Category: gaming

7 Simple Ways To Stay Safe When Gaming Online

Gaming has evolved into more than just a way to pass the time. It is how people relax, connect, and even compete in competitive online tournaments. The thrill of online gaming can quickly fade when safety is not given the attention it deserves.

From identity theft to scams and shady downloads, the risks are real. One lesser-known issue that has become increasingly common involves players being caught out on platforms that promise rewards but require excessive personal information. 

1. Avoid Unofficial Game Downloads

Some of the best protection starts with knowing where and how to play responsibly. iGaming analyst Caroline points out that no verification casinos appeal to many users, not only for ease of access but also for their emphasis on privacy. By removing the need to upload personal documents, these platforms reduce the risk of sensitive data falling into the wrong hands. Built on decentralised systems and often operating with cryptocurrency, they offer a layer of anonymity that many players appreciate.

Beyond privacy, the benefits include quicker sign-ups, faster withdrawals, and generous bonuses such as welcome rewards, cashback, and free spins. These casinos remain licensed and regulated, giving players the freedom to enjoy thousands of games without compromising on trust or security.

By sticking to official sources and trusted platforms, players can enjoy the best that online gaming has to offer. This approach supports a safer, more reliable experience every time you pick up a controller, try a new platform, or join a server. Unofficial downloads, especially mods or game files from unverified sources, may seem tempting, but they often come with hidden malware or spyware that can disrupt both gameplay and privacy. Staying with legitimate distribution platforms remains the smartest move.

2. Use Strong and Unique Passwords

Using the same password on several gaming platforms can compromise the security of several accounts. Attackers can attempt to reuse the same information if one account is compromised. Strong, one-of-a-kind passwords are important.

A simple password manager can assist users when creating and safely storing complex password combinations, eliminating the need to remember them all. Users can keep their accounts secure while monitoring for any suspicious logins or devices and changing your credentials as soon as something seems suspicious.

3. Safeguard Your Data

Joining new platforms, creating profiles, and interacting with other players during live sessions are all common aspects of gaming. Although they may appear innocuous, information such as your pet’s name, birthday, or even the school you attended might be used to guess passwords or solve security questions.

The risk increases when users use identical login details across multiple accounts. Take into account all of the information you are sharing when creating a profile. Choose a moniker that doesn’t include your name, and avoid sharing intimate photos online. Consider the consequences of making that information public and ask why a platform is asking for more information than appears necessary. 

4. Beware of Phishing Scams

Scams targeting gamers have become more sophisticated. These scams may seem as emails saying you have won something or messages posing as support representatives requesting that you confirm your account. These phishing attempts often look very real.

Always check the email address or message source. The majority of official communications originate from domain-verified sources. Never use a URL you do not completely trust to enter your password or personal information.

5. Secure Your Devices

To play games safely, you must keep your device protected. Use reliable antivirus software and ensure it is up to date to safeguard against threats that frequently infiltrate through antiquated systems. Safety problems can be fixed before becoming vulnerable by activating automatic updates for your computer’s operating system and antivirus program.

It is also worthwhile to utilise the integrated privacy features. Firewalls and parental controls help limit unwanted contact and restrict risky content, especially on shared systems. Pay attention to third-party programs, such as Discord, and frequently check permissions. Additional safeguards can stop future issues before they arise.

6. Only Use Reputable Servers and Communities

Multiplayer games rely on fan-run communities or user-hosted servers; some are designed, but others lack the framework to fully protect players. Reputable servers typically have moderators who are actively involved, enforce rules, and communicate their code of conduct. In addition to having reporting options for users to flag issues, these places are made to limit toxic behaviour, cheating, and fraud.

If a server seems random, uses foul language, or allows users to act anyway they want without repercussions, it’s advisable to leave right away. Platforms that promote player safety should always be the first option. 

7. Stay Up to Date

Patching and updates might seem annoying, especially when they interrupt a session, but they serve an important purpose. Developers release them to fix bugs, improve performance, and close security gaps. Ignoring updates can leave your system exposed to known threats. Check for updates regularly and install them when available, including for your games, operating system, antivirus, and any chat or launcher tools. Gaming safety doesn’t have to be difficult, and with a few simple habits, you can protect your information, devices, and overall experience.

