Frederik Niehusen: Booming Games’ Take on 2026 Slots Innovation and Player Engagement

company

08.01.2026

We are pleased to share an interview with Frederik Niehusen, Chief Commercial Officer at Booming Games, originally conducted and published by CasinoRank.

In this discussion, Frederik shares his perspective on upcoming trends in slot innovation and player engagement, outlining how Booming Games is preparing for 2026. Topics include gameplay development, personalization, market adaptation, and the company’s strategic approach to long-term growth in the iGaming industry.

Full interview is available here.

What do you see as the biggest innovation drivers for online slots in 2026?

Frederik Niehusen: I think the biggest innovation drivers for online slots going into 2026 will come from how quickly player expectations are changing. More players want games that feel tailored to them, so personalization will be a huge focus — not just choosing volatility, but having games that adapt to how someone actually plays. At the same time, we’re seeing a strong push toward hybrid experiences that mix slots with elements of skill, social features, and even instant-win or arcade-style gameplay. This is especially important for the newer audiences coming into iGaming who want faster, more interactive entertainment.

We’ll also see more emphasis on strong IPs and culturally relevant themes, whether that’s celebrities, athletes, or locally inspired content. These partnerships are becoming a powerful way to stand out and attract new segments of players. And finally, responsible entertainment will continue to shape innovation. The industry is moving toward more transparent, sustainable design — clearer UX around volatility and RTP, better session tools, and math models that keep excitement high without encouraging unhealthy patterns.

Many markets are introducing stricter compliance rules. How will these regulations impact game design and player engagement next year?

Frederik Niehusen: Stricter compliance rules are definitely influencing how studios think about game design, and that impact will grow next year. As regulations tighten around transparency, pacing, and how features are communicated, developers will need to create games that are clearer, more intuitive, and more responsible by default. That doesn’t make them less engaging — it just shifts the focus toward cleaner mechanics, stronger themes, and features players can quickly understand.

We’ll also see engagement trends adapt. Instead of relying on intense bonus loops or complex systems, studios will lean more into sustainable entertainment: light progression, missions, social elements, and event-driven content that keeps players engaged without pushing them too hard. In a way, regulation is steering the industry toward smarter, more player-first experiences reflecting factors guiding studio strategy that executives cite as shaping future strategies, and the studios that embrace that will benefit the most.

What makes a branded or celebrity partnership successful for both players and operators?

Frederik Niehusen: For me, a branded partnership is truly successful when it adds real value to the player experience rather than just putting a famous face on a slot. The branding has to feel authentic and integrated into the gameplay — the personality, the style, the story, even the pace of the game should reflect the partner in a meaningful way. When players feel that connection, the brand becomes part of the entertainment, not just the marketing.

From an operator’s perspective, a good branded collaboration should help with both acquisition and retention. Strong IPs attract new audiences, but the game still needs solid math and entertaining features to keep players engaged long after the initial curiosity wears off. The best partnerships blend recognisable branding with a game that stands on its own merit.

The win-win comes when the brand elevates the game and the game elevates the brand — creating a distinctive, high-quality experience that players return to and operators are proud to feature.

How do you balance deeper mechanics with simplicity for casual players?

Frederik Niehusen: I think the balance comes from remembering that innovation doesn’t always mean adding more layers — it means adding the right layers. Players are open to deeper mechanics and interactive features, but only if they’re presented in a way that feels intuitive. The moment a game forces casual players to “learn” too much before they can enjoy it, the magic is gone.

For me, the sweet spot is designing games with depth beneath the surface but simplicity on entry. That means clear core gameplay, straightforward triggers, and features that make sense instantly — with optional layers of progression, missions, or strategy that more engaged players can explore over time. It’s also why UX and onboarding are becoming just as important as the math.

So innovation should build around simplicity, not against it. The best games in 2025 and 2026 will be the ones that look easy, feel exciting, and reveal their depth naturally as the player keeps coming back.

What design principles allow Booming Games to deliver innovation at such a fast pace?

