Relax Gaming explores sustained momentum ahead of a crucial 2026
Matthew Hockenjos, Commercial Account Manager for North America at RLX Gaming, discusses the year ahead for the online casino supplier
What opportunities does RLX Gaming see coming to light in the years ahead?
RLX Gaming views this period as one of preparation and opportunity. Over the past few years, the team has spent considerable time laying the groundwork and learning how to properly approach the US market – from navigating regulatory complexity to understanding operator needs and
player behavior.
That investment began to show clear results over the past year, with RLX doubling its operator distribution footprint and significantly increasing the number of platforms offering its content. In 2026, the focus shifts toward building familiarity with US players and establishing RLX as a recognizable and trusted content provider.
Throughout the year, RLX will be rolling out several key initiatives, including the introduction of its Bonus Reels feature, the
launch of aggregation beginning with exclusive ReelPlay titles in the spring, and entry into the Michigan market later in the year. Collectively, these milestones represent the beginning of sustained momentum in the US. Rather than chasing rapid expansion, RLX sees long-term opportunity in steady growth, strong partnerships and deeper player engagement.
How have your partnerships, for example with Hard Rock Bet, fared in recent months?
The partnership with Hard Rock Bet has been extremely positive from the outset. Working with the Hard Rock team has been highly collaborative, with a shared focus on quality, performance, and understanding the player experience.
Since reaching agreement, RLX has worked closely with Hard Rock on releasing its back catalog while also planning ahead for upcoming spring launches. The open exchange of insights and performance data has helped RLX better understand player preferences and refine its approach to the US market.
Given the state-by-state iGaming regulations in the US, how does RLX Gaming prioritize which states to target for expansion?
Operating within a fragmented regulatory landscape requires a measured and flexible approach. RLX Gaming prioritizes expansion by closely listening to both market conditions and its operator partners. Michigan represents the next major milestone, completing what many operators consider the core US iGaming markets alongside New Jersey and Pennsylvania. Being live across these states allows RLX to support broader campaigns, increase brand visibility, and reach a larger share of US players – creating value for both operators and the studio.
At the same time, RLX monitors smaller or more specialized markets such as Delaware and Connecticut, which are driven by a limited number of key partners. Expansion decisions are made collaboratively, with an emphasis on sustainable growth and long-term market health rather than rapid footprint expansion.
Which innovations or features of RLX Gaming’s portfolio help drive retention and lifetime value for operators?
US players tend to be highly loyal to familiar titles and game series, and this is an area where RLX Gaming performs particularly well. The studio places strong emphasis on developing recognizable game families and narratives across its portfolio, including series such as the Tumble Games, Bill & Coin, Great Western, and Snake Arena to name a few.
These recurring themes and mechanics help build familiarity and encourage repeat engagement across multiple titles. As RLX continues to expand its US distribution, players are becoming increasingly acquainted with the studio’s style and flagship content.
New mechanics, including the upcoming Bonus Reels feature, further strengthen retention by keeping releases feeling fresh while maintaining a consistent player experience. This combination supports longer engagement cycles and stronger lifetime value for operators.
What role do omnichannel experiences, responsible gambling tools, and personalization play in RLX Gaming’s market strategy?
RLX Gaming’s core focus is building great games, but long-term success depends on being a strong and responsive partner. Every market has its own dynamics, and RLX draws on its global experience to adapt accordingly. Trends such as omnichannel alignment, responsible gambling, and personalization are approached collaboratively with operator partners. By listening closely to market needs and staying ahead of evolving player expectations, RLX aims to deliver content and features that are relevant, engaging, and sustainable over the long term.