplaces: non-fungible tokens are unique in-game items such as custom card designs, avatars, or VIP passes that players can buy, sell, or even auction both on the poker platform and outside. Limited-edition NFT collectibles introduce the idea of scarcity, which drives more demand, as well as brings more profit for the operator (both as an initial sale and in the form of royalties when resold).

DeFi and token staking: decentralised finance (DeFi) mechanisms allow poker platforms to incorporate staking models, where players lock tokens into smart contracts in exchange for passive returns or exclusive tournament entries. This provides operators with profits from protocol fees and also promotes long-term engagement because stakers earn rewards proportional to their commitment.

Decentralised poker ecosystems: smart-contract-driven poker platforms remove intermediaries and allow for peer-to-peer wagering and trustless game enforcement. Transaction fees collected on each hand and staking become key monetisation drivers in this new setting.

Security and transaction efficiency: crypto wallets integrated into poker clients make room for near-instant deposits and withdrawals with minimal fees. This leaves traditional payment methods far behind, as crypto reduces operational costs for both operators and players. Moreover, immutable blockchain records ensure provably fair shuffles and transparent gameplay, which is always good for trust.

Enhanced loyalty and ownership: blockchain tokens and NFTs can become the new backbone of poker loyalty programmes. They grant holders governance rights (voting on tournament formats or prize structures) and exclusive access to VIP events. This on-chain loyalty deepens community engagement, as players feel a tangible stake in the platform’s success.

Final Thoughts

The poker store of tomorrow isn’t just a menu of chips or avatars — it’s a tokenised marketplace, a community‑driven ecosystem, and a player‑owned economy. The new technology, such as blockchain, NFTs, and crypto wallets, is already shaping the new online poker reality. They are not a flashy new feature to attract the more tech-savvy players, but the new benchmark of the industry. These technologies bring about more transparency and security, alongside low‑fee payments and real asset ownership, all opening more revenue streams for poker platform operators. EvenBet Gaming’s modernised monetisation features, including the In‑Store Feature, Clubs, cross‑vertical upsells, Dealer Tips, and Crypto Poker — equip operators to capitalise on these trends.

Continue Reading
Advertisement
Click to comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Latest News

Atlaslive Analysis: European Gambling Market Enters €123.4 Billion Digital-First Era

Published

on

Reading Time: 3 minutes

Atlaslive, a premier iGaming platform provider, today released a comprehensive analysis of the European gambling market transformation, revealing that the industry’s €123.4 billion revenue base is undergoing unprecedented digital evolution. The analysis, based on latest market intelligence from European Gaming & Betting Association in partnership with H2 Gambling Capital, identifies mobile gaming as the dominant force reshaping player engagement across the continent.

Mobile Revolution Drives Market Transformation

Atlaslive’s analysis reveals that mobile devices now generate 58% of Europe’s online gambling revenue in 2024, with projections indicating this figure will surge to 67% by 2029. This mobile-first transformation represents a fundamental shift in how operators must approach platform development and player acquisition strategies.

“The data unequivocally demonstrates that the future of European gambling is mobile-first,” said Anastasiia Poltavets, CMO at Atlaslive. “Operators who fail to prioritize mobile optimization and user experience will find themselves increasingly marginalized in a market where player expectations have fundamentally evolved.”

Online Gambling Accelerates Toward 45% Market Share

The analysis identifies online gambling as the clear growth engine of the European market, with digital channels expected to command 45% of total gambling revenue by 2029, up from 39% in 2024. This €66.8 billion online market projection represents a 6.9% compound annual growth rate, significantly outpacing the 1.8% growth expected in land-based gambling.

Key growth drivers identified by Atlaslive include:

  • Casino games leading digital adoption: €21.5 billion in 2024, growing to €30.8 billion by 2029
  • Sports betting momentum: €13.7 billion online revenue with 6.9% annual growth trajectory
  • Lottery digital transformation: Strongest growth potential at 7.7% annually, reaching €10.4 billion by 2029

Geographic Disparities Signal Untapped Opportunities

Country-by-country analysis reveals significant market maturity variations across Europe, presenting strategic opportunities for technology providers and operators.

Digital Leaders:

  • Sweden: 68.3% online share
  • Finland and Denmark: Both at 68.1% online share
  • Strong mobile adoption and regulatory frameworks driving digital-first engagement

Growth Markets:

  • Italy: Europe’s largest market at €21.0 billion with only 21.7% online penetration
  • Germany: €14.4 billion market with 22.6% online share indicating substantial digital expansion potential
  • France: €14.0 billion market with significant room for online growth

Strategic Implications for Industry Stakeholders

The Atlaslive analysis identifies several critical success factors for market participants:

For Operators:

  • Mobile-native platform architecture becomes non-negotiable
  • Omnichannel integration essential for capturing cross-platform player value
  • Geographic expansion strategies should prioritize markets with low online penetration

For Technology Providers:

  • Platform scalability must accommodate sustained high-growth environments
  • Cross-jurisdictional compliance capabilities increasingly valuable
  • Mobile-first development methodologies essential for competitive positioning

Market Resilience Demonstrates Industry Maturity

Despite digital transformation, analysis confirms the continued relevance of land-based gambling, which maintains €75.5 billion in 2024 revenue and projects steady 1.8% annual growth. This dual-track evolution demonstrates industry maturity and the enduring appeal of gambling experiences.

