R. Franco Digital: Shaking up the iGaming industry

Following another year of unwavering success, we spoke to Javier Sacristán Franco, International Business Director of R. Franco Digital, about the innovative new release Pick & Shoot, gamification trends, standout moments of 2023 as well as what’s next for the leading Spanish supplier.

Your latest release, Pick & Shoot, brings a revolutionary new experience to iGaming. Why did you decide to release such a title and what elements within the game do you think will appeal to players?

Pick & Shoot sees us venture away from the conventional slot gameboard and provide a unique player experience. Providing differentiation always entails a higher risk upon release to the market, but if the key to success is found, these types of games can generate significant benefits. Additionally, the process of creating and developing dynamic titles is always positive for our technical teams, fostering a culture of creativity and thinking out of the box.

Combining mechanics similar to that found in roulette with exciting multiplier values, Pick & Shoot includes a strategic element that captivates players. With three steps involving selecting the bet amount, choosing a multiplier value and finally picking the Attack Boxes, players actively participate in the game’s progression. Pick & Shoot is revolutionary in that it gives players a sense of ownership and control over their gameplay and brings next-level engagement to the iGaming realm.

With gamification becoming increasingly prominent in casino content, what new trends and features are emerging on the market as ones to watch in 2024?

Gamification is an increasingly prevalent component in iGaming as well as other industries. It is a powerful tool that provides tangible rewards, having a positive impact on acquisition, loyalty, a sense of belonging, progression, and retention.

Highlighted in our latest release, Pick & Shoot, the use of skill-based elements mirroring a video game experience will definitely be a trend to watch in the future. As we further explore this idea, we believe there is still immense untapped potential to enhance the player experience. Our 2024 roadmap will showcase this and demonstrate our innovative approach to in-game gamification.

How are younger generations responding to iGaming and how can suppliers ensure continuity by capturing this previously untapped demographic?

At the moment, a significant amount of content is being generated targeting younger generations. While this may seem disproportionate, its longevity will depend on the quality of experiences we offer them.

We have engaged in significant market research, looking at preferences both inside and outside the world of online casinos. We have also had in-depth discussions with psychology professionals to better understand the mindset of younger generations. With this, we can create tailor-made content that truly captivates players and leaves lasting impressions that extend beyond mere engagement metrics.

Can we expect similar releases from R. Franco Digital in the new year and what other innovative experiences are in store for players and operators?

The R. Franco Digital Game Team always sets aside time and resources to develop experiences that are both disruptive and exciting. This year we’ve released several games that break away from the norm. Looking at our recent release Tacoweeen as an example, the Day of the Dead-themed game has numerous in-game modifiers that go far beyond the traditional Free Spins route and instead invite players to trail through a map in one bonus round or select food from a feast in another. It has proven a real hit with players.

Looking ahead, we’ll be continuing this trend in 2024, with games that accommodate both fans of traditional slot games as well as more adventurous players by supplying a range of new experiences that showcase our team’s unconventional approach to the iGaming landscape. While we can’t give too much away just yet, watch this space as we have a lot of surprises in store for our players and partners!

Finally, reflecting on the year, what have been the standout moments for R. Franco Digital and how has this shaped your 2024 strategy?

The previous year has been one of significant momentum. A standout for us has been launching four new platforms across three new regulated markets in a single month, which is a new record achieved! As our IRIS 4.0 Platform continues to gain traction, 2023 has been a period where we have been able to cement our status as a leading management system and software provider.

As well as this, we have also expanded in several key regulated markets including our recent tie-up with Solverde.pt in Portugal. Being one of the most exciting up-and-coming markets in Europe, Portugal remains a key area of expansion for R. Franco Digital. The partnership with one of the market’s leading operators is a true testament to our dedication to our dedication to geographical expansion, and we’ll be using it as a catalyst to boost our reach even further. With the integration of new technologies into our game development process, we are gearing up for a big year ahead, filled with continued commercial growth and games that drive the industry forward.