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NetEnt Casinos For South Africa

Welcome to this fans’ site dedicated to NetEnt casino sites. This is not an ‘official’ site. We are not linked to NetEnt or its current owner, Evolution, in any way. We are not sponsored or supported by them, nor do we receive any financial payments from them.

This is a fans’ site, pure and simple!  NetEnt is responsible for creating hundreds of slots available on NetEnt casinos today.

With its superb graphics and innovative designs, Net Ent (also known as Net Entertainment) is the name behind many of the most popular slots and casino games.

Top NetEnt Casino Sites

List of the best NetEnt online casino sites: most of the casinos below have free spins on NetEnt slots as part of their welcome bonus or have many of the suites of NetEnt slots available.

PlayJango

PlayJango

Welcome Bonus

100% Bonus Up To R1,000 + 25 Bonus Spins

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Terms & Conditions: Welcome offer 100% up to R1,000 and 25 Free Spins on Starburst. Automatically credited upon deposit. Cancellation can be requested. First Deposit Only. Max. Bonus R1,000. Maximum amount of Free Spins is 25. Game: Starburst, Spin Value: R1. WR of 30x Deposit + Bonus amount and 60x Free Spin winnings amount (only Slots count) within 30 days. Maximum bet is 10% (min R1) of the free spin winnings and bonus amount or R50 (lowest amount applies). Irregular play may lead to removal of bonus. Spins must be used and/or Bonus must be claimed before using deposited funds. Deposit/Welcome Bonus can only be claimed once every 72 hours across all Casinos. *Games are subject to availability. Bonus Policy applies.
CasiGo
CasiGo

Welcome Bonus

200% Bonus Up To R2,000 + 100 Bonus Spins

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CasiGo is designed to be just that, your one stop casino on the go. Making it easier than ever to gamble on your mobile device whether that's tablet or mobile phone. The CasiGo website is designed not just to provide you with mobile-friendly games but has a simple layout which is not just easy to navigate but pleasing on the eye too. You have a hall of fame as you are greeted on the homepage showing off some of the...More Information for CasiGo

Terms & Conditions: Welcome package up to ZAR 11,000 and 375 Spins on Book of Dead over 4 deposits. 200% up to ZAR2,000 and 100 bonus spins on 1st deposit. 18+ New players only. One welcome package per player. Maximum bonus bet ZAR50. Minimum deposit ZAR100. All spins are on slot game Book of Dead only. Bonus funds must be used within 30 days and bonus spins within 10 days. Spins winnings credited as bonus funds and capped to the number of spins awarded. Bonus funds separate to cash funds and are subject to 35x wagering and withdrawal requirements. Full terms apply.
Swift Casino
Swift Casino

Welcome Bonus

100% Bonus Up To R1,000 + 50 Bonus Spins

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Swift Casino provides a comprehensive online gaming platform for casino players seeking a variety of games and accessible features. Operated by Skill On Net Limited, this casino runs on the SkillOnNet platform, known for powering multiple established brands. For those exploring options like Swift Casino mobile compatibility, this review covers essential details about registration, games, payments, and more to help inform your decision. Registration at Swift Casino Signing up at Swift Casino involves a straightforward process typical of most online...More Information for Swift Casino

Terms & Conditions: Welcome offer 100% up to R1,000 and 50 Free Spins on Book of Dead. Code SWIFT required. Minimum deposit R100. Automatically credited upon deposit. Cancellation can be requested. First Deposit Only. Max. Bonus R1,000. Maximum amount of Free Spins is 50. Game: Book of Dead, Spin Value: R2. WR of 30x Deposit + Bonus amount and 60x Free Spin winnings amount (only Slots count) within 30 days. Maximum bet is 10% (min R1) of the free spin winnings and bonus amount or R50 (lowest amount applies). Spins must be used and/or Bonus must be claimed before using deposited funds. Deposit/Welcome Bonus can only be claimed once every 72 hours across all Casinos. *Games are subject to availability. Bonus Policy applies. Bonus Policy applies.
Bzeebet
Bzeebet

Welcome Bonus

100% Bonus Up To R8,000 + 100 Bonus Spins

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Delve into the world of online gaming with this detailed review of Bzeebet, a platform that combines casino entertainment and sportsbook services. Operated by Aspire Global International LTD, a Malta-based company holding a licence from the Malta Gaming Authority (MGA/CRP/148/2007), Bzeebet runs on the robust Aspire Global software. This overview of Bzeebet casino explores essential aspects such as registration, payment options, game selection, mobile access, and support services, providing a clear picture for anyone considering this platform. Signing Up at...More Information for Bzeebet

