Key points about the agreement between DraftKings and NetEnt
NetEnt strengthens its strategic partnership with DraftKings in order to expand the distribution of its games in the U.S. online casino market.
After a successful launch in New Jersey, the two companies are preparing the integration of the NetEnt catalogue on DraftKings Casino in Pennsylvania.
An additional agreement also plans the launch of NetEnt games on the West Virginia iGaming market, a regulated jurisdiction that is currently developing.
DraftKings players will be able to find several iconic NetEnt slot machines, including Starburst, Gonzo’s Quest, and Divine Fortune, as well as various table games.
This expansion is part of a broader strategy aimed at strengthening NetEnt’s presence in regulated U.S. jurisdictions.
The partnership with DraftKings allows the Swedish provider to rely on a major operator in the U.S. market with a large player base.
The growth of the iGaming market in the United States is pushing international providers to establish themselves quickly in states that legalize online casinos.
The agreement illustrates NetEnt’s intention to consolidate its position among the leading iGaming content providers in the United States.
NetEnt strengthens its partnership with DraftKings to target Pennsylvania and West Virginia
The U.S. online casino market continues its transformation at high speed. In 2020, NetEnt takes a new strategic step by strengthening its partnership with DraftKings. It should be noted that the latter is currently one of the most influential operators in the iGaming ecosystem in the United States. After a first collaboration crowned with success in New Jersey, the two companies extend their cooperation to two new regulated jurisdictions: Pennsylvania and West Virginia.
This development comes in a context of profound change in the industry. Since the historic decision of the U.S. Supreme Court in 2018 opening the way to the regulation of sports betting and online gaming at the state level, the American iGaming landscape has been developing rapidly. Moreover, operators are seeking to strengthen their catalogues while international providers are attempting to establish a lasting presence. In this expansion race, partnerships between platforms and game studios have become essential levers to access newly regulated markets.
For NetEnt, this extension of the partnership with DraftKings goes beyond simple game distribution. The Swedish studio is pursuing a broader strategy aimed at establishing itself firmly in emerging American jurisdictions. To achieve this effectively, the company relies on operators capable of reaching a large player base. DraftKings, already firmly positioned in sports betting and experiencing strong growth in the online casino sector, represents a natural partner in this dynamic.
This collaborative approach is not new for NetEnt. Before intensifying its presence in the United States, the provider had already multiplied content-sharing agreements with major operators in Europe. For example with Svenska Spel Sport & Casino in Sweden for its live casino games, as well as with Veikkaus, the national gambling operator in Finland. These collaborations helped strengthen the visibility of the NetEnt catalogue in demanding regulated markets. In addition, these partnerships allowed the company to consolidate its reputation as a provider capable of adapting to local regulatory frameworks.
In the case of DraftKings, the agreement now provides for the integration of the NetEnt catalogue on DraftKings Casino in Pennsylvania. This reflects a market that has been particularly dynamic since the legalization of iGaming in the state. At the same time, the two companies have also concluded an agreement to deploy the studio’s games on the regulated market of West Virginia. For its part, it is a more recent jurisdiction but one that is currently structuring rapidly.
For American players, this expansion means the arrival on DraftKings of iconic slot machines such as Starburst, Gonzo’s Quest and Divine Fortune, to which several table games developed by the studio are added. These titles are among the most popular in the industry and they contribute to strengthening the online casino offering proposed by the operator.
Through this strengthened partnership, NetEnt confirms its ambition to become a key player in the U.S. iGaming market, at a time when new states are beginning to open their doors to online casinos and digital gambling.
After the success in New Jersey, a strengthened partnership
The consolidation of the agreement between NetEnt and DraftKings originates from the successful launch of NetEnt games on the New Jersey market. This state was one of the first American territories to legalize and structure the online casino offering. For several years, this state has served as a laboratory for the iGaming industry in the United States. Operators test their platforms, their game catalogues and their player acquisition strategies there before expanding to other jurisdictions.
In this context, the collaboration between NetEnt and DraftKings quickly demonstrated its potential. The integration of the Swedish provider’s catalogue within the DraftKings online casino made it possible to introduce slot machines recognized on a global scale, while bringing a more international dimension to the offering of the American operator.
Several factors explain the initial success of this partnership in New Jersey.
A player base already familiar with NetEnt titles Many slot machines from the studio are already popular on European and international markets. Their arrival on DraftKings allowed American players to discover titles that have become emblematic in the online casino industry.
