Pushing for growth: Diversification in all the right places
Online gaming supplier Playson has had a busy start to the year, with the company initiating a range of new partnerships over the course of the first quarter. Now, the organisation has its eyes firmly fixed on expansion. As part of this interview, Deputy CEO Vsevolod Lapin talks us through the supplier’s new partnership’s, alongside its LatAm vision for the upcoming year. Further, we discuss the continuous evolution of compliance technologies and their growing role within the industry, the changing face of game mechanics and Playson’s plans for the year ahead…
Focusing on your recent LatAm-based KTO Group partnership, what can you tell us about the origins and aspirations of the collaboration?
Partnering with KTO was a strategic move rooted in shared values – commitment to regulated growth, player-centric experiences and quality content. As a well-recognised brand in LatAm and with a clear focus on Brazil, KTO provides the perfect platform to partner with as we look to build our regional presence.
Do you believe the emergence of AI could, in the near future, lead to growing forms of automated compliance in markets with diverse regulatory demands such as LatAm?
I do see AI-driven automated compliance becoming essential, especially in complex markets like LatAm. Regulatory bodies increasingly demand scalable, tech-based solutions and AI provides the flexibility to meet varied requirements efficiently. In the modern market, gambling organisations have already embedded AI into their monitoring and escalation workflows. Markets like Brazil are setting the tone by embracing automation early, showing how smart regulation and advanced technology can work hand in hand to ease compliance burdens, and boost performance.
How do game mechanics compare as a component of creating a positive gaming experience in the modern industry, especially when compared to promotional tools?
Game mechanics are the foundation of any great player experience. While promotional tools help drive short-term engagement, it’s the core mechanics – like the flow, features, volatility and reward structure – that keep players coming back.
“At the root of it all, I believe truly compelling gameplay speaks for itself”
When mechanics are thoughtfully designed, they not only entertain but also enhance the impact of promotions. In the long run, strong mechanics build loyalty far more sustainably than bonuses alone.
In today’s iGaming market – how would you describe the importance of Hit the Bonus mechanics?
Hit the Bonus is a mechanic that’s quickly gaining traction across the iGaming landscape. It delivers instant bonus round activation through symbol combinations, giving players quick access to high-engagement features. Its growing appeal lies in how well it suits mobile devices’ play sessions – fast, rewarding and dynamic. While once niche, we now see the mechanic replicated across the industry, confirming its momentum. In the long term, I see Hit the Bonus as a scalable innovation – easy to localise, quick to adapt and highly effective in building retention across markets.
Overall, what can you tell us about Playson’s plans for the rest of the year and beyond?
For the rest of 2025, Playson remains focused on delivering high-quality games that offer engaging experiences. We’re expanding our portfolio with diverse themes and innovative mechanics, while accelerating our entry into newly regulated markets. Leveraging scalable and adaptive technologies helps us stay agile and responsive. Above all, we remain true to our commitment to the iGaming community as a whole to push for more excitement, more value, and more growth.
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