Terms & Conditions: Welcome Package worth up to R16,000 + 100 Spins over 3 deposits, starting with 100% up to R8,000 deposit match bonus + 100 Spins on 1st deposit. Spins are given in 5 batches of 20 Spins on 9 Masks of Fire, Rich Wilde and the Book of Dead, Fire Joker, Fishin' Pots Of Gold, and Big Bass Bonanza. 18+. New players only. Minimum deposit: R160 for 1st, 2nd & 3rd deposit. 100 spins on 1st deposit divided over 5 days. Spins and bonus wagering requirement: 35x, spins expire after 24 hours. BeGambleAware.org Terms apply
Millionaire
Millionaire

Welcome Package

No spins Welcome Package

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Millionaire Casino delivers a structured online gaming experience for casino players worldwide. Operated by Winners Media Ltd, this platform runs on the ProgressPlay software, a recognised name in the online casino industry. For those exploring options within similar networks, it’s worth noting that Millionaire connects to a range of platforms often discussed as millionaire games sister sites, providing a familiar framework for users familiar with this group. Signing Up at Millionaire Joining Millionaire involves a clear and standard registration process....More Information for Millionaire

Terms & Conditions: 150 Free Spins Welcome Package over 3 spins, starting with 50 Free Spins on Book of Dead on 1st deposit. New Players Only. Minimum deposit R200. Wager from real balance first. 50X wager the bonus. Contribution varies per game. Selected games only. Wager calculated on bonus bets only. Bonus valid 30 days / Free spins valid 7 days from receipt. Maximum conversion: 3 times the bonus amount or from free spins: R400. Withdrawal requests void all active/pending bonuses. Full Terms apply
Dukes Casino

Dukes Casino

Welcome Bonus

100% Bonus Up To R6,000 + 33 Free Spins No Deposit

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Terms & Conditions: Welcome offer 33 Free Spins on Diamonds of the Realm on Registration plus 100% up to R6,000 + 30 more Free Spins On Diamonds of the Realm on 1st deposit. New Players Only. Minimum Deposit R200. Wager from real balance first. 50X wager the bonus. Contribution varies per game. Selected games only. Wager calculated on bonus bets only. Bonus valid 30 days / Free spins valid 7 days from receipt. Maximum conversion: 3 times the bonus amount or from free spins: R400. Withdrawal requests void all active/pending bonuses. Full Terms apply Please play responsibly. www.gambleaware.org
Luna Casino
Luna Casino

Welcome Bonus

100% Bonus Up To R1,000 + 50 Bonus Spins

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Luna Casino stands as a notable option for online casino players seeking a reliable platform with a diverse game selection. Operated by Skill On Net Limited, a company based in Cyprus, this casino runs on the SkillOnNet software, which drives its interface and gaming experience. For those exploring options within the same network, Luna Casino sister sites offer similar operational frameworks, providing a consistent standard across multiple platforms. Signing Up at Luna Casino Creating an account at Luna Casino involves...More Information for Luna Casino

Terms & Conditions: Welcome offer 100% up to R1,000 and 50 Free Spins on Book of Dead. Code LUNA required. Minimum deposit R100. Automatically credited upon deposit. Cancellation can be requested. First Deposit Only. Max. Bonus R1,000. Maximum amount of Free Spins is 50. Game: Book of Dead, Spin Value: R2. WR of 30x Deposit + Bonus amount and 60x Free Spin winnings amount (only Slots count) within 30 days. Maximum bet is 10% (min R1) of the free spin winnings and bonus amount or R50 (lowest amount applies). Spins must be used and/or Bonus must be claimed before using deposited funds. Deposit/Welcome Bonus can only be claimed once every 72 hours across all Casinos. *Games are subject to availability. Bonus Policy applies. Bonus Policy applies.
Jonny Jackpot
Jonny Jackpot

Welcome Bonus

100% Bonus Up To R4,000 + 50 Bonus Spins

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Wondering who Jonny Jackpot is? Well, you'll be greeted by this gentleman as you load onto this simple but fun gaming site. He's standing there in his smart suit, waving his hand showing off the latest bonus promotions they have to offer. He seems like he's going to give us some good odds, but let's see how he runs things around here. Underneath this promotion page you will see a section called ‘Games Jonny is Loving’ which gives you the...More Information for Jonny Jackpot

