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UK Gambling Commission announces package of changes which make online games safer by design

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The Gambling Commission has announced a package of strict measures which will strengthen the protections and controls for those who gamble through online slots games – including the introduction of limits on spin speeds, and the permanent ban on features that speed up play or celebrate losses as wins.

Following a consultation with the public and players, the gambling industry and other stakeholders, operators will need to implement tough new player protection measures which will make online casino games less intensive, safer by design and hand players more control over their gambling.

The Commission has focused on online slots because of its features which increase the intensity of play and the corresponding risks to players. Slot games have by far the highest average losses per player of online gambling products1.

The new rules include the outright ban of four key features of online slots games:

Features that speed up play or give the illusion of control over the outcome
Slot spin speeds faster than 2.5 seconds
Auto-play – which can lead to players losing track of their play, and;
Sounds or imagery which give the illusion of a win when the return is in fact equal to, or below, a stake
Other changes include:

Operators must clearly display to the player their total losses or wins and time played during any online slots session.
Alongside the changes for online slots the Commission has also introduced a permanent ban on reverse withdrawals for all online gambling – this function previously allowed consumers to re-gamble money they had previously requested to withdraw.
The enhanced protections that have been announced today will need to be fully implemented by online operators by 31 October 2021.

Since the publication of the Commission’s consultation in July 2020, further research has shown that using an auto-play feature has been linked to some players losing track of play, making it difficult for some to stop playing and in some cases gambling on other activities simultaneously.

Evidence shows that reverse withdrawal functions present a risk to players because of the temptation to continue gambling. In addition, the slot features being removed or more closely controlled have been associated with increased intensity of play, loss of player control, or binge play.

Neil McArthur, Gambling Commission chief executive, said: “To make online games safer we are introducing a ban on features that speed up play, or give the illusion of control over the outcome. We are also introducing a ban on auto-play, losses disguised as wins, and slot spin speeds faster than 2.5 seconds. The evidence shows that these features increase the risk of harm to customers.

“This is another important step in making gambling safer and where the evidence shows that there are other opportunities to do that we are determined to take them.”

Minister for Sports, Tourism and Heritage Nigel Huddleston said: “Today’s steps will help curb the intensity of online gambling, introducing greater protections that will reduce the risk of gambling related harm.

“I welcome the Gambling Commission’s tough measures as we continue our comprehensive review of gambling laws to make sure they’re fit for the digital age.”

The new rules are part of the Commission’s comprehensive programme to make gambling fairer and safer which has also seen the introduction of strengthened protections around online age and ID verification, improved customer interaction practices, and the banning of gambling on credit cards.

The announcement of the further consumer protection rules for online games and the design of those games follow the Commission’s announcement on 30 September that it was implementing new rules to stamp out irresponsible ‘VIP customer’ practices. Those rules came into force on 31 October 2020. A consultation on customer interaction was also launched last in November with the outcome expected later this year.

Readers can access the Commission’s online games design and reverse withdrawals response for more details.

1 Our Covid data shows the average spend per slots player is £67 per month, compared with £36 for casino products and £45 for real event betting.

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Luka Pataky Joins Bragg Gaming Group as EVP of AI and Innovation to Spearhead Growth and Usage of New Technologies Across Business

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Bragg Gaming Group, a global leader in next-generation iGaming content and content delivery, engagement and player management technology, today proudly announces the appointment of Luka Pataky as Executive Vice President (EVP) of AI and Innovation.

In his new role, Pataky will work closely with Bragg’s technology teams to develop a 360॰ AI strategy, integrating AI into product development and design, user experience, external communications, safer gambling initiatives and internal processes to drive growth and efficiency.

This strategic leadership addition comes as part of Bragg’s commitment to the leveraging of data, advanced analytics and powerful AI to enhance user experience, player engagement, maximize revenue potential, and drive smarter, more efficient iGaming operations.

Luka Pataky boasts a strong pedigree in AI and technology, with over a decade of experience at Sportradar, a company at the forefront of sports data and content. His tenure at Sportradar culminated in his role as Senior Vice President for Automated Content, where he spearheaded an initiative from its inception to a production-ready, scalable system that ended up powering over 300,000 sports events per year with a team of over 70.

In this leadership position, he was instrumental in revolutionizing sports content creation through AI, Computer Vision, and Deep Learning, successfully bringing real-time data collection solutions to production, being the driving force behind integrating acquired tech businesses, thereby turning advanced technology into significant business value through the optimization of operating costs and business efficiencies.

Prior to his SVP role, Pataky played a key role in establishing Sportradar’s innovation unit, a hub for pioneering new ideas, implementing processes that enabled faster experimentation and fostering a culture of rapid prototyping and testing.

As part of this, he also led the team responsible for scaling Sportradar’s startup program and forging strategic innovation partnerships with universities and innovation labs. In his multiple innovation-based roles, he demonstrated a consistent focus on leveraging AI and data analysis to identify and develop new product opportunities and strategic initiatives.

His extensive experience across these leadership roles highlights his proven ability to lead large, cross-functional teams, manage complex technological advancements, and strategically integrate new ventures, underscoring his expertise in driving growth and innovation within the technology sector.

Known globally for its award-winning iGaming content and technology solutions, Bragg has consistently championed the integration of artificial intelligence technology across its business model, as typified by the introduction of an AI-powered Games Recommendation System into its Fuze ™ marketing and promotional toolset.

The Company has also utilised AI extensively across its responsible gambling work, using these new technologies and extensive data collection to more effectively identify at-risk gamblers.

