Leading and Trustworthy Casino Software Providers for UK-licensed Casinos

Casino software providers are a company that designs, builds, and supplies the online casino games that you can find at your favourite UK casinos. These companies are often referred to as game developers or game studios and are responsible for providing players with the immersive gameplay they crave.

Studios like Play’n GO, Games Global, Evolution and others work tirelessly to produce titles regularly. This involves everything from generating creative ideas and implementing the designs, applying the necessary coding to run the game, and the testing phase to ensure it functions as designed.

UK-licensed casinos rely on software providers to develop these games, enabling them to run an efficient site. The best sites will feature an ever-changing library that continually makes thousands of options playable, including the latest releases. They can do this because they will focus their efforts on ensuring compliance with the strict regulations set by the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) per their licence agreement.

By sourcing content from multiple independent providers, sites can quickly add the latest releases, maintain high quality, and avoid the massive cost and complexity of developing and certifying games themselves.

We will examine the process of creating casino games as we explore the overall development. We will highlight how studios generate revenue and identify the best-performing ones in the UK, using various metrics. Additionally, we will identify key ways for players to find the best options for themselves to play safely while providing information about specific game features. 

What Is an Online Casino Game Developer?

Online casino software providers can come in many forms. They include being:

• A studio
• A platform provider
• An aggregator

A studio is a company that focuses on creating games available at online casinos. They design, develop, and test the games. They do not offer the infrastructure or player management systems that casinos need for their players to use them efficiently.

A platform provider can supply a casino with an all-in-one solution. This includes providing an entire library of games and all the technology that enables them to run smoothly at a casino, such as player account management, bonus systems, payment integrations, and back-end support.

An aggregator is perhaps the most common method for many UK casinos. They act as an intermediary between a casino operator and game developers. They bundle a collection of games from several software providers into a single API (Application Programming Interface).

When a casino uses this method, it will have access to thousands of games for one price, while technical support will continually be offered. Many find this method the easiest way to build a comprehensive catalogue of titles, helping them stand out in a competitive market.

Almost all of the forms will operate on a revenue-share model, with the percentage typically ranging from 10% to 16% of the casino’s gross gaming revenue (GGR) generated by their games.

UKGC-licensed casinos require remote-gaming certifications as per the conditions of their licence. This ensures that players are protected and can trust the games being offered, as they know the titles have been thoroughly tested for fairness, security, and compliance.

From Sketchpad to Lobby: How a Slot Is Made

The process an online software developer will go through when creating a slot game can be meticulous. They need to go through a range of six steps, all outlined below:

Ideation & Market Research

The first step will be to generate ideas and conduct market research. Developers and designers will come together to brainstorm ideas, using market trends and preferences to inform their approach and maximise the success that may be achieved.

While all titles are different, a timeline of between one and three months is often cited for this stage.

Prototype & Maths Model

The next step in the process is to create the prototype and test the mathematical model that is used. Mathematicians will design the return-to-player (RTP) algorithm, as well as aspects such as volatility, the frequency of symbol appearances, and how often the bonus game triggers.

It can involve a few weeks to complete, as they will need to test millions of spins using probability models, ensuring they find a balance between entertaining gameplay and profitability.

First Playable & Feature Tuning

Once the mathematical models have been created, online software developers can begin designing the game and creating the in-game visuals. This will include the symbols that are on the paytable, the game’s theme, and other animations that bring it to life. At the same time, features can be fine-tuned to meet the designs that have been implemented.

This process typically requires a large team of people (often up to 10) and spans a duration of between three and six months.

Compliance Build (RTP maths locked, UKGC checklist)

The game needs to be tested for compliance before it can be tested externally and released to the public. This involves developers locking the RTP that has been set, while also meeting criteria that the UKGC has set as per the conditions of their gaming licence.

It’s a process that can take another few months, with a compliance officer and QA team required to verify every aspect.

External Lab Testing (eCOGRA, iTech Labs)

Once they are satisfied with what has been produced and everything has been thoroughly tested in-house, the slot game will be rigorously tested by an independent body. This may be eCOGRA, iTech Labs, or another body.

Here, the game will be tested for its random number generator (RNG) fairness, return-to-player (RTP) accuracy, and security protocols. Developers will have to pay for a certificate to prove the game’s authenticity, with the process taking between four and eight weeks. If it fails, it will be sent back and require further rework, which will delay the launch.