Terms & Conditions: Welcome offer 100% up to ZAR4,000 & 50 bonus spins on 1st deposit. 18+ New players only. Minimum deposit ZAR100. Winnings from bonus spins are credited as bonus funds and capped at an amount 1 times the number of spins assigned (e.g. 100 bonus spins on first deposit have a max. win cap of ZAR1,000). All spins valid on Legacy of Dead. Bonus funds expire after 30 days, Spins after 10 days. Maximum bonus bet ZAR50. Bonus funds are separate to Cash funds and are subject to 35x wagering req. (dep+bonus+spins). Terms Apply. Please Play Responsibly. GamblingTherapy.org.
Magic Red
Magic Red

Welcome Bonus

100% Bonus Up To R1,600

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Magic Red Casino stands as a notable option for online gaming, operated by Aspire Global International Ltd. This platform leverages the robust Aspire Global software, ensuring a reliable foundation for casino players worldwide. For those exploring potential offers, searching for a Magic Red bonus code can provide additional value when signing up or engaging with the site. Signing Up at Magic Red Creating an account at Magic Red is a simple process with no associated fees. New users need to...More Information for Magic Red

Terms & Conditions: Welcome offer 100% up to R1600. New depositing players only. Minimum deposit R160. Wagering requirement 40x. Promotion available for 72 hours. Full terms apply.
Mr Jack Vegas

Mr Jack Vegas

Welcome Bonus

200% Bonus Up To R6,000 + 40 Free Spins No Deposit

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Terms & Conditions: Welcome offer 40 Free Spins on Registration on Cash-a-Cabana. Plus get 200% up to R6000 Bonus and 40 more Free Spins on Cash-a-Cabana on 1st deposit. New Players Only. Minimum Deposit R200. Wager from real balance first. 50X wager the bonus. Contribution varies per game. Selected games only. Wager calculated on bonus bets only. Bonus valid 30 days / Free spins valid 7 days from receipt. Maximum conversion: 3 times the bonus amount or from free spins: R400. Withdrawal requests void all active/pending bonuses. Full Terms Apply
Maxiplay

Maxiplay

Welcome Bonus

200% Bonus Up To $400

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Terms & Conditions: NEW IMPROVED 200% up to $400 Bonus on 1st deposit. New players only. Minimum deposit $10. Wagering from real balance first. 50X wagering the bonus or any winnings from free spins. Contribution varies per game. Selected games only. The wagering requirement calculated on bonus bets only. Bonus is valid for 30 days from receipt. Free spins are valid for 7 days from receipt. Maximum conversion: 3 times the bonus amount or from free spins: $20. Limited to 5 brands within the network. Withdrawal requests void all active/pending bonuses. Excluded Skrill and Neteller deposits. Full Terms apply
HippoZino
HippoZino

Welcome Bonus

200% Bonus Up To R6,000 + 55 Free Spins No Deposit

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Heavier than the average gaming site and secured by Sectigo, Hippozino is one of the top UK gaming sites offering plenty of big titles. These titles come from some of the best game providers such as Scientific Games and Microgaming. There's so much choice here with 850+ games, from which you'll recognize names like Odin's Riches and Bullion Bars. Hippozino makes it very easy to switch between categories of games from the top menu. You have options for live casino,...More Information for HippoZino

Terms & Conditions: Exclusive welcome 55 Free Spins on Registration on Beasts of Fire plus 200% up to R6,000 Bonus & 50 Free Spins on Beasts of Fire on 1st deposit. New players only. Minimum Deposit R200. Wagering occurs from real balance first. 50x wagering the bonus or any winnings generated from free spins. Contribution may vary per game. Available on selected games only. Wagering requirement is calculated on bonus bets only. Bonus valid for 30 days, free spins for 7 days from issue. Maximum conversion 3x bonus amount or from free spins R400. Excluded Skrill deposits. Withdrawal requests void all active/pending bonuses. Full terms apply.
RedAxePlay

RedAxePlay

Welcome Bonus

100% Bonus Up To R4,000 + 25 Bonus Spins

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Terms & Conditions: Welcome offer 100% up to R4,000 and 25 Free Spins on Book of Dead. New Players Only. Minimum Deposit R200. Wager from real balance first. 50X wager the bonus. Contribution varies per game. Selected games only. Wager calculated on bonus bets only. Bonus valid 30 days / Free spins valid 7 days from receipt. Maximum conversion: 3 times the bonus amount or from free spins: R400. Withdrawal requests void all active/pending bonuses. Full Terms apply
Mr Superplay

Mr Superplay

Welcome Bonus

150% Bonus Up To R3,000 + 33 Free Spins No Deposit

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Terms & Conditions: Welcome offer 33 Free Spins on Merlin's Grimoire on Registration plus 150% up to R3000 and 30 more Spins on Merlin's Grimoire on 1st deposit. New players only. Minimum Deposit R200. Wagering occurs from real balance first. 50x wager the bonus. Contribution varies per game, selected games only. The wagering requirement is calculated on bonus bets only. Bonus is valid for 30 Days/ free spins valid for 7 days from issue. Maximum conversion 3 times the bonus amount or from free spins R400. Full terms apply.
Captain Spins
Captain Spins