Frederik Niehusen: At Booming Games, our pace comes from having very clear design principles that guide every project, no matter the theme or mechanic. The first is focus — we always identify the core idea early and build everything around it. Whether it’s a signature feature, a math twist, or a creative hook, that clarity helps us move fast without losing direction.

Second, we design with player clarity and fairness in mind. Even when we’re pushing innovation, we make sure the experience is intuitive, visually readable, and easy to grasp within the first few spins. That lets us experiment with new mechanics while still appealing to a broad audience.

Third, our teams work in a very collaborative, iterative way. Art, math, and development stay tightly aligned from day one, so decisions happen quickly and problems get solved early. We prototype aggressively, test often, and aren’t afraid to simplify when something doesn’t add value.

And finally, we keep a strong focus on entertainment-first thinking. Every game has to feel exciting, polished, and fun — not just technically clever. That mindset helps us deliver consistent innovation without overcomplicating the player experience.

Together, these principles allow us to move quickly while still producing games that feel fresh, distinctive, and true to the Booming Games identity.

What have you learned about adapting games to regional preferences in markets like Brazil and South Africa?

Frederik Niehusen: Expanding into regions like Brazil and South Africa has taught us that cultural nuance is just as important as math and mechanics. Players in each market respond to different rhythms, aesthetics, and styles of play, so adaptation goes far beyond simply translating a UI.

In Brazil, for example, players love high-energy experiences — bold visuals, upbeat sound design, and features that feel fast, rewarding, and social. Themes tied to local culture, sport, and music also resonate strongly. Meanwhile, in South Africa, players tend to prefer clean layouts, straightforward mechanics, and highly reliable performance across different devices and bandwidth conditions. Clarity, stability, and instantly understandable gameplay are key.

Across both markets, we’ve found that local familiarity drives initial engagement, but strong core gameplay keeps players returning. That means respecting regional tastes while still delivering a polished, globally competitive product. It also requires listening closely to operator feedback, understanding device usage patterns, and adapting math profiles to suit how players in each region like to pace their sessions.

Ultimately, success comes from cultural respect, player-centric design, and taking the time to build games that feel genuinely tailored — not just repackaged — for each market.

Looking to 2026, where is Booming Games focusing in terms of mechanics, markets, and player engagement?

Frederik Niehusen: Looking ahead to 2026, our focus is on scaling our portfolio, strengthening innovation, and expanding globally.

We’re increasing our roadmap to five releases per month and introducing new game types to create a more diverse, future-proof offering. A major priority is enhancing engagement with fresh mechanics, smarter progression features, and promotional tools that move beyond traditional tournaments or drops. We’re also gearing up for further growth in emerging markets, aligning our content with local preferences and cultural moments. With bold ideas, a broader product mix, and a clear global strategy, we’re entering 2026 ready to stand out in an increasingly competitive landscape.

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games

05.02.2026

Booming Games Releases Highly Anticipated Cash Pig 2 15,000

Booming Games, a leading provider of premium gaming content, has today launched the highly anticipated Cash Pig 2 15,000. Successor to the smash hit original, Cash Pig 2 15,000 boasts a 5x4 grid with 30 paylines, stunning visuals and a boosted maximum win of 15,000x.

To provide a premium experience for players, the game projects an image of luxury and affluence. Against a glamorous Vegas backdrop, players can engage with a range of symbols, from diamond rings to supercars, which complement the golden pig. The visuals have been designed to capture the reality of modern wealth.

Building on the success of the previous edition, all key features have been retained. This includes two growing piggy banks which build excitement after every spin. One piggy bank collects coins to activate the Cash Collection feature and another collects Scatters to trigger Free Spins, keeping players entertained and engaged throughout the game.

When redeeming their Free Spins, players can fully immerse themselves in the action knowing that each spin has the potential to unlock significant returns. Players will first encounter Minor Eliminations and Major Upgrades before moving on to the thrilling Wild Spin finale, where all collected wilds rain down onto the reels for one last shot at securing a huge return.