Launch & Aggregator Distribution

Once the game has been certified and passes all of its checks, it can be launched. Developers may decide to make it available via an aggregator or use their own direct API. Before launching, the team will need to complete all the marketing details that enable casinos to promote the game to players.

Example of a Typical Megaways Process

The Megaways brand of slot games is a widely enjoyed variant in the UK gaming market. It typically takes around nine months, on average, from start to finish to complete a title like this. It can also involve 15 or more specialists working together to form the game. A generic example could look like:

• Timeline: 9 months
• Team: 3 designers, 2 mathematicians, 5 artists, 3 developers, 2 QA testers
• RTP: 96.4%
• Certification: eCOGRA, UKGC
• Distribution: Aggregator partnership

Timeline & Staff Required for Slot Development

Phase	Duration	Key Roles Involved
Ideation	1–3 months	Game designers, analysts
Prototype	2–4 weeks	Mathematicians, developers
First Playable	3–6 months	Artists, animators, developers
Compliance	1–2 months	Compliance officers, QA
External Testing	1–2 months	Lab technicians
Launch	2–4 weeks	Marketing, aggregators

Developer Categories

Online casino software providers can be categorised into four distinct groups.

Legacy Giants

Legacy giants are the developers that have an established place in the market and are synonymous with players. Think IGT, Microgaming (now Games Global), Play’n GO, Playtech and more. They are the studios that have formed UK game libraries for decades, and are the providers that can be found offering a diverse game collection.

These giants also invest heavily in compliance, security, and omnichannel experiences, making them trusted partners for operators seeking stability and regulatory assurance. Their size allows for regular releases and branded content, making them perfect for UKGC-licensed operators.

Innovation-Driven Slot Boutiques

Some studios focus on slot innovations, with the likes of Hacksaw Gaming, NoLimit City, and Push Gaming among the most prevalent. They have reputations for creativity and risk-taking across the industry, as they focus on high-impact visuals, unique mechanics, and volatile gameplay that appeals to seasoned slot enthusiasts.

These studios typically operate with a smaller team, but can quickly react to trends and produce innovative titles. More often than not, titles from these developers can feature more favourable RTP rates than others, making them a very popular option.

Live-Dealer Specialists

Evolution is the undeniable leader of live dealer games, but Pragmatic Play, Playtech and OnAir can also challenge them with comprehensive variants. These studios typically focus on the live dealer niche of casino games, working as live casino software providers.

To ensure they provide an immersive experience, they invest heavily in high-definition studios, professional dealers, and seamless streaming technology, thereby ensuring authenticity and engagement. This is a winner for UK casinos, as they do not need to provide their own dealers to offer players a realistic gaming session.

Rising Indies & Aggregator‑Exclusive Studios

The UK online casino market has recently seen the rise of independent and aggregator-exclusive studios, with notable examples including Print Studios, Octoplay, and Bang Bang Games. Working in partnership with aggregators, they can access a large market without needing the resources others do.

To make themselves stand out, there has been a focus on originality in their games, utilising the latest innovations to create unique game experiences.

Licensing, RNG Audits & Fairness for UK Players

The UKGC has several requirements that software providers must meet. These are outlined in the Remote Gambling and Software Technical Standards (RTS). Rigorous testing, certification, and ongoing compliance monitoring are required to be carried out.

• UKGC Remote-Software Requirements: RNG outcomes must be “acceptably random” and verified using industry-standard tests. Security protocols must adhere to ISO/IEC 27001:2022 standards, while responsible gambling tools must be embedded into the game’s interface.
• Lab Certification & RTP Verification: Games must undergo pre- and post-launch testing and auditing.
• Game-Specific RTP Files & Reporting: The theoretical RTP must be published, with operators submitting regular reports that include game-level RTP performance, turnover, and win data. RTPs must be continually checked for discrepancies; if any are found, the game is withdrawn until the issue is fixed.

The UKGC does not currently recognise “provably fair” blockchain RNGs due to a couple of key issues. These include:

• Latency: Blockchain confirmation times (seconds/minutes) conflict with real-time gameplay demands.
• Audit Inaccessibility: Decentralised platforms prevent regulators from conducting audits of RNG systems.
• Smart Contract Risks: Vulnerabilities like front-running or timestamp exploits create security gaps.
• Licensing Gaps: Most provably fair platforms operate without traditional licensing, relying on player self-verification instead of third-party audits.

