New authorisation paves the way for deeper EU expansion and strategic market growth
Expanse Studios has secured a significant milestone with the official certification of its crash-style title, Super Heli, for distribution in Croatia. The approval, granted by the Croatian Ministry of Finance, marks the studio’s entry into a regulated and rapidly growing European iGaming market.
This certification not only authorises Expanse Studios to operate in the country but also signals the company’s ability to meet stringent regulatory requirements within the European Union, enhancing its credibility and future expansion prospects across the continent.
Gateway to a High-Growth Market
Croatia’s online gambling sector is experiencing rapid expansion. In 2024 alone, the industry generated $484.7 million in revenue, and current forecasts predict a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.4% through 2030. The market’s ascent is being propelled by a combination of factors, including:
Increased internet penetration, which rose from 76% in 2020 to 83% by 2023.
Tourism-driven demand, with over 20.6 million international arrivals in 2023 following Croatia’s integration into the Schengen Zone.
Shifting demographics, as projections suggest more than 500,000 Croatian residents will regularly engage in online gambling by 2027.
These indicators underscore the strategic importance of Croatia for gaming developers like Expanse Studios. The country also forms part of the broader EU iGaming landscape, which provides access to neighbouring regulated markets through mutual recognition pathways and harmonised licensing structures.
Super Heli Leads the Charge
Super Heli is the first of Expanse’s 56-game portfolio to be approved in Croatia. It’s a crash-style game, a format that has become increasingly popular in global iGaming markets for its fast-paced, risk-reward gameplay mechanics. The studio has plans to seek certification for additional titles, enabling deeper penetration into Croatia’s digital casino space.
CEO Damjan Stamenkovic highlighted the broader implications of the approval:
“Croatia certification is more than market access — it’s validation of our content quality and compliance capabilities in demanding EU jurisdictions. With our flagship title Super Heli already approved and more games in the pipeline, we’re very excited for the opportunities this market brings us.”
Strategic Timing Amid Market Momentum
Expanse Studios’ move comes shortly after 7777’s entrance into Croatia via a strategic partnership with SuperSport, further demonstrating the growing appeal of the Croatian iGaming market for global providers.
Moreover, market research by iGamingToday suggests that under current regulatory conditions, Croatia’s gambling sector could reach €720.4 million ($848.8 million) by 2025, reinforcing the country’s attractiveness as a regional iGaming hub.
Looking Ahead
As Expanse Studios continues its licensing efforts, Croatia could become a cornerstone in the studio’s wider EU expansion strategy. With regulatory clarity, strong digital infrastructure, and a rising player base, the country offers fertile ground for growth, especially for developers able to navigate complex compliance environments.
Expanse’s certification is not just a regional win—it’s a signal to the broader industry of the studio’s readiness to compete at the highest levels of regulated gaming in Europe.