 

How to Game on the Go with Your PlayStation or Xbox

If you find yourself away from home for work, to visit friends or on holiday, you can still enjoy playing your games. For those who have a passion for gaming, stepping away from the console, especially during important competition, teaming up with others or updates, can make them feel frustrated quickly.

Nowadays, new features in portable technology make it possible to watch anywhere you choose. With today’s portable gaming gear, you can grab a powerful game anywhere you go in your backpack.

Now, anyone from occasional gamers to console experts can easily set up a mobile gaming station. Learn from us how to use your PlayStation or Xbox for gaming wherever you are, and why choosing the right monitor for your PS5 is important.

First, You Should Set up the Console Properly

If you want to play games offline, you should use a portable setup. Here are the things you should bring with you:

  • You can use your PlayStation 5 or Xbox Series X/S
  • Compact design of both the controller and the power cords
  • HDMI cable
  • Monitor designed for use with a PS5 monitor that updates the display fast and has low input lag.
  • If you like, you can buy a carrying case or backpack made for consoles.
  • Being able to play your games on the go should not mean you feel the quality suffers.

Even if you’re away from home for any reason, you can still play your games. For gamers who love their sport, stepping aside from the console, especially during important competitions, teaming up, or receiving updates, can quickly cause them to feel frustrated.

Now, you can watch TV wherever you like using portable devices. Today’s portable devices allow you to bring a high-quality game with you anywhere.

These days, both occasional and dedicated gamers can easily create a mobile gaming area with no problem. Find out from us how to connect your PS4 or Xbox to any TV for gaming and why you need an ideal monitor for your PS5.

Here’s Why Choosing a Portable Monitor Has Attracted Many Gamers in 2025

This is why people everywhere are choosing to use portable monitors when gaming.

  • You can carry the amp in a backpack or a console case because it is so light.
  • Games are playable on PS5, Xbox, Switch, and on computers and phones.
  • You can expect top computer gaming performance, vivid colors, and software limitations for sensitive eyes.
  • It’s Plug-and-Play, setup is very easy and doesn’t take time.
  • The gaming monitor made for PS5 is worth buying if you want a display that will last in the future.

Some Ways to Maximize Your Gaming Experience When Away

  • Download games and updates while you are still connected to the internet
  • Take a Surge Protector with You: Sometimes, the power outlets in hotels are limited or just do not work.
  • Sort your cables using a technology pouch to avoid getting them tangled.
  • Enter Game Mode on your monitor to see visuals that are best for gaming
  • Plug in and load all your controllers, headsets, and battery banks before you leave.

Game Suggestions for PlayStation or Xbox 

  • The sequel, God of War: Ragnarok, is full of epic scenes and lovely scenery.
  • You can enjoy FIFA 24 multiplayer wherever you are.
  • Players can get involved and stay entertained as Elden Ring is full of in-depth gameplay.
  • You can join in on the action anywhere with Halo Infinite.
  • Spider-Man 2 – The game feels outstanding and travels smoothly on a 120Hz touch screen monitor.

Final Thoughts

You can play video games anywhere where you can connect to a device with a reliable screen. If you have a PS5 monitor with unique features or a multi-touch screen, you can play your favorite PS5 games any place you go.

Besides, the gaming monitor for PS5 surpasses others in quality with its superb image, smooth refresh rate, and low delay, allowing it to move comfortably from place to place and work among numerous consoles. 

With new forms of gaming coming along, your equipment should change as well. Use technology to help you access your games whenever and wherever you wish. If you have a powerful portable monitor, you can keep working, stay in touch with others and explore your games or entertainment anywhere.

How to Earn While You Play: Playtime Makes It Possible in 2025

Gaming isn’t just about fun anymore — in 2025, it’s also a smart way to earn a little extra money on the side. Whether you’re waiting for the bus, relaxing on the couch, or killing time between tasks, you can now get rewarded just for playing games on your phone. 

And one app is making that easier than ever: Playtime. 

What Is Playtime and How Does It Work? 

