Established in 1996, NetEnt is undoubtedly a founding pillar of the online gaming industry. Originating from within Swedish gaming behemoth Cherry, NetEnt took its first steps into the burgeoning iGaming scene as online casinos were just beginning to open their virtual doors.
With the rise of the internet, NetEnt, originally known as Net Entertainment, seized the opportunity to branch into the digital gaming world. In 2006, NetEnt expanded its operations to Malta, becoming a part of the first wave of companies to secure gaming licenses from this pioneering jurisdiction.
Today, NetEnt’s global presence spans seven countries, including strategic locations like the USA, UK, Poland, Gibraltar, and Ukraine. Embracing innovation, NetEnt incorporated mobile games into its portfolio in 2011 and transitioned to the more versatile HTML5 standard as early as 2013. This forward-thinking approach has ensured all of NetEnt’s games are easily accessible on any device or platform, bringing their exciting gaming universe to millions of fans worldwide.
Historically, NetEnt operated online casinos until 2007 when it decided to focus primarily on its software development arm. This strategic pivot has seen NetEnt evolve into one of the most innovative and trusted brands in online gaming, releasing iconic titles like Starburst, Gonzo’s Quest, and Dead or Alive.
NetEnt’s extensive catalogue boasts over 200 classic and video slots, a comprehensive range of table games, and, since 2013, live dealer games under its NetEnt Live brand. As a major player in the iGaming industry, NetEnt commands approximately 15% of the global market share and almost 30% of the European market.
Balancing low, medium, and high variance games, NetEnt caters to every type of player. Their game portfolio includes popular branded slots like Vikings, Jumanji, and Jimi Hendrix, and progressive jackpot slots like Mega Fortune, Divine Fortune, and Hall of Gods, known for their record-breaking payouts.
In a significant industry move, live casino specialist Evolution Gaming acquired NetEnt in 2020 for a staggering €1.86 billion. This merger has created a gaming giant that encapsulates all major forms of online casino entertainment, solidifying both brands’ place at the forefront of the iGaming industry.