Aug 11 (PR): Playboy has made a bold move by teaming up with reputable software developer Gametech to launch a new Rummy mobile casino game in India.

In a bid to crack the Indian market, Playboy has leveraged its considerable financial muscle to get on board the casino bandwagon with Gametech.

In recent years, Gametech, which owns Mexican-based online casino and gaming brand Vale, has a proven track record in creating successful mobile casino games.

Now, Playboy wants to expand its casino involvement. Gametech has duly provided, and they have realized Playboy’s vision by conceiving a new skill-based, real-money Rummy mobile game, which is expected to release later this year.

While speculation has been rife about why Playboy has decided to make such an audacious pivot, they have already made significant inroads in India, in terms of expanding their global consumer products business.

There is certainly real scope to develop the online casino games arena in India, and the collaboration illustrates Playboy’s desire to be a big player in the casino market.

Although Playboy’s background lies more in fashion and lifestyle, India represents a new frontier for mobile casinos, and it is clear Playboy was happy to capitalize. In many ways, it was a natural decision to make.

And while the casino market is fiercely competitive, Playboy isn’t taking anything for granted. India represents a serious opportunity for mobile casinos, and online gambling is showing no signs of slowing down.

Indeed, wagering online has skyrocketed in India in recent years. A recent study by Deloitte indicated that the Indian casino market will likely experience sustained annual growth.

It is thought the online Indian casino industry could be worth a staggering $2.9bn by the end of 2022, which represents more than a 50% rise from the $1.2bn it was valued at in 2019.

Playboy, however, won’t view this as being too risky. They have flourished previously in Asian markets, such as Japan, and China, and if they can make a name for themselves in the casino environment, they will add another string to their bow.

Speaking about the importance of the deal, PLBY’s international president, Reena Patel, said: “India is an important and growing market for Playboy.

“Our partnership with Gametech will cater to the young consumer’s desire for the Playboy brand in India across gaming and other categories including retail, beauty, venues, and hospitality.”

Gametech’s CEO, Jason Drummond was also delighted with the deal, and he thinks it makes perfect business sense for both parties.

He said: “We are thrilled to partner with Playboy to launch real money, mobile, skill-based games in India.

“The potential market for online game is still developing, and we believe that through this partnership with such an iconic brand, Gametech and Playboy can create a substantial presence in the Indian market and provide consumers fun and authentic games unlike no other partners in the industry.”

While three card rummy is served up at some of top casinos that operate in the Indian region, the new rummy version could be a serious rival. Gametech has worked tirelessly to create the new game, and it’s just a case of watching this space to see if the new rummy title realises its potential.