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Startup Contest Q&A w/ Vladimir Malakchi, CEO & Managing Partner of Xanada Investments

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Q&A w/ Vladimir Malakchi, CEO & Managing Partner of Xanada Investments
Reading Time: 4 minutes

 

What inspired Xanada Investments to create this startup competition in the gaming industry?

The necessity for this initiative arose from the modern market conditions and the challenges faced by startups. We observed that many startups with incredible potential struggle due to a lack of resources and guidance. This competition was born from the need to bridge that gap and provide a solution that goes beyond just capital.

By creating our own investment initiatives, we can set the terms and provide a prize that offers more than just funding. Many competitions offer financial support, but startups often lack the guidance on how to effectively use that money. Our competition is unique because it not only provides financial backing but also offers a platform for continuous learning and development. This ensures that winning startups have the tools and knowledge to maximize their potential.

Moreover, there are numerous deserving startups that often go unnoticed and lack the opportunity to showcase their capabilities. This competition is an opportunity for startups to gain visibility, connect with industry leaders, and receive the strategic consulting they need to succeed.

 

Q: What specific goals does Xanada Investments aim to achieve through launching this competition?

Through this competition, our main goal is to give promising startups in the gaming industry the spotlight they deserve and the support they need to grow. We seek out the best ideas, provide them with resources, and help them scale effectively. This includes funding, expert advice, and networking opportunities to turn innovative concepts into market-ready solutions.

We are ready to showcase that working with investment funds offers more than just capital. It’s about having a team of experts guiding you, sharing valuable insights, and helping you grow your business. This competition is a chance to demonstrate the benefits of structured investment and the real value it brings.

Xanada Investments’s core goal in this competition is to support talented managers, small teams, and entrepreneurs with great ideas and experience who might not know where to go next. Whether they’ve had a business that didn’t work out or are looking to scale, we want to show them there’s a path forward. By highlighting these success stories, we aim to inspire others and demonstrate the transformative power of strategic investment and mentorship. We’ve already received 20 applications in the past week, indicating strong interest and potential.

 

How does Xanada Investments plan to support the competition winner beyond financial rewards?

At Xanada Investments, our commitment to the competition winner extends far beyond mere financial backing. We provide a powerhouse of resources and expertise designed to make long-term success. For operators, our elite marketing team, adept at managing multimillion-dollar budgets, will craft impactful campaigns that drive user engagement and maximize ROI. For providers, we open doors to hundreds of casinos ready to integrate innovative solutions, leveraging our deep industry insights to streamline processes and optimize game design and user engagement.

Talking about B2B startups, we excel at building robust sales departments from the ground up, utilizing our vast experience to drive revenue growth and establish sustainable business models. Our strategic consulting, led by industry leaders with a proven track record of scaling over 20 iGaming companies, provides hands-on guidance to refine business

Certainly, extensive media coverage will elevate the winner’s visibility in both B2B and B2C markets, making the growth process engaging as the industry and public witness the project’s progress in real time. This comprehensive support system ensures the winner not only survives but thrives, setting new benchmarks in the competitive iGaming landscape.

 

What are the conditions for participating in the Xanada Startup Contest?

We are looking for leaders who know how to work in the industry, achieve results, and manage finances effectively. We invite individuals who have a clear understanding of their strengths and potential. Our primary consideration is the team we will be working with. We want to collaborate with those who demonstrate strong leadership and the ability to navigate the complexities of their industry.

If you have a solid team and a well-thought-out approach to your business, we welcome you to apply. We are interested in startups that show promise and have a clear vision for their future.

The Xanada Startup Contest is open to businesses at various stages of development, including Pre-Seed, Seed, and Series A. We welcome startups from different regions and sectors, focusing on the quality of the team, their experience, and their readiness to bring their ideas to market. Our aim is to support those who are mature enough to leverage the resources and guidance provided to achieve significant growth.

Currently, the fund has received 80 applications, and we anticipate even more with the launch of the contest. This increased interest will motivate startups to participate and prepare their pitches diligently.