Playtime is a play-to-earn app that rewards you for doing something you already enjoy — playing mobile games. Instead of filling out surveys or jumping through hoops, you simply choose a game from Playtime’s collection, start playing, and earn rewards based on how long you play. 

It’s perfect for casual gamers who want to earn passively in their downtime, without changing their daily routine. 

Why Playtime Stands Out 

What makes Playtime so popular among users is its simplicity. You don’t need to grind or complete complex tasks — just open the app, pick a game, and play. The app tracks your playtime automatically and rewards you with real money or gift cards. It’s that easy. 

Here are a few key features that make Playtime worth a try: 

  • Instant payouts – You can cash out your rewards quickly via PayPal or gift cards. 
  • Low withdrawal threshold – Start withdrawing with as little as $0.40, unlike other apps that make you wait until you earn $20 or more. 
  • No earning limits – The more you play, the more you earn — no caps, no fine print. 
  • A variety of games – From casual puzzles to strategy titles, there’s something for every type of player. 

Why Play-to-Earn Apps Like Playtime Are Booming 

Apps like Playtime are growing fast in popularity because they fit naturally into everyday life. You don’t need any special skills or hours of free time. All it takes is a smartphone and a few spare minutes — whether you’re on your lunch break or winding down in the evening. 

For people looking to turn idle moments into something productive, Playtime offers a no-pressure, low-effort way to earn on the side. 

Tips to Make the Most of Playtime

If you’re just getting started with Playtime, here are a few tips to boost your experience: 

  • Set a goal: Whether you’re saving up for a gift, treating yourself, or just want extra coffee money — knowing what you’re earning for can keep things fun. 
  • Stay consistent: Even short sessions each day can add up over time. 
  • Explore new games: Trying different titles keeps things interesting and helps you earn more. 

Final Thoughts 

Earning money while playing games might sound too good to be true — but with apps like Playtime, it’s a real and achievable side hustle. No stress, no pressure, just fun with a few extra perks. 

So if you’re looking for a simple, flexible, and rewarding way to earn in 2025, give Playtime a try. Your gaming time could start paying off sooner than you think.

FC Mobile Partners with MLS and Apple TV to bring live MLS matches to FC Mobile

Electronic Arts Inc. and Major League Soccer (MLS) announced that EA SPORTS FC™ Mobile players will be able to watch four select matches of the 2025 MLS regular season through the in-game FCM TV portal, made possible by a live simulcast of MLS Season Pass on Apple TV*. This marks a milestone moment in the continued partnership between EA SPORTS FC, MLS, and MLS Season Pass on Apple TV, and a first for EA SPORTS in bringing live sports matches to fans worldwide*.

The excitement kicks off this Saturday, May 10, with a MLS Cup 2024 presented by Audi final rematch between reigning champions LA Galaxy and the New York Red Bulls broadcast live to EA SPORTS FC Mobile players at 7:30PM ET. Additionally, EA SPORTS FC Mobile players can access the Football Centre, a central hub for up-to-date content based on global football events, to play each matchup in-game and complete a featured Showdown Player Exchange before watching the action live.

“By being able to watch select live MLS Season Pass matches within EA SPORTS FC Mobile, we’re continuing a commitment to our players to bring them closer to the game they love, by investing in innovation and growing experiences offered through our platform,” said Lawrence Koh, VP, EA SPORTS FC Mobile. “Alongside our partners at MLS and Apple TV, we share a dedication to a fan-first future of football, and we look forward to the reaction from fans worldwide as we continue to build on this moment for the future of EA SPORTS FC Mobile.”

Later this month, on May 17, the second match to be broadcast live on FCM TV will feature Atlanta United FC taking on the Philadelphia Union at 4:30PM ET. The final two MLS Season Pass matches to be streamed within EA SPORTS FC Mobile will be held in September, with matchups to be announced at a later date.

By tuning into FCM TV to watch these live broadcasts of MLS matchups, EA SPORTS FC Mobile players will be rewarded with in-game currency. For those who can’t get enough football action, players will also get a free 1-month trial of MLS Season Pass, with more details on how to access and redeem here.

