Exploring Uncrossable Rush with Evoplay’s Ivan Kravchuk and SlotCatalog’s Mickey Winitsky

Uncrossable Rush is the first game you’ve co-developed with an affiliate partner. What makes this project special for Evoplay?

The fact that this is our first co-developed game already makes it special. It was a new and genuinely valuable experience for both parties. We connected because there is a growing demand for instant, skill-based gambling experiences; something SlotCatalog identified through their data, and something we are passionate about creating.

They shared what players are really into, and we knew how to turn those ideas into a game. While considering how to combine our strengths and offer something fresh for players, the idea to create Uncrossable Rush was born.

Today, there is a clear trend towards fun, light-hearted themes such as chickens, combined with dynamic and engaging gameplay. Uncrossable Rush captures that excitement perfectly.

However, what truly makes this project stand out is how it was brought together. It demonstrated that collaboration like this can bring us even closer to the players we are designing games for, and that is exactly the direction we want to continue exploring.

How did SlotCatalog’s data influence the development process?

It proved to be really helpful. Their insights provided us with a clearer picture of what players are actively seeking and engaging with. They also backed up a trend we had noticed long ago: younger players tend to prefer faster, more straightforward gameplay. That is why we opted for instant mechanics, a light-hearted theme, and a dynamic pace for Uncrossable Rush.

From the game’s look and feel to features like adding levels, flexible bets, and the option to cash out at any moment, we’ve designed it all around real player behaviour. As a result, it feels more personal.

It is still early days, but things look promising. The game has just launched, and we already see players engaging more, with increased sessions and rounds, and clear signs they are enjoying it. This kind of response boosts our confidence that we are on the right track, and we have every reason to believe there is more to come.

How did the development process differ from your usual approach?

The main difference was in the input, particularly the analytics. However, I wouldn’t say the development itself was significantly different. Each side concentrated on their strengths, and in that sense, I believe we were fortunate to collaborate with SlotCatalog. Communication throughout the process was smooth and effective. We simply addressed what the audience needed and initiated development from there.

As always, we prioritised quality: smooth UX/UI, visual appeal, simple gameplay, and clean animation were key priorities throughout. Of course, we still had to balance everything with our regular workload. Looking at the result, I am proud of how the team managed it, working quickly, smoothly, and in harmony.

The game features a simple crossing mechanic. Why did you choose this concept?

Ivan Kravchuk: At Evoplay, we find classic game mechanics interesting to adapt with a fresh twist for iGaming. We have already gained experience in this area, and our portfolio includes titles that build on traditional mechanics but bring something new to the table.

For example, Hot Slice, Tap Craze, Adrenaline Rush, and Star Guardians use well-established mechanics but reimagine them for our audience, as iGamers’ motivations differ from those of video gamers.

However, we always exercise caution when translating a traditional gaming audience into a different setting like iGaming, as these audiences do not always overlap. Players who dedicate hours to casual mobile games are not necessarily the same as those who enjoy betting or casino games.

That is why, for each concept, we carefully analyse where those audiences might overlap. In the case of Uncrossable Rush, we identified the ideal point where the simple, fun crossing mechanic aligns with players seeking quick, engaging betting gameplay.

Mickey Winitsky: A straightforward crossing mechanic works because it is intuitive. You do not require instructions; you just start playing. After 25 years in this industry, I can tell you that lowering that entry barrier is invaluable.

You attract a broader audience, from casual players to enthusiasts. And when you add the betting element, it creates a sleek risk-reward cycle that can encourage longer play sessions.

What did co-developing Uncrossable Rush mean for SlotCatalog and how you connect with the iGaming community?

Mickey Winitsky: Co-developing Uncrossable Rush was a fantastic chance to leverage our years of tracking player behaviour and game performance, and to shape a new product from the very start.

We have always operated as observers and analysts within this market, but this project allowed us to actively participate in the process and demonstrate how data can inform genuine creative decisions. It is also a way for us to engage with the industry differently, not just through content and rankings, but through real product innovation.

How did your team’s player insights and data shape Uncrossable Rush behind the scenes?

Mickey Winitsky: Our data provides a clear picture of what players interact with, what captures their attention, and what encourages repeat play. We can see, for example, how casual mechanics are trending, which volatility levels influence session durations, and how onboarding impacts retention.

We bring this perspective into the development process, offering the team feedback based on live insights. It’s not theory; it is based on millions of data points from real players.

How could this influence the affiliate sector more broadly?

Ivan Kravchuk: From my point of view, it is a clear signal that affiliates who think like creators and are open to working with innovative providers will be in a much stronger position in today’s iGaming landscape. Together, we can move the industry forward and take it to new heights.

More broadly, it shows that affiliates are no longer just a traffic source. They have become a real force, helping providers and operators get closer to players. And if the goal is to build player loyalty, teaming up with the right affiliates is one of the best ways to get there.

Mickey Winitsky: This could open a door for affiliates to think differently. Right now, most affiliate models are about guiding players to games and measuring conversions.

If we can start creating content where the engagement itself drives the model, with mechanics that support repeat play and deeper brand interaction, that’s a different playbook. Affiliates can move closer to the gaming experience, not just the marketing of it.

Speakers: Ivan Kravchuk, CEO at Evoplay and Mickey Winitsky, Managing Partner at SlotCatalog.