#6 Guru Games

Innovation Journey

Evan Thomas and Troy Pettie, both UNLV engineering students, embarked on their entrepreneurial journey after taking a gaming innovation class. They were inspired to create Guru Games to address the lack of interactive experiences in traditional slot machines, which often turn off millennials 1. By partnering with third-party manufacturers, they retain creative control over game design while leveraging established distribution channels 1.

   

Psychology Insights

Understanding the psychology behind gaming, Evan and Troy designed their games to keep players engaged longer, even if it means slower play 2. They aim to create an interactive experience that appeals to younger gamblers who seek more than just mindless slot machine play 2. This approach leverages the concept of the 'zone,' where players are deeply immersed in the game, enhancing their overall experience 3.

   

Strategic Decisions

Evan and Troy's strategic decisions focus on balancing creative control with practical partnerships. They are cautious about losing control to big manufacturers but recognize the need for collaboration to get their games into casinos 4. Their innovative game mechanics, which allow players to influence outcomes, aim to attract a new generation of gamblers and offer a fresh take on traditional slot machines 5.