“This collaboration with EA SPORTS and Apple TV underscores MLS’s commitment to pushing boundaries, innovation and fan-first experiences,” said Camilo Durana, Executive VP at Major League Soccer. “By bringing select live MLS Season Pass matches to EA SPORTS FC Mobile, we’re reaching new and digitally native audiences around the world and continuing to broaden the way we’re building relationships with fans. It’s easier than ever to experience the excitement of MLS, our Clubs, our world-class players and our vibrant supporters.”

For more news and information on EA SPORTS FC™ Mobile, stay tuned to the official website and social channels across Instagram, X, and YouTube. Download the game on the App Store and Google Play Store to play Anywhere For the Club.

Top 5 Strategy Games That Can Make You Smarter

Strategy games are more than just leisure activities or entertainment, they offer a dynamic exercise in critical thinking, planning, and adaptability. These games engage the mind in ways that go beyond simple fun, encouraging you to solve problems, think on your feet, and stay sharp. Investing time in these strategy games can lead to measurable improvements in cognitive performance.

If you enjoy a good mental challenge, these strategy games offer a deeply satisfying and rewarding experience that helps keep your brain active and engaged.

1. Poker

A lot of people think poker is just about bluffing your way through and getting lucky. That’s not the case. Sure, luck plays a role in the short term, but long-term success? That’s all skill. It’s about reading the table, watching patterns, counting the cards, and figuring out what others are holding based on what they’re doing, not what they’re saying.

Good poker players don’t just memorise hands, they learn how to make tough calls, manage pressure, and stay cool when it counts. The game quietly trains you to weigh risks, stay patient, and make decisions without having all the facts. And those are useful skills just about anywhere, especially in high-stakes, real-life situations.

Online poker platforms have also made the game more accessible, allowing players of all levels to sharpen their skills. Taking time to learn about UK poker traffic can provide interesting insights into the game’s evolving popularity and help to choose the best online platforms to hone your skills.

2. Civilization VI

If you’ve ever played Civilization VI, you already know how engaging it can be. But underneath all the city-building and world-conquering, there’s a deeper layer of learning going on. 

The game asks you to balance a bunch of things at once: resources, diplomacy, science, war, and culture. Every decision has trade-offs, and your small choices early in the game can totally shape what happens much later. It teaches you not only to think ahead, but also to adjust when your plans get wrecked, which happens often.

You don’t need to be a history nerd to enjoy it. But if you play long enough, you’ll start to understand how systems connect, how timing matters, and why having a Plan B is sometimes more important than the perfect Plan A.

3. Chess

Chess remains one of the most respected and enduring strategy games in human history. It is often cited in educational settings for its potential to boost critical thinking, memory retention, and spatial reasoning. Every move on the board has a ripple effect, and players are constantly trying to guess what the other is planning five moves ahead or more.

The more one plays the game, the better one gets at spotting patterns, thinking through problems, and finding creative ways out of tight spots. Not to mention, it teaches patience and discipline, two things that never go out of style, no matter your age or experience. No wonder it is being used even in unlikely places like prisons to help inmates control their emotions better and learn valuable transferable skills they can use once they get out. It has been found to help reduce repeat offences. 

4. Scrabble

Scrabble is a classic, family-friendly board game that not only entertains but also enhances language skills. It encourages players to think on their feet, expanding their vocabulary as they build words from a limited set of letters. The game naturally supports spelling improvement and introduces new words in a fun, interactive setting.

Beyond language development, Scrabble sharpens the mind by requiring quick thinking and adaptability. Players must constantly adjust their strategies based on the tiles they have and the layout of the board. Strategic planning is also essential, as each letter has a different point value, pushing players to make decisions that maximize their score. With its mix of linguistic play and tactical depth, Scrabble provides a mentally stimulating experience for players of all ages.

5. Sudoku

If you want to sharpen your logical thinking and problem-solving skills, this Japanese game is a great choice, even though it’s not exactly a board game. It might seem simple at first, but it demands focus and the ability to see the bigger picture. Don’t let that stop you from learning it, though.

