Exclusive: Amaya launches Instant Rewards on Ongame network
Early trials show 30% increase in player activity and revenues generated.
Amaya Gaming has launched its Instant Rewards tool allowing players on the Ongame poker network to earn cash prizes and tournament tickets in real-time.
Players earn prizes for achievements such as winning a hand with pocket aces, with the patent-pending tool aimed predominantly at recreational players across the network.
Martin Lerby, Ongame’s director of marketing and operations, told eGaming Review that Instant Rewards is “inspired by the social gaming industry” and its focus on achievements.
The tool will ultimately be made available on all sites across the network, but has already been trialled for two months on Paf’s dot.com poker room, with player activity and revenues generated risen by 30% across the test period.
Herbert Paradis, head of poker for the à land-based operator, said “Instant Rewards might be one of the most innovative poker features I have ever seen. Poker players love challenges and this product is well suited to incentivise recreational players.”
Ongame head of poker Fredrik Kjell said: “The majority of poker players do not make any money; they play because they love the game of poker. Their goal is entertainment, fulfillment and the sense of mastery of the game.
“Our analysis shows Instant Rewards can not only increase player satisfaction, but also increase revenues for operators,” added Kjell.
Instant Rewards is available within the Ongame client but a standalone full-service version including personally customised rewards is also available to download on desktop, iOS and Android.
The launch comes shortly after the network paused its ring-fencing of liquidity, a move designed “To evaluate the long-term liquidity effects [in part] following the departure of bwin.”
Ongame, which was acquired by Amaya last year from previous owner bwin.party, contains the poker offerings of operators including Paf, Redbet and Betsson.