Welcome Bonus

100% Bonus Up To R3,000 + 50 Bonus Spins

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Ahoy there and welcome aboard this is your captain speaking that's right it's Captain Spins! Sailing with this captain is bound to be worth your while, especially if you pick up some secret treasure while playing on this merry ship of slots. Landing on the home page you'll be greeted by the captain's top picks being the most popular slot games today. Also here are the promotions sitting in front of you with whichever bonus spins are out there at...More Information for Captain Spins

Terms & Conditions: Welcome offer 100% up to ZAR3,000 and 50 bonus spins on Book of Dead on 1st deposit. 18+. New players only. One welcome package per player. Maximum bonus bet ZAR50. Minimum deposit ZAR100. All spins are on slot game Book of Dead only. Bonus funds must be used within 30 days and bonus spins within 10 days. Spins winnings credited as bonus funds and capped to the number of spins awarded. Bonus funds separate to cash funds and are subject to 35x wagering and withdrawal requirements. Full Terms Apply. www.gamblingtherapy.org
Regent Play
Regent Play

Welcome Bonus

100% Bonus Up To R3,200 + 30 Bonus Spins

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Ever been shopping in London? Then you're bound to have been to Regent Street, the largest  and most prestigious shopping high street in the UK. This is where the Regent Play casino takes its name as you can see gold line streets with Union jacks draped across them as you enter the homepage. First thing you are greeted with is the most popular titles which you will recognise many of and include titles like Book of Mayan and Jaguar Gold....More Information for Regent Play

Terms & Conditions: 1st Deposit 100% bonus up to R3,200 and 30 spins. Minimum deposit R320. Offer only applies to new players. Unused spins expire 24hrs after being issued. Bonuses that require a deposit must have the bonus amount wagered 35 times. Winnings won with spins that require a deposit, have to be wagered 35 times your extra spins winnings. Full terms apply.
Slot Lux

Slot Lux

Welcome Bonus

Deposit R200 and get 50 Bonus Spins

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Terms & Conditions: 125 Free Spins Welcome Package over 3 spins, starting with 50 Free Spins on Book of Dead on 1st deposit. New Players Only. Minimum deposit R200. Wager from real balance first. 50X wager the bonus. Contribution varies per game. Selected games only. Wager calculated on bonus bets only. Bonus valid 30 days / Free spins valid 7 days from receipt. Maximum conversion: 3 times the bonus amount or from free spins: R400. Withdrawal requests void all active/pending bonuses. Full Terms apply
5Gringos

5Gringos

Welcome Bonus

150% Bonus Up To R1,200

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Terms & Conditions: Welcome Bonus 150% up to R1,200 + 1 Bonus Crab. New players only. Opt in required. Minimum deposit 320 ZAR. Wagering requirement 50x amount of deposit + bonus within 10 days. Full terms apply. Alternative welcome offers available.
BB Casino

BB Casino

Welcome Bonus

Deposit R200 and get 25 Bonus Spins

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Terms & Conditions: Welcome package up to R6,000 + Free Spins, starting with 25 Free Spins on Gonzo's Quest on 1st deposit. New Players Only. Minimum Deposit R200. Wager from real balance first. 50X wager the bonus. Contribution varies per game. Selected games only. Wager calculated on bonus bets only. Bonus valid 30 days / Free spins valid 7 days from receipt. Maximum conversion: 3 times the bonus amount or from free spins: R400. Withdrawal requests void all active/pending bonuses. Full Terms apply
Las Vegas Casino

Las Vegas Casino

Welcome Bonus

100% Bonus Up To R8,000 + 40 Bonus Spins

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Terms & Conditions: Welcome package 100% up to R24,000 + 120 Free Spins over 3 deposits, starting with 100% up to R8,000 + 40 Free Spins on Mission Cash on 1st deposit. New Players Only. Minimum Deposit R200. Wagering occurs from real balance first. 50X wagering the bonus. Contribution may vary per game. Available on selected games only. The wagering requirement is calculated on bonus bets only. Bonus valid 30 Days from receipt / Free spins valid 7 days from receipt. Maximum conversion: 3 X the bonus amount. Limited to 5 brands within the network. Withdrawal requests void all active/pending bonuses. Excluded Skrill and Neteller deposits. Full Terms apply
Turbonino
Turbonino