 

What advice would you give to startups to ensure they advance to the next round?

To ensure your startup advances to the next round, good preparation and strategic presentation are key. Start by thoroughly preparing all necessary documentation. Investors expect to see a solid business plan and detailed financial projections that outline a clear path to profitability. Understanding your market, competition, and business model is crucial. When you walk into a pitch meeting, you should be ready to answer any question confidently, demonstrating your deep understanding of your business and its potential.

Having a comprehensive understanding of the investment process is also essential. Securing investment is not just about having a great idea; it’s about proving that you can turn that idea into a profitable business. Highlight realistic and achievable milestones, as investors look for startups with a pragmatic approach that can execute plans effectively. Remember, a million-dollar investment should ideally generate a significant return, and investors need to be convinced that you have a viable strategy to achieve this.

And the main piece of advice is to manage your expectations and maintain professionalism. Be realistic about what you can achieve and avoid overpromising. Ensure that your pitch materials are polished and convey your vision effectively. Demonstrating a clear, strategic plan and showcasing your team’s capability to execute it can significantly boost your chances of advancing to the next round and securing the necessary investment for your startup’s growth.

 

To apply for the Xanada Startup Contest, please submit the following form.

Africa

SmartSoft’s expertise and future vision for the African market

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SmartSoft’s expertise and future vision for the African market
Reading Time: 4 minutes

 

In recent years, the online gaming landscape has witnessed a surge in innovative and engaging titles that capture the interest of players worldwide. Among these, first ever flying crash game by SmartSoft – JetX emerged as a standout game, particularly gaining substantial traction in Africa. This article provides an in-depth examination of JetX, a popular online crash game, and explores the expertise behind its creation. By focusing on the game’s features, the developer SmartSoft Gaming, and insights from an interview with the Vice President Commercial, we aim to highlight the factors contributing to JetX’s success and its impact on the gaming industry.

About SmartSoft Gaming

Founded in Georgia in 2015 by industry experts, SmartSoft set out to create a one-of-a-kind casino games provider that offers high-quality gaming experiences worldwide. By combining interactive features with captivating visuals, we blend gaming and gambling to deliver more engaging, entertaining, and superior experiences. Our mission is not just to attract players but to enhance their enjoyment.

To gain further insights into the development of JetX and the vision behind its creation, we spoke with the Vice President Commercial of SmartSoft.

Rusa Javakhishvili Vice President Commercial of SmartSoft shared insights and analytics from African countries, and outlined future plans. Rusa joined SmartSoft two years ago as Head of Finance and Strategic Projects. In early 2024, she transitioned to the commercial side as Head of Account Management, and is now Vice President of Commercials, overseeing several regions, including Africa.

What was the general concept and inspiration behind JetX?
In recent years, the online gaming landscape has witnessed a surge in innovative and engaging titles that capture the interest of players worldwide. Among these, JetX has emerged as a standout game, particularly gaining substantial traction in Africa. The main concept of the game is that it is easy to play, the player is involved in the decision as much as possible, it is fast and within the fast-paced world we think that it delivers exactly what players need for an enjoyable experience.

How does JetX differentiate itself from other crash games in the market?

At SmartSoft, we appreciate  our relationships with partners, it’s  very important to us. We constantly think and work to create a valuable product and maintain strong connections with them. SmartSoft’s portfolio includes a diverse range of online casino games, each designed to offer unique features and interactive gameplay but JetX is the literal gem!

JetX is an online crash game that combines simplicity with excitement, offering players an engaging betting experience. This dynamic gameplay requires both luck and strategy, appealing to a broad audience seeking quick, high-stakes action. JetX stands out due to its user-friendly interface, real-time gameplay, and mobile compatibility, making it accessible and enjoyable for players on the go. Its growing popularity in Africa can be attributed to its exciting gameplay mechanics and the potential for significant winnings.

What strategies did you employ to ensure JetX appeals to a diverse audience, particularly in Africa?

