Retro revolution and why classic games thrive in iGaming

News Team January 16, 2025

SiGMA news

The gaming industry has witnessed a powerful resurgence of classic games from the 1970s and 80s in recent years. Timeless titles, similar to the ones seen on early consoles such as Atari or Commodore, are finding new life in the digital age. What’s driving this retro renaissance? Nostalgia, simplicity, and blending old ideas with the latest technology.

Nostalgia and emotional connection

For many players, retro games evoke memories of simpler times. Titles like Pong or Space Invaders resonate with players lucky enough to witness the emergence of gaming. Who can forget loading a cassette game and waiting for what seemed like hours to play games such as Space Harrier, Ghosts and Goblins, or Boulder Dash? These classic games have a timeless quality thanks to their engaging gameplay. If you didn’t get to play Donkey Kong, Asteroids or Outrun in a noisy arcade, you missed out!

A perfect example of the synergy between retro and modern technology is Bovada, where players can enjoy Plinko-inspired games. Originally a popular TV game show feature, Plinko is now adapted for digital casinos. offers games that combine the charm of retro aesthetics with the thrill of gambling. Easy-to-understand mechanics, big payout potentials and nostalgia give games like Wild Plinko leverage to captivate a broad audience.

It is important not to underestimate the impact of Pac-Man in terms of its influence on the design and bonus features of many modern slot games. Frogger, Tetris, Super Mario, and Streetfighter influenced later casino games with their addictive gameplay and retro soundtracks that inspired modern features such as free spins and bonus rounds.

Millennials and Gen Xers first played these games and now have the disposable income to revisit their childhood favourites. Innovative developers are now reimagining these games as part of online gambling platforms. The trick is blending their simplicity with engaging mechanics.

Accessibility and retro perfection

Advancements in digital platforms and ever-innovative rapid progress in artificial intelligence (AI), virtual reality (VR), and augmented reality (AR) make it easy for iGaming operators to introduce retro-inspired games to captivate a newer audience of Gen Zers. These games are simple to play, offer instant rewards, and don’t need complex instructions. This simplicity and familiarity appeal to seasoned gamblers and new customers alike.

Mobile-first gaming has opened a new level of player engagement and satisfaction. The mobile platform has embraced retro games and has revolutionised how players engage with their favourite games. Although mobile-first gaming has roots in casual gaming, it has redefined player expectations in iGaming. Today’s players expect smooth performance, vibrant graphics, funky soundtracks and instant accessibility. Nostalgia still needs to be highly engaging.

Why retro is perfect for iGaming

Classic games are intrinsically addictive. Their quick gameplay loops, level-building, risk-taking, and puzzles mirror the structure of casino games. iGaming has been clever in adopting the psychology behind this to ensure that, while the experience feels familiar, it’s also challenging and innovative.

But don’t be fooled; this isn’t all about nostalgia. iGaming is constantly reimagining the essence of these games to keep players interested. Marrying the classic appeal of retro-inspired games with cutting-edge technology ensures that these games remain modernised and at the forefront of the iGaming revolution.