Ace game developer Games Global has released an exclusive slot title for Hard Rock Bet. The new slot, 9 Nekos of Fortune, was developed by Gameburger Studios and is available only on Hard Rock Bet’s online casino for players in New Jersey.
The release follows a successful earlier collaboration between the two companies on the Hard Rock Splash n’ Spin Link & Win slot game earlier this year. It also comes shortly after Hard Rock’s new partnership with The Volume podcast network.
Key highlights of the exclusive 9 Nekos of Fortune online slot
Gameburger Studios, an exclusive partner of Games Global, designed 9 Nekos of Fortune. The studio is known for producing games with striking visuals and engaging features that deliver strong performance.
“The 9 Nekos of Fortune release is another exciting addition that strengthens our offerings and gives our New Jersey players even more ways to enjoy premium gameplay,” said Rich Criado, vice president of casino at Hard Rock Digital, in a press release.
The slot includes a range of engaging features, including a bonus spin wheel and the Epic Strike mechanic, which allows players to land win multipliers of up to 2,000x during play.
The game also features scatter-triggered bonus rounds. Landing three scatter symbols activates the Bonus Spins Wheel, which awards 10 to 30 bonus spins. During these rounds, 2x or 3x multipliers may apply, boosting the potential for larger payouts.
This mix of volatility, multipliers and free spins is designed to appeal to players who enjoy both risk and reward. Hard Rock Bet’s approach focuses on using such mechanics to deliver more than a standard slot experience, encouraging players to stay engaged on the platform.
Hard Rock Bet’s growing relationship with Games Global pays off
This launch further strengthens the partnership between Games Global and Hard Rock Bet. In the first half of 2025, the two companies released the Hard Rock Splash Link & Win slot game.
Games Global Chief Commercial Officer Joann Pierce said the company is focused on developing customized content tailored to local players in regulated US online casino markets.
Criado described exclusives as central to Hard Rock Bet’s player-first strategy. He noted that earlier exclusive titles, such as Hard Rock Gold Blitz and Iron Eagle Power Combo, set high expectations for future releases.
Hard Rock Bet has also entered into a multimillion-dollar partnership with The Volume, replacing DraftKings as the network’s presenting sponsor and becoming its exclusive sportsbook partner. The deal took effect Sept. 3, 2025.
Exclusive online slots give Hard Rock Bet an edge in New Jersey
9 Nekos of Fortune is now available to New Jersey online casino players registered on the Hard Rock Bet site. The title is not available on other platforms, offering players an exclusive experience they cannot find elsewhere.
For Games Global, exclusive partnerships are part of a broader strategy to grow its presence in the US iGaming market. The company prioritizes custom content over generic titles to help operators like Hard Rock Bet stand out. In a mature market where player retention is key, differentiation remains a top priority.
Hard Rock Bet’s sportsbook currently operates in eight US states, while its online casino is limited to New Jersey. Unless Hard Rock secures additional casino licenses elsewhere, this game will remain exclusive to New Jersey players.
Industry watchers speculate that Games Global will continue to focus on customized content, and more exclusive titles from the developer are likely. For now, players in regulated states will continue to access Games Global titles through its operator partners.
Why 9 Nekos of Fortune could set the NJ online casino standard
By collaborating on 9 Nekos of Fortune, Games Global and Hard Rock Bet have reaffirmed their commitment to delivering high-quality content to their players.
Judging by past launches, 9 Nekos of Fortune could set the bar for future bespoke real-money online slot releases in the US iGaming market. One thing is clear: operators and suppliers see exclusive games as an essential strategy for attracting and retaining players.