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

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3 weeks ago

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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.

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gaming

Global release of Trophy Hunter – test your skills in the next evolution of hunting games

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1 hour ago

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July 3, 2025

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On July 3, 2025, Trophy Hunter – the latest game developed by the Ten Square Games team – launched globally across major markets. With this title, the company expands its presence in the fast-growing hunting game segment, where it already has solid experience. Trophy Hunter is the third Ten Square Games project in this genre – this time designed as a skill-based game, offering an accessible yet competitive experience for a broad player base.

“- Ten Square Games was one of the pioneers in the mobile hunting games segment. Since the release of Hunting Clash, the market has grown significantly, and players’ expectations have evolved. Trophy Hunter is our response to those changes – a skill based game that emphasizes fast-paced gameplay, reflexes, and strategic decision-making. We’re building on a world we know well, but offering a new style of play that opens up fresh growth opportunities,” says Jakub Noganowicz, Product Owner of Hunting Clash and Trophy Hunter.

About Trophy Hunter

Trophy Hunter is a hunting game designed for players who enjoy quick, dynamic gameplay and competitive PvP action. Its core mode features three-round duels where precision, reaction time, and decision-making under pressure matter most – rather than exploration or resource management. Players can upgrade their personal base (Hunter’s Lodge), customize weapons, and compete in a structured league system.

“- The launch of Trophy Hunter is a test for both an alternative gameplay model and a more hybrid approach to monetization. We see this moment as the conclusion of the game’s first development phase. Now begins the most important stage – one driven by player feedback. The success of the project will depend not only on how the game is received but also on our ability to scale the title and consistently grow its player base,” says Andrzej Ilczuk, CEO of Ten Square Games.

Trophy Hunter follows a free-to-play model with microtransactions that let players upgrade weapons and ammo. It also features rewarded video ads**, allowing revenue generation from non-paying users. Thanks to hybrid monetization and a lower entry threshold, Trophy Hunter is aimed at a broader audience. Its lower cost per acquisition offsets the lower ARPU* compared to other Ten Square Games titles. The hybrid business model allows room for scalable growth and expanding the game’s reach.

From prototype to global release

Development on Trophy Hunter began in Q1 2024. In the final production phase, the core development team included 10 directly involved contributors.

In late June 2025, as part of pre-launch preparations, Ten Square Games removed the test version of the app from Google Play and the App Store, replacing it with the final version and opening preregistration. Over 500,000 players only on Google platform used the opportunity to ensure the fastest possible access to the game on global launch day. Those who preregistered received an exclusive in-game reward – a replica of the Beretta BRX1 rifle and 10 rounds of special ammunition. This was made possible thanks to Ten Square Games’ collaboration with the globally recognized Beretta brand, originally established for Hunting Clash.

What’s next

At launch, the game includes 9 playable arenas. The release marks the beginning of a new development chapter for Trophy Hunter. The roadmap includes progressive content expansion and ongoing testing of the game’s global scalability. If this proves successful, future updates will bring more arenas, new gameplay modes, a LiveOps system, Battle Pass, and additional features to boost player engagement and expand challenge variety.

* ARPU – average revenue per user
** Rewarded video – an ad format where players voluntarily watch a video ad in exchange for an in-game reward.

The post Global release of Trophy Hunter – test your skills in the next evolution of hunting games appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.

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Compliance Updates

HIPTHER Launches Responsible Gambling Assessment Tool Across Its Global Gaming Media Network

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2 hours ago

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July 3, 2025

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HIPTHER, a leading media and events brand in the Gaming and Tech industries, has launched a new Responsible Gambling Assessment Tool, now live across all of its gaming media platforms. This quick, anonymous self-test is designed to help players better understand their relationship with gambling, encouraging safer play through awareness and early self-checks.

The “Play Responsibly” tool is backed by clinical research and built with user privacy at its core, based on the globally recognized Problem Gambling Severity Index (PGSI) – a 9-question framework used to assess gambling risk levels, from low to moderate or high.

No sign-up needed. No Cost. No data collected. No Judgement. Just honest insight.

Whether you’re simply curious or looking to take a proactive step toward support, this free tool delivers instant results and practical next steps – all in under two minutes.

Key Features:

  • Completely anonymous – no registration or personal data required
  • Instant results with tailored guidance
  • Available in 5 languages
  • Mobile-first and accessible across all devices
  • Fully GDPR compliant

Designed to meet WCAG 2.1 AA accessibility standards, the tool ensures a smooth and inclusive user experience for everyone. With multilingual support and local resource integration, it helps diverse populations connect with trusted support networks in their region.

“While our media platforms primarily serve the B2B side of the industry, we know they’re also visited by players looking for insights and updates. That’s why it’s important for us to go beyond headlines and contribute real tools that support safer play. This assessment is one small, meaningful step toward that.” – Zoltán Tűndik, Co-Founder and Head of Business at HIPTHER.

Take the assessment today and share it with your community.
Because gambling should always be safe, informed, and fun.

Try it now on any of HIPTHER’s gaming media platforms:

By launching this tool, HIPTHER reaffirms its ongoing commitment to promoting transparency, responsibility, and player well-being in the global gaming industry. Together with our partners and audiences, we continue working toward a safer, more informed future for players everywhere.

The post HIPTHER Launches Responsible Gambling Assessment Tool Across Its Global Gaming Media Network appeared first on Gaming and Gambling Industry in the Americas.

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Evoplay

Evoplay enters Peru’s lottery vertical through a partnership with Loterías Torito

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2 hours ago

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July 3, 2025

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Evoplay, the award-winning game development studio, has partnered with Loterías Torito, one of the authorised operators of lottery games in Peru, to supply a tailored portfolio of instant win games.

The collaboration will see five of Evoplay’s most popular instant games, including Adrenaline Rush, Adrenaline Rush: Scratch, Penalty Shoot–out: Street, B–Ball Blitz, and Hockey Shootout, launch on Loterías Torito’s platform. Each title has been localised and tailored to meet the lottery’s regulatory standards and responsible gaming objectives.

Operating both online and across retail locations, Loterías Torito is a trusted name in the Peruvian lottery sector. Its blend of traditional lottery products and digital offerings makes it an ideal partner for Evoplay’s instant game portfolio, which is designed to attract a broader, mobile-first audience.

Breaking into the lottery space marks a significant achievement for Evoplay, following their strategy to expand its presence in regulated markets across Latin America, delivering localised content and tailored solutions to forward-thinking lottery operators.

Frank Cecchini, Head of Lottery at Evoplay, said: “We are immensely proud to be working with Loterías Torito. “I firmly believe our content can bridge the gap between lottery players and online gamers, helping drive revenue in a safe, responsible, and engaging way.”

José Ludeña Díaz, Director of Operations at Loterías Torito, added: “Evoplay’s games are one of a kind. They’re innovative, high-quality, and exactly what we need to appeal to new generations of players while staying true to our mission and values.”

The post Evoplay enters Peru’s lottery vertical through a partnership with Loterías Torito appeared first on Gaming and Gambling Industry in the Americas.

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