Nikita Gorshkov from Mancala Gaming opens up about the changing landscape of slot gaming, where storytelling and emotional connection are becoming key.
In this exclusive CasinoRank interview, he explains how integrating psychology and narrative transforms slots into immersive experiences, why classic mechanics need a fresh twist, and what Mancala is doing to stay ahead in a competitive market.
Let’s start with where we are now. How would you describe the current state of innovation in the slot industry?
Nikita Gorshkov: Right now, innovation in slots is at a crossroads. On one hand, we’ve seen an explosion of new mechanics, gamification tools, and bonus new features—so there’s clearly no shortage of experimentation.
But true innovation isn’t just stacking more features; it’s about delivering deeper, more engaging experiences that resonate with players on an emotional level. The industry is starting to realize that sustainable innovation lies in merging game design with psychology and storytelling—not just tweaking math models.
You founded Mancala Gaming in 2019. If you had to compare then and now, what’s changed the most about building games in this space?
Nikita Gorshkov: The biggest shift has been in player expectations. In 2019, mobile-first design was gaining ground but not dominant. Now, it’s the default. Players expect slick, responsive, and fast-loading games with instant gratification.
Another major change is data: we now have better tools to understand how players engage with our games, which influences everything from game mechanics to visual design. The challenge today is balancing innovation with accessibility—making games fresh, but still intuitive enough to appeal to a global and increasingly diverse audience.
With features like Megaways and Feature Buy booming, how do you distinguish real innovation from gimmicks?
Nikita Gorshkov: Real innovation enhances the core experience—it doesn’t distract from it. Megaways and Feature Buys can be powerful tools if they’re tied to the game’s narrative or progression system. But when they’re slapped on just to tick a box or grab attention, they risk becoming gimmicks.
At Mancala, we ask: Does this mechanic make the game more fun, more rewarding, or more meaningful for the player? If the answer isn’t a clear yes, we go back to the drawing board.
With all the pop-up missions, leveling, and multipliers, are we overengineering slots and losing the raw thrill of the spin?
Nikita Gorshkov: That’s a valid concern—and it’s a fine line. The raw thrill of the spin is what brought most of us into this industry in the first place. But today’s players—especially younger ones—expect more depth and progression.
The key is not to overwhelm the player with layers, but to integrate them in a way that supports the excitement rather than diluting it. We always try to build mechanics that complement, not compete with, that core spin-and-win feeling.
Gen Z grew up on instant feedback and short attention spans. Can classic slots survive, or do they need to evolve to keep up?
Nikita Gorshkov: Classic slots will always have a place—they’re timeless, much like vinyl records or arcade cabinets. But to stay relevant with Gen Z, they need a facelift.
That might mean faster spin cycles, more tactile feedback, or even mini-games and narrative wrappers. We’re not talking about abandoning simplicity, but repackaging it in a format that speaks to a generation raised on TikTok and mobile gaming.
What’s one mechanic or game design approach that you strongly believe in, but you feel the market hasn’t really embraced yet?
Nikita Gorshkov: I’m a big believer in asymmetric volatility—giving players different paths within a single game depending on their play style. Imagine a slot where your choices—say, selecting a power-up or challenge route—affect volatility and RTP structure within regulatory limits. This has always been Mancala’s original idea and we strive every year to deliver such products.
What’s the most misunderstood thing about how slots are actually built—from a player’s perspective?
Nikita Gorshkov: Many players assume everything is about luck and that we just slap some symbols on a reel and randomize outcomes. In reality, every detail—symbol placement, animation timing, win anticipation—is deeply intentional and tested. Great slot design is a balance between math, psychology, and art.
What’s a geographic or audience segment you think the industry is underestimating right now—and why do you believe there’s more untapped potential there?
Nikita Gorshkov: Latin America is still wildly underestimated. The region has high mobile penetration, a strong gaming culture, and a growing appetite for localized content. But many providers treat it as an afterthought, just recycling European-style games. We see massive potential in designing culturally resonant titles—both in theme and mechanics—that speak directly to these players.
We know passionate players always love a glimpse into what’s next — is there anything on the horizon that Mancala is working on and you’d be open to sharing a preview of?
Nikita Gorshkov: We’re developing a new line of narrative-driven slots that blend progression with traditional slot mechanics. Think of it as a hybrid between a story-based mobile game and a classic slot—where your choices influence outcomes. It’s a project we’ve been incubating for a while, and we’re incredibly excited about where it’s headed. It’s bold, it’s different—and we believe it’s the future.
With a background in digital media and a keen eye for emerging technologies, Ronaldo bridges the gap between players and platforms through clear, insightful reporting to the iGaming industry.
