Metaverse gaming often is discussed within the industry as a novelty unlikely to be adopted by the existing gaming audience. Moreover, it’s often muddled by the inclusion of (or conflation with) hot topics like crypto, blockchain, and virtual reality. For the October issue of Global Gaming Business (GGB) magazine, Brian Wyman, SVP of Operations & Data Analytics for The Innovation Group, paints a better picture about why metaverse casinos are inevitable, what a metaverse casino could look like, and why metaverse casinos might even be the ultimate marketing tool for existing slot players—not just the slot players of the future. Read his full analysis here and make plans to connect with him in person at G2E to discuss these and other opportunities that TIG can help develop for your company.

For the past several years, I’ve had the honor to work with G2E Education and a handful of gaming thought-leaders to consider what today’s industry foretells about the gaming industry of the future. Joining me for this year’s discussion are Andrew Burke, CEO of Blueberi, Justin Carter, SVP of Regional Operations at PENN Entertainment (and, I’m obligated to point out, a past ELG 40 Under 40 honoree), and my long-time colleague and friend Andrew Zarnett, managing director at Jefferies. A cross-section of the industry such as this will have plenty to discuss, but “looking at the crystal ball” has only become more complicated over the last year. For instance, one question we’re sure to consider is whether online casinos are really gaming companies or if they’re better defined as marketing companies. And, understanding the "wagering" in sports wagering is not all that meaningful to the bottom line, what is the real role of sports, media, and non-gaming brands in gaming? Further, we’ve been talking about “big data” for decades without much meaningful progress – now that it’s only getting bigger, what are we doing with it? There’s much to hash out, from technology, operations, and investments to tribal and international development. We’ll do our best to cover it all. I hope you’ll plan to join us. 

– Michael Soll, President, The Innovation Group



Looking at the Crystal Ball: The Future Gaming Landscape

Tuesday, October 10

3:10 - 4:00 PM

Titian 2203 

From executives across commercial and tribal operations, to supplier-side innovators and professionals driving new industry segments, the latest class of Emerging Leaders of Gaming (ELG) 40 Under 40 honorees reflects a diverse cross-section of gaming and an industry in evolution. “It’s an honor to help identify and showcase the remarkable individuals driving our industry into the future,” said Michael Soll, president of The Innovation Group. "The gaming industry will prosper and thrive because of the impact of young and talented people," continued Roger Gros, publisher of Global Gaming Business magazine. "The innovation and creativity they bring with them is truly the lifeblood of gaming. Our congratulations to all the honorees."

Take a look at the incredible list of honorees in the 2024 Class of the ELG 40 Under 40 and make plans to meet (and celebrate) them in person at G2E.

Emerging Leaders of Gaming 40 Under 40 Networking Reception

Wednesday, October 11

4–5 PM

G2E Networking Lounge, Booth #5649