Issue N7, 2009

February 18, 2009

New Mobile Derby Game To be Launched

With the sports betting industry so keen on virtual horse racing and mobile gaming being the fastest growing area in the business, Spin 3 seems to have tapped into a particularly lucrative product. This mobile games supplier, particularly well sought after because of its links to software giant, Microgaming, has announced the release of a brand new game – this time a virtual racing game entitled Royal Derby. The game will incorporate exciting graphics, ever changing features so that no two games are ever the same, and seamless payment options so that all Smartphone users can enjoy the last word in mobile gaming.

“Horse racing is a hugely popular sport, with a strong following in the UK and around the world,” said Matti Zinder, the head of Spin 3. “With the 2009 Grand National just around the corner, we are sure Royal Derby will capture the interest of both racing fans and the general public alike. Royal Derby replicates the buzz and challenge of picking a winner at the races, and is sure to be a winning mobile gambling game.”

Royal Derby joins 16 other games in the Spin 3 games package especially created for Smartphone users, all of which are casino games. This new title is thus unique in that it brings a different element of wagering so popular in the current market.

“We are continually looking to expand our games portfolio and offer clients the newest and most advanced games in the market,” said Zinder. “Royal Derby demonstrates just how far mobile gaming has come in terms of the complexities of game play and quality of graphics we are able to offer.”

Last IGE for Clarion Executive

Karen Cooke, who has headed the exhibition team for the Clarion Gaming’s International Gaming Expo for many years, announced that she is stepping down to pursue her career in other fields. “I have experienced the exhibitions first as an exhibitor and then an organizer”, said Cooke. “Professionally, 2009 was a very successful show and I feel comfortable that now is the right time to take some time out and recharge the batteries.”

“I will then be taking up another role within the gaming industry,” continued Cooke. “I have been flattered and heartened by the good wishes I have received from members of both the gaming and amusement sectors since news of my decision broke.”

The IGE 2009 was indeed a successful year and Cooke and her team can be proud to have created such a buzzing environment where industry executives could rub shoulders and network.

“Karen is a one off and we are very sad to see her go,” said the Chief Executive Officer for Clarion Gaming, Peter Rusbridge. “She played a central role in smoothing the integration of the shows into the Clarion portfolio and was pivotal in the successful launch of the International Gaming Expo.”

Ladbrokes Makes Official Jump to Microgaming Poker Network

Ladbrokes Poker has finally taken the giant leap and made the official switch from its original software platform to the Microgaming Poker Network. Joining top poker sites such as Unibet, which already enjoy popularity thanks to their Microgaming network status, Ladbrokes will be able to offer its players a larger range of games and tournament, greater prizes and some of the greatest poker promotions around.

“The heart and soul of Ladbrokes Poker will remain - with some necessary enhancements to boost its vitality,” said Ladbrokes Poker in a statement this week. “As such, players can rest assured that the unrivaled security, reliability and trust that are synonymous with the Ladbrokes brand will continue to be of the utmost priority in our delivery and commitment to our customers.”

Unfortunately, players from the United States will not be able to enjoy these promotions due to the fact that Microgaming does not cater to US gamblers. However, for those who can open an account at the new Ladbrokes Poker site, a massive $1 Million Rake Race promotion awaits them that promises to be one of the biggest campaigns in the industry this year.

Cryptologic Aims for New Superhero Slots in 2009

Iconic software company, Cryptologic, announced that it had signed a new deal with Warner Bros. Digital Distribution and DC Comics to bring a new series of slot titles to the industry. The games, based on much loved and instantly recognizable characters such as Wonder Woman and Flash, will make their way to the market during the course of this year. Unfortunately, they will not be available to players from the United States due to the fact that the software company trades on the London Stock Exchange.

“Cryptologic leads the way in bringing the world's biggest entertainment brands to the world's best internet casinos, and there are few brands bigger than the DC Super Heroes,” the President and Chief Executive Officer for Cryptologic, Brian Hadfield. “It's all about what we do best. Branded games are the fastest growing part of our business, and we expect these and other games will help drive Cryptologic's revenue growth for years to come.”

Casino News, February 2009