Scientific Games ignites content-led pivot with Lightning Box acquisition
Global supplier hails “key step” in deal to bolster in-house studio offering with deal for Sydney-based developer
Scientific Games has bought Lightning Box to bolster its newly unveiled content-led gaming strategy.
Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed, although the Las Vegas-headquartered giant hailed the deal as a “key step” in its strategic plan to become a content-led, sustainable supplier after deciding to divest its lottery and sports betting divisions.
Scientific Games’ strategic shift was first revealed in June.
As part of the divestment process, the firm has embarked on an evaluation of “strategic alternatives” to facilitate the sales, including via IPO, SPAC or straight sale of the businesses.
“The company continues to capitalise on its largest growth opportunities with a focus on digital markets,” Scientific Games said in a statement.
“The addition of the Lightning Box studio bolsters the company’s in-house studios with even more talented game makers,” the firm added.
Scientific Games and Lightning Box are long-standing partners. The pair expanded their relationship to include the US market in 2018 via SG Digital.
Discussing the deal, Scientific Games SVP gaming Dylan Slaney said: “Lightning Box games are hugely popular with slots players around the world, and we’re excited to welcome these talented game designers to our team.”
Founded in 2004, Lightning Box games are currently live with more than 50 operators across the US, Canada and Europe, including 888, LeoVegas, Betsson and William Hill.
Lightning Box co-founder and MD Peter Causley described the deal as an “amazing opportunity” for the business, which is headquartered in Sydney.
“Joining the Scientific Games team and working even more closely with them comes at the perfect time to drive forward our ambitious product innovation plans,” Causley explained.
“Having been an OpenGaming partner since it’s early days, we knew that Scientific Games had the capabilities to propel our games to new heights.
“We’re now in a better position than ever to bring our robust pipeline of slots more effortlessly to our global online casino partners,” the Lightning Box CEO added.
It is understood London-based Oakvale Capital and Washington-based law firm Ifrah PLLC served as primary advisors to Lightning Box on the transaction.