“Luka Pataky is the ideal hire for Bragg, as we look to supercharge our AI and innovation ambitions,” said Matevž Mazij, Chief Executive Officer at Bragg“His extensive experience of being at the forefront of this gamechanging technology and innovation will help springboard Bragg into the next iteration of our growth. With the increased adoption of AI across the iGaming industry, Bragg has once again shown its commitment to staying ahead of the competition.”

“Bragg has always struck me as a company where technology and innovation are key drivers,” said Luka Pataky. “This is a company which is always pushing the boundaries, using its extensive knowledge and the skills of its teams to create and set new trends. It sits on vast amounts of user data and insight, which we can turn into intelligence that will power next generation player engagement. Introducing AI at all levels of product and operations will make it perfectly positioned for future growth.”

“I am looking forward to playing a role in accelerating Bragg’s journey to becoming an AI-first company. I have no doubt we’ll be able to compliment and elevate Bragg’s already amazing next generation player experiences for its operator partners and drive value for the business.”

The post Luka Pataky Joins Bragg Gaming Group as EVP of AI and Innovation to Spearhead Growth and Usage of New Technologies Across Business appeared first on Gaming and Gambling Industry in the Americas.

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Bruce Lowthers

Paysafe launches PagoEfectivo wallet, expanding payment options in Peru

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New digital wallet will offer instant payouts, code payments and P2P transfers; Carlos Alcántara is the new brand ambassador; PagoEfectivo Universe opens in Lima

Paysafe, a leading payments platform, is expanding its presence in Peru by evolving PagoEfectivo, its locally successful eCash brand, into a digital wallet. The PagoEfectivo wallet, the brand’s first in Latin America, enables users to instantly load funds, make online purchases, receive immediate payouts from participating merchants, transfer money to others, and pay using a code (CIP).

PagoEfectivo has been a market leader in Latin America’s eCash payments, enabling millions of consumers to transact online. “Consumers in Peru already trust PagoEfectivo for everything from iGaming and digital goods to travel and eCommerce. With the launch of our new digital wallet, we’re giving them a more convenient way to pay – one that reflects Paysafe’s commitment to powering the experiential economy,” said Bruce Lowthers, CEO of Paysafe.

“Our recent survey with Peruvian consumers found that 81% would use a digital wallet from PagoEfectivo. With that strong sign, we’re launching a solution that meets consumers’ payment needs,” said Esteban Sarubbi, Vice President, Head of Latin America at Paysafe.

PagoEfectivo introduces Carlos Alcántara as its new brand ambassador
PagoEfectivo is proud to introduce beloved Peruvian actor Carlos Alcántara (Cachín) as its new brand ambassador. Carlos will demonstrate just how easy and convenient it is to pay with the new PagoEfectivo wallet. The nationwide campaign will roll out across TV, digital platforms, outdoor, and out-of-home placements, marking it as PagoEfectivo’s most high-profile launch to date.

PagoEfectivo Universe
To celebrate the launch, from July 10 to 26, Lima residents are invited to experience the PagoEfectivo Universe – an immersive, interactive space at Av. Manuel Olguin 249, Santiago de Surco, from Tuesdays through Sundays, from 12:00 pm to 9:30 pm, where they will play games, simulate payments through the app, meet celebrities and influencers during special time slots, win swags, snap photos, and meet the celebrated brand mascot, Leo Pagoncio.

The post Paysafe launches PagoEfectivo wallet, expanding payment options in Peru appeared first on Gaming and Gambling Industry in the Americas.

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Rise of Orpheus unites myth, love, and thrilling features

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Play’n GO unveils Rise of Orpheus, a mythical slot that takes players deep into the Underworld in pursuit of love, light, and powerful gameplay features.

Following in the footsteps of mythology-inspired favourites like Gates of Troy and Rise of Olympus, Rise of Orpheus brings the tragic tale of Orpheus and Eurydice to life through emotionally charged mechanics and immersive storytelling. As Orpheus ventures into the realm of shadows to reclaim his lost love, players are invited to join a cinematic journey shaped by love, risk, and divine intervention. With its richly atmospheric visuals and evolving feature set, Rise of Orpheus stands as a testament to Play’n GO’s commitment to blending narrative depth with standout gameplay.

At the heart of the game is the Reunion feature, triggered when both lovers appear on screen. Orpheus walks across the reels to reach Eurydice, leaving Wilds in his path and forming a powerful combined symbol. In tandem, Eurydice’s Multiplier grows with each of her appearances during Free Spins, heightening the emotional – and gameplay – stakes. Meanwhile, the Wrath of Cerberus Respin and Wild Meter mechanics provide escalating excitement and layered rewards. These features don’t just elevate gameplay – they mirror the desperate determination of Orpheus’ journey.

Players drawn to the rich lore of Divine Showdown or the emotional arcs of Tales of Asgard: Freya’s Wedding will find familiar satisfaction in Rise of Orpheus. As part of Play’n GO’s mythology-inspired portfolio, this title offers a unique take on the legendary love story, marrying poetic tragedy with inventive mechanics. The game’s progression through the Underworld’s levels also echoes the structure of House of Doom II, offering evolving gameplay with dramatic flair.

Magnus Wallentin, Games Ambassador at Play’n GO, commented: “With Rise of Orpheus, we wanted to craft a slot that resonates emotionally as well as mechanically. This is a love story wrapped in myth, with every feature reinforcing the journey of reunion and risk.”

A poignant story. Powerful features. Rise of Orpheus invites players to walk through shadows – and witness love reshape destiny.

The post Rise of Orpheus unites myth, love, and thrilling features appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.

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