Danny Gordon Q&A
In this industry, you have to be adaptable – able to meet the demands of players and compete with others in the space. In recent years, one of the most obvious examples of change has been the theming we see from studios. Gone are the days of cherries and bells – now we get releases with themes that are equal parts niche and controversial.
Now, there’s a new studio ready to take over our screens – DEGEN Studios. According to them, they’re not here for the Karens – their slots hit different and their slots hit hard. Inviting us to strap in, hold tight, and enjoy the ride, DEGEN Studios promises to change the game.
We sat down with Danny Gordon, who is Head Of Studio, to ask some burning questions about their debut release, Hacker’s Haven.
Jamie: Firstly, Hacker’s Haven is DEGEN’s debut slot. Can you introduce DEGEN to the wider iGaming world and players?
Danny: DEGEN is here to change the game. We are not your traditional iGaming slot studio. Our games are designed to disrupt the status quo and challenge our players. We are a company built by gamers, for gamers.
We are not here for the Karens, and we’re certainly not here to apologise. We want our games to be a rallying call to all of the mavericks out there, desperate for something fresh and exciting.
Jamie: You describe Hacker’s Haven as a ‘warning shot’ – what do you mean by this?
Danny: Hacker’s Haven is a signal of intent. It’s our way of saying, we’re here, and we’re building something different. As players, we’ve seen the same ideas reskinned and recycled – so this was our chance to break that cycle and show what we’re capable of.
It’s just a glimpse into what’s coming next. We’re only getting started.
Jamie: A real-life hacker inspires the game. Can you tell us more about this?
Danny: We are a movement, not just a company. We want our games to embody this movement and to make a statement. By using a real-life hacker, we are not only doing something bold but also showing our players that they are a part of what we are creating.
Our games are built by gamers, for gamers. We want our players to feel like a part of that process, so it is only right that they should be a part of our products.
It’s just a glimpse into what’s coming next. We’re only getting started.
Jamie: Can you tell us about the creative process behind Hacker’s Haven?
Danny: Inspiration can come from anywhere – but the slot space has been stuck in a loop. With Hacker’s Haven, we wanted to break that, drawing from underground culture to do something untraditional.
We built the game around a real figure from the scene, creating an authentic world with layered visuals and sound. Even the audio includes recordings from their actual home. Every detail had to feel real.
Jamie: What features are you most proud of with Hacker’s Haven?
Danny: We are proud of the entire game. Hacker’s Haven isn’t just a game; it’s an experience. Its unique design and creative mechanics invite players to strap in and let the game work its magic. The Free Spins bonuses, Multiplier Wilds and Cascades all combine perfectly to offer a unique gaming experience.
Jamie: What’s your message to players who are tired of playing the same old slots?
Danny: Join us. You deserve more. We’re here to give you an alternative to traditional themes and predictable mechanics. Take Hacker’s Haven for a spin, and you will see we mean business.
Jamie: Hacker’s Haven feels like a mission statement. What can the iGaming world expect next from DEGEN Gaming?
Danny: Disruption. We’re here to offer an alternative – something built by gamers, for gamers. This isn’t a one-off. We’ve got a full pipeline of creative slots and campaigns ready to roll. The goal isn’t to fit in. It’s to change the game.
