Exclusive Mr. Gamble Interview With Damjan Stamenković, CEO of Expanse Studios

In this exclusive Mr. Gamble interview, we sit down with Damjan Stamenković, the CEO of Expanse Studios, to delve into the exciting journey of this powerhouse in the iGaming industry. Since its inception, Expanse Studios has consistently pushed boundaries, creating cutting-edge casino games that captivate audiences worldwide. With a commitment to high-quality design, immersive gameplay, and a portfolio of titles beloved by players across the globe, Expanse Studios is reshaping the online gaming landscape.

Join us as Damjan shares insights on Expanse Studios’ growth, the creative process behind its standout games, and what the future holds for the company in this ever-evolving industry.

1. Could you tell us a bit about yourself and how your journey in the iGaming industry began?

I’ve always had a passion for games—both playing them and understanding how they work. My journey in the iGaming industry began with that same enthusiasm. In 2017, I co-founded Expanse Studios with a mission to revolutionize game development, blending cutting-edge technology with engaging, entertaining experiences. Since then, it’s been a whirlwind adventure of creativity, innovation and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in gaming.

2. Expanse Studios was founded in 2017—how has the company evolved since its early days and what drives its continued growth?

When we started in 2017, we were a small team with big dreams. Today, we’ve grown into a powerhouse of innovation, with a portfolio of over 50 games - slots, table games, casual games, lottery games and crush games. What drives us is a commitment to excellence—creating games that not only look amazing but offer something new to players. We’re constantly innovating and that passion has fueled our growth from day one.

3. How do you blend cutting-edge game design with classic gaming motifs in your titles?

We believe in honoring the classics while pushing the envelope. By integrating modern aesthetics and technology with timeless themes, we create games that feel fresh but familiar. Our games, like 100 Super Icy, feature classic fruit symbols, but the gameplay and design are anything but ordinary—players experience sleek animations and thrilling mechanics that elevate the traditional slot experience.

4.Innovation is a core focus at Expanse Studios—how does this passion influence the types of games you develop?

Innovation is in our DNA. Every game we create is built to surprise and delight, whether it’s through unique gameplay mechanics, creative themes, or next-level graphics. Take SuperHeli, our debut crash game—it’s an example of how we merge strategy with fun, offering players an immersive experience with free bets and real-time engagement.

5. Music and animation are integral to your games—how do you ensure these elements enhance the overall player experience?

We design each game with an all-sensory experience in mind. Music and animation are key to setting the right tone and immersing the player. Our creative teams work closely to ensure that every spin or decision is accompanied by the right sound and visual effects. Games like Shaolin Crew use this blend to transport players to ancient China, combining high-octane gameplay with stunning visuals and dynamic soundtracks.

6. Expanse Studios emphasizes a mobile-first approach—how do you ensure that your games deliver a seamless experience on all devices?

Our games are designed with mobility at the forefront. We use HTML5 to ensure smooth, immersive gameplay across all platforms, whether you’re on a desktop, tablet or smartphone. This focus on mobile allows us to reach thrill-seekers who want to play on the go, delivering a seamless experience no matter where they are.

7. What are some of the standout features that set your slot games apart in the competitive iGaming market?

Our games are known for their high RTP, immersive themes, and multi-level jackpots. We offer something for every player, from Leprechaun Wish, which has a 97.23% RTP and a magical theme, to the thrilling Veni Vidi Vici, with a bonus multiplier that goes up to x1000. Each game delivers a unique combination of visuals, sound and engaging gameplay, making Expanse Studios stand out.

8. How have strategic partnerships with operators and aggregators helped drive the success and reach of your games?

Partnerships are crucial to our growth. By collaborating with top operators and aggregators, we’ve been able to reach new markets and offer our games to a broader audience. These relationships allow us to innovate faster and deliver exceptional value to both players and operators.

9. Your games are available in over 20 languages—how does catering to a global audience shape your design and development process?

We take a global-first approach, ensuring that our games resonate with diverse audiences. Designing for multiple languages and cultures requires a deep understanding of our players’ preferences and we incorporate these insights into the gameplay, graphics, and themes. Whether it’s a classic slot or a culturally themed game like Pia, we make sure players feel at home.

10. How does Expanse Studios incorporate gamification elements, such as free spins, multi-level jackpots, and tournaments, to engage players?

Gamification is a key element of our games. We offer players opportunities to engage with features like free spins, multi-level jackpots and competitive tournaments. This enhances the gameplay, offering not just a chance to win, but a dynamic, interactive experience that keeps players coming back.

11. How do you balance the use of modern innovations with the nostalgic appeal of classic gaming themes in your titles?

t’s all about blending the best of both worlds. We pay homage to classic motifs like fruit slots in games like 100 Super Icy, but we pair them with modern innovations like free spins, multi-level jackpots and sleek design. By staying true to timeless gaming elements while adding cutting-edge features, we deliver games that are nostalgic yet fresh and exciting.

12. How do tournaments and promotional tools like free spins contribute to higher player engagement in your games?

Tournaments and free spins are engagement powerhouses. They provide a competitive edge that keeps players excited and coming back for more. Our promotional tools, such as multi-level jackpots and free spins, create a dynamic environment where players feel constantly rewarded, which significantly boosts retention and engagement.

13. What are some of the key strategies that Expanse Studios uses to ensure innovation and quality across its entire game portfolio?

Our strategy is simple but effective: continuous innovation and attention to detail. We use cutting-edge HTML5 technology to ensure smooth gameplay, and we test every aspect rigorously. Additionally, we keep a close eye on player feedback and industry trends to stay ahead of the curve, making sure our games not only meet but exceed player expectations.

14. What is your development process for games like table games or turn-based strategies, and how does it differ from slot creation?

The development of table games or turn-based strategies requires a more intricate approach. Unlike slots, which are driven by fast-paced visuals and immediate rewards, table games demand a deeper focus on mechanics, strategy, and player interaction. Games like Diamond Blackjack involve creating a delicate balance between maintaining the classic feel of the game while adding unique twists and modern innovations.

15.Which game in Expanse Studios’ portfolio is your personal favorite, and what makes it stand out to you?

It’s hard to choose just one, but SuperHeli has a special place in my heart. It was our debut crash game, and it combines real-time multiplayer excitement with strategic depth. The combination of high RTP, free bets, and its unique gameplay mechanics really set it apart from anything else we’ve created.

16. Can you give us a sneak peek at any upcoming releases or innovative features that players can expect from Expanse Studios

Without giving too much away, we’re working on some exciting new titles that push the boundaries of interactivity and immersive gameplay. Expect more games with enhanced multiplayer features, innovative reward systems, and some truly cutting-edge visuals. We’re also diving deeper into gamification with features like dynamic tournaments and interactive leaderboards that will elevate the player experience to the next level.