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Top UI/UX tips for engaging players from the first click

6 June 2025

“You never get a second chance to make a first impression.” A gem of wisdom that hits the bullseye in the world of iGaming products. 

In casino games, that first click, that first impression, sets the tone for the player’s onboarding journey, determining how deeply they dive into the gameplay and how long they linger within it.

90% of consumers make their purchase decisions within the first few seconds of encountering a product. Believe it operates differently for online casino games? Absolutely not. When launching a casino game on a device for the first time and making that initial click or spin, it establishes the trajectory for the player’s subsequent interaction with the product.

Here is how everything comes together to create a casino game that captivates players right from the first click.

What players generally expect when they start playing online casino games

The solution to this dilemma is pretty straightforward. Considering that iGaming is all about gambling entertainment, players are looking for the thrill of scoring a win but also with a touch of enjoyment.

To reach this goal, players must grasp how to attain it; otherwise, the game won’t capture their interest. Every aspect of the iGaming product comes into play here:

  • features;
  • mechanics;
  • setting;
  • consistent game plot;
  • user-friendly interface;
  • responsive design;
  • visual hierarchy;
  • clear and concise information;
  • engaging animations;
  • in-game tutorials;
  • colour scheme and contrast;
  • intuitive navigation.

In a nutshell, when players dive into the casino game, they have to get an instantaneous understanding of the button to click and its purpose. If this threshold isn’t met, a gambler might decide to leave the game and explore alternatives that appear more comprehensible to them. 

Ensuring audience expectations are met is crucial in creating a first impression for players, where they feel like, “I know what to do in the game and why. I understand what I need for a win.”

For instance, when a casino game features an engaging bonus round, players should be informed from the start that there’s an opportunity to activate it. So the game is worth the candle *read “time”*

But there are also various reasons why people engage in gaming. Often, players opt for this form of leisure because of several factors. When starting a game, they anticipate achieving at least one of their goals.

Why is the first click so crucial for engaging players?

The first impression is the last impression, indeed. It builds a “bridge of trust” between a game and a player, predetermining how long they will stay with it. Research indicates that an overwhelming percentage of players, often exceeding 70%, form enduring impressions of a game based on this initial interaction. As the gateway to the gaming experience, it not only introduces players to the mechanics and aesthetics but also sets the tone for the entire journey. 

Developers keenly understand that a compelling first click significantly influences whether iGamers continue playing, with an estimated 80% of users making this decision within the first few minutes of gameplay. Crafting an engaging and informative first-click experience is crucial, as content that succeeds in doing so tends to retain over 60% of players.

Ways to design onboarding experience for creating emotional connections with players 

Businesses often use the hype word “hooks.” They serve as initial points of engagement, aiming to pique curiosity and draw attention to specific products, services, or promotional messages. They play a crucial role in marketing and communication strategies by creating a memorable and compelling impression on the target audience. 

When discussing online casino games, these “hooks” are what underpin the primary emotion, and that emotion is anticipation. Players expect to win, receive a bonus round, additional spins, or any other perks that excite them.

This is where every game element comes together to form a power play. Incorporating dynamic graphics and sound effects that escalate as players approach potential wins creates a sensory build-up. Moreover, introducing visually stimulating elements like animated reels or engaging storylines within the games can captivate players’ attention, keeping them invested in the unfolding narrative. Progressive features, such as bonus rounds or jackpot accumulations, intensify the thrill, offering players a taste of imminent success. Additionally, real-time updates on jackpot sizes or live leaderboards showcasing successful players foster a competitive atmosphere, intensifying the anticipation of achieving notable victories.

The key is still the same – understanding is the name of the game. Building an emotional connection only happens when the player truly grasps what’s happening.

According to cognitive appraisal theory, emotions are a result of the cognitive appraisal of a situation. Understanding or making sense of a situation can influence the emotional response. If something is more familiar or understandable, it may lead to a stronger emotional connection.

Introducing and guiding players through features during the game onboarding process

The biggest realisation of all is that, in the world of iGaming content, it’s not just about what you see on the surface; it’s about how you perceive it. This principle stands out as a golden rule, emphasising that every move within the game holds significance. 

You can kick things off with a special intro into the bonus round that unfolds with a strategic combination of visual and auditory elements. Subtle animations and a dynamic soundtrack create a transition that immerses players in an environment of heightened anticipation. This deliberate presentation aims to engage players on a sensory level. Whether it’s a brief spark or a sudden sound precisely timed, it adds a layer of suspense.

The primary objective is to prepare the player for the special moment they’re about to experience in a matter of seconds. A significant aspect of these practices is closely tied to the video gaming industry. Take, for instance, a game with a boss that players need to overcome. Just before encountering the boss, there’s this tension-building moment where the game introduces music or sound effects. The background might shift in colour or darken, signalling to players that something special is about to unfold.

