In our latest Q&A, we catch up with one of the most recognisable studios in online slots, Blueprint Gaming. We sit down with James Raraty, Product Executive, to talk through what players can expect from Blueprint in 2026 – from the return of iconic franchises like Fishin’ Frenzy, Eye of Horus and The Goonies™, to bold new IPs, evolving mechanics and expanding global ambitions. James shares insight into how Blueprint balances innovation with legacy, the trends shaping their roadmap, and why the year ahead could be one of the studio’s most exciting yet.
Jamie: Blueprint has several big titles lined up for early 2026 – which upcoming releases do you feel will define your slate next year, and why?
James: It’s difficult to single out only a couple because we’re backing everything that’s scheduled for Q1, but there are some real flag-bearers in the mix. Cash Strike X-Cash lands in January and introduces a brand-new mechanic that evolves the strengths of the Cash Strike series – it’s familiar, but bolder and far more dynamic. We follow that with Frankenstein’s Fortune, which blends modern Blueprint mechanics with the charm and tone of classics like Wish Upon A Jackpot, bringing something nostalgic yet fresh to the market. Rounding off February is King Kong Splash, built around the increasingly popular three-pot feature upgrade mechanic and complete with a new headline feature. We think it has breakout potential.
Jamie: Players know Blueprint for iconic franchises like Fishin’ Frenzy, Eye of Horus, and The Goonies™. Are there any major sequels or new iterations planned for 2026?
James: Absolutely. 2026 will expand some of our biggest brands in exciting ways. You’ll see King Kong Splash, which fuses Kong with elements of Fishin’ Frenzy for a crossover we think fans will love. Another outing for The Goonies™ is lined up with evolved features and broader win potential, alongside The Flintstones™ Rocky Riches JPK and Eye of Horus: The Golden Tablet Gold Spins.
We’re also introducing Fishing Frenzy: The Big Catch Gold Spins at the end of January. It retains the heart of the original game but adds a fresh, distinctive feature twist. The Goonies™ franchise will be a major focus throughout the year, and we even have a few classics returning, including Pig Wizard. Legacy, evolution and surprise – that balance remains key.
Jamie: Can you share any details about completely new IPs or mechanics launching next year that mark a shift or evolution in your design direction?
James: We have a major new IP arriving in March. Operators who have seen the roadmap teaser will know what’s coming, and we’d bet our iron throne that its arrival will make noise. It’s the most detailed title we’ve ever built, featuring a range of mechanics not yet seen in our portfolio and a deeper player journey with more to uncover over time. The ambition behind it signals where Blueprint is headed: cinematic presentation, layered gameplay and experiences that evolve with the player.
Jamie: Blueprint games often strike a balance between accessibility and high-volatility excitement. Are you planning to push volatility or pacing in new directions in 2026?
James: We’re always evaluating player behaviour and fine-tuning accordingly. There’s clear momentum behind mechanics that allow bonus upgrades through individual pot triggers. The Goonies™ Quest for Treasure, which recently launched, is a great example. Cash collect-style gameplay continues to resonate with players, so you’ll see further innovation in that area, but never at the expense of variety. We’ll keep exploring new volatility profiles and pacing models to ensure 2026 offers something for every player type.
Jamie: What emerging player trends or data insights are influencing your roadmap for 2026 – e.g., bonus-buy demand, Megaways evolution, crash/instant-win hybrids, or community-driven features?
James: Feature-upgrade mechanics and cash-collect elements are definitely trending upward across the network. They give players incremental goals and a sense of progression, which is something we see strong engagement around. That said, we’re very conscious not to rely on one trend – our roadmap balances established favourites with fresh mechanics and formats, and we’ll continue iterating based on data as the year evolves.
Jamie: How is the studio thinking about innovation in 2026 – is it more about refining Blueprint’s core DNA or introducing completely new gameplay experiences?
James: Both, without question. Our core franchises continue to perform incredibly well, and refining them keeps the experiences tight, modern and relevant. At the same time, innovation is essential, from new IPs to mechanical leaps and bolder volatility structures. 2026 is about strengthening what players already connect with while also introducing new styles of play that push Blueprint forward.
Jamie: Many players love your licensed content and branded slots. Are there any new collaborations or IP partnerships scheduled for the coming year?
James: We have a major new global brand joining our line-up. We can’t reveal the name just yet, but let’s just say winter is coming in more ways than one. Alongside that, we’ll continue enhancing beloved licences like The Goonies, building on the trust we’ve developed with rights holders over the years. Our track record with brands is something we’re proud of; partners know we treat their IPs with respect, creativity and ambition.
Jamie: Is Blueprint exploring new technology or formats – such as dual-reel systems, global progressive jackpots, social features, or streamer-focused designs?
James: Our jackpot products – Rapid-Fire Jackpots and Jackpot King – remain core pillars, and we’ll continue expanding them. You’ll also see more work around Blueprint Retain, plus deeper streamer-focused experiences as the creator landscape grows. We’ve also just launched Fishing Frenzy Live Roulette with Playtech, our first game-show style release, and seeing it live and being played has been a huge milestone. Expect more experimentation in spaces that blend casino entertainment with broadcast-style interaction.
Jamie: Blueprint is present in many markets worldwide. Which regions or regulated markets are strategic priorities for 2026, and how does that influence the games you build?
James: International expansion will be a meaningful focus next year. Ontario is a standout opportunity as the market continues to scale year-on-year, and we’re evaluating several other regulated territories with long-term potential. Where we grow, we adapt; mechanics, volatility and even themes can vary based on region. For example, we’ve produced Maradona slot titles exclusively for Italy, and when a market needs bespoke content, we’re ready to commit.
Jamie: Finally, what message would you give Blueprint fans – and the FruitySlots community -about what’s coming in 2026 and why they should be excited?
James: 2026 is shaping up to be one of our most diverse years yet. Winter is on the horizon, Kong is splashing down, Eye of Horus returns in new form, and there are fresh IPs and mechanics we can’t wait to reveal properly. Whether you’re into feature-rich adventures or straight-to-the-action gameplay, there’s a lot to look forward to, and we’re only just getting started.
With major releases, evolving mechanics and some exciting surprises on the horizon, 2026 is shaping up to be a standout year for Blueprint Gaming. A big thank you to James Raraty for taking the time to share a closer look at what’s coming next. As always, we’ll be keeping a close eye on these launches and bringing the Fruity Slots community first-hand insight as the games land.
