Tell us about Novomatic’s plans for 2024, Thomas.
The strong rebound after the Covid-19 pandemic for operators and manufacturers worldwide led to increased demand for gaming technology. In 2024, we keep our innovative momentum and carry on supplying our customers with state-of-the-art solutions for their land-based gaming offerings from slot machines to casino management systems, cash handling solutions and sports betting equipment. The area of online, mobile and social gaming activities in particular has also been experiencing significant growth for several years, and we will therefore continue to focus on online activities in 2024.
In this context, Greentube as Novomatic’s Digital Gaming and Entertainment Division has successfully expanded its international portfolio in the areas of software development, as well as system and platform technology through several strategic acquisitions. Continued growth in the emerging sports betting segment can also be seen in the US market, as more and more states regulate sports betting and casino operators expand their offerings as a result. We are particularly pleased to see that they are increasingly relying on Novomatic.
How do you see the role of AI impacting land-based product offerings in 2024?
Novomatic has always had a positive attitude towards new technological developments. This also includes dealing with the various possible applications of artificial intelligence (AI). Digitalisation offers enormous opportunities for business and society but we need a responsible approach to the technical progress that is driving this trend. AI will impact game development, performance analytics, process optimisations and cost structures, as well as time to market in all industries and therefore also in gaming. A responsible approach, data protection and IP rights will be crucial for the success of using this new technology. The challenge for our industry will be to devise AI-driven features in our product portfolio that generate added value to players and operators alike. Novomatic’s approach to AI will take this into account in providing solutions.
Land-based casinos offer a more immersive gaming experience, with technology increasing the quality of graphics and sound available to customers. Do you think these developments will keep driving customers to land-based products in the year ahead?
Today, the range of games of chance on offer is probably greater than ever before. Players are faced with a choice of countless gaming options in land-based casinos and online casinos – both offer exclusive advantages. Land-based casinos offer tailor-made services that are in no way inferior to the entertainment on offer in Las Vegas. This great popularity is undoubtedly due to the exclusive and attractive offers. The unique atmosphere, elegant design and elaborate decoration ensure that players feel particularly comfortable in this attractive environment.
One of the main advantages of regulated online casinos is the constant availability of games from any device, any time, anywhere. Even though some casinos have a satisfactory selection of games, the digital catalogue offered by online casinos is much more extensive. Novomatic provides land-based operators with products that can differentiate their service and offering significantly from online casinos. The best examples are premium cabinets, personalised service through player management solutions and systems, and high-resolution content for every player preference.
How will regulations potentially impact the offering of land-based products in 2024 from a supplier point of view?
Novomatic’s global footprint implies constant adaptation to changing regulatory environments. It has been our strong point throughout our more than 40-year corporate history to manage such changes and provide adapted products wherever new regulations come up. Our core advantage in this respect is our wide network of own gaming operations, enabling us to quickly recognise and react to market requirements and trends. Our decade-long experience further shows that gaming regulation tends to get professionalised in many markets. This influences our development pipeline positively as it creates opportunities to offer tailor-made solutions to our customers.
Are there any developments on the horizon to further drive the growth of land-based gaming, within Novomatic or industry wide?
We strongly emphasise premium products and solutions from the arcade to the casino segment, to enable operators worldwide to differentiate and grow their business. Investment in research and development will remain high, and we will continue to evaluate potential in the coming years. 2024 will see global roll-outs of premium games and cabinets as well as ETG solutions. You will be able to see for yourself which developments we bring to market at ICE London 2024 and G2E Las Vegas 2024, or local gaming shows around the globe!