Let’s examine this in the context of slots – the very foundation of gambling. Before Free Spins, certain reel zones may be highlighted, creating a brighter ambience with flashes of lightning. Developers also implement particle effects like sparkling stars, colourful explosions, or cascading elements to signify the commencement of Free Spins. Background transformation to a more dynamic or visually appealing scene can also contribute to the feeling of entering a special mode.

Big wins are like the cherry on top. Players eagerly await that thrilling moment when the tides turn, savouring the anticipation. The symbols shaking on the screen, along with a special melody, signal to players that the awaited big win is getting closer. Can they feel the connection? Absolutely, yes.

Yes, but…

We should never underestimate how the game’s mathematics plays a crucial role in creating a positive onboarding and future playing experience.

Think about it: a player gets drawn in by the game’s design, plot, and stunning animation, but if they aren’t happy with how often they win, there’s a good chance they might leave the game. It’s that crucial.

The same goes for marketing to a target audience. The product needs to connect with players, and that means developers have to promote the game to an audience that truly syncs with it. Even the best iGaming products, with all the bells and whistles, can be overlooked if they don’t align with the players’ interests.

Intuitive design is just as important. It can either enhance or spoil the player experience. Imagine playing a casino game without a proper button to exit. That could lead a player to leave the website instead of just closing the game. Plus, considering that over 50% of iGamers prefer mobile, the gameplay on a device should be super comfortable. Picture yourself killing time on public transport, holding your phone with one hand and a grip with the other – you shouldn’t need extra effort to play. Convenience is also the name of the game.

A well-crafted player onboarding = or ≠ long-term user retention?

Crafting a seamless onboarding experience in online casino games is a strategic investment that significantly influences user retention. The initial interactions with the game play a crucial role in shaping a positive impression, fostering ease and familiarity. Intuitive design ensures players quickly understand game mechanics, reducing frustration and increasing overall satisfaction.

While we can argue that it is more relatable to other businesses than iGaming, the decision to continue playing an online casino game shares parallels with choosing to purchase a smartwatch, for example. Both are shaped by the initial experience and the integration of features, creating an emotional connection that significantly influences the user’s decision to either stay engaged or explore alternative options.

While a successful onboarding process is undeniably valuable, it doesn’t serve as a one-size-fits-all solution for player engagement and retention. Regrettably, the reality is more complex, and additional factors beyond onboarding contribute significantly to the dynamic landscape of player involvement.

Even with a well-designed onboarding process, sustaining player engagement relies on various factors beyond the game introduction. Mechanics, content diversity, and mathematics play crucial roles, as a lack of innovation, winning experience, or monotony in gameplay can hinder a player’s long-term interest.

The key lies in crafting impeccable UI/UX for your games, ensuring pixel-perfect design. However, it’s crucial to recognise that this is just the basic rung on the iGaming experience ladder. Engage players with the first click and ensure a user-friendly journey as they ascend to its pinnacle.

You never get a second chance to make a first impression, yet you always possess an entire gameplay to ensure that the initial click is worthwhile.

 

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insights

Cultural tricks: adapting Halloween themes for diverse audiences

13 October 2023

As we stand on the cusp of the autumnal season, our focus naturally turns to Halloween. It’s a holiday deeply rooted in various cultures, intertwining concepts and symbols that resonate globally. While not universally celebrated under this name, Halloween’s interpretation is observed in some way in many countries, showcasing a blend of traditions and beliefs.

In the realm of casino game development, it’s vital for creators to have a nuanced approach to ensure their digital offerings resonate with individuals from various backgrounds. In this article, we will delve into the art of adapting Halloween themes with cultural sensitivity and business acumen, amplifying the gaming experience for a broad spectrum of players while upholding the respect for diverse global traditions. 

 

Understanding the cultural landscape

In the 18th century, a time when Halloween first made its appearance, in its initial incarnation, it emerged as the Celtic observance of Samhain, signifying the conclusion of the harvest season.

In contemporary times, Halloween has evolved into a prominent festivity, appealing to a wide demographic. It serves as a platform for various brands to capitalise on, strategically incorporating Halloween-themed elements into their products and marketing strategies. This strategic alignment allows them to establish a more profound connection with their audience. 

In the iGaming industry, there’s a notable surge in demand for Halloween-themed content come October. When we compare the data from October 2022 with that of September 2022, we clearly observe a significant uptick in interest in spooky and Halloween slots and instant games during this festive month, with their GGR growth of almost x10.

These numbers clearly showcase that Evoplay’s Halloween-themed iGaming content strikes a chord with a broad audience. It’s a testament to the dedication and thorough research our team invests in while crafting these titles. 

