Germany has long been one of Europe’s most challenging iGaming markets. Strict rules, slow approvals, and a regulator that historically kept its distance have made operators question whether meaningful growth is even possible. But as Roger Redfearn‑Tyrzyk, CCO at Shufti, and Dimitry Völkle, Managing Director at Zelda Consulting, explain, the story in 2026 is far more nuanced — and far more hopeful — than many expect.

This episode wasn’t just a status update. It was a candid, detailed look at what’s changing, what still isn’t, and what operators must understand if they want to succeed in Germany today.

One of the biggest surprises of the past year has been the behaviour of the GGL. For the first time, the regulator isn’t just giving speeches and disappearing. They