EvenBet Gaming: The Future of In-Game Purchasing

In-game purchasing has become an increasingly important tool for poker providers, not only supplementing their existing offering with desirable perks to enhance gameplay, but also supplying an ancillary revenue stream to drive growth.

EvenBet Gaming CEO, Dmitry Starostenkov, spoke with Talk Gambling about how the provider’s In-Store feature can optimise and personalise the player experience, as well as giving his predictions about the future landscape of in-game purchasing.

How has the In-Store product been optimised to enhance the player experience and how does it differ from standard stores?

EvenBet is dedicated to delivering premium gaming solutions, and this significant product update will elevate the player experience by providing unparalleled access to the In-Store feature directly from the lobby or at the poker table. This instant delivery of in-game perks represents a pioneering offering that will enhance the customer experience from a gameplay perspective while also generating a new, robust revenue stream for our partners.

Most similar stores primarily operate through mobile applications and focus on in-game purchases made via official platforms like Google Play and the Apple Store. In contrast, In-Store is entirely operator-dependent. This means that, firstly, payments do not go through third parties or any counterparties that may charge commissions. Secondly, it is an omnichannel product, available on mobile, desktop, and web applications. Consequently, operators can allow any user, on any device, to make necessary purchases seamlessly.

What are some of the perks available to purchase through the In-Store feature and how can these be utilised by players?

The initial version of the In-Store features some of the most sought-after items for sale, including Chips, Rubies, or Play Money packages, which can be used to participate in games and tournaments. This offering also enables operators to utilise sweepstakes revenue models on the EvenBet Gaming poker platform.

Time Bank and Insurance Time Bank are also accessible features. The former extends the decision-making time for placing bets, while the latter involves purchasing insurance before going all-in, allowing players to make more informed choices. There are also perks which aid in forging refined poker strategy. Rabbit Hunting packages reveal undealt cards, helping players analyse the game more effectively, while Opponent Game Statistics offer insight into player patterns to help develop a calculated strategy.

EvenBet Gaming plans to continually expand the list of items available in the In-Store. Importantly, we empower our partners to offer their own options, and EvenBet will facilitate this customisation. As a result, operators will have the ability to provide their players with a fully personalised experience.

How important is the introduction of In-Store as an additional robust revenue stream for operators?

The In-Store can significantly contribute to operators’ income in several ways. The use of In-Store perks captures players’ interest and provokes curiosity about expanding gameplay possibilities. In poker, decision-making can be challenging due to inherent uncertainties. Features like the Time Bank or Opponent Statistics address some of these unknowns, making the experience more comfortable and manageable. As a result, players find it easier to make decisions, which increases their overall engagement and satisfaction with the game. When players understand the value that perks provide, they are more willing to spend money, positively impacting operators’ revenue.

Operators also benefit from the ability to run poker clubs on the platform. To maintain a functioning club, owners need to purchase in-game currency (Chips, Rubies). This allows them to create games and admit new members. Therefore, In-Store serves as an auxiliary tool that supports additional revenue opportunities for these clubs.

Furthermore, In-Store acts as a foundation for launching poker sweepstakes. This rapidly growing gambling model does not involve real money but offers players the chance to win coins. In the U.S., this model is booming, particularly in states where online gambling is restricted. Given that only a few states permit online gambling, many others turn to social casinos, sweepstakes, and closed gaming projects. There is a strong appetite for poker, but real money games are often unavailable. In-Store presents an excellent feature for initiating sweepstakes, which can generate substantial supplementary income for operators.

How can the customisable VIP packages available via In-Store assist operators in delivering bespoke gaming experiences?

EvenBet Gaming has developed a customisable VIP Card that can be tailored to include any perks according to operator preferences, as well as providing access to VIP-exclusive tables and tournaments. Operators can utilise this option to deliver a bespoke experience that boosts player engagement.

Due to the potential for customisation, operators can include benefits that specifically interest their players. For example, there may be one poker room where players love to participate in tournaments. In another poker room, players might prefer other card games over poker. In the first case, it makes sense for the operator to include tournament options and poker-specific features in the VIP Card. In the second case, the operator might find it beneficial to incorporate Rabbit Hunting, Time Bank, and other unique features.

Thus, with the use of In-Store, operators can experiment with different components to see what intrigues their players the most. Operators have complete freedom in choosing options, and the VIP Card can be customised to cater to any target audience.

Why is it pivotal to integrate both fiat and crypto payment options for in-store items?

It is pivotal for payment solutions to be as flexible as possible, and integrating both fiat and cryptocurrency payment options for in-store items is crucial. Items can be purchased using any fiat or cryptocurrency payment system across desktop and mobile devices, with this flexibility providing players with instant in-game access to their desired perks, serving as a key revenue driver for EvenBet partners. Additionally, this new feature allows partners to monetise social, free-to-play poker formats, and business models based on play-money games, such as sweepstakes.

What does the future of in-game purchasing look like?

The landscape of in-game purchasing is poised for significant transformations in the coming years. iGaming platforms are likely to increasingly adopt microtransactions, facilitating players’ access to a variety of appealing items—such as exclusive game features, limited-time avatars, unique card backs, and cosmetic upgrades—at affordable prices. Furthermore, freemium models are expected to gain traction, allowing users to engage with basic games free of charge while offering premium features for a fee.

A notable trend is the shift towards skill-based gameplay. This would create a system where in-game purchases are linked to player performance. Players who achieve specific milestones could unlock premium content or earn in-game currency for upgrades, enhancing their overall experience. For instance, completing a challenging quest might reward a player with an achievement that simultaneously unlocks new options in the store.

The application of advanced algorithms and artificial intelligence is also set to transform the in-game purchasing experience. Players can expect tailored recommendations for items based on their unique playing habits, preferences, and social interactions, making the gaming journey more engaging and customised.

The future of in-game purchasing will also emphasise social connectivity. Players will be able to enhance their gaming experience by gifting items, sharing bonuses, and collaborating in community challenges that unlock premium content. This focus on social interaction is likely to enrich the overall iGaming environment.

Finally, enhanced loyalty and rewards programs will offer compelling incentives for in-game purchases. Players may benefit from exclusive bonuses, special content, and VIP experiences, depending on their spending patterns and engagement levels.

The future of in-game purchasing within iGaming holds significant promise. With a strong focus on personalisation, improved user experiences, regulatory compliance, and the integration of innovative technologies, the industry is well-positioned to promote responsible gaming while maintaining player engagement and satisfaction.