In Sudoku, players fill in a grid using the right numbers by thinking logically. This helps train your brain to work in a more organised way. It also boosts your memory and helps you notice patterns, making it a fun and healthy way to stay sharp and focused.

Daily Sudoku challenges have become a popular way for people to stay mentally active and support long-term brain health. While it may not prevent dementia or Alzheimer’s, Healthline reports that for people over the age of 50, regularly engaging in puzzles like Sudoku can help keep their brain sharp and promote cognitive well-being as they age further.

 

Why Mahjong Is the Perfect Game for Puzzle Fans

There are few other titles in the ever-expanding world of puzzle games that can boast of a history as rich and an appeal as enduring as that of Mahjong. This century-old Chinese game is about more than just matching tiles: it’s a dynamic test of logic, memory, and strategy. And if you’re a fan of puzzles, brainteasers, or generally mentally engaging gameplay, Mahjong offers an experience that is often underrated and deeply satisfying.

Available Anytime, Anywhere

While many still associate it with physical tiles and traditional play circles, Mahjong has quickly become a modern favorite in online circles, especially with gamers seeking something more than just an average app-based puzzle. Digital versions are making the game more accessible than ever, offering the perfect opportunity for beginners to discover and explore what makes it so captivating. Whether you are learning the ropes or looking for expert matches, visit Mahjong365 to join a vibrant community of players from all over the world.

Online platforms like this have brought Mahjong into the spotlight of multiplayer puzzle gaming, especially among the younger fans that are looking for new challenges beyond Sudoku and Wordle. Having the option to play quick casual matches, but also to join in global competitions, is very alluring, as well as solo play modes where you can maintain the depth but without the need to gather around a table.

All these things are more than just a convenience—they are part of a growing trend where beloved classic games get reimagined and adapted for the digital space. Mahjong and similar card-type all-time favorites like solitaire are now allowing puzzle lovers who were not so into gaming to find an easy and inclusive way to join the fun and sharpen their skills anytime, anywhere.

Brain Workout Disguised as a Game

Mahjong is more than just fun, it’s a mental enrichment. Studies have shown that regular play of strategy-based games can improve memory retention and pattern recognition, helping us recognize order in seemingly chaotic environments. Some researchers go as far as claiming it can delay cognitive decline in senior adults. 

One of the perks of Mahjong is that it demands that its players think several steps ahead. Moving carefully, managing limited resources, and shifting layouts in an adaptable way make every round a mental workout. Having a bit of randomness in the mix makes every game exciting as well.

If you love puzzles, all of the important aspects are included here:

  • Pattern matching with a visual logic component
  • Strategic planning as you have to anticipate the upcoming tiles
  • Dynamic challenges coming your way with every reshuffle
  • Progressive difficulty depending on the complexity of each layout

There are many single-solution puzzles out there, but Mahjong provides literally endless replay value. Whether you’re aiming for a faster time to beat, a higher score to chase, or a new layout to master, the challenges are many and variable. Digital versions offer even more of them, including achievements which give players both reasons to return and badges of honor to brag with.

The Social Dimension

Although many puzzle games are solitary, Mahjong is inherently social in its roots. This traditional game of interaction and competition is played in groups, and that spirit lives on through online multiplayer and virtual communities that connect gamers across the world. 

What’s more, the social engagement can grow into a personal challenge with competitive play becoming more widespread. Major leagues and global tournaments are becoming increasingly popular. At the same time, the game is gaining more traction in the worlds of streaming and online play as well. 

Calm, Focused, and Irresistibly Engaging

The best puzzle games are the ones that keep you coming back for another round. And one of the most addictive and unique traits of Mahjong is its rhythm. Unlike frantic mobile games, more similar to arcades, or the apps built for endless scrolling, Mahjong creates a calming atmosphere that is still very engaging. The focus a player needs to scan the board and make decisions is deeply immersive, but without the sensory overload that many other games have.

Pro puzzle players enjoy playing games that help them unwind while offering some mental stimulation. Mahjong is a game that perfectly strikes that balance. It rewards playing at a slower, thoughtful pace while keeping attention to detail and long-term strategy over rash and quick reactions. Whether you are a veteran strategist or a beginner at this kind of puzzle, the variety of combinations and possible setups, as well as the diversity of opponents, is sure to keep you engaged for a very long time. 

