Play’n GO Joins Betika to Enter the African Market

In a move that signals a new approach in the African gaming market, Play'n GO has expanded its reach through a partnership with Kenyan operator Betika. While this collaboration opens up access to popular Play'n GO titles such as Book of Dead, Rise of Olympus, and Gemix in Kenya, Ghana, Tanzania, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Zambia, and Uganda, there's growing concern among players that the games will feature lower RTP (Return to Player) rates, potentially leading to less favourable outcomes for those playing in the region.

With the integration of Play'n GO's portfolio into Betika's platform, the games will now be available to a broader audience, but the reduced RTP percentages may result in players seeing fewer returns on their wagers compared to other markets. This tactic, often seen as a way for game providers to maximise profits, raises questions about whether African players will face an uphill battle in terms of winning potential.

Magnus Olsson, CCO at Play'n GO, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, saying: "We're very excited to announce this partnership with Betika, which gives us entry into several new markets for Play'n GO." However, this excitement doesn't seem to consider the fact that players in these markets could be subject to lower payout structures.

Olsson further highlighted Betika's significance as a major operator in Africa, stating that the partnership aims to promote a "regulated, sustainable industry." Yet, the introduction of lower RTP games might indicate that sustainability comes at the cost of players' odds of winning.

Peter Stagles, Head of Gaming at Betika, also lauded the collaboration, stating: "Play'n GO's impressive lineup of games is the perfect complement to our platform and we are confident that this collaboration will set new standards in the African gaming industry." However, these "new standards" may leave players with a less rewarding gaming experience, as lower RTPs become the norm in the region.

As Betika continues to secure other partnerships, including a recent deal with Kiron Interactive in Kenya, the concern is that African players will increasingly be subject to unfavourable terms compared to their counterparts in other regions, furthering the profits of gaming providers at the expense of local players.