Light & Wonder is continuing to bolster its portfolio of properties with an investment in a European slots studio.
The slots machine maker announced on Thursday a 20% equity investment in Bang Bang Games providing the London-based slots studio with access to North American gaming markets. Light & Wonder has invested in Bang Bang as part of its Spark program, which provides a platform for emerging studios that operate without a remote gaming server.
The program offers tools and resources allowing boutique studios to expand their reach. Bang Bang will leverage Light & Wonder’s footprint to solidify its footprint in America.
“We’re incredibly proud to take this next step in our journey with Light & Wonder,” said Bang Bang CEO Frank McPolin. “Being part of the Light & Wonder™ Spark program has already opened up fantastic opportunities for us, and this investment is a strong endorsement of the work we’re doing. With Light & Wonder’s support, we’re in a great position to build on that momentum, grow our reach, and deliver even more bold, creative content to players globally.”
Light & Wonder is investing in Bang Bang after recently reaching an exclusive distribution deal with Incentive Games. As part of the agreement, Light & Wonder will deliver gaming titles from Incentive Games to regulated markets in the U.S., Canada, South Africa and Europe. Incentive Games will provide Light & Wonder with both free and paid titles.
Blockbuster acquisition for Light & Wonder
The slot machine giant has enhanced its content after a major acquisition earlier this year.
In February, Light & Wonder agreed to acquire charitable gambling business Grover Gaming in a deal valued at $850 million. Grover benefits groups including the American Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars by raising proceeds from pull tab sales.
Grover Gaming, which has raised over $200 million since 2003, operates in five states.
Its deal with Light & Wonder also includes a contingent cash consideration of up to $200 million. The cash consideration is based on financial targets that are met through FY2028.
Light & Wonder projects the transaction to close in Q2 2025 pending regulatory approvals. It plans to provide more details on the acquisition during its Investor Day on May 20.