A rapid integration into the DraftKings ecosystem DraftKings already had a solid technological infrastructure thanks to its historical activity in sports betting and fantasy sports. The addition of NetEnt games therefore took place in a digital environment that was already efficient and optimized for online gaming.
A complementarity between operator and provider DraftKings brings strong visibility on the American market while NetEnt provides a catalogue of games recognized for their graphical quality and gameplay mechanics. This combination strengthens the overall attractiveness of the platform.
This success observed in New Jersey naturally encouraged the two companies to consider extending their collaboration to other regulated states. Pennsylvania quickly appeared as a priority target due to the size of its market and the growing interest of operators in this jurisdiction.
At the same time, West Virginia represents a complementary opportunity. Although more modest in terms of population, this state is among the jurisdictions seeking to rapidly develop their online casino offering in order to diversify their tax revenues and attract new operators.
Thus, the positive experience in New Jersey played a decisive role. It served as concrete proof of the strength of the partnership between NetEnt and DraftKings, paving the way for expansion into new American markets at a time when the iGaming industry is beginning to structure itself at a national scale.
DraftKings Casino prepares the arrival of NetEnt in Pennsylvania
The extension of the partnership between NetEnt and DraftKings takes on a particular dimension with the planned arrival of the Swedish provider’s games on DraftKings Casino in Pennsylvania. Since the official opening of the iGaming market in the state in 2019, Pennsylvania has quickly established itself as one of the most promising online casino territories in the United States. Its large population, its structured regulatory framework and the growing interest of operators make it a strategic ground for content providers.
For DraftKings, the integration of the NetEnt catalogue represents a clear opportunity. Its primary objective is to strengthen the attractiveness of its online casino by offering titles already recognized on an international scale. In a market where several platforms compete for players’ attention, having popular slot machines constitutes an essential lever to stand out.
DraftKings players in Pennsylvania will therefore be able to access a selection of emblematic games developed by NetEnt, including:
Starburst An iconic slot machine built around a bright cosmic aesthetic and fast gameplay. Its expanding Wild system and re-spins have helped make it one of the best-known games in the industry.
Gonzo’s Quest An adventure title centered on the quest of the explorer Gonzo in search of El Dorado. The Avalanche mechanic replaces traditional reels and allows symbols to disappear in order to make room for new combinations.
Divine Fortune A slot machine inspired by Greek mythology, famous for its progressive jackpot. This accumulated prize system has allowed several players to win particularly high rewards over the years.
Beyond these flagship titles, DraftKings also plans to integrate several table games developed by NetEnt. These titles are intended to strengthen the diversity of its online casino offering. This strategy allows the operator to provide a more complete gaming experience, capable of attracting both slot enthusiasts and players of traditional table games.
This integration is part of a broader dynamic that characterizes the iGaming market in Pennsylvania. The state is gradually attracting international providers wishing to distribute their games through licensed operators, within a strict regulatory environment supervised by the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board.
Several factors explain the growing interest of industry stakeholders in this market:
A population of more than 12 million inhabitants which consequently offers a particularly large player potential.
A clear and structured regulatory framework allowing licensed operators to legally offer online casino games.
A rapidly growing market supported by the progressive adoption of online gaming and by the diversification of platform offerings.
In this context, the arrival of NetEnt on DraftKings Casino in Pennsylvania appears as a strategic step for both companies. DraftKings enriches its catalogue with globally known titles, while NetEnt strengthens its presence in one of the most dynamic iGaming markets in the United States.
Entry planned into the West Virginia iGaming market
Interface of the homepage of the West Virginia Lottery website
In parallel with its deployment in Pennsylvania, NetEnt also plans the launch of its games on the West Virginia iGaming market through DraftKings Casino. This jurisdiction, more discreet than the major American markets, is nevertheless among the states that have chosen to progressively open their online gambling industry. Their shared objective is to diversify their sources of revenue and support the evolution of player consumption habits.
West Virginia is part of the wave of regulation that followed the evolution of the American legal framework from 2018. The state quickly adopted legislation through the regulation of the West Virginia Lottery. This system allows local land-based casinos to operate online gaming platforms in partnership with international operators and technology providers. This model makes it possible to develop iGaming while maintaining strict market control by local authorities.
In this context, the arrival of NetEnt through DraftKings represents an additional step in the construction of the state’s online casino offering. The integration of the Swedish studio’s catalogue will allow local players to access slot machines already recognized in the global gaming industry, as well as several table games designed for digital platforms.