How Studios Make Money

Casino software providers commonly make money using four different methods:

1. Revenue Share
2. Flat-fee Distribution
3. Branded-IP Royalties
4. Progressive-Jackpot Liquidity Pools

Revenue Share

The most common method used, online software providers will use a revenue share model to earn money from the games they produce. This is where a studio receives a percentage of all spins wagered on the game over a specified period. The percentage can vary, but it isn’t uncommon to see it sit between 10% and 30%.

Flat-fee Distribution

Some studios opt for a flat fee when distributing their games as a means of guaranteeing a minimum level of revenue. Legacy developers have been known to use this model. An example may involve IGT, where they will charge an upfront fee for the casino to host their game, with monthly retainer fees added.

Branded-IP Royalties

The biggest game studios can often create titles using other brands and crossovers. They’ll need to pay royalties to the rights holders for doing so. This method will require the studio to pay a small percentage, which may be deducted from the revenue generated by using another method with the casino.

Progressive-Jackpot Liquidity Pools

A networked progressive jackpot game typically requires a casino operator to contribute between 1% and 4% of each stake to a shared prize pool. This money will then be held in a centrally managed “seed” fund for the eventual winner of the game. The studio will take its share from the chosen model once the game has paid out.

Example of a £1 Bet

As an example, this is how a £1 bet on a slot game could be distributed:

Component	Allocation (£)	Notes
Player Winnings (RTP)	£0.964	96.4% Return to Player
Operator Margin	£0.016	Gross profit after winnings
UK POC Tax (21%)	£0.0042	21% of operator margin
Game Royalties/IP Fees	£0.0015	~5% of NGR (if applicable)
Studio Revenue Share	£0.003	20% of NGR (example rate)
Progressive Contribution	£0.0003	0.03% of wager
Payment Processing	£0.011	Operator overhead

Key Metrics to Judge a Studio

To judge a studio, the following criteria should be considered:

• Average RTP: The average RTP of a game studio can be an indicator of how good it is. Is it above the industry average of 96%? Is it lower? Knowing this can help make informed decisions.
• Max-Win Ceilings: What are the maximum win amounts of their slots? Are they high/low compared to competitors?
• Volatility Range: Do they focus on a particular volatility range? Does the studio provide a variety of titles with different ranges?
• Feature Originality: Are the in-game features original? Does the studio look to provide originality, or are they similar to what is offered elsewhere?
• Server Uptime: Does the studio experience downtimes? Or, can they be considered reliable?
• Mobile Optimisation: Are the games released available on mobile?
• Responsible Gaming Tools: Has the studio encouraged responsible play? Do they provide in-game tools?
• Awards Won: Has the software provider won any industry awards? Have they been recognised for positivity or excellence?
• Player Views: What do other players feel about a specific studio? Are they happy/angry with what has been experienced?

Live Casino Game Developers

Live casino software providers operate slightly differently from slot and RNG table providers. They use various technologies to create game experiences, although programming and coding are still necessary to ensure smooth gameplay.

Live Casino Games use real humans as dealers, while they use streaming technologies to transport the game from a studio to a player’s device. They are streamed via high-definition cameras, with multiple angles and cinematic lighting, replicating the environment that would be received when in a physical setting. It is exactly the same for blackjack, roulette, poker, craps, or game shows.

Still, the technology stack used is extremely sophisticated and has many moving components that are essential:

• High-definition technology – streams are crystal clear
• Optical Character Recognition (OCR) – software translates physical actions to the screen (i.e. playing cards dealt or the pockets on the roulette wheel where the ball lands).
• Game Control Unit (GCU) – encodes and matches the video stream with the game in real time.

Headline Statistics & M&A Deals (2019‑2025)

The online casino industry continues to exhibit significant growth. In the UK, online gambling revenue grew 7% year-on-year to £1.45 billion ($1.93 billion) in Q1 2025, fueled by an 11% surge in slots revenue (£689 million).

It is challenging to know the exact number of active UKGC-licensed software providers, as this number changes quarterly. As of 2024’s numbers, there were more than 300 certified entities supplying content to the UK market.

