NetEnt (short for Net Entertainment) is a leading digital entertainment company specialising in creating premium gaming solutions for the online casino industry. Founded in 1996, NetEnt has become a powerhouse in game development and one of the most influential companies in the iGaming industry. NetEnt games are known for innovation, cutting-edge technology, and commitment to excellence. Over the years, the company has built a reputation for delivering high-quality, visually stunning, and engaging casino games.
The History of NetEnt
Early Beginnings (1996–2005)
NetEnt was founded in 1996 by Pontus Lindwall, the son of Bill Lindwall, who co-founded the traditional Swedish casino company Cherryföretagen ( Cherry AB). The launch of NetEnt came at a pivotal time in the history of gambling, as the rise of the internet opened new avenues for the gaming industry. The company was among the pioneers of online gambling, laying the foundations for its long-term success by recognising the potential of digital casinos.
In the late 1990s, NetEnt operated its own online casinos, providing the company with firsthand experience of what players were looking for in an online casino. However, in 2005, the company made a strategic decision to focus solely on the development and licensing of its gaming software. The move would catapult NetEnt to far-reaching heights in the following years.
Expansion and Innovation (2006–2010)
As the iGaming industry expanded, NetEnt solidified its position in the market by producing high-quality casino games and software solutions. In 2006, the company made a significant step by developing its own platform, the NetEnt Casino Module. This provided operators access to a huge number of games and features while allowing them to customise games to meet individual needs. The approach enhanced NetEnt’s appeal and contributed to the seamless integration of its games across multiple platforms.
In 2007, NetEnt achieved another milestone when it launched its first progressive jackpot game, Mega Fortune. The slot quickly became one of the most popular titles in the company’s portfolio. The game set world records for online slot jackpots, solidifying NetEnt’s reputation for delivering life-changing winnings.
Public Listing and Global Expansion (2011–2015)
In 2009, NetEnt went public and was listed on the Stockholm Stock Exchange, marking a significant moment in its corporate history. The company’s public listing attracted more attention from investors and provided the necessary capital for further growth and expansion.
During this period, NetEnt began to expand into international markets, securing licensing in several regulated markets. The company entered key European markets such as Italy, Spain, and the UK and partnered with prominent online casino operators. This expansion allowed NetEnt to reach a broader audience and capitalize on the growing demand for online gambling across the continent.
Between 2011 and 2015, several high-profile games were released, including Gonzo’s Quest (2011), one of the most iconic video slots ever created. Known for its innovative avalanche feature, stunning graphics, and immersive gameplay, Gonzo’s Quest became a symbol of NetEnt’s creativity and technological prowess.
Mobile Gaming and Technological Advancements (2016–2019)
NetEnt quickly recognised the shift towards mobile gaming, and in 2011, the company launched NetEnt Touch, its mobile gaming platform. NetEnt Touch enabled players to enjoy a selection of NetEnt games on smartphones and tablets, catering to the growing demand for mobile-compatible content. By 2016, most of NetEnt’s games had been developed using a mobile-first approach.
The company’s commitment to innovation didn’t stop there. NetEnt was among the first game providers to embrace new technologies such as virtual reality (VR) and live dealer games. In 2016, the company launched its first VR slot, based on its popular game Jack’s World, which created a more immersive experience. Meanwhile, the company launched NetEnt Live, a state-of-the-art live dealer platform that enabled them to enter the competitive live casino market.
During this time, NetEnt continued to win numerous industry awards for innovation, quality, and its contribution to the gaming industry. These accolades further cemented its status as one of the world’s highest-ranking game providers.
Acquisition by Evolution Gaming and Recent Developments (2020–Present)
In June 2020, NetEnt was acquired by Evolution Gaming, a leading live casino solutions provider, in a deal worth approximately €1.8 billion. The acquisition brought together two of the biggest names in the iGaming industry, integrating Evolution’s live casino expertise into NetEnt’s portfolio. Evolution’s CEO, Martin Carlesund, stated the acquisition would create a global leader in the online gaming industry, offering a full suite of products ranging from live dealer games to innovative video slots.
Following the acquisition, NetEnt’s development and production continued under the Evolution umbrella, maintaining its brand identity while benefiting from Evolution’s resources and market reach. The merger strengthened both company’s positions in key markets and explored new opportunities in emerging regions, including North America.
The Secret to NetEnt’s Success
NetEnt’s rise to prominence in the gaming industry can be attributed to several key factors, including its focus on innovation, commitment to quality, and strategic partnerships.
Innovation and Creativity
From its early days, NetEnt has been at the forefront of technological advancements in the online gaming industry. Whether introducing progressive jackpots, pioneering mobile gaming, or experimenting with VR, the company is willing to push the boundaries of endless possibilities. Games like Gonzo’s Quest, Starburst, and Mega Fortune have set industry standards for creativity, engagement, and technological innovation.
High-Quality Game Development
NetEnt games are known for their high-quality graphics, sound design, and gameplay mechanics. The company invests heavily in ensuring that every aspect of its games—visuals, audio, animations, and game mechanics—works together to create an immersive experience for players. This attention to detail has earned NetEnt a loyal player base and made its games a must-have for online casinos worldwide.
