Online gaming software developer, Cryptologic, has long been on a quest to exclusively license everything under the sun as an online slot machine. First, it was puzzle games like Sudoku, Cubis and that other one…oh yea…Bejeweled. Then, it was the Marvel Comic superhero’s, followed by some scantily clad games for Playboy. Along the way, there was a slot based on gambling watchdog, Casino Meister, Street Fighter II (the video game), and those wacky 80’s stoners - Bill and Ted. Err…”Bill and Ted’s Excellent Adventure” for all you youngin’s.

So what’s next, you ask? Perhaps reality television slots? How about “Lost Slots”. No wait, I’ve got it - “The Last Slot Machine Standing”. But seriously folks, all jokes aside, you have to hand it to Cryptologic for successfully branding several popular slot games over the years. I suppose their most successful campaign has been the Marvel comic slots, which now include some 10+ games integrated with a wide area progressive jackpot.

That said, just when I thought Cryptologic was about to exclusively license something else, who else but Playtech Software announces they have secured a contract to turn Marvel superhero characters into slot machines. I guess it wasn’t exclusive after all! Yes indeed, Playtech’s CEO, Mor Wizer, recently announced that his company has signed a deal with Marvel to begin branding their own slot versions of the comic book characters, including the X-Men, Incredible Hulk and Iron Man.

It isn’t known just how many of these characters Playtech has the option of developing. However, one thing is certain - Playtech will be giving Cryptologic even more heated competition and a run for their money in the coming months. Just how well they succeed will largely depend on the functionality and graphics of the games themselves. Playtech and Cryptologic are both well known, respected software developers. Likewise, their online casino licensees both actively compete in the same markets. It will certainly be interesting to see how it plays out.