“The European gambling market is demonstrating remarkable sophistication in its evolution,” added Anastasiia Poltavets. “Rather than simple digital displacement, we’re witnessing the emergence of a truly integrated ecosystem where online and land-based channels complement and enhance each other.”

To explore the full report, regional breakdowns, and strategic insights for 2025 and beyond, visit: https://atlaslive.tech/blog/the-european-gambling-revolution-euro1234-billion-market-transforms-in-the-digital-age.

This document is provided to you for your information and discussion only. This document was based on public sources of information and was created by the Atlaslive team for marketing usage. It is not a solicitation or an offer to buy or sell any gambling-related product. Nothing in this document constitutes legal or business development advice. This document has been prepared from sources Atlaslive believes to be reliable, but we do not guarantee its accuracy or completeness and do not accept liability for any loss arising from its use. Atlaslive reserves the right to remedy any errors that may be present in this document.

About Atlaslive

Atlaslive, formerly known as Atlas-IAC, underwent a rebranding campaign in May 2024. It is a B2B software development company that specializes in creating a multifunctional and automated platform to optimize the workflow of sports betting and casino operators. Key components of the Atlaslive Platform include Sportsbook, Casino, Risk Management and Anti-Fraud Tools, CRM, Bonus Engine, Business Analytics, Payment Systems, and Retail Module. Follow the company on LinkedIn to stay updated with the latest news in iGaming technology.

The post Atlaslive Analysis: European Gambling Market Enters €123.4 Billion Digital-First Era appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.

Continue Reading

Latest News

HIPTHER Movement Launched: Fitness Community & Summer Run-Off Challenge Powered by GameOn

Published

on

hipther-movement-launched:-fitness-community-&-summer-run-off-challenge-powered-by-gameon
Reading Time: 3 minutes

 

After two exciting years of iGaming & TECH Run-Off Challenges uniting the industry in fitness, wellness, and camaraderie, HIPTHER is proud to announce the official launch of HIPTHER Movement – where Community meets endurance.

HIPTHER, leading media hub and events organiser for Gaming and Technology across Europe and beyond, has incorporated fitness and wellness networking initiatives across its events since 2023.

The “Morning Networking Run” and “Morning Yoga” sessions have been a part of their summits since 2023, with the participants warmly embracing these opportunities to nurture relationships, body, and soul, ahead of a busy conference day.

 

iGaming & TECH Run-Off Challenges: Community Relationships & Healthy Competition

In 2024, HIPTHER launched the iGaming and TECH Run Club on Strava, and kicked-off the iGaming & TECH Run-Offs, with the Summer and Winter editions spanning 2024 and 2025.

Many brilliant minds and athletic spirits from gaming and tech joined the Club, and spurred with this momentum of excitement, HIPTHER raised the game – offering exciting prizes at the end of each Challenge to the Top 3 runners in the Female and Male Categories, with the support of GameOn as a Sponsor.

Now, with the launch of HIPTHER Movement, this fitness-forward initiative evolves into a dynamic wellness community powered by year-round running and cycling challenges – bringing together professionals who hustle hard, on and off the road.

Whether you’re chasing a personal best or simply enjoy the grind, the HIPTHER Movement is your new home for HIPTHER-powered challenges hosted under the iGaming and TECH Run Club and Cycling Club on Strava.

With over 100 passionate members and counting, participants can track their progress, climb the leaderboard, and revisit the results from past events. From virtual sprints to multi-week challenges of endurance, HIPTHER fuels industry momentum – one stride and one pedal stroke at a time.

Zoltan Tuendik, Co-Founder of HIPTHER, stated about this initiative: “The HIPTHER Movement is about more than logging miles or chasing medals. It’s about showing up for yourself, your peers, and your community. In an industry that never slows down, we believe wellness should move with us. From early morning runs to multi-week endurance challenges, we’re creating a culture where progress, connection, and resilience go hand-in-hand. GameOn has helped us take it to the next level, and we’re just getting started.

 

Summer 2025: Run-Off and Spin-Off Challenges Now Live!

The Summer Run-Off Challenge and Summer Spin-Off Challenge, proudly sponsored by GameOn, kicked off on June 9 and will run until September 7, 2025.

