Swedish-based Evolution (formally Evolution Gaming) has begun acquiring Australian online slots provider Big Time Gaming.
Evolution, a worldwide provider known for its live casino games, has entered into negotiations to purchase popular Megaways slot provider Big Time Gaming. The deal is expected to go through at the cost of approximately $534.5 million.
Jens von Bahr, chairman of Evolution, released a statement saying, “With the addition of Big Time Gaming to our portfolio of slot brands, we strengthen our strategic position as the leading provider of digital casino games in the world. Big Time’s focus on innovation and creating unique playing experiences is a great fit with our culture and mindset at Evolution. We look forward to continuing our journey together.”
The chief executive at Big Time Gaming, Nik Robinson, added, “Evolution and Big Time Gaming are both driven by innovation, hence the perfect match. A bright and entertaining future awaits our players.”
Another coup for Evolution
The acquisition of BTG comes on the heels of Evolution also acquiring the online slot provider NetEnt.
That deal went through at the cost of approximately $2.3 billion.
While the NetEnt deal saw hundreds of employees declared redundant, the acquisition of Big Time Gaming is not expected to have similar results.
What can players expect?
This latest move from Evolution sets them up to be one of the world’s largest online game providers.
Previously, Evolution’s brand led the industry in terms of live dealer games. Their tables dominate live casinos in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Michigan.
Acquiring NetEnt provided them with one of the largest online slot catalogs in the world. By adding Big Time Gaming to their list of acquisitions, they will also have the most extensive library of Megaways slots.
This deal also means that any casino with an agreement with Evolution will also carry the online slots they are acquiring and vice versa. This is excellent news for fans of online casinos as they will now likely have access to a wider variety of games to play.
As Evolution seeks to become a titan in the iGaming industry, it’ll be interesting to see what their next big move will be.