Welcome Bonus

Deposit R100 and get 100 Bonus Spins

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Turbonino Casino is operated by SkillOnNet Ltd, this casino runs on the SkillOnNet software, a recognised name in the online gambling sector. With licences from respected bodies such as the Malta Gaming Authority and the UK Gambling Commission, Turbonino adheres to strict regulatory standards. This review delivers a detailed, impartial look at what casino players can expect when exploring this online gaming site. Signing Up at Turbonino Creating an account at Turbonino is a simple process that users can complete...More Information for Turbonino

Terms & Conditions: Welcome offer 100 Free Spins. First Deposit Only. Minimum deposit: R100, Game: Thor and the Trials of Asgard, Spin Value: R1., Max Free Spins: 100. WR 60x free spin winnings amount (only Slots count) within 30 days. Maximum bet is 10% (min R1) of the free spin winnings amount or R50 (lowest amount applies). Spins must be used and/or Bonus must be claimed before using deposited funds. Deposit/Welcome Bonus can only be claimed once every 72 hours across all Casinos. Bonus Policy applies.
Casino77

Casino77

Welcome Bonus

100% Bonus Up To R8,000 + 40 Bonus Spins

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Terms & Conditions: Welcome offer 100% up to R24,000 + 120 Free Spins over 3 deposits, starting with 100% up to R8,000 + 40 Free Spins on Mission Cash on 1st deposit. New Players Only. Minimum Deposit R200. Wagering occurs from real balance first. 50X wagering the bonus. Contribution may vary per game. Available on selected games only. The wagering requirement is calculated on bonus bets only. Bonus valid 30 Days from receipt / Free spins valid 7 days from receipt. Maximum conversion: 3 X the bonus amount. Limited to 5 brands within the network. Withdrawal requests void all active/pending bonuses. Excluded Skrill and Neteller deposits. Full Terms apply
AHTI Games
AHTI Games

Welcome Bonus

Deposit R1,000 and get 100 Bonus Spins

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Ahti is apparently a Finnish folk hero, which is reflected in the logo of a Viking type figure on the Ahti games website. Fortunately this gaming site is certainly not set in viking times, it's completely up to date with over 2000 online casino games. You'll see all the popular titles like Cleopatra and Shaman’s Dream the further down new games and various filters. Within these you will quickly see that there are also live casino options. Down the bottom...More Information for AHTI Games

Terms & Conditions: Welcome offer 100% up to 100 Super Spins on Book of Dead. First Deposit Only. Game: Book of Dead, Spin Value: R10, Max Super Spins: 100. WR 60x free spin winnings amount (only Slots count) within 30 days. Maximum bet is 10% (min R1) of the free spin winnings amount or R50 (lowest amount applies). Spins must be used and/or Bonus must be claimed before using deposited funds. Deposit/Welcome Bonus can only be claimed once every 72 hours across all Casinos. *Games are subject to availability. Bonus Policy applies.
Betarno

Betarno

Welcome Bonus

100% Bonus Up To R500 + 25 Bonus Spins

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Terms & Conditions: Welcome offer 100% up to R500 + 25 Free Spins on Book of Dead. New Players Only. Minimum Deposit R200. Wager from real balance first. 50X wager the bonus. Contribution varies per game. Selected games only. Wager calculated on bonus bets only. Bonus valid 30 days / Free spins valid 7 days from receipt. Maximum conversion: 3 times the bonus amount or from free spins: R400. Withdrawal requests void all active/pending bonuses. Full terms apply
Betreels

Betreels

Welcome Bonus

100% Bonus Up To R10,000

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Terms & Conditions: Welcome Bonus 100% up to R10,000. New Players Only. Minimum Deposit R400. Wager from real balance first. 50X wager the bonus. Contribution varies per game. Selected games only. Wager calculated on bonus bets only. Bonus is valid for 30 days / Free spins valid for 7 days from issue. Maximum conversion: 5 times the bonus amount or from free spins: R400. Minimum Deposit R400 required. Withdrawal requests void all active/pending bonuses. Full Terms apply.

A bit of background info on NetEnt

When this site was launched, NetEnt was by far the leading provider of online slots for the European market and was also beginning to improve its coverage in the broader global market. No self-respecting online casino could afford to be without a large selection of the company’s games being included in its portfolio. The company already had several acclaimed classics to its name, such as the ever-popular Gonzo’s Quest and Spinata Grande, plus the stone wall classic Starburst. These were supplemented by dozens of other innovative titles, such as the colourful cartoon fables Hook’s Heroes, Jack and the Beanstalk and Robin Hood. At the same time, Finn and the Swirly Spin took a more modern approach to the traditional fairy tale.

