Gaming content provider Games Global has partnered once more with Hard Rock Bet Casino to release 9 Nekos of Fortune, an online slot game exclusive to New Jersey online casinos. Developed with Gameburger Studios, the exclusive game studio for Games Global, the game draws on Japanese popular culture, centering on the maneki-neko, or ‘beckoning cat’.
Key Takeaways
- Games Global and Hard Rock Bet Casino release exclusive New Jersey slots
- The games will feature bespoke gameplay and bonus mechanics
- The game was developed by Games Global partner studio Gameburger Studios
The game features Games Global’s Epic Strike mechanic, which awards prizes up to 2,000 times the stake for landing three to nine symbols, while a Bonus Spins Wheel offers 10 to 30 spins with multipliers.
The release follows earlier collaborations between the two companies, including the launch of Games Global’s Bonus Spins tool and several bespoke games.
“This release signifies Games Global’s intent to strengthen its position in regulated US iCasino markets, where we have committed to delivering content that aligns with player preferences. Hard Rock Bet Casino is a valued partner, and this continued collaboration allows us to support Hard Rock Bet Casino with custom-built products designed specifically to resonate with players,” said Joann Pierce, CCO at Games Global.
Popular Link&Win feature debuts in Hard Rock exclusive
This isn’t the only time Hard Rock Bet and Games Global have collaborated. In May, the two added Hard Rock Splash ‘n Spin Link&Win to its portfolio of games available to New Jersey casino fans.
Created in collaboration with Aurum Signature Studios, the title combines visual themes of a poolside celebration with multiple bonus features.
The Link&Win feature triggers respins when six bonus symbols appear, with multipliers and jackpot upgrades increasing prize potential up to 10,000 times. Additional bonus wheels offer cash prizes, free spins, or jackpots. The release reflects the ongoing partnership between the studio and the casino.
New Jersey bill seeks to ban micro betting
While Hard Rock Bet casino expands its range of games, sports betting operators are facing a new challenge after lawmakers in New Jersey introduced a bill aimed at banning ‘micro-bets’ in sports games.
Micro-bets are a form of wagering on immediate in-game outcomes such as the next play or pitch, and according to Assemblyman Dan Hutchison, this wagering format can accelerate problem gambling and contribute to financial difficulties for some participants.
The Council on Compulsive Gambling of New Jersey has reported a near 300% increase in calls to its helpline since sports betting was legalized in 2018, and has noted that rapid-fire micro-bets may intensify addictive behavior.
If passed, the legislation would impose penalties on sports wagering licensees who offer micro-bets, though the specifics of those penalties have not yet been released.