The interest of West Virginia for operators and providers is based on several specific characteristics of the market.
A regulatory framework already in place for online gaming The state has implemented a licensing system allowing land-based casinos to legally operate digital platforms. Operators can therefore offer casino games, often in partnership with international providers.
A market that is still relatively unsaturated Unlike New Jersey or Pennsylvania, competition there remains more limited. For providers such as NetEnt, this situation offers the opportunity to quickly establish their catalogue with existing operators.
A strategy of progressive iGaming growth Local authorities encourage the development of online gambling as a complement to land-based casinos. In this context, the primary concern remains maintaining strict rules regarding regulation and player protection.
For NetEnt, this implementation therefore represents a new gateway into the American market, within a jurisdiction that is still structuring its iGaming ecosystem. By partnering with DraftKings, the Swedish provider benefits from an operator already recognized by American players, capable of quickly introducing its games on the platform.
This expansion into West Virginia also illustrates a broader strategy adopted by international providers. This approach aims to establish a presence in several regulated jurisdictions during the early stages of market opening, in order to secure their position before the arrival of new competitors. For NetEnt, each new integration in the United States therefore strengthens its positioning within a market expected to grow strongly in the coming years.
NetEnt confirms its position in the American market
As the American online casino market becomes structured, NetEnt is gradually establishing itself as one of the most visible international providers in regulated U.S. jurisdictions. The Swedish company understood the potential of this territory very early. From the first waves of regulation, it implemented a strategy aimed at quickly installing its catalogue with local operators.
This presence has been built step by step. The studio first entered the American market by collaborating with platforms already established in the pioneering states of online gaming. New Jersey served as a strategic entry point that allowed the provider to test the integration of its games within the American regulatory ecosystem.
Over time, NetEnt progressively extended its distribution to other regulated jurisdictions, thereby consolidating its status as a reference provider in the American iGaming industry.
This rise in power is based on several structuring pillars.
A rapid presence in the first regulated markets States such as New Jersey and Pennsylvania played a decisive role in NetEnt’s expansion in the United States. By integrating early into these jurisdictions, the studio was able to install its games with major operators and build a solid player base.
An internationally recognized game catalogue NetEnt slot machines benefit from strong recognition in the online casino industry. Titles such as Starburst, Gonzo’s Quest and Divine Fortune are among the most identifiable games in the sector and facilitate the provider’s entry into new markets.
Partnerships with leading operators To accelerate its development in the United States, NetEnt prioritizes collaborations with platforms capable of reaching a wide audience. Agreements concluded with DraftKings illustrate this strategy. It consists of associating a recognized game catalogue with a brand already popular among American players.
An ability to adapt to local regulations The American market is distinguished by a fragmented regulatory model where each state has its own rules. NetEnt had to adapt its technical processes, certifications and infrastructures in order to meet the requirements of each jurisdiction.
In this context, the extension of the partnership with DraftKings in Pennsylvania and West Virginia does not represent a simple additional launch. It represents an important step in NetEnt’s strategy to establish itself in the United States, at a time when more and more states are considering the legalization of online casinos.
The objective is clear: to be present from the opening of new markets in order to establish a lasting position in the American iGaming ecosystem. As regulation progresses, each partnership with a major operator strengthens the visibility of the NetEnt catalogue and consolidates its position against an increasingly active international competition.
Official statement from NetEnt
The announcement of the strengthening of the partnership with DraftKings is accompanied by an official statement from NetEnt. It illustrates the strategic importance of this collaboration in the studio’s expansion strategy in the American market. Brian Kraft, Vice President Commercial of NetEnt for the Americas, notably highlights the weight of DraftKings in the online gaming ecosystem in the United States and the potential impact of this new step for the distribution of the provider’s games.
“The size and presence of DraftKings in the market make this launch one of the most important to date. We are proud to extend our relationship with such a well-known operator. We look forward to continuing the success we have achieved together so far. We are delighted to have such a renowned operator on board as we enter new jurisdictions.”
This statement reflects the dynamic that characterizes the American online gambling market at that time. Content providers such as NetEnt seek to partner with operators that have strong visibility among players. iGaming actors capable of ensuring rapid distribution of their games across several states.
In the case of DraftKings, several elements explain NetEnt’s interest in this partnership.
A brand already firmly established in the American online gaming universe DraftKings first became known in the field of fantasy sports and sports betting before progressively expanding its activities to the online casino sector. This user base represents a major asset for providers wishing to introduce their games to the American market.
