Sebastian Jarosch is a German iGaming industry veteran. He has dealt with all aspects of the iGaming market, from affiliate review sites, to casinos, sports betting, and even eSports. His experience puts him in a unique position, where he can understand the most recent trends in the industry.

Jarosch’s expertise has been put to good use in Mithrillium Media LTD. The company’s main goal is to ensure that the iGaming industry goes down the right path. Their main focus is transparency, customer support, and building a user-friendly environment. The German expert’s principles are strongly geared towards a brighter industry for all.

Don’t take our word for it though. Jarosch’s resume speaks for itself. He, and his business, have won numerous awards for their contributions to iGaming. Among these awards are the Casinomeister 2020 award for Best Casino Group and the Askgamblers Awards Best Partner Award 2021. There is no doubt that he is a master of the craft.

 

From your perspective, what makes esports communities so engaged and loyal – and how does that contrast with typical iGaming audiences?

Esports communities are highly passionate, connecting with like-minded fans who share their love for their specific games. Fans don’t just watch their favorite games, they socialise, follow teams, join Discord servers, and create content. Many are avid players themselves, forging a strong connection to the teams they support. In contrast, iGaming audiences often play in solitude. Many players are bonus-driven or focused on individual entertainment. Loyalty is possible in iGaming, but it requires deeper engagement strategies than just promotions or cashback.

 

What are some specific community-building strategies from esports that you believe iGaming platforms could adopt?

Things like exclusive Discord channels, behind-the-scenes content, shoutouts, tiered loyalty roles, or AMAs with team members all help build community. iGaming platforms could create similar touchpoints like private VIP forums, streamer-hosted game nights, live Q&As with game providers, or multiplayer missions where users unlock bonuses together. It’s about creating reasons to stay and interact beyond the wager.

 

How important is content diversity (such as video, live chat, and user-generated content) in maintaining community engagement?

Static content can inform, but interactive formats engage. Live chats, videos, stream highlights, memes, polls, and user-generated reviews keep communities dynamic and participatory. In iGaming, few brands fully embrace this yet. Integrating live chat rooms during game sessions or letting players post tips, screenshots, or review clips would instantly make platforms more social and entertaining.

 

What role does transparency and authenticity play in building trust among digital communities, in both esports and iGaming?

Both esports and iGaming audiences are extremely good at sniffing out inauthenticity. Communities thrive when platforms speak honestly, admit mistakes, and communicate like people, not corporate machines. In iGaming, trust is already fragile due to bad experiences and regulatory issues. Therefore sites like Casino Groups always highlight RTPs, ownership, licensing, bonus terms, and let real players have a voice in the scoring.

 

Do you see a future where casino brands or affiliates leverage platforms like Twitch or Discord in meaningful, compliant ways?

We’re already seeing very successful Twitch casino streams, youtubers and Discord communities, although these mainstream platforms are not always ideal for affiliates. Operators can already incorporate streamers directly into their lobbies with Livespins, a format that allows players to place bets on specific outcomes and interact with each other. For affiliates, Discord could become a hub for verified reviews, community feedback, or loyalty perks. It just needs to be done with integrity and respect for regional guidelines.

 

Esports often relies on influencers and streamers to grow organically. Can similar models work in iGaming without compromising ethics or regulation?

The concept of streamers and influencers works well in iGaming but it’s not always easy to ensure compliance because it’s impossible to monitor their content around the clock. Casino streamers should clearly state when they’re sponsored or using bonus funds, because playing high limits with bonus money could mislead players and encourage risky behavior. On the flip side, influencers can educate, entertain, and raise awareness about responsible gambling during their streams. Regulation will probably tighten here, so any model must be built with ethics in mind.

 

What lessons can affiliates learn from how esports communities handle onboarding and educating new users?

Esports communities often provide tons of informational content like quick tips for beginners, intermediate guides, and advanced strategies. They also use video tutorials, live Q&A sessions, and interactive help. Affiliates could mirror this by simplifying their content structure, offering tooltips in reviews, or building educational hubs that explain game types, wagering rules, and risk factors without overwhelming newcomers. Education builds trust and long-term engagement.

 

How can gamification and progression systems (staples in esports) be applied more effectively to iGaming platforms?

iGaming already uses some gamification like VIP levels, missions, tournaments, challenges, but often as isolated features. Esports teaches us that progression should feel earned and visible, where players can unlock weapon skins or charms. Platforms could integrate user profiles, achievement badges, or experience points for reading reviews, testing games, or leaving feedback that are visible within the community. Gamification works best when it’s community-facing and tied to shared goals, not just individual rewards.

 

Are younger audiences shifting the expectations for how iGaming brands should behave online — and are affiliates ready for that shift?

Younger audiences expect greater transparency, social interaction, and faster responsiveness. They’re less tolerant of poor UX, hidden terms, or aggressive sales tactics, and they’re highly tech-savvy. Affiliates need to evolve by offering more engaging interfaces, quality entertainment, and ethically sound content. Long comparisons may be replaced by short video explainers, voting systems, or community-driven feedback. It’s no longer just about SEO, it’s about earning credibility and building lasting user loyalty.

 

Looking ahead, do you think the lines between iGaming and esports will continue to blur — and what should brands do now to prepare for that convergence?

We’re seeing hybrid platforms, crossover influencers, and shared audiences emerge. Brands should begin by understanding the cultural language of esports, including its tone, values, and community dynamics. Hiring talent from esports, building interactive features, and focusing on entertainment as much as conversion will help future-proof iGaming platforms. The next generation of players isn’t just looking for a casino. They’re looking for a digital experience they can connect with.

By Zoltan Tundik

Zoltán Tűndik-Kiszner-Szilágyi is the Co-Founder, Co-Owner and Head of Business at Hipther Agency, parent brand of WireUp, European Gaming, PICANTE, and Gaming Americas. Zoltán is a self-taught publisher and events organizer who has developed several brands and services that have increased the notoriety of his company within several multi-billion industries. Among the developed brands and services you can find online news portals that cover several tech industries, gaming, blockchain, fintech, artificial intelligence, and more. In parallel, the company has built a portfolio of annually organized boutique-style conferences in Europe and North America. All the events organized by his company focus on bringing a wealth of information about the latest innovation in several industries such as Entertainment, Technology, Gaming and Gambling, Blockchain, Artificial Intelligence, Fintech, Quantum Technology, Legal Cannabis, Health and Lifestyle, VR/AR, eSports and many more.