The Rise of NetEnt
NetEnt is one of the most renowned and respected game developers in the online casino industry, and their most popular slot machine, Divine Fortune, has been a staple on many online platforms since its release in 2017. But what went into creating this highly successful game? In this article, we’ll take a behind-the-scenes look at the story of how Divine Fortune divine-fortune.org was created.
Concept and Design
The idea for Divine Fortune began with a brainstorming session between NetEnt’s creative team, which included Creative Director Henrik Fägerström and Game Designer Jonas Strand. The team wanted to create a game that would appeal to players who enjoyed slots with progressive jackpots, as well as those who were looking for a more immersive experience.
"We knew we wanted to create something special," recalls Fägerström. "Something that would stand out from the crowd and offer players an unparalleled gaming experience."
The team began researching mythology and folklore, searching for inspiration in ancient cultures‘ stories of gods and goddesses. They eventually settled on the theme of Norse mythology, drawing from the rich history and symbolism of the Viking era.
"We were fascinated by the idea of taking something so well-known and making it fresh," says Strand. "We wanted to create a game that would transport players to a world of magic and wonder."
Gameplay Mechanics
With the concept in place, the team turned their attention to designing the gameplay mechanics for Divine Fortune. They knew they wanted to incorporate progressive jackpots, as well as other features such as free spins and bonus rounds.
The core mechanics of the game were designed around a five-reel layout with three rows, featuring 20 paylines. The game’s Wild symbol was designed to be highly volatile, offering players the chance to win big by landing multiple combinations on the reels.
"We knew we had to balance volatility and frequency," explains Strand. "We wanted to give players a sense of excitement and anticipation, without sacrificing gameplay fairness."
Art and Audio
NetEnt’s art team was tasked with creating a visually stunning game that would transport players to the world of Norse mythology. The team drew inspiration from ancient Viking art and architecture, incorporating intricate details and symbolism into the game’s design.
"We wanted to create a game that felt like a work of art," says Art Director Anna Åkerman. "Something that would draw players in and keep them engaged."
The audio design was equally important, with NetEnt’s sound team working tirelessly to craft an immersive soundtrack that complemented the game’s visual elements.
"We knew we had to create an atmosphere that would transport players to a world of magic and wonder," says Sound Designer Johan Åkerström. "Something that would keep them engaged and excited throughout their gaming experience."
Testing and Iteration
Once the game was designed, it was time for testing and iteration. NetEnt’s quality assurance team put Divine Fortune through its paces, playing thousands of rounds to identify any bugs or areas for improvement.
"We tested every aspect of the game," says QA Lead Jonas Åkerström (no relation to Johan). "From gameplay mechanics to audio design, we wanted to ensure that every element was perfect."
The testing process took several months, but it paid off in the end. NetEnt’s team made numerous tweaks and adjustments, fine-tuning the game to perfection.
Launch and Reception
Divine Fortune launched in 2017 to critical acclaim, with players praising its immersive gameplay, stunning visuals, and generous progressive jackpots. The game quickly became a staple on many online platforms, with some casinos reporting six-figure wins just months after launch.
"We were blown away by the response," says Fägerström. "Players loved the game’s unique theme and gameplay mechanics, and we’re thrilled to have created something that has brought so much joy to so many people."
Legacy and Impact
Today, Divine Fortune remains one of NetEnt’s most popular games, with a dedicated following among online casino players. The game’s success has also had a lasting impact on the industry as a whole.
"Divine Fortune set a new standard for slots," says Strand. "It showed that progressive jackpots and immersive gameplay could be combined to create something truly special."
NetEnt’s team continues to innovate, pushing the boundaries of what is possible in online gaming. With Divine Fortune as its flagship title, NetEnt remains one of the most respected game developers in the industry.
"We’re proud of what we’ve accomplished," says Fägerström. "And we can’t wait to see what the future holds for us and our players."