Meanwhile, fans of the darker side could choose from titles such as Blood Suckers II, the officially licenced Aliens slot, or my personal favourite, the spooky Universal Monsters version of Dracula. Talking of officially licenced, the company had also carved an impressive selection of music-themed games, with authorised releases of slots by classic rock artists, including Guns ‘n’ Roses, Motorhead and the iconic Jimi Hendrix.

The hits kept coming, too, with further innovative designs like Asgardian Stones, Halloween Jack, Vikings and Wild Bazaar following in 2018. There was a semi-successful attempt to follow up earlier classics, too, with Berryburst adding a tangy citrus flavour to its super-successful predecessor, Starburst.

The following year saw several further superb releases to keep the company at the forefront of the industry. Finn returned once again with his Golden Tavern, and there were also sequels for previous hit releases Dead or Alive and Reel Rush. It wasn’t all about reboots, though, with some impressive new designs hitting the online virtual reels. Amongst an impressive total of more than twenty entirely new releases was the particularly successful horse racing themed Scudamore’s Super Stakes, and the zany yuletide caper Santa Vs Rudolf: a heart-warming tale of traditional Christmas spirit, it was not. The reputedly bat-eating Ozzy Osborne was added to the ever-growing roster of officially licenced classic rock-themed games.

This consistent record of market-leading releases led NetEnt to a position firmly at the pinnacle of the online casino software industry. Its position as the foremost gaming software provider was unassailable, and the company produced financial figures to match.

NetEnt’s Corporate Performance

NetEnt’s success in widespread and critical acclaim meant it could boast stunning financial performance figures far exceeding its rivals. Founded in 1998 in Sweden’s capital city, the company had developed from a tiny start-up to an industry-leading international organisation in barely two decades.

While the company headquarters remained in Stockholm, it opened satellite offices throughout Europe, including the United Kingdom, Poland, and Ukraine, plus two more in two of the foremost territories of the gaming industry: Gibraltar and Malta.

Further afield, there were additional outposts in New Jersey, the United States, and Hyderabad in India. The company was responsible for the employment of well over a thousand employees located all across the world.

By 2019, the company had already developed over two hundred different games. Most of these were online slots, but there was also a good selection of more traditional table games, plus the company’s impressive live gaming operation.

This creative success meant the company was positioned to post impressive financial performance figures. The financial report for the year ending December 2019 showed total revenues exceeding SEK 1800 million (over £140 million) with total earnings before tax of around SEK 600 million (just under £48 million).

Although revenue growth over the previous year was unspectacular at 0.6%, this was broadly in line with sluggish growth in the gaming industry generally at the time.

Indeed, NetEnt CEO Therese Hillman was very upbeat, pointing to the more buoyant 10% revenue increase over the year’s final three months. She was particularly confident about the company’s new live gaming operation, which showed firm growth signs, having broken records for player numbers that year.

2020 – The Turning Point For NetEnt

2020 was a turning point for all of us. The unprecedented pandemic completely transformed the world and was utterly unexpected, taking the whole planet by surprise. For NetEnt, the New Year brought a different kind of upheaval – one that, perhaps with the benefit of hindsight, was more predictable.

Growth was impressive during the first three quarters of 2020, aided by the gaming industry’s general solid performance while much of the European population was under lockdown. Being primarily confined to the home and with real-world casinos and other venues temporarily closed, the only natural alternative for gamblers was to move online.

As a result, NetEnt revenues were up more than 25% in the corresponding nine months of 2019, with earnings before tax up more than 40%. Income derived from the previous year’s acquisition of up-and-coming gaming software rival Red Tiger was now also coming on stream.

Live casinos were also doing exceptionally well, perhaps buoyed by customers sitting at home craving the excitement of a real casino experience.

Arguably, this aspect of the company’s performance drew it to the attention of its previously unchallenged live-streaming rival, Evolution Gaming. Evolution was the dominant force in the live gaming market – their position in live casinos was even more pre-eminent than that of NetEnt in online slot design.

NetEnt’s live gaming operation’s spectacular performance was on a far smaller scale than Evolution’s, a massive worldwide operation. Nevertheless, its rapid increase in revenue represented a vast increase in market share, albeit from a very low base.

This clear potential for NetEnt to become an emerging competitor to Evolution’s dominant market position was perhaps a primary motivating factor in Evolution’s decision to mount a takeover bid for the Swedish company in June 2020.

Although NetEnt’s board and shareholders swiftly accepted the well-judged offer, the takeover was not straightforward. The size and market share of the two companies within the online gaming industry triggered a merger enquiry by the UK Government’s Competition and Markets Authority (CMA).

