Izabela Słodkowska-Popiel, Head of Account Management for North America and Latin America at Wazdan, chats to iGaming Expert about the game developer’s plans for the Latin American market.
Of particular interest for Wazdan is the company’s expansion into both Brazil and Peru as the region’s evolving regulatory landscape offers new opportunities outside the company’s existing operations in Colombia and Argentina.
iGaming Expert: Wazdan has launched in two exciting Latin American markets. Tell us about your plans for both Brazil and Peru in 2025 and why they are taking priority for you?
Izabela Słodkowska-Popiel: We have continued to expand our global footprint over the years and, with the LatAm landscape evolving rapidly, we wanted to ensure we were primed to bring cutting-edge solutions tailored for this exciting region. Having already established ourselves in Colombia and Argentina with major brands such as Betsson and Betplay, entering Brazil and Peru was the next logical step, bringing our customisable approach to a new pool of players.
Our expansion has seen us go live with over 50 certified games available to more than 40 operators across the two countries, including the likes of Brazino 777, Kaizen and LeoVegas.
iGX: What are the market dynamics in Brazil and Peru markets that make them such a big opportunity and why do your games work well with these audiences?
ISP: Wazdan games have gained popularity across LatAm markets due to their innovative gameplay tools that align with player preferences. Engaging features, such as Hold the Jackpot™, encourage players to invest more time by triggering jackpot bonuses. As for Wild Rampage™, the mechanic has become favourable with LatAm players who enjoy fast-paced environments, enthused by the thrill of risk-taking in search of big wins.
We have also cautiously incorporated local themes inspired by LatAm culture and carried out meticulous research and development, leading to particular themes being pushed and gaining substantial traction. Mighty Wild™: Panther — inviting players into the depths of the jungle in search of lavish wins — has been a particular success, receiving multiple iGaming nominations and positive feedback for its innovative mechanics.
iGX: What games in particular are you pushing in Latin America and what are the key features/USPs of these titles in the context of these markets?
ISP: Mighty Wild™: Jaguar brings the fierce spirit of the Amazon jungle to the reels, with vibrant graphics and immersive sound design that captures the untamed energy of the rainforest. As mentioned previously, we incorporate local themes that truly resonate with LatAm players, ensuring our games feel familiar and engaging. The Amazonian theme is a great example of this, as it draws on cultural references that create a deeper connection with the audience. With the use of jaguar symbols acting as wilds, the game combines exciting mechanics like Jaguar Mystery Jackpot and Jaguar Mystery Multiplier™ creating dynamic winning opportunities.
As for 20 Coins™: Grand Gold Edition, the title brings the well-known slot experience into the current day with additional twists. The classic, easy-to-understand Coins™ format is highly appealing to LatAm players who enjoy straightforward gameplay with rewarding features.
With the Grand Gold Edition focus, the stakes are raised with higher payouts and bonus opportunities, making the game even more exciting for players eyeing those lavish wins. The Hold the Jackpot™ round, coupled with Cash Infinity™ symbols, adds enjoyment and keeps gameplay fresh.
iGX: What is Wazdan’s approach to commercial strategies and your partnerships? What type of partners are you looking for and how do you pitch your games?
ISP: Wazdan has successfully partnered with a wide range of top-tier operators across the globe, focusing on long-term collaborations with shared growth ambitions. We take a localised, market-driven approach to building relationships with partners across various regions, tailoring game offerings and commercial strategies to meet each market’s unique needs.
With LatAm a key priority, we are keen to work closely with operators who naturally understand local player behaviors and demand high-quality gaming experiences and innovative mechanics. Pitching incorporates quality, innovation and player engagement. It shows partners how Wazdan games drive higher player engagement and stronger retention through unique features such as Cash Infinity™ and Chance Level™.
Our portfolio of leading partners within the region, including Brazino, Betsson, SkillOnNet, LeoVegas, bet365 and Superbet, pays clear testament to this.
iGX: What are the big considerations you have had to make when it comes to compliance?
ISP: Wazdan places compliance and player safety at the forefront of its strategy, ensuring that all games adhere to the highest standards of regulatory and legal requirements. All of our releases are certified by the relevant regulatory bodies in each market where they operate, including LatAm, and it is this commitment to fair play and transparent practices that ensure players enjoy a secure and reliable gaming experience.
Wazdan’s compliance strategy also entails staying ahead of the curve and being aware of developing regulatory shifts, it is this proactive approach that ensures the smooth operation in newly regulated markets like Brazil and Peru, and maintains the trust of both operators and players.
iGX: Wazdan will be at SBC Summit Rio later this month – what can we expect to see from you there and what can readers look forward to from you this year?
ISP: Marking our second appearance at SBC Summit Rio, we are more than ready to make it a bigger and better experience, bringing a carnival of gain to the 2025 installment! Our Commercial team, led by Michał Imiołek, CEO, Andrzej Hyla, CCO and Radka Bacheva, Head of Sales, will be on hand to showcase the company’s Online gaining™ formula and how Wazdan’s comprehensive slot portfolio is perfectly positioned to resonate with players across LatAm.
Whether you are an existing partner or looking to explore new opportunities, Booth B100 is the place to visit for premium networking, hands-on game demos and a host of exclusive surprises.
We look forward to greeting you!