When we expanded into the African market, we knew it’s a big and diverse region, so it’s important to understand each country individually instead of seeing it as one market. With our partners’ help, we’re working hard to learn about each country’s marketing practices and what types of games people enjoy. It’s a challenging task, but the African market is a top priority for us, and we’ve allocated resources to quickly build our knowledge in this area.

How has JetX been received by African players compared to other regions? Are there any notable differences in player behavior or preferences?

The African market is one of the most interesting and significant  for us, and we believe it has great potential. It is a highly dynamic and exciting market, where players are exposed to a wide variety of games. Their enthusiasm for diverse content gives us inspiration and motivation to create games specifically tailored to their unique preferences and needs. Moreover, they are quick to engage with new releases, eagerly embracing fresh content when it aligns with their tastes and expectations. Although Crash products were introduced only recently, they have quickly become a favorite among consumers. We expect this trend to continue growing.

How do you assess player feedback and incorporate it into ongoing game improvements?
This is a crucial aspect for us. That’s why, in collaboration with our partners, we consistently review key feedback on our games and strive to incorporate it as much as possible into new versions. We strive to bring enjoyment in everything we do – whether it’s in our work environment, or for the end users. Our goal is to delight both the customers and ourselves with our work. Therefore, we integrate gaming’s fun elements into gambling to maximize enjoyment. This approach fuels our drive to innovate and create playful experiences, redefining the gambling industry and making it more entertaining;

What future developments or updates can players expect for JetX?
Our product has undergone numerous changes since its inception, with many more improvements planned. These changes are aimed at delivering the best possible user experience for players while ensuring the product remains of the highest technical quality.

How has the success of JetX influenced SmartSoft’s approach to game development?
JetX, the first Crash game created in 2018, holds a special place as one of the company’s most beloved titles. Its global popularity is evident, and we’re thrilled that players enjoy it. At SmartSoft, having a diversified portfolio is crucial, which is why we release new games every year. As pioneers in the Crash genre, we ensure that we continually expand our offerings. Our goal is to provide players with a wide range of high-quality games they can trust to deliver an enjoyable experience.

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Interviews

Slot Saturation – Q&A w/ Qianqian Liu, Senior Art Director at Gaming Corps

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Slot Saturation - Q&A w/ Qianqian Liu, Senior Art Director at Gaming Corps
Reading Time: 3 minutes

 

What are the defining visual features of a Gaming Corps slot?

We pride ourselves on the diversity of the look of our slots, we have three distinct styles that are all used to target different demographics. Firstly, Classic, this is a style which usually is also described as retro and some people would even say dated, we prefer nostalgic! But there is a player base who get great enjoyment from slot games like this. The second is Modern, this is a style that is sleek, shiny and incredibly high-fidelity with assets that look polished and could be very much suited to being hung up in a modern art museum. Thirdly is Stylised, this is a style that is completely entirely dependent on the theme, maybe a comic book style or similar, but it emphasises artistic freedom which is important.

All three of these are what makes Gaming Corps a unique slots provider, catering games for all types of target markets.

Where do you look for inspiration when designing an online slot game?

Different inspirations appear for different themes, if it is classic then an old fruit machine down a pub could be the inspiration. If it is a modern slot, then we like to refer to some modern day mobile apps that are more casual to play. The beauty of stylised is that the inspiration can come from absolutely anywhere but usually it can be something that the artist is personally interested in, such as comic books or anime.

How does Gaming Corp manage to distinguish its titles from others on the market?

We focus on iterations and high quality standards, we will start from a basic concept and iterate and iterate until the asset is exactly what would be expected of the target audience. We get feedback from customers as well to help hone in on a particular style that we are aiming to create.

How do you manage to keep repetitive themes (Egypt, classic, Greece and so on) interesting?

For these, it is all about combining the innovative mechanics with a unique spin on a narrative that has been re-told before. Of course if you are to create an Egyptian theme you should still recognise it to be fundamentally Egyptian with its gods and its hieroglyphs. But is there a way to put the spin on the narrative that ties it to the mechanic that has not been done before. It is important to do market research to find common thread that you can capitalise on but also things to stay away from.