This was launched in September, with a provisional judgement in favour announced two months later. Only when the final decision to approve the takeover was published on December 8th was the acquisition finally able to be completed.

As a result, NetEnt became a wholly owned subsidiary of its new owners, with Evolution paying an initial SEK 19.6 billion (equivalent to around £1.6 billion, €2 billion or $2.3 billion). By December 12th, Evolution announced that it had acquired almost 97% of the company’s shares and had begun a compulsory buy-out process to purchase the remainder.

NetEnt shares were, therefore, removed from the Stockholm stock exchange on December 16th. The company’s shares’ final trading price was SEK 86 (around £7, €8 or $10).

NetEnt under Evolution Ownership

Founded in 2006, Evolution is a far larger organisation than its new acquisition. Although it is headquartered in Sweden and listed on the Stockholm stock exchange, it is even more of an international operation, with around 8,000 employees based around live studios across Europe and North America. Its main studio is based in Riga in the Baltic state of Latvia.

Still, it has many others in locations such as Belgium, Spain, Tbilisi in Georgia and on the Mediterranean island of Malta. It is also keen to exploit North America’s increasingly liberalised gaming market, with studios in New Jersey in the United States and British Columbia in Canada.

This wide distribution of locations enables the company to provide live-streamed casino games in over twenty languages. It also promises to offer native speakers in whatever language any potential online casino operator requires.

Evolution is a far larger operator in the live-streamed casino gaming market than relative newcomer NetEnt, and it is not difficult to see its takeover move as an attempt to snuff out a possible future competitor.

Indeed, the acquisition quickly became controversial, making even mainstream national news headlines, as it immediately closed down NetEnt’s live gaming operations in Qormi in Malta and began a swingeing round of redundancy announcements.

Job losses were spread far and wide. In addition to Malta, NetEnt locations in Gibraltar and elsewhere were affected, with the entire operation in Krakow in Poland closed down.

Even the company’s headquarters in Stockholm were affected, with hundreds of staff advised to stay at home and subsequently released. CEO Therese Hillman was among them – her departure was pre-announced, taking place at the end of the transition period in the spring of 2021.

Hundreds of NetEnt employees lost their jobs, some within minutes of the takeover becoming official. This resulted in considerable unwelcome media coverage and some firm union retaliation. The General Workers’ Union (GWU) in Malta took immediate legal action to stop the process on the island.

This was partially successful, with around forty threatened jobs being saved when the matter was settled out of court.

It was particularly unfortunate timing for hundreds of employees to lose their jobs, particularly during a pandemic with fewer alternative opportunities. The financial world showed no such sympathy. On the contrary, these massive mergers tend to increase share value, with market sentiment usually supporting such moves.

So it was that Evolution was proud to announce starkly optimistic first-quarter financial results for 2021. Revenues more than doubled from the equivalent period in 2019 to more than €235 million, primarily due to the acquisition of NetEnt. Profits also more than doubled to €132 million.

Evolution CEO Jens von Bahr was particularly impressed by his company’s performance, commenting, “…we can already see good results from this work in the first quarter, and I believe that we are well set to continue to capitalise on the growing interest in online casino worldwide.” He was also impressed by the increase in Live Gaming revenues, which improved 60% on the same quarter in 2019.

The Future Of NetEnt Online Casinos

The demise of NetEnt’s live gaming operation is terrible news for more than just the hundreds of loyal employees who worked there. It’s not great for the millions of regular players of live-streamed casino games, either. Although most live casino gamers have always played games streamed from Evolution’s extensive network of studios, losing a quality competitor leaves Evolution with even more of a market monopoly than before.

The competitive incentive to improve its service is no longer there. It’s little wonder that the company’s income and profitability are already rising.

The truth is that NetEnt’s reputation is built upon its online slot designs rather than its live gaming. Its millions of fans are more interested in the successive incarnations of Gonzo, Finn and NetEnt’s world-class game design operation than the fate of a redundant studio in Malta.

So the real question is, what effect will the advent of new owners Evolution’s stewardship have on the company’s slot output?

As ever with corporate takeovers, there are advantages and disadvantages for the acquired company, its customers, and players. On the plus side, the new owner’s increased financial power and market muscle offer potentially more extensive and diverse markets to move into. It can also lead to an injection of investment into the newly acquired company, the additional resources sometimes leading to an expansion and improvement in the quality and quantity of output.

This is good for a company’s customers, players and fans. It can also work in their favour when the acquired company is ‘left to do what it does best’, with little interference from its new owners. When companies retain autonomy and continue functioning independently, things can work well for customers and owners. The talents of the acquired company are, after all, what attracted the takeover bid from its new owners in the first place.