The industry has involved many large mergers and acquisitions, with two notable instances:

• Evolution Gaming → NetEnt (£1.6bn, 2020)
• FDJ → Kindred Group (£2.06bn, 2024)

Evolution’s deal saw them take over 90% of NetEnt’s business, as they aimed to create a giant software provider by merging their live casino software provider offering with slots. The deal between FDJ and Kindred saw the La Française des Jeux (FDJ) take over 90.66% of the company’s share capital. This sees big brands like Unibet and 32Red become part of Europe’s second-largest gambling operator.

Studio Spotlights

NetEnt

NetEnt is one of the world’s biggest software providers for casino games. Founded in 1996 and based in Stockholm, they joined the Evolution Gaming group in 2020. They are known for many of their classic titles, with “Starburst” and “Dead or Alive” among the most recognisable. NetEnt has also been famed for its release of the ‘Avalanche’ mechanic, where symbols fall for consecutive wins. They are fully licensed by the UKGC.

Hacksaw Gaming

Hacksaw Gaming is a fast-rising studio based in Malta, founded in 2018. They have quickly gained a reputation for innovative, mobile-first slots such as “Chaos Crew” and “Wanted Dead or a Wild.” Hacksaw is renowned for its bold themes, which appeal to modern players. Their games are widely available at UK casinos, with full UKGC licensing.

Evolution

Evolution is the global leader in live casino content. Founded in 2006 and headquartered in Stockholm, they are best known for their flagship titles, including “Crazy Time” and “Lightning Roulette.” Their trademark is the live “game show” format, blending real-time interaction with multipliers and bonus rounds. Evolution is fully licensed by the UKGC.

Pragmatic Play

Pragmatic Play is a major supplier of both slots and live casino games. Founded in 2015 and based in Gibraltar, they are known for hits like “Gates of Olympus” and “Sweet Bonanza.” Their adaptive volatility settings let operators tailor game experiences to different player types. The studio is fully licensed by the UKGC.

Play’n GO

Play’n GO is a leading Swedish provider, founded in 2005 and operating globally with a strong presence in Malta. They are famous for blockbuster slots such as “Book of Dead” and “Reactoonz.” The ‘Dynamic Payways’ mechanic creates ever-changing reel patterns and win possibilities, making them a huge hit in the UK. They hold a full UKGC licence.

Yggdrasil

Yggdrasil is a Malta-based studio founded in 2013, with additional offices in Poland and Riga. They are renowned for their visually striking slots and unique Game Engagement Mechanics (GEMs), such as GigaBlox, DoubleMax, and Splitz. Popular titles include “Vikings Go Berzerk” and “Valley of the Gods.” The UKGC licenses them, making them a safe option for players.

Games Global

Games Global is one of the biggest casino software providers, headquartered in the Isle of Man and founded in 2021. After acquiring Microgaming’s distribution network, they now manage a vast portfolio including “Mega Moolah” and “Immortal Romance.” Games Global partners with over 36 studios and is fully licensed for the UK market.

Blueprint Gaming

Blueprint Gaming is a leading slot developer based in Newark, UK, and was founded in 2001. Their standout titles include “Genie Jackpots,” “Fishin’ Frenzy,” and “The Goonies.” Blueprint is renowned for its use of the Megaways mechanic, which offers thousands of ways to win and dynamic reel layouts. The UKGC fully licenses the studio, and their titles can be found widely across UK online casinos.

BGaming

BGaming is a rising star, headquartered in Valletta, Malta, and founded in 2018. They are known for innovative, mobile-optimised titles like “Elvis Frog in Vegas.” BGaming’s signature is its Provably Fair technology, allowing players to verify game fairness independently. The studio holds UKGC certification, ensuring its games are available and trusted for UK players.

Betsoft Gaming

Betsoft Gaming, founded in 2006 and headquartered in Malta, is renowned for its cinematic 3D slots, including “The Slotfather” and “Sugar Pop.” Their signature feature is immersive, movie-like animation and interactive bonus rounds. Betsoft’s games are certified by independent labs and are available at many UK casinos, with the studio holding a UKGC licence for regulated distribution.