Craig Asling, Director of Games at Booming Games, said: “We have developed Cash Pig 2 15,000 with player experience front of mind, taking everything that players loved about the previous edition and making it even more enticing with a boosted max win. We’re confident that players will love this latest iteration. Fast-paced, dynamic gameplay and the potential to unlock massive returns, combined with glossy, high-definition visuals provides the ultimate player experience.”

company

03.02.2026

Booming Games Appoints New CFO To Support Continued Growth

Booming Games, a leading provider of premium gaming content, has today further expanded its C-suite, promoting Luke Sammut to the newly created role of Chief Financial Officer (CFO) with immediate effect. It follows a string of recent senior promotions at Booming Games, with a new Chief Operating Officer and Chief of Staff announced last month.

Luke Sammut, who has spent over eight years at Booming Games in various senior finance roles, most recently served as Director of Finance and Accounting. With a strong background in accountancy, along with a passion for the iGaming industry, he brings a wealth of both experience and sector knowledge to the team. Based in Malta, Luke will be responsible for leading the business’ global financial strategy, as well as overseeing reporting in multiple jurisdictions.

The creation of the CFO role marks the latest stage in the firm’s growth journey and demonstrates a clear commitment to attracting and nurturing top talent. As the business looks to deliver on ambitious growth targets and ramp up its global presence this year, the appointment comes at an exciting time. With a customer focused approach to game development, Booming Games is continuously seeking to break new ground and diversify its offering, setting out plans to significantly increase the cadence of games releases this year.

Booming Games has a strong track record of investing in its people, with headcount recently surpassing 200 people. Looking ahead, the growing C-suite will ensure that the business continues to mature and is well-placed to navigate the next stage of its expansion.

Max Niehusen, Founder of Booming Games, said: “We are delighted to announce Luke’s promotion, in what is a landmark moment for Booming Games as we appoint our first Chief Financial Officer. Over the past eight years, he has made an immense contribution to the business, playing an important role in our success during a key growth phase. look forward to continuing working closely with him as we look to break new ground this year. As CFO, Luke’s experience will be critical as we expand our operations, with the aim of being regulated in every major market within the next five years.”

Luke Sammut, Chief Financial Officer at Booming Games, said: “With ambitious growth targets, Booming Games’ rapid expansion shows no sign of slowing. I am proud to be taking up the position of CFO, helping to shape the next phase of our financial strategy, at such a pivotal moment for the business. With clear direction from a strong leadership team, Booming Games is well placed to build on its strong financial foundations and seize the opportunity to further cement its reputation for market-leading innovation.”

games

15.01.2026

Let it sparkle: Diamonds Diamonds Diamonds: Hold and Win is here!

Get ready to dazzle as Booming Games launches Diamonds Diamonds Diamonds: Hold and Win, a glimmering 3x3 slot where every spin sparkles with polished potential.

Packed with shimmering gems, Stacked Wilds and a shower of riches powered by the Diamond Rain feature, this luxurious new release delivers nonstop thrills and high-shine excitement.
Land 3 or more Diamond symbols to trigger the Hold and Win Bonus, where the reels expand into a dazzling 5x3 grid, unlocking even greater prize potential as players collect sparkling symbols and build towards the Grand Prize worth up to 1,000x the bet.

Things shine even brighter when players land the Super Diamond, unlocking Super Hold and Win mode. In this enhanced bonus, all collected wins are doubled, and the chase is on for the Mini, Minor, Major, or Grand Prize Pots, adding even more anticipation to every respin.

For players who want to turn up the frequency of feature action, the optional Diamond Boost side bet offers more chances to trigger bonuses, making each spin feel even closer to that next glittering hit.
Bright, bold and built around irresistible bonus energy, Diamonds Diamonds Diamonds: Hold and Win is a gem-packed release designed for players who love jackpot chases, upgraded bonus moments and the thrill of watching the reels expand with possibility.

“Diamonds Diamonds Diamonds is all about delivering that premium, high-impact Hold and Win experience in a compact, instantly engaging format,” said Craig Asling, Director of Games at Booming Games. “With Diamond Rain, Stacked Wilds, expanding reels in the bonus and a Super variation that doubles all wins, it’s designed to keep players chasing that next brilliant moment—right up to the 1,000x Grand Prize.”