 

Investment Trends in Casual Gaming: What Soft2Bet Invest Looks for in Startups

The casual gaming sector is experiencing unprecedented growth in 2025, creating fertile ground for innovative startups with fresh ideas. With mobile gaming revenues reaching record levels and user engagement metrics soaring, investment funds are increasingly turning their attention to this dynamic space. Soft2Bet Invest has emerged as a leading player in this arena, establishing a €50 million innovation fund specifically designed to nurture promising gaming entrepreneurs. Since its launch in June 2024, the fund has already made significant impacts, even winning the “Outstanding Contribution to Gaming 2024” award at SiGMA East Europe in September 2024.

The Evolving Landscape of Casual Gaming in 2025

The casual gaming market has transformed dramatically over the past few years, shifting from simple time-fillers to sophisticated experiences that incorporate social elements, progression systems, and innovative monetization models. Today’s casual games blend accessibility with depth, creating experiences that appeal to broader audiences while maintaining impressive retention metrics.

Mobile continues to dominate the casual gaming space, with the Apple App Store and Google Play generating over $80 billion in consumer revenue. This represents steady growth that shows no signs of slowing down. The focus on established genres with proven track records has allowed top publishers to capture significant market share, with the top five casual game publishers generating 62% of total revenue in their category.

Key factors driving the casual gaming boom include:

  • Low barriers to entry for players
  • Short, satisfying gameplay loops
  • Cross-platform compatibility
  • Innovative monetization strategies
  • Social integration features

These elements create games that are easy to pick up but difficult to put down, making them particularly attractive to investors looking for scalable products with strong retention potential.

What Soft2Bet Invest Seeks in Gaming Startups

Soft2Bet Invest has established a clear investment strategy, targeting both growth-stage and mature companies that demonstrate exceptional potential. The fund typically invests between €500,000 and €1 million per project, evaluating each opportunity on a case-by-case basis.

When assessing potential investments, Soft2Bet prioritizes several crucial factors:

  1. Technological innovation – Companies leveraging cutting-edge technologies that enhance player experiences
  2. Market differentiation – Unique approaches that stand out in a crowded marketplace
  3. Scalability potential – Business models capable of significant growth with proper resources
  4. Strong core metrics – Impressive retention, engagement, and monetization figures
  5. Team capabilities – Experienced leadership with proven track records in gaming

Uri Poliavich, Founder and CEO of Soft2Bet, emphasizes the importance of disruptive thinking: “Our journey from startup to major iGaming operator and provider shows how we have been changing the iGaming industry, that we speak the language of innovation, and that our products and success stories are undeniable proof that we excel in driving business growth.”

Technology Trends Attracting Investment Dollars

The casual gaming industry is being transformed by several emerging technologies that are attracting substantial investment. Soft2Bet Invest specifically looks for companies harnessing these innovations:

Artificial Intelligence Applications

AI is revolutionizing game development and player experiences through:

  • Personalized content delivery based on player behavior
  • Dynamic difficulty adjustment to optimize challenge levels
  • Automated testing and quality assurance processes
  • Natural language processing for improved player interactions
  • Advanced analytics for more precise monetization strategies

These AI applications not only improve player experiences but also create more efficient development pipelines, making them particularly attractive to investors focused on operational excellence.

Player-Centric UX Design

User experience has become a critical differentiator in the competitive casual gaming market. Companies implementing advanced behavioral-UX analytics can significantly boost key performance indicators through:

  • Streamlined onboarding processes
  • Friction-free progression systems
  • Intuitive controls and interfaces
  • Data-driven design iterations
  • Personalized gameplay elements

Studios that prioritize these UX principles typically see higher retention rates and stronger monetization, making them prime candidates for investment consideration.

Monetization Models That Attract Funding

In 2025, sophisticated monetization approaches have become essential for casual gaming success. The most promising startups are moving beyond simple ad-based models to implement hybrid approaches that maximize revenue while enhancing player experiences.