Relax Gaming

Relax Gaming was created and established in 2010 and are based in Malta. They have built a reputation for fast-paced, feature-rich slots like the “Money Train” series and “Temple Tumble Megaways.” Their flagship mechanics include massive win potential and thrilling bonus features, making them a huge hit with the UK market. Relax Gaming is also a major platform provider, distributing games from smaller studios from across Europe. The company is fully licensed by the UKGC, enabling players to enjoy its offerings without any concerns about their safety.

Emerging Trends

Casino software providers continue to implement new technologies where possible to enhance the immersion of their titles. The industry has already started to see the emergence of VR Casinos, although this is just the beginning, as new developments include:

• Crash & Plinko game engines
• VR/AR tables
• AI-driven personalised volatility
• Omnichannel branded IP
• Jackpot-layer outsourcing
• Studio-branded live “game shows”

Crash & Plinko game engines

Crash and Plinko game engines are a new type of gaming that have proven to be popular with players in the UK. They focus on physics, as they combine simplicity with high volatility. They are just as unpredictable as any other casino game, but can provide big rewards, enhancing casino gameplay further.

VR/AR tables

With the emergence of VR Casinos, online casino software providers have worked to incorporate the technology into table games. Players can find options that allow them to feel as if they are at an actual table in a casino, and play the games as if they were there in person.

AI-driven personalised volatility

Personalisation is a significant area of focus for online casinos and software providers. Developers are incorporating machine-learning tech into their games to tailor each offering to create unique experiences. In terms of volatility, games can match the player’s betting behaviours and provide a session that matches their risk level.

Omnichannel branded IP

Using technologies that help to create an experience that can be enjoyed both online and in a physical casino, software developers can potentially increase their revenues by offering games that can be played anywhere.

Jackpot-layer outsourcing

Software developers can outsource the jackpots that can be won within their games to specialised firms, allowing them to focus on other aspects. It can also help them to save costs during the development process, as they may not have to focus on linking to a network or developing aspects that require more time than other game elements.

Studio-branded live “Game Shows”

A trend that has already been experienced across the industry, Evolution and Pragmatic Play are notable examples of how studio-branded live game shows are becoming more widespread. These games give developers the chance to increase their revenues, build a bigger reputation, and have more control over the titles they offer, including personalisation.

How to Check a Game’s Authenticity Yourself

To check a game’s authenticity, players can do it themselves. The following steps should be taken:

1. Check the game’s information: Opening the information section within a game can provide key details about the game’s mechanics and mathematical elements. The RTP, volatility, paylines, and other key features can be found here, along with the game’s ID and certification stamp.
2. Read the Paytable: Reading the paytable can prove very beneficial in checking a game’s authenticity. While it displays the symbols, payouts for specific combinations, paylines, and how bonuses can be triggered, it will often also include the RTP and volatility rates.
3. Cross-check the Provider: It is possible to cross-check the game against the public register on the UKGC site. Documents on the site will provide detailed information about the developer from a legal perspective.

Different Developers for Different Games

Slots

• NetEnt
• Play’n GO
• Pragmatic Play
• Games Global
• IGT
• Playtech
• Yggdrasil
• NoLimit City
• Inspired Gaming
• Hacksaw Gaming
• Blueprint Gaming
• BetSoft
• ELK
• BGaming
• Quickspin
• Thunderkick
• Relax Gaming
• Wazdan

Blackjack

• Evolution
• Playtech
• Pragmatic Play
• Wazdan
• OnAir Entertainment
• NetEnt
• Play’n GO
• Red Tiger

Roulette

• Evolution
• Inspired Gaming
• Pragmatic Play
• Playtech
• Play’n GO
• NetEnt

Poker

• Evolution
• Playtech
• Play’n GO
• EvenBet Gaming

Baccarat

• Evolution
• NetEnt
• Games Global
• OnAir Entertainment
• Red Tiger

Table Games

• Evolution
• NetEnt
• Play’n GO
• Games Global
• Red Tiger

Game Shows

• Evolution
• Pragmatic Play
• Playtech
• OnAir Entertainment

Responsible‑Gambling Design & Studio Duty of Care

Casino software providers play a similarly significant role in promoting responsible gambling as operators do. The UKGC prioritises this, as it aims to reduce and eliminate harmful gaming experiences for players. Software providers follow these rules by implementing various features within their game titles. These include:

• Stake Caps
• Reality-Check Prompts
• Low-Stakes Demo Modes

As of April 2025, the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) mandates a maximum stake of £5 per spin on online slots for adults aged 25 and over; £2 for players aged 18 to 24. Reality-check prompts are on-screen reminders that appear at set intervals during play, alerting users to how long they’ve been playing and offering the option to take a break or continue. Demos provide risk-free experiences.

