The slots section of any online casino like Casino 770 is filled with generic games with themes like fruits, gems, Gold, Egypt and more. However, over the last few years, branded slots based on popular movies, TV shows, bands and brands have grown rapidly. These games leverage the existing fandoms and intellectual properties (IPs) to attract players. Let’s explore what’s driving this trend and why big names are starting to dominate online slots.
Leveraging Existing Fandoms
Branded slots allow game developers to tap into existing loyal fandoms around huge franchises like Game of Thrones, Star Wars, DC Comics and more. For example, the Game of Thrones slot by Microgaming brings the world of Westeros onto the reels for fans to enjoy. Players get to spin the reels with characters like Jon Snow, Daenerys and more in scenes straight from the hit HBO show.
Developers work closely with the IP owners to faithfully recreate these worlds. This instant brand recognition and nostalgia is a big draw for fans of these franchises. It also helps attract new demographics of players who love these brands but may not play slots otherwise.
High Production Value
Recreating these cinematic worlds requires major production budgets to license the IPs and develop detailed audiovisual assets. Some branded slots are created with Hollywood-style budgets running into millions.
For example, the Jurassic World slot by Microgaming features 3D-rendered visuals and realistic dinosaur animations made using CGI technology. The game tries to recreate the thrills and adventures from the movies right on the reels.
The high production value and faithfulness to the source material help provide an engaging and immersive experience for players. This is simply not possible with generic fruit or gem-themed slots.
Guaranteed Player Base
Launching a new online slot is always a risky proposition for developers. Building awareness and players organically for unknown games with unfamiliar themes can be very difficult in a crowded market.
However, with an existing fan base of millions for mega franchises like Batman, Terminator, Rocky and others, branded slots allow developers and casinos instant access to potential players. Even a small percentage of existing fans getting drawn to the slots results in a healthy player base.
Mainstream Appeal
In 2023, branded slots accounted for over 30% of the new games released by top developers like Microgaming and NetEnt. Almost every major movie or entertainment franchise has a slot game these days. This mainstream appeal also helps attract casual gamers who may not typically play slots.
According to a 2023 survey, over 68% of players reported trying slots based purely on their familiarity with the brand. The ability to play as their favorite characters ups the entertainment quotient and draws newer demographics to online slots.
Key Reasons for the Rise of Branded Slots
| Parameter | Percentage |
| Existing fandoms | 48% |
| Production budgets | 22% |
| Guaranteed players | 15% |
| Mainstream appeal | 12% |
As the data shows, leveraging existing loyal fandoms around major franchises is the biggest reason behind the rise of branded slots from game developers. High production values and guaranteed players are other key drivers of this trend.
Lucrative Revenue Stream
Branded slots also represent a lucrative new revenue stream for movie studios and entertainment companies. These slots allow them to further monetize their intellectual properties beyond just theatrical releases and merchandise.
With global online casino revenues expected to top $127 billion by 2027, it has become a very attractive monetization avenue. Game developers share a part of the slot revenues with the IP owners as royalty payments.
For example, the NetEnt-powered Planet of the Apes slot is said to have paid over $13 million to Fox in royalties in just a couple of years. These numbers ensure more and more production houses want to jump on the branded slots bandwagon.
Verdict
Branded online slots leveraging the familiarity, fandoms and narratives of blockbuster entertainment franchises have grown rapidly over the last few years. With advanced audiovisual assets, Hollywood-like production budgets and guaranteed players, they provide an engaging and thrilling experience for fans. Their rising popularity ensures that branded slots will continue to dominate online casinos for years to come.