A growing presence in regulated jurisdictions The operator progressively deploys its platforms in different states authorizing sports betting and online casino games. This geographical expansion offers partner providers broader access to new markets.
A technological platform capable of quickly integrating new content DraftKings has a solid digital infrastructure that facilitates the integration of game catalogues from international providers.
For NetEnt, this partnership therefore represents much more than a simple commercial agreement. It forms part of a broader strategy aimed at multiplying the distribution points of its games in the American market, relying on operators capable of supporting its growth in a constantly evolving regulatory environment.
Brian Kraft’s statement thus highlights a clear ambition, which is to continue the expansion of the NetEnt game catalogue in jurisdictions gradually opening their markets to online gambling.
FAQ: NetEnt and DraftKings in the United States (2020)
Why did NetEnt strengthen its partnership with DraftKings?
NetEnt chose to strengthen its partnership with DraftKings in order to accelerate its expansion in the American online casino market. This is also because DraftKings already has a large player base in the United States thanks to its activities in sports betting and fantasy sports. By collaborating with this operator, NetEnt can distribute its game catalogue more quickly in regulated states. In the end, it benefits from strong visibility among the American public.
In which states are NetEnt games expected to be launched with DraftKings?
The extension of the agreement provides for the deployment of NetEnt games in two American jurisdictions:
Pennsylvania, which is an important iGaming market that legalized online casinos in 2019 and attracts many operators and international providers.
West Virginia, which represents a more recent but already regulated market, where online gaming platforms are operated in partnership with the state’s land-based casinos.
These two territories represent growth opportunities for providers wishing to establish a lasting presence in the United States.
Which NetEnt games will be available on DraftKings Casino?
DraftKings players will be able to access several emblematic slot machines from the NetEnt catalogue, already popular on international markets.
Among the best-known titles are notably:
Starburst, an iconic slot machine recognizable for its cosmic universe and expanding Wilds.
Gonzo’s Quest, an adventure game famous for its Avalanche mechanic where symbols disappear to make room for new combinations.
Divine Fortune, a slot machine inspired by Greek mythology that offers a progressive jackpot.
Why is Pennsylvania an important market for NetEnt?
Pennsylvania is among the most attractive American states for the iGaming industry.
Several factors explain this interest:
A large population offering significant player potential.
A strict but clear regulatory framework supervised by the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board.
A rapidly growing market where many operators seek to expand their game catalogue.
Is West Virginia an important market for online casinos?
Even though West Virginia remains smaller than some major American markets, it represents an interesting jurisdiction for providers and operators.
The market presents several characteristics:
A regulatory framework already in place for online gaming.
Competition that is still limited, allowing early providers to establish themselves quickly.
A willingness from local authorities to develop iGaming as a complement to land-based casinos.
For NetEnt, this entry allows it to gradually extend its presence across the American territory.
What role does DraftKings play in NetEnt’s expansion in the United States?
DraftKings is one of the most influential operators in the American online gambling market. Thanks to its digital platform and its already established user base, the operator allows NetEnt to rapidly distribute its games across several regulated jurisdictions.
The partnership between the two companies illustrates a common strategy in the iGaming industry. Content providers partner with powerful operators in order to facilitate their entry into new regulated markets.
How does NetEnt view the evolution of the American iGaming market?
NetEnt considers the American market to be one of the most promising territories for the future of online casinos. Since the progressive opening of regulation in several states, growth opportunities have multiplied for content providers. The studio’s strategy consists of rapidly establishing itself in jurisdictions that legalize iGaming, in order to build strong partnerships with local operators and distribute its games to an increasingly large audience.
Why do the United States represent a strategic market for game providers?
The American market attracts many players in the iGaming industry for several reasons:
A very large population offering considerable potential for online players.
Progressive legalization by state that regularly opens new commercial opportunities.
Strong demand for digital gaming platforms, particularly on mobile.
For development studios such as NetEnt, each new state that regulates online casinos represents an opportunity to expand the distribution of their games.
Will the American iGaming market continue to grow?
The trend observed over several years indicates that more and more American states are considering legalizing or expanding their online casino offerings. This evolution is often driven by the tax revenues generated by iGaming and by the evolution of gaming habits toward digital platforms.
In this context, content providers and operators seek to position themselves during the first phases of market openings in order to consolidate their presence before the arrival of new competitors.