🏃‍♂️ The Summer Run-Off Challenge, hosted by the iGaming and TECH Run Club, invites runners to lace up and power through the summer heat for serious rewards:
Top 3 finishers will receive exclusive performance gear
Surprise gifts for the top male and female participants
4th and 5th place earn limited edition HIPTHER x GameOn merch

🚴‍♀️ The Summer Spin-Off Challenge, run via the iGaming and TECH Cycling Club, puts pedal power in the spotlight with equally exciting rewards:
Top 3 cyclists win exclusive performance gear
Special gifts for the top male and female riders
4th and 5th place receive HIPTHER x GameOn cycling kits

 

Powered by GameOn: Because Every Effort Counts

HIPTHER is proud to have GameOn as a sponsor of the HIPTHER Movement. Their support helps level up each challenge with better prizes, bigger energy, and even more motivation for the growing community.

With GameOn’s backing – and HIPTHER’s commitment to wellness and engagement – every mile, every ride, and every personal effort truly counts.

 

Join the Movement

📲 Not in the Strava clubs yet?
Join the iGaming and TECH Run Club and Cycling Club today to get in on the action, track your progress, and connect with fellow professionals.

Because movement is more than motion.
It’s momentum. It’s clarity. It’s how we grow stronger – together.

Let’s move with purpose. Let’s move together!

The post HIPTHER Movement Launched: Fitness Community & Summer Run-Off Challenge Powered by GameOn appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.

Continue Reading

Latest News

TSG Store hits record-high share in game bookings as the company gets closer to its long-term target

Published

on

Reading Time: 3 minutes

 

Ten Square Games S.A. reports continued growth in the performance of its proprietary web-based platform, the TSG Store, which in May 2025 accounted for 30% of combined bookings in Fishing Clash and Hunting Clash – the company’s two flagship products. This result marks a major milestone in the development of the platform and brings the Group closer to its strategic target of 25% share in total bookings across the TSG portfolio.

From launch to record-high share

The TSG Store was introduced in May 2023, initially for Fishing Clash, followed by Hunting Clash in September 2023. Designed as a browser-based direct-to-consumer (DTC) platform, it allows players to purchase in-game content outside of traditional app stores. Since its launch, the store has grown steadily in terms of user engagement and transaction volume, supported by ongoing feature enhancements such as dedicated currency, loyalty packs, and exclusive promotions.

In March 2025, the store reached a monthly share of 19.1% in total bookings of the TSG Group. Within that result, Fishing Clash reached 26.1% of its bookings through the TSG Store, while Hunting Clash reached 17.5%. In May 2025, 30% of combined bookings in Fishing Clash and Hunting Clash came through the TSG Store marking the highest levels of bookings through the store to date and bringing it closer to its ultimate goal.

Building value through player communication

The success of the TSG Store has been driven not only by technical enhancements, but also by clear and consistent communication with players about the value and benefits of using the direct-to-consumer platform. A major priority from the outset was ensuring a seamless gameplay experience. This was achieved by introducing dedicated in-game currencies for each title – Fishbucks in Fishing Clash and Deerbucks in Hunting Clash – and by designing a user interface aligned with the look and feel of the games.

The platform’s development was also guided by ongoing discussions with the most engaged user groups, particularly VIP players, who not only provided valuable feedback but also helped promote the store within their clans and player communities. This close relationship with the player base proved essential in building trust and driving store adoption.

– The success of the TSG Store reflects not only product innovation, but also our long-term approach to building a more resilient and profitable business model. What made this possible was close cross-team collaboration – from product and monetization to tech, design, analytics, and community management. Creating your own store that strengthens both the player experience and the company’s financial foundation requires more than infrastructure. It requires shared vision, strategic alignment, and deep understanding of what drives player value. I believe this is just the beginning of what we can achieve.” – commented Grzegorz Gierczyk, Head of Game Services in Ten Square Games S.A.

A strategic tool for profitability

The TSG Store was created as a strategic tool to improve game profitability by reducing commission fees paid to third-party platforms. In the current mobile gaming environment – marked by increasing user acquisition costs and growing competition – optimizing margins has become essential. The store enables Ten Square Games to retain a larger share of player spending without altering its user acquisition strategy.

Players benefit from competitive pricing, bonus content, and additional value, while the company gains improved unit economics, more flexibility in shaping monetization strategies, and a direct relationship with its most engaged users.

Changing market dynamics support long-term growth

In a market shaped by evolving privacy regulations, platform policies, and monetization models, owning part of the payment ecosystem becomes a competitive advantage. The TSG Store is now an integral part of Ten Square Games’ long-term strategy to build a more resilient and profitable business model – one where financial performance and player experience go hand in hand. Following recent legal rulings in the United States and ongoing antitrust proceedings in other jurisdictions, the outlook for DTC platforms has significantly improved.

The post TSG Store hits record-high share in game bookings as the company gets closer to its long-term target appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.

Continue Reading

Trending