On the other hand, there are disadvantages too. It is too easy for a previously successful outfit to disappear into the black hole of its new owners’ corporate machine, micro-managed into submission. As a result, the acquired company can frequently become another forgotten brand within the newly merged organisation’s web of bureaucracy.

The skills and originality which led to the success of a start-up brand or company can get lost when it becomes a mere division of a massive conglomerate.

This is a real risk in this particular case. Initial indications are not a good sign when a whole NetEnt division is summarily closed virtually overnight to suit its new Evolution overlords. The evidence could lead a neutral observer to suggest a worrying question – was Evolution’s intention with this takeover merely to close down a competitor threatening its core market?

NetEnt – The Way Forward

Given the events of December 2020, the omens don’t look too promising. Evolution’s controversial closure of NetEnt’s Maltese live-streaming studio and the announcement of further extensive redundancies caused a storm within the online gaming industry. These actions demonstrated an apparent commercial ruthlessness from its new owners.

However, the longer-term prospects for NetEnt’s core business – slots – look better. There are certainly grounds for optimism. While Evolution’s destruction of NetEnt’s live gaming operation seems based on protecting its business interests and market share, the amount of money involved in the acquisition suggests other motives are also in play.

€2 billion is a massive sum to pay to liquidate a troublesome competitor with a tiny market share. It would undoubtedly be a very expensive takeover if Evolution were to let its new acquisition’s talents wither on the vine. It is undoubtedly in the company’s interests to nurture NetEnt’s undisputed and unrivalled talent for producing great games.

Instead, it can be seen that the two company’s respective strengths are a good fit. The business-speak term is ‘synergy’: Evolution will continue to concentrate on its live gaming operation, while NetEnt will be able to focus on its core strength – its incomparable slot output.

This way, both companies can appreciate the takeover as a win/win situation. Evolution now has a strong foothold in a related gaming market in which they previously had no influence. At the same time, NetEnt can continue to do what they do best while enjoying additional financial security under the corporate umbrella of its new owners. Indeed, early indications suggest that NetEnt’s production schedule has been unaffected, with the usual prolific rate of releases continuing through the early months and years of their new corporate partnership.

The spring and summer of 2021 saw a consistent average rate of release of around two to three games per month, with some top titles such as Parthenon: Quest for Immortality and a new MegawaysTM version of the old NetEnt classic “Dazzle Me” hitting Netent casinos worldwide.

The Dazzle Me re-boot is particularly interesting because it is a fine example of the advantages of the merger with Evolution already bearing fruit. April 2021 saw Evolution splash the cash again, this time on the innovative Aussie gaming software outfit Big Time Gaming (BTG). This time, the value of the takeover was an initial €220 million, with the total outlay likely to amount to around €450 million.

The deal leaves Evolution as the ultimate owner of three of the most prestigious brands in slot software design: NetEnt, Red Tiger and now BTG.

The specific advantage for NetEnt in this new deal is that BTG’s spectacularly successful Megaways TM mechanic is now effectively ‘in-house’. It is therefore available for all new releases and for upgrading the company’s legacy titles without the need to pay an additional licencing fee.

Another example of the benefits NetEnt’s new owners can bring to the table is the spectacular new version of the Gonzo franchise: Gonzo’s Treasure Hunt. This unique and innovative mash-up brings the familiar story of the fictional Spanish conquistador to life in a thrilling live gaming format.

Once again, the game is set in the Inca jungle, but with real live action, live game show hosts, random prize drops, and multipliers added to the action. The game takes place in a kind of ‘augmented reality’, with live presenters mingling with the animated “Gonzo”, much like you may have seen in blockbuster movies like “Avatar” and “Iron Man”.

NetEnt Casinos Summary

The good news is that despite the corporate turbulence of recent times, the future for NetEnt remains bright. Many fans of the company’s unique style will be disappointed if its distinctive Scandinavian flavour is diluted. Still, early indications suggest that the company is set to thrive under the stewardship of its new owners and market muscle.

At netent.net, we will keep a close eye on developments, but NetEnt’s position at the forefront of innovative slot design seems assured for the foreseeable future. Gonzo’s Treasure Hunt does take online gaming into another dimension and seems to signal the way forward for the new commercial partnership.

Along with the acquisition of MegawaysTM inventors BTG, it is a clear demonstration of the ‘synergies’ the new partnership with Evolution is already bringing to the NetEnt locker. Casino operators, fans and online casino players alike: all are surely looking forward to seeing what spectacular new games and formats the future will bring.