We draw inspiration from the diverse and rich folklore of various cultures, providing us with a wide playing field to experiment with themes, settings, and characters. Every country has its regional cultural peculiarities that are often hymned in mythology. They are stories developed in this community, passed through the generations by word of mouth. In these age-old tales, symbolic figures come to life, painting a vivid portrait of ethos, beliefs, and aspirations. 

The exploration of folklore and mythology creates a solid foundation for crafting immersive game settings. 

Let’s take, for example, the Day of the Dead tradition, originating from southern Mexico yet engaging millions of North and South Americans. Notably, its timing almost mirrors that of Halloween. Embodying this cultural phenomenon, we drew inspiration from symbols like Saint Death or Santa Muerte and La Catrina, an emblem of Mexican identity, for our slot game, Rueda de Chile.

At Evoplay, we recognised a gap in content catering specifically to the Latin American audience despite our established presence in the market as a business entity. Our passion for inclusivity and cultural resonance drove us to bridge this gap by introducing Rueda de Chile. This game brilliantly intertwines elements from the Day of the Dead tradition, infusing symbols like skulls, tacos, and peppers to capture that festive spirit. Our goal was to resonate with players seeking holiday entertainment infused with a twist of authentic Latin American traditions.

Gothic culture is steeped in symbolism, with its roots in medieval architecture, literature, and aesthetics. The towering cathedrals and intricate gargoyles found in Gothic architecture provide a wealth of visual cues and motifs for designing environments within games. Moreover, Gothic literature, with its tales of dark romance, haunted castles, and enigmatic characters, offers a plethora of narrative arcs and character development opportunities. Incorporating Gothic elements into games also allows us to delve into the exploration of existential themes, such as the struggle between light and dark, which we’ve perfectly implemented in Redrose Sanctuary

Goblins are widely known in European folklore, particularly in English, Scottish, and Germanic traditions. They are often depicted as mischievous and malicious creatures that play tricks on people. Drawing from this folklore, we incorporated them into our gaming universe with titles like Goblin Run and Treasure Mania, authentically capturing the essence of these mythical beings as described in age-old tales – characterised by jealousy and insatiable greed. Given that gambling itself embodies a treasure-centric cult, we envisioned a seamless integration of the goblin mythos into a treasure hunt narrative within our games. 

Classic Halloween celebrations originating in American tradition are a treasure trove of symbols ripe for an online casino game. In our forthcoming Halloween-themed release, Pumpkin Master, we’ve embraced these timeless classics. Carved pumpkins adorned with eerie faces, illuminated from within by a flickering light – an unmistakable hallmark symbol of this holiday. We’ve added bat wings to pumpkins, conjuring a mystical and fantastical ambience. Players will find themselves immersed in a moonlit night backdrop, painting a vivid scene of empty, desolate streets devoid of any signs of life – a perfect complement to the suspenseful adventure that awaits.

What sets this game apart in our lineup is its offbeat style. We coupled an instant game format (the domain we are actively developing at Evoplay) with an authentic, traditional Halloween ambience. However, the real magic lies in its features. The holiday spirit is amped up by the Random Event and Free Rounds features, adding a dash of gamification and an extra pinch of spooky excitement to the gameplay.

 

When the holiday is over, but engagement is not

At Evoplay, we specialise in developing enduring storylines for our games. This approach ensures that our Halloween-dedicated content remains captivating for iGamers even after the initial surge of holiday activity. Rather than a mere seasonal attraction, our games embody a level of storytelling and gameplay that holds its own throughout the year.

To provide an example, let’s take a look at Goblin Run and its main character as a symbolic representation of the spooky and playful essence of the holiday. During the active Halloween preparations, which typically span the second half of October, we noticed a remarkable uptick. Rounds surged by an impressive 62%, and Users increased by 25% compared to the first half of the month.

What’s truly exciting is that even after the Halloween fervour subsided, the momentum persisted. We witnessed a consistent growth of 28% in GGR and a 27% increase in Bet Sum during the same period post-holiday. The game stands out due to its fast gameplay nature, runner mechanics, a skin shop, an engaging progression through 5 levels, and an immersive storyline presented through 3D graphics. 

 

This reaffirms a significant point: when a game is innovative and captivating, driven by its compelling features,

its appeal endures.

 

By providing players with a diverse range of experiences, including online casino video slots and instant games tailored to different cultures, we enable them to fully immerse themselves in the excitement of treasure hunting and the thrill of luck, all within the engaging backdrop of Halloween. 

 

We pride ourselves on curating a top-tier portfolio of Halloween slot games and instant games designed to captivate players all year round. If you’re looking to enhance your casino’s offerings – let us know at [email protected].

Interested in Halloween content from Evoplay?
Contact us today to get a special offer!

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