The announcement that LeoVegas Group is launching a new in-house gaming studio might seem exciting at first glance, but the underlying motives raise serious questions about the integrity of this casino. Recently, LeoVegas lowered the RTP (Return to Player) percentage across its games, which has resulted in its status being deemed "Doubtful" in our ratings. This move seems primarily aimed at boosting profits at the expense of players, leaving us skeptical about their new studio’s offerings.

Concerns About RTP

LeoVegas Group is stepping into game development while having already demonstrated a willingness to diminish the players' potential returns. With an RTP reportedly dipping to as low as 70% for some games, it’s hard to trust that this new venture will prioritize player interests. We wouldn’t be surprised if the new studio's games continue this trend of low RTP, potentially making them more profitable for LeoVegas but far less rewarding for players.

Lack of Transparency

Our prediction is that finding RTP information for the games developed by this new studio will be a daunting task. The lack of transparency surrounding game mechanics and return rates is concerning, especially given LeoVegas's recent history. The new studio, under the leadership of Mats Andersson, may claim to use extensive player data, but it’s hard to ignore the feeling that this data is more about maximizing profits than enhancing player experience.

First Game Launch: “Where Pigeons Dare”

The first game from the studio, “Where Pigeons Dare,” is set to release on September 25, 2024. Marketed as a medium volatility cluster pay slot with exciting features like wild modifiers and progressive multipliers, it is crucial to scrutinize how this game measures up in terms of RTP and overall fairness. Given LeoVegas’s recent behavior, there’s reason to be cautious about whether it will truly align with player interests.

Statements of Intent

James Ford, the Director of Gaming at LeoVegas Group, claims that this new venture allows them to develop exclusive, innovative games tailored to meet evolving player needs. However, one has to wonder if this is just a façade. When profit margins are prioritized over fair play, players may find themselves on the losing end.

Conclusion

As LeoVegas Group ventures into the realm of game development, we urge players to remain vigilant. While they may produce a steady stream of games in the coming years, their recent actions regarding RTP and player returns paint a concerning picture. Until we can see the transparency and fairness in their new offerings, we advise caution and a critical eye when engaging with this casino and its new studio.