Inspired to develop NHL-branded Virtual Sports content under new licensing agreement

B2B gaming content and technology provider Inspired Entertainment has signed a licensing agreement with the National Hockey League (NHL), granting the company rights to develop interactive, fixed-odds Virtual Sports games featuring the NHL logo and NHL Club jerseys and names.

The deal expands Inspired's growing portfolio of relationships with major professional sports leagues, providing the company access to a variety of NHL brand assets and enabling the creation of gaming content for NHL fans.

"This new game will utilize the most advanced motion capture technology Inspired has ever implemented, ensuring unparalleled realism and immersion in gameplay," the company said of the planned gaming project. 

The official launch of NHL-integrated products is anticipated in Q4. Inspired's award-winning Virtual Sports portfolio is live across more than 40,000 retail channels and over 100 websites in 35 countries. 

Brooks Pierce, Inspired's President and CEO, said: “We are thrilled to work with the NHL and expand our offerings through this license. This product will appeal to North American players and to markets like Scandinavia and Eastern Europe. 

"The agreement enhances our Virtual Sports portfolio and aligns with our mission to deliver interactive experiences that redefine sports entertainment, offering NHL fans a unique way to stay connected with the game, even during the offseason.”

Chris Golier, NHL Group Vice President, Business Development and Innovation, said: “Virtual Sports gaming continues to grow in popularity worldwide. We are excited to work with Inspired to engage our passionate fans through Virtual Sports using NHL assets.

"Inspired is a leader in this space and will leverage NHL IP to deliver a gaming experience that connects with our fans in new and exciting ways, helping to grow our global fan base.”

In other recent developments for the brand, Inspired announced last month a partnership with betting company William Hill to launch William Hill Vegas Gold Cash Freespins. The bespoke game combines renowned William Hill Vegas imagery with the engaging mechanics of Inspired's popular Gold Cash Freespins theme.