All-in-on Gaming Season 1, Ep. 1 | The Evolution of Gaming History
The gaming industry has undergone a dramatic transformation over the past two decades, and few have had a front-row seat to its evolution like Lewis Pek , publisher of G3 Media .
In the first episode of the new series, All-in on Gaming, Joseph (Mitton) Lohmann sat down with Lewis to discuss the ever-shifting landscape of gaming, from the rise of omni-channel operations to the challenges posed by illegal markets and regulation.
See the full interview here
“When we launched G3 in 2002, the industry was highly segmented,” Lewis shared. “You were either land-based or online, casino or sports betting—each sector had its own space. But now, everything is converging. Operators are thinking across channels, whether it’s retail, mobile, or digital.” This shift has fundamentally changed how companies approach growth, leading to integrated strategies that cater to modern players’ expectations.
One of the most significant changes Lewis has observed is the explosion of online gaming and its impact on land-based operations. “At first, there was concern that online gaming would cannibalize brick-and-mortar casinos. But what we’ve seen is an ecosystem where both can thrive—especially in markets that embrace regulation and responsible gaming.” However, he warns of challenges, particularly in Europe, where overregulation is pushing operators to look toward markets like the U.S. and Latin America for growth opportunities.
The fight against illegal gaming is a pressing issue worldwide. “Some countries are now licensing suppliers, not just operators, to ensure that games don’t end up on unauthorized platforms. If that becomes the norm, we could see a shift toward a more controlled, regulated marketplace,” Lewis explained. While it’s not a silver bullet, it’s a step toward protecting legitimate businesses and players.
Beyond regulation, innovation is shaping the future of the industry. AI and biometrics are making their way into gaming, from player tracking to game development. “We’re seeing developers use AI for coding and graphics, but regulation hasn’t fully caught up. What’s allowed? What’s ethical? Those conversations are still in early stages.” As the industry embraces technology, ensuring a fair and responsible gaming environment will be crucial.
From Brazil’s potential gaming boom to the emergence of high-end casino resorts in Dubai, the industry is in a state of rapid change. Whether it’s new opportunities or regulatory hurdles, Lewis emphasized the need for adaptability: “The companies that stay ahead are the ones that embrace change, not fight it.” As gaming continues to evolve, one thing is clear—innovation and regulation will define the future of the industry.
Catch Lewis’ full conversation on the All-in on Gaming podcast and reach out to us today to learn more about our gaming solutions.