The most attractive monetization strategies include:

  1. User-level customization – Tailoring monetization approaches to individual player preferences and behaviors
  2. Hybrid models – Combining in-app purchases, subscriptions, and various ad formats
  3. Gamified progression systems – Creating value through achievement-based rewards
  4. Social commerce integration – Leveraging community dynamics to drive purchases
  5. Limited-time events – Creating urgency and exclusivity around special offers

According to industry analysis, the shift toward user-level customization represents the next evolution in monetization strategy. By leveraging contextual data gathered early in a user’s journey, publishers can dynamically adapt the monetization experience for each individual, optimizing revenue while maintaining positive player sentiment

Social Features Driving Investment Decisions

The integration of social elements has emerged as one of the most significant trends in casual gaming. Multiplayer functionality, leaderboards, and community features transform solitary gaming sessions into shared experiences, dramatically improving retention metrics.

Effective social implementations include:

  • Real-time competitive leaderboards
  • Friend-based progression systems
  • Guild/team mechanics
  • Shared challenges and rewards
  • Cross-platform social connectivity

Games that successfully incorporate these social dynamics typically demonstrate stronger long-term engagement metrics, making them particularly attractive to investors seeking sustainable business models.

The Investment Process with Soft2Bet Invest

For developers seeking funding, understanding Soft2Bet’s approach is crucial. The fund evaluates projects through a rigorous process that assesses both technical innovation and business fundamentals. Martin Collins, Chief Business Development Officer at Soft2Bet, emphasizes their unique perspective: “Essentially what we’ve done is we’ve taken some of the main concepts from casual gaming and built it to enter the casino experience in order to drive levels of engagement that you might not find with any other sports or casino business.”

This cross-pollination of ideas between casual gaming and iGaming creates unique opportunities for startups positioned at this intersection, especially those focused on engagement metrics and retention strategies.

The fund provides more than just capital, offering hands-on support and industry expertise to help portfolio companies scale effectively. This operational assistance, combined with strategic financial backing, creates a powerful platform for growth-oriented gaming startups looking to make their mark in the competitive casual gaming landscape.

Ireland’s games industry stands at a crucial “inflection point”

In a challenging environment for the games industry, Ireland is creating “incredible incentives and structures” to support and “elevate” Irish game developers in “the way they deserve to be uplifted”.

This was the observation of Xalavier Nelson Jr., the BAFTA-nominated and Forbes 30 under 30 Studio Head of game developer and publisher Strange Scaffold, one of the key speakers at the FÍS Games Summit 2025, which took place last weekend in Galway, Ireland.

Mr Nelson was responding to the announcement at the Summit of the Digital Games Portfolio, a major new fund designed to further develop and strengthen the Irish games industry’s rapidly growing international reputation.

The Digital Games Portfolio is a €500,000 funding scheme, launched by Screen Ireland, and which will be managed by Ardán, the Galway based organisation supporting creatives in film, TV, games, and animation, and Imirt, the national organisation for game developers and creators in Ireland. 

The DGP will fund a variety of new initiatives, the first of which will be IndieDev 2025, a cross-border prototype fund in collaboration with NI Screen to help teams of creators turn their game ideas into prototypes.

The fund will also see Dublin and Galway become ‘incubators’ to support individuals at the early stage of their careers. There will also be a pilot development fund targeting established Irish game studios, to allow them develop IP within their work spaces.

The funding comes at what Ardán CEO, Alan Duggan, called a “pivotal” moment and “an inflection point” in the Irish games industry.

“There’s a tremendous enthusiasm and vigour in the Irish games industry,” he said. “We’re swelling into a wave and that’s really running contrary to a lot of what’s happening internationally.”

Colm Larkin, CEO of Imirt, said: “At a State level, Ireland is looking at games and games developers as a culturally relevant art form and is saying, ‘Yes, we need to support this.’ This is just going to be the first step towards really growing our sector.”

The Minister for Arts, Culture, Media, Communications and Sport Patrick O’Donovan TD said: “The international games industry represents a huge contestable market, one in which Ireland can excel based on our technical, design and storytelling competencies. This funding combined with the recently introduced tax credit for games are key steps along the government’s path to developing a national strategy for games.”