Licensing and Compliance
One key reason for NetEnt’s success is its ability to operate in regulated markets. The company holds licenses in multiple jurisdictions, including the UK, Malta, Spain, Italy, and the US. By complying with regulatory standards, NetEnt ensures its games are available to a global audience while maintaining the trust of players and operators alike.
Strategic Partnerships
Over the years, NetEnt has formed partnerships with some of the biggest online casinos in the world. These include Bet365, Unibet, William Hill, and PokerStars. Partnering with successful platforms has enabled NetEnt to distribute its games to a broader audience and feature its products on highly reputable platforms within the industry.
Player-Centric Approach
NetEnt’s priorities lie in delivering an exceptional user experience. Each game is designed with players in mind, offering engaging themes, innovative features, and generous payout structures. Focusing on the player-centric approach has built a loyal following, and its games consistently rank among the top game providers in the industry.
Why NetEnt Games Are So Popular?
Innovative Features: One of the main reasons why NetEnt games are so popular is the innovative features. From the avalanches in Gonzo’s Quest to the expanding wilds in Starburst, NetEnt games are packed with immersive and entertaining features.
Visual Appeal: NetEnt is known for creating games with highly detailed, stunning graphics. Gonzo’s Quest, Dead or Alive, and Divine Fortune are rich in visual appeal and a massive attraction for many players. NetEnt’s commitment to cutting-edge technology has resulted in a portfolio of premium-quality games.
Diverse Game Portfolio: NetEnt has developed a diverse portfolio of games, from classic slots to more innovative video slots, progressive jackpots, and live casino games. This variety ensures something for everyone, whether they prefer simple gameplay or more complex features.
Fair and Secure Gameplay: All NetEnt games are audited by independent testing agencies for fairness and transparency. The company has built a reputation for providing secure, fair and reliable games, which is crucial in an industry where trust is paramount.
Mobile Compatibility: As mobile gaming became more prominent, NetEnt optimised its games for smartphones and tablets with ‘NetEnt Touch’. Players could now enjoy their favourite games on a smaller screen without compromising quality or performance.
Top 5 NetEnt Games
Starburst
Starburst is arguably the most iconic slot game in the online gaming industry, known for its vibrant colours, captivating design, and simple yet highly engaging gameplay. Released in 2012, it quickly became a fan favourite due to its fast-paced action, cosmic theme, and expanding wilds. The game takes place in a cosmic realm, with dazzling gemstones that light up the reels. The low volatility delivers frequent smaller wins. Starburst’s unique “both ways win” feature allows players to count paylines from both left to right and right to left, which was unique at the time. The expanding wilds trigger respins, ensuring players are constantly on the edge of their seats, anticipating the next big win. Despite its simplistic nature, Starburst has remained one of the most popular slots.
Gonzo’s Quest
Gonzo’s Quest, released in 2011, revolutionised online slots by introducing the Avalanche feature, a new, innovative feature where symbols fall into grid positions rather than spin on reels. When symbols form winning combinations, they explode, and new symbols replace them, potentially creating multiple wins from a single spin. Set in a lush jungle, we follow the escapades of conquistador Gonzo in his quest for El Dorado. The cascading wins and increasing multipliers after each avalanche all make for intense gameplay, while the Free Fall feature (the equivalent of free spins) delivers the potential for massive payouts. Fans praise Gonzo’s Quest for its innovative design, smooth gameplay, and unique features that continue to capture players’ imaginations.
Divine Fortune
Divine Fortune is NetEnt’s most successful progressive jackpot slot, known for delivering huge jackpot wins. Released in 2017, and inspired by Greek mythology, it features symbols like Medusa, Minotaur, and Pegasus. The highlight is the Mega Jackpot, which, over the years, has created many multi-millionaires. The game includes exciting features like Falling Wilds and a Free Spins round that enhances the chances of hitting a jackpot. Its stunning design, engaging theme, and the prospect of winning a massive progressive jackpot have made Divine Fortune a top choice among slot enthusiasts.
Twin Spin
Twin Spin is a classic fruit machine slot combining modern slot features. Like many popular slots, it draws inspiration from the glitz and glamour of Las Vegas. Twin Spin includes classic symbols such as cherries, bells, 7s, diamonds, and the innovative “Twin Reel” feature. Every spin starts with at least two identical linked reels. They expand to three, four, or even five identical reels as they spin, leading to huge payouts. The Twin Reels, slick presentation and high-energy soundtrack made Twin Spin a player favourite.
Dead or Alive II
Dead or Alive II is the sequel to the famous Dead or Alive slot set in the rugged Wild West. It’s a highly immersive game combining gritty gunslingers with high-stakes action. Released in 2019, the game builds on the original’s success with enhanced graphics, multiple Free Spins, and massive payout potential. The high volatility is appealing to players who are looking for big payouts. The Free Spins allows you to choose from three modes with varying degrees of risk and reward. Dead or Alive II is about thrilling gameplay, massive multipliers, and an immersive Wild West theme. It is a must-play for fans of high-risk, high-reward slots.
Thanks to its innovative spirit, commitment to quality, and strategic vision, NetEnt created a lasting legacy in the gaming industry. From its humble beginnings, NetEnt has strived to become one of the biggest, most well-respected developers in the iGaming industry. Evolution’s acquisition further elevated NetEnt’s success as a pioneer in the industry. Netent’s journey is a testament to its ability to adapt, evolve, and thrive in a highly competitive industry.