Will Novomatic introduce any new games or technologies at G2E this year and what can visitors expect from your showcase? 

G2E is one of the most important opportunities to present our latest developments to customers and partners from across the Americas. This year's showcase reflects our strategy of combining proven international success with innovations tailored to regional market requirements. Visitors can look forward to a comprehensive portfolio of new game content, including Vision Link™, Impera Prolink™ 2, Rising Treasures™ II, and the latest Xtension Link™ Volume 2.  

We will also introduce our internationally highly successful Sign Packages to the US market. A further focus will be on our Route Market offering, including dedicated solutions for Illinois and Puerto Rico. For the Puerto Rican casino market, we will prominently showcase the De La Isla Jackpot, our Wide Area Jackpot solution. 

On the hardware side, we will highlight the US premiere of the V.I.P. X™ Galaxy Lounge 2.65, alongside the award-winning Diamond X™ Quattro1.55J. In addition, visitors can expect developments within our ETG portfolio, where we will unveil innovations that further strengthen our position as a technology leader. 

What trends do you expect to dominate discussions at this year's event and how is Novomatic preparing for these industry shifts? 

I expect discussions to focus on how technology can help operators increase efficiency while creating engaging player experiences. Artificial intelligence, cashless solutions, connected gaming environments and data-driven operations will all play an important role, but so will topics such as product longevity, regulatory compliance and investment security. 

At Novomatic, we view these developments as long-term industry shifts rather than short-term trends. Our strategy is to develop technologies that deliver measurable value for operators while remaining flexible enough to adapt to different regulatory and market environments.  

G2E brings together the biggest gaming suppliers in the world. In such a competitive environment, what does Novomatic believe differentiates its products and technology from the rest of the market? 

Our greatest differentiator is the combination of decades of industry experience with a truly global perspective and a strong local presence. Novomatic follows a clear "Think Global, Act Local" approach: while we leverage our international expertise and global technology platforms, we work closely with local teams and customers to adapt our products to the specific requirements of each market.

Another unique strength is our dual role as both a technology provider and a gaming operator. This gives us valuable first-hand insights into day-to-day operations, player behavior and evolving market requirements.  

Ultimately, operators are looking for reliable technology, proven game performance and long-term partners who understand their business.  

Do you see AI as a genuine game changer for gaming or simply another industry buzzword?  

AI certainly has the potential to become a genuine game changer, provided it is applied where it creates tangible value. Like any technology, its success depends on practical implementation rather than the headline itself. 

We see significant opportunities in areas such as operational efficiency, predictive maintenance, customer support, business analytics and the optimization of gaming operations. AI can also increase efficiency throughout the development process, from rapid prototyping of new concepts and solutions to supporting coding and testing.  

At the same time, it is important to maintain realistic expectations. AI will not replace creativity, product expertise or a deep understanding of player behavior. It is a powerful tool that complements human expertise, and we believe the greatest value will come from combining both effectively. 

Responsible gambling is becoming a central focus for regulators and operators worldwide. How can technology help create safer gambling environments while still delivering engaging entertainment experiences? 

Responsible gaming is an essential element of a sustainable gaming industry and has always been a core principle at Novomatic. Technology plays an increasingly important role in supporting both operators and regulators in achieving this objective. 

Digital technologies can provide greater transparency and help create more consistent responsible gaming measures across different markets.  

At the same time, responsible gaming and entertainment are not mutually exclusive. The objective is to create an enjoyable gaming experience within a secure and well-regulated environment. We believe technology is instrumental in achieving exactly that balance.