What have you learnt over the last year about what makes your most successful games the hits that they are? 

Over the past year, we’ve confirmed that strong performance comes from cohesion rather than isolated features. Our most successful titles combine clear visual identity, emotionally balanced math models and mechanics that reward player engagement over time. 

While launch-day records for games like Coin Craze Jackpot are important, we’ve learned that long-term success depends on how quickly a game “clicks” with the player. Features such as ‘claim win’ or layered ‘hold and earn’ mechanics create anticipation and momentum from the very first spin. Ultimately, our strongest performers are those that feel intuitive, energetic and immediately rewarding without being overwhelming. 

You’ve got a brand-new title for ICE 2026 and a competition for people to engage with – tell us about that if you would. 

For ICE 2026, we’re unveiling Freak Machine, a horror-themed slot packed with a deep narrative and multi-layered gameplay. The game features a three-level bonus structure: Fire, Ice and Poison, each offering increased volatility and immersive audiovisuals. It also includes a brutal mini-bonus game, where players must “choose the tool of correction”, a chainsaw, drill, or shotgun, to execute their fate. To match the theme, we’re hosting an on-site Freak Machine Tournament, where the top score wins a €5,000 ($5,876) grand prize. 

ICE 2026 seems set to be even bigger than last year – does a bigger show offer more opportunities or make it harder to stand out? 

A larger show definitely raises the bar, but it also creates more meaningful opportunities. Standing out today isn’t about being the loudest; it’s about being consistent and recognisable. We’ve invested heavily in strengthening Mancala Gaming’s visual identity and brand consistency so that when people see our games or our stand, they immediately know who we are. 

Bigger shows reward a clear message. For us, that message is simple: strong mechanics, reliable performance and tools that help our partners grow sustainably. 

You’ll have a lot of the team in Barcelona – how important is that for you? 

It’s extremely important. Mancala Gaming is built on collaboration between our creative, technical and commercial teams, and having representatives from all departments on the floor reflects how we work as a company. 

Operators don’t just want to see games; they want to talk about performance, integration, market specifics and future roadmaps. Having the right people available allows us to have deeper, more honest conversations and build stronger partnerships on the spot. 

Do you think crypto integration will be a big topic at ICE – is the industry catching up? 

Crypto will definitely be part of the conversation, but I think the industry is moving from experimentation to maturity. The question is no longer if crypto works, but how to integrate it properly. 

At Mancala Gaming, we don’t treat crypto as a separate product category – we design games that perform equally well across fiat and crypto environments. The real innovation now lies in volatility design, transparency and fast-paced mechanics that align with modern player behaviour, regardless of currency. 

What are you most looking forward to at ICE this year, beyond the deals? 

Beyond the deals, our main focus at ICE is on building deeper, long-term relationships with our partners, understanding new trends, exchanging ideas and continuing to grow Mancala Gaming’s visibility and brand awareness. This year, we’re especially excited to showcase our creative side with our Freak Machine slot, demonstrating our capabilities in a more interactive way.