Exclusive Mr. Gamble Q&A with Katarina Slaninova from Horn Gaming

In this exclusive Mr. Gamble Q&A, we sit down with Katarina Slaninova, Head of Marketing & Communications at Horn Gaming, to delve into the company’s innovative strategies, brand vision, and what makes their offerings stand out in the competitive online gaming industry. Known for their player-centric approach, cutting-edge technology, and seamless operator solutions, Horn Gaming is shaping the landscape of digital entertainment.

Join us as we go behind the scenes to uncover the inspiration driving Horn Gaming, gain unique insights into their creative process, and explore what lies ahead for this forward-thinking gaming powerhouse.

Tom Horn Gaming has a reputation for intricate mathematical models and engaging gameplay. Could you walk us through your process of developing these models and how they contribute to player retention?

We see our games as small works of art with cleverness! Mathematical models play a big role in what makes Tom Horn games tick. We start by understanding what players enjoy, from those thrilling close calls to the big wins that feel fantastic. Each game goes through a process where we fine-tune the maths to keep players hooked and feeling rewarded. Our goal is to find that perfect balance that keeps the gameplay engaging and players keep coming back for more. A detailed verified Tom Horn Gaming review provides further insights into their approach.

With a broad portfolio that includes popular titles like 243 Crystal Fruits and The Secret of Ba, how do you ensure a balance between classic themes and innovative mechanics to keep players engaged?

Our games offer a variety of themes and stories to keep players intrigued. We’ve got the classics, like the Crystal Fruits series, Crown’s Legacy,or 81 Frutas Grandes, for that timeless slot feel, but we’re always adding new twists to make sure our titles appeal not only to seasoned punters but also to younger players. We aim to strike a balance – combining the best of both worlds, so there’s always something fresh yet familiar for players. Our goal is to surprise with inventive mechanics, while making sure the core gameplay stays fun and keeps players engaged.

Tom Horn Gaming operates across multiple jurisdictions, including Europe and beyond. How do you adapt your game offerings to cater to the diverse preferences of different regional markets?

Every region has its own gaming culture, so our games aren’t one-size-fits-all. We carefully study player preferences in each market and adapt our themes, features, and gameplay styles accordingly. Whether it’s a preference for specific volatility levels, features, or themes, we work to tailor our offerings to give players exactly what they're looking for in each region.

Compliance is a key factor in today’s iGaming industry. How does Tom Horn Gaming navigate the regulatory landscapes of different jurisdictions, and how do you integrate responsible gaming features into your products?

Understanding the regulatory side of igaming is essential. We hold multiple licences, and our games are certified in a variety of jurisdictions. We adhere to strict rules in every area we operate, ensuring players can trust us. We’re also committed to responsible gaming, incorporating features and options that make our games safe for players to enjoy with peace of mind.

With games that offer various volatility levels and innovative features, how do you cater to both casual and high-stakes players within the same game ecosystem?

Not everyone plays the same way – some players are just looking for a fun, low-stakes experience, while others want that adrenaline-pumping high-stakes thrill. We design our games to cater to both ends of the spectrum, offering different volatility levels and bonus features, like our proprietary bonus buy feature, QuickX™, that lets players tailor their experience to their own play style and budget.

One of Tom Horn’s strengths is the ability to offer customizable solutions for operators. How do you work with your partners to deliver tailored gaming experiences that meet specific market demands?

Operators know their players best, so we work closely with them to create tailored solutions. Whether it’s customising a game’s appearance, tweaking certain features, or creating a new custom game from scratch, we ensure our partners can deliver the experiences their players love. It’s all about flexibility and making sure our games meet the specific demands of each market.

Titles like Frozen Queen and Sherlock: A Scandal in Bohemia feature strong narratives and immersive themes. How important is storytelling in your game development process, and what inspires your thematic choices?

A good story can make all the difference! Games like Frozen Queen, Sherlock: A Scandal in Bohemia, or our latest titles like Max Gold. Exploring the Unknown, Biggy Winnie feat. The Rich One, or Book of Aladdin, let players dive into a different world with each spin. Our themes are inspired by all sorts of things, from classic tales to unique, unexpected ideas. Storytelling helps create that immersive experience, drawing players into the narrative and keeping them engaged.

As you continue to expand globally, what strategies have been most effective in establishing partnerships with operators in new regions, and what challenges have you encountered during expansion?

Expanding into new regions is exciting but challenging. Our best approach has been building strong relationships with local operators and understanding the unique aspects of each market. Local regulations and player preferences can vary widely, so we stay flexible, utilise feedback from operator partners and players, and adapt quickly to keep pace with each region’s needs.

Could you share any details about upcoming game releases or features that players should be excited about? How do you ensure that each new title stands out in a highly competitive market?

We’ve got some thrilling new releases in the pipeline! Keep an eye out for our recent release, Max Gold, an adventure-driven title where players can join our new character on wild expeditions. This game includes a Hold & Win bonus game with respins and jackpots, plus a stake booster and bonus buy feature, adding even more excitement to the adventure. Later this month, we’re also releasing Wild Snowflakes, a stunning winter-themed slot, followed by Hot Blizzard Deluxe. Each release is crafted to stand out, offering unique gameplay, themes, or mechanics. We want every game to feel like a fresh experience in a crowded market.

How does player feedback influence your game design and development process? Can you share an example of how feedback directly impacted a feature or game mechanic?

Feedback from players is incredibly valuable. We actively listen to what players enjoy and where there’s room for improvement. We also work closely with streamers, who are players themselves, and who share their insights along with feedback from the broader player community. Additionally, we keep a close eye on player fora and play-for-fun sites like Mr. Gamble, where players often share invaluable thoughts on what they like or dislike about games. It’s all about evolving based on what our players and their communities want!

What trends or technologies do you think will shape the future of the iGaming industry, and how is Tom Horn Gaming preparing to stay ahead of the curve?

The iGaming industry is evolving at lightning speed, and we’re closely watching these developments. At Tom Horn Gaming, we're always looking for ways to stay at the forefront of technology, bringing the next generation of gaming experiences to life. We've recently joined forces with the Ortak initiative, which pushes the boundaries of what's possible in iGaming by merging the worlds of online casino slot games, Web3, and the physical realm of real artwork.

Just a few days ago, we launched a new game with Ortak, Akne Fruits. This pioneering project unites three dimensions: nine physical Akn sculptures mirroring game symbols, NFTs, and the slot game itself. It creates a multidimensional experience, engaging players virtually, physically, and through shared ownership.

We believe that with projects like this, we’re reshaping the future of iGaming, making it a more collaborative and shared experience for players.