The future of the industry, AI, and creativity

In his address, Xalavier Nelson Jr., said the games industry “makes miraculous art” but is poor at delivering on time, within budget, and in certain instances, quality.

He noted how missing deadlines and exceeding budgets has become normalised within the industry, and said current industry models often prioritise long development cycles for single projects, leading to burnout and limiting opportunities for artists to experiment.

He called on game developers to recognise they are artists, but also encouraged them to develop a strong business sense, in order to “confront these realities”.

Industry legend Tom Hall (Commander Keen, Wolfenstein 3D, Doom), who now works in Ireland as Design Lead at the Galway based Romero Games, explored the creative process.

He encouraged game developers to embrace ‘Drift Time’, his concept of allowing the mind to wander freely in order to create. He encouraged Summit attendees to “play around with an idea” especially if it “may make you feel uncomfortable”.

Hall also advised developers to take a ‘bottom-up’ approach to game creation, in order to work out core gameplay issues and mechanics, instead of top-down design, where the story and universe are prioritised.

AI and its role in the Games Industry was addressed by Finlay MacAree, Technical Director at Xbox Game Studios. He said while AI can enhance the creative process by generating ideas, assets, or code, allowing developers to focus on higher-level design and storytelling, AI itself “will never replace art”.

“I want someone’s actual history, feelings, and emotions in the game,” he said, and warned that relying solely on AI will lead to generic outcomes. He said human creativity and input remained essential as it is informed by personal experiences and emotions, fostering innovation and originality.

As well as national and international guest speakers, the FÍS Games Summit 2025 had close to 300 people in attendance from Dublin, Belfast, Cork, and across Ireland. The Summit has doubled in size from 2024, with the addition of roundtables for developers of marginalised genders; writing and pitching; and a games room where attendees could try out new demos by Irish games companies.

Why You Should Try 10 Minute Gaming Boosts Every Day

Did you know that gaming can actually be quite good for you? Everything in moderation of course, especially when it comes to screens, but yes! There’s quite a few things that some regular gaming time can do for you, and all you need is 10 or so minutes each day to benefit from them. 

So why not try having a 10 minute gaming boost once a day for the next week or so and see what it can do for you? You might find that the benefits below creep into your days and make them all the richer.

Gaming is a Lot of Fun

Pure and simple, gaming is fun. No matter the kind of games you like to play, which could be rounds of freecell and sudoku on your phone, or playing FPS shooters in multiplayer mode, you’re going to have some fun! Pop a 10 minute gaming break in the middle of the day and the day itself is likely to feel like less of a drag. 

And if you’re not a serious gamer who likes to indulge for hours every week, these 10 minute gaming boost breaks could bring more enjoyment into your usual schedule. If you’re on a 9 to 5, and your work breaks don’t quite lift the low energy the workday leaves you with, load up a game and play it for this short while.

Gaming Can Help Blow Off Steam

Feeling a bit frustrated? Feeling like you’re at boiling point and could bubble over? Remove yourself from the situation, first of all, and then think about loading up a game you like.

Gaming is great for blowing off steam when you really need to lessen the pressure. Stress can quite easily crush you even during the course of a fairly normal day, and it’s good to find efficient and healthy outlets for it. 

Using a game for this purpose is quite a quick method for taking stress off your plate, and when you’re working, 10 minutes is sometimes all you have spare! 

Gaming Allows You to ‘Reset’

Had a pretty bad morning and need a 15 minute break to yourself? Spend some time gaming during it. Doing so could help you to ‘reset’ your mood, as well as clear the cotton wool that feels like it’s clogging up your brain. 

Playing a game can help to reduce the noise going on in your head, as well as give you something else to focus on for a few minutes, and sometimes that’s all you need to get back into the head space you need for the rest of the day. 

Plus, gaming is quite easy to access, and like we said above, it’s fun! It could even feed into mindfulness techniques that help you to feel grounded and present in the moment. 

A 10 minute gaming boost once a day could help you in various ways, and especially in those above. Take a break, blow off steam, and have some fun.