In the UK, the bonus-buy feature has been banned. The UKGC determined that such features encourage riskier play and can prompt users to spend more than they intended. The primary benefit of the feature was to ensure the triggering of a bonus, but players would have to increase their stake to activate it significantly.

To learn more about responsible gambling, visit our dedicated pages. Alternatively, players can use the following resources:

• GamStop: A service for self-exclusion from online gambling sites.
• GambleAware: Offers advice and resources for responsible gambling.
• GamCare: Provides support and counselling for gambling-related issues.

Main Takeaways

Casino software providers are the companies responsible for the casino games that can be played on a UKGC-licensed site. They are the studios that develop the designs, themes, and mathematical elements of each title, including the RTP and volatility rates.

There are many different options across the UK market, from live casino software providers to those that develop RNG games. Each of them has had to follow strict guidelines and rules to offer their titles to a casino with a UKGC licence, ensuring players are protected. Regular audits are continually undertaken to ensure games remain safe.

Players can verify the authenticity of a game’s fairness and trustworthiness by examining the information and paytables, or by checking the software provider’s legitimacy and licensing status with the UKGC. Still, a casino with a valid licence should be enough to put a player’s mind at ease, as it will be audited regularly to ensure compliance.

TL;DR:

• Casino software providers create games
• Responsible for designs, gameplay, and math models involved
• Slots can take several months from start to finish regarding production and release
• The average RTP for slots is 96%; table games are often higher
• All games are audited and tested by independent bodies like eCOGRA, iTech Labs, or others
• The UK has several studios that are legal to operate
• Players can check the legitimacy and authenticity themselves by looking for UKGC, eCOGRA, or iTech Labs logos
• Responsible gambling tools are implemented within games

FAQs

What does an RTP audit certificate actually prove?

An RTP (Return to Player) audit certificate proves that a casino game’s actual payout performance matches the RTP percentage advertised. It confirms the game operates fairly and as designed.

Why do two casinos sometimes show different RTPs for the same slot?

Casinos can show different RTP rates for the same slot because the software provider may set a range. The casino can pick and choose which rate it wants to set.

Are progressive jackpots pooled across every UK site?

No, progressive jackpots are only pooled across the network the games are on. They can appear on several UK sites, but only if the casino features that network of games.

What’s the practical difference between an aggregator and a developer?

A developer is the designer of a game, spanning from pre-production to post-production of a title, encompassing everything in between. An aggregator will host the finished game on its network.

Can unlicensed indie studios legally supply games to UK players?

No, unlicensed indie studios cannot legally supply games to UK players. The relevant licences are required to operate in the UK market.

Which studios specialise in low‑volatility, low‑stake titles?

There are many studios known for producing low-volatility, low-stakes titles. NetEnt, Thunderkick, Playtech, IGT, Pragmatic Play, and Yggdrasil have all created titles in the past, with some continuing to build on this area today.

How long does it typically take to build a modern video slot from concept to launch?

Although the timeframe varies for each studio, it typically takes around nine months for a modern video slot to be launched. Several moving parts need to be completed, with many being a prerequisite before the next stage of the concept can begin.

Do live‑dealer suppliers use weighted dice or are streams independently audited?

No, they do not use weighted dice or other aspects to influence the outcome of their games. They are independently checked by iTech Labs, eCOGRA, and other bodies, as they conduct on-site inspections and remote testing.

Why are so many providers based in Malta and Sweden?

There are several online casino software providers located in Malta and Sweden due to a combination of regulatory, economic, and strategic advantages unique to each country. This can include taxation benefits, technological advances and access to a talented employee pool.

Does a developer’s revenue share affect my long‑term return as a player?

No, the developer’s revenue share does not impact the player’s long-term returns. This is separate from the RTP rate that has been set, and is not influenced by how much money the casino software provider receives with each bet placed.