What impact does localisation have on game development from a visual perspective?

Localisation of Gaming Corps is super important to us, we sometimes want to create games that can be tailored for a particular market. Especially when working with casinos for bespoke content. For example, we created a game in 2023 called “Ramen Puzzle” which was launched with a casino partner in Japan. It was very important for us to nail the anime style that suited this market and it was a core part of the development cycle to research, develop and iterate on our designs to perfect the style.

Another recent launch this year was Samba Soccer, a crash product that was created with Brazil in mind. It had a stylisation that suited popular games in that market but also a theming that set the game in Rio de Janeiro. This visual combination allowed the game to be hyper localised to this market.

What future trends do you think are going to impact the look and design of online slot games?

More and more over the years, the target demographic has moved away from playing on desktop to playing on mobile, in particular on mobile portrait, so we will always feel as if designing with a mobile-first approach should be at the forefront of what we do at Gaming Corps. This I believe will continue to trend upwards. This has a big impact on the way that slot games look and feel, there is a small space with lots of elements fighting for room so it is important to be very clear with Product Owners on what are the most important elements of the slot game.

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Interviews

Safety First: Slots Temple Q&A

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Safety First: Slots Temple Q&A
Reading Time: 2 minutes

 

For a company that has begun to blur the lines between affiliate and operator, social responsibility remains the ultimate watchword for Slots Temple, says CEO Fraser Linkleter.    

 

How important is social responsibility to the affiliate side of Slots Temple’s business?

We began life as an affiliate business that offered free demo games and slots tournaments (and we still do!). This allowed us to build a highly engaged base of players that genuinely loved playing slots. From day one, we always put social responsibility at the heart of everything we did.

We always believed that an entertainment-driven socially responsible gaming experience created a sticky player-base that trusted us and created better quality traffic for our partners.

 

Has tightened regulation of the gambling industry over the past few years impacted affiliates’ responsibilities towards its users?

Definitely. Affiliates deliver an estimated 30% to 50% of acquisition to operators in the UK, and while the sector is not directly regulated by the UK Gambling Commission, these numbers demonstrate that the responsibility to protect players from harm should be shared.

Increased regulation over the past few years means that operators, rightly, must be more cautious about choosing their affiliate partners. Ultimately, as affiliates, we must accept the responsibilities we share as part of the gambling supply chain.

The reality is, while affiliates are not directly regulated, the standards to which operators are held by regulators are passed on to us through our partner contracts. Affiliates that do not comply with these standards will struggle in this climate because operators will only work with the partners they can trust to behave responsibly. So social responsibility has become not just an ethical consideration but a strategic business decision too.

 

In 2022 Slots Temple received a license from the UKGC which allowed you to offer paid tournaments and real-money slots. Has this changed the way you think about social responsibility?

Social responsibility was always a big part of our business model, and our UKGC license was a recognition of that. Of course, offering real money games means that we are held to the same high standards as all licensed operators.

That means KYC, deposit limits, timed reality checks, affordability checks, self-exclusion options, and so on. But for us, it’s about more than mere compliance. Our model has always been about being a safe destination for fun play and prizes. As I say, we’ve fostered this community of slots fans who trust us and it’s important that we maintain that trust through the way we operate.

Ultimately, the license allowed us to offer our player-base more choice. First, that was free-to-play tournaments with cash prizes, and then low-stakes paid-for tournaments with bigger prizes, plus real-money slots.

 

So, your experiences as an affiliate have made you a more socially responsible operator?

Yes, because it has helped us understand what our players want. For example, we believe safer gambling is about smaller deposits. Where we offer cash play, it’s always small buy-ins and small bet sizes. There are tournaments for 1p, or you can play for free in UK tournaments, all with real cash prizes.

We also think it’s important to educate players about the games we have on site. For example, we clearly display the return-to-player (RTP) and volatility of the game customers are about to play before they are able to access the game.

It’s about being on the side of the player – whether you’re an affiliate or an operator. Ultimately, we believe that an entertainment-driven, socially responsible gaming experience will foster a loyal, trusting player-base.

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