Microgaming is aiming to combine the worlds of online casino and esports after partnering with betting and entertainment media firm Unikrn to add a new dimension to its aggregation platform.

The partnership will see Microgaming further diversify its gaming portfolio to provide esports betting to its customer base, which includes over 800 global gaming brands worldwide.

Leon Thomas, commercial director at Microgaming, explained: “Microgaming has a rich history of product innovation and development, and we are constantly exploring new avenues to deliver unique content that raises the bar of entertainment. 

“Unikrn has a strong reputation for delivering innovative esports gaming experiences that capture the attention of players around the world, and we firmly believe the addition of their esports product will allow us to bring something special to the market.” 

Microgaming’s content aggregation platform is now set to feature Unikrn Virtual, which provides a system for placing bets on some of the world’s most popular mainstream games, including top performers CSGO, Mortal Kombat, Street Fighter, NBA2K, Rocket League and War Zone.

“When I left my position as CEO of Microsoft Ventures, it was to create something unprecedented,” said Rahul Sood, Unikrn co-founder. “Unikrn Virtual is a never-ending well of exclusive content that will change the betting landscape. With our Microgaming partnership, I’m excited to access Microgaming’s network and global reach.” 

Unikrn Virtual is a collection of professional esports matches and bespoke content created and played by “some of the best competitors in gaming history,” including Justin Wong and the winners of over a dozen EVO championships.

Andrew Vouris, COO of Unikrn, added: “Unikrn Virtual is the solution to the singlemost foundational issue facing bookmakers today, even in the fast world of esports, content gaps can wreak havoc on bettor engagement. For bettors who want engaging, 24/7 options, Unikrn Virtual is the only option.”