The iGaming industry is very competitive, and as such, there are a lot of casinos and providers trying to prove they’re the best. It’s true that some providers are more well-known than others, but how much do you actually know about what makes them so popular? In this article, we’ll see what factors determine the best providers and shed some light on who the top players in the industry are.

What Games Are in Demand?

One of the things that makes certain providers more popular than others is the types of games they develop. If a provider continues to meet the ever-changing trends of the gambling industry, they’re more likely to stay popular among players.

• Slots: Slots remain the most popular type of casino game, as there are just so many possibilities. From new payline technologies to graphics that evolve with technology, providers always seem to be coming up with something new that retains the interest of players.
• Live Casino: While almost every provider will have some slots in their selection, few are exclusively dedicated to live dealer games. But since live tables have a wide and loyal audience, those that do develop them easily stay at the top of the game. In fact, some providers like Evolution have become iconic for their live games and their name is synonymous with high quality.
• Table Games: Though video table games aren’t as popular as slots and live tables, they still have a loyal audience. Developers that make them are usually famous for other types of games, though that popularity helps them get recognition for video Roulette, Blackjack, or Poker titles.

Other Factors to Consider

Aside from staying on top of trends, some other factors also contribute to provider popularity:

• Licensing: If a provider has one or more RNG certifications, it means they’re more reputable and trustworthy. In turn, this also makes them more popular.
• Innovation: People always want to see something new, so those who go out of their way to play with themes and mechanics will always be successful.
• Industry Knowledge: Experience speaks volumes and allows providers to deeply understand their players’ wants and needs. Those who listen and learn from the past tend to be more popular today.

Top 10 Software Providers

Playtech

Founded in 1999, Playtech is one of the oldest providers on the market that managed to keep a recognisable name all these years. The brand first gained popularity with Poker games, but now offers slots and live casino games as well. You are probably familiar with their ‘Age of the Gods’ slot series based on Greek mythology, Mega Fire Blaze Roulette, and Live Football Roulette.

Aside from such a diverse portfolio, what sets Playtech apart is its player-centric approach and emphasis on safe gambling. In fact, the provider holds certifications from both MGA and UKGC, making them a trustworthy and reputable brand.

Pragmatic Play

Regardless of how familiar you are with gambling, if you’ve played any slot, it’s likely been a Pragmatic Play one. This provider has brought us all-time favourites like Sweet Bonanza, The Dog House, and of course, Big Bass Bonanza. There are so many themes in their portfolio, each powered by superior graphics, that players all over the world can find something they like.

Still, it would be wrong to say that Pragmatic Play is only famous for its slots. After all, we can’t forget one of the most innovative live casino titles that they proudly display: Mega Sic Bo!

Play’n GO

From enticing table games to some of the most popular slots of all time, Play’n GO is definitely a name you’ll see often in online casinos. In fact, they’re the mastermind behind genre-changing games like Book of Dead and Fire Joker! Aside from unforgettable animation and excellent game mechanics, the provider also has the most memorable soundtracks that will take your experience to a whole new level. That’s why it’s no surprise that Play’n GO wants to start collaborating with famous artists to create even catchier soundtracks.

If you don’t have a lot of experience with this provider yet, we recommend you find out the latest game reviews and see what makes them so special. We’re sure you’ll fall in love!

Evolution

As we already briefly mentioned, Evolution is most famous for its live casino titles. Crazy Time, Lighting Roulette, and Diamond VIP Live Blackjack are just some of the titles you’ll instantly recognise. What makes their live games so popular is the professional staff, perfect broadcasting quality, and authentic studios.

Even if a casino doesn’t have a lot of live games, the ones available are very likely to be Evolution titles.

Top Spin

This iconic Indian provider is bringing desi culture to your screen in style. From 3 Patti to Raja Mantri Chor Sipahi, Top Spin comes out with the most innovative slots tied to Indian heritage. The backstory and cultural context make the games even more special, so it’s no wonder they resonate so much with Asian audiences.

The themes blend in perfectly with the simple mechanics, giving you the full experience with no learning curve. You’ll find these games at most Indian casinos, as well as the best international operators.

Nolimit City

If you’re a fan of mature themes, spooky soundtracks, and gritty graphics, then Nolimit City slots are your cup of tea. The studio’s name suggests what types of games they come out with, so it’s no surprise that some of their most famous titles are Tombstone R.I.P., Mental, and Folsom Prison. This unorthodox process of game development is what sets Nolimit City apart from other providers and what keeps its audience so engaged. You simply never know what to expect!

From a technical standpoint, people also like this provider as they know the slots are proven fair. After all, the studio holds certifications from MGA, Isle of Man, UKGC, Ontario, Sweden, and Romania. Aside from trust, the RNG certificates from various countries allow Nolimit City to work with operators all over the world, making them even more accessible and popular.

Ezugi

Those who have visited an online casino or two already will definitely be familiar with Ezugi. Much like Evolution, this provider is most famous for their fantastic live dealer games. Their portfolio is full of classics like Ultimate Roulette and Ultimate Sic Bo, but they also have some desi titles like Ultimate Andar Bahar. And of course, who could forget about Cricket War and Dream Catcher?

The beautiful studios, experienced hosts, and thrilling game twists are what make this provider stand out from the crowd. Aside from that, the studio offers a range of VIP games perfect for high rollers looking for higher limits and special features.

NetEnt

This list wouldn’t be complete without the provider who gave us titles that entered the Slot Hall of Fame. After all, we’re sure you still play Starburst and Gonzo’s Quest. In fact, these games even inspired a franchise and live versions! Aside from slots, NetEnt is well-known for its classic live dealer games, including Live Blackjack and Roulette.

Those who like table games have surely played NetEnt’s Baccarat, Craps, and Sic Bo. With such a well-rounded portfolio and over 20 years of experience, it’s no wonder this studio is still so talked about.

Yggdrasil

Best known for its clean and cutting-edge animation, Yggdrasil made a name for itself with titles like Vikings Go To Hell, Ozwn’s Jackpots, and Golden Fish Tank. The provider boasts over 70 themes, meaning that it attracts a wide range of players. There’s simply something in it for everyone. Recently, the studio has also expanded their portfolio with Golden Chip Roulette and we’re looking forward to seeing even more exciting table games in the future.

What we like most about Yggdrasil is that in-game jackpots are common, making their slots more rewarding. As well as that, the provider often partners with online casinos for special promotions and tournaments that keep the slot community alive!

Microgaming

Microgaming has been active since 1994 and remains a true trendsetter in the industry today. This is the studio that gave you Thunderstruck II and Mega Moolah, as well as Live Casino Hold’em and Live Baccarat. Today, you’ll find these titles under the studio name Games Global, as Microgaming has diversified its portfolio.

The sale to Games Global goes hand in hand with Microgaming’s top core value: innovation. In the last 30 years, players from all over the world have come to rely on this studio’s creativity and dedication to entertainment. The 60+ rewards Microgaming received seem to prove that those players put their trust in the right place!

Conclusion

As you can see, there are many amazing providers that you should check out if you haven’t already. Whether you’re into slots, table games, or live casino games, you’re bound to find a developer that suits your preferences. The only real way to find a favourite, though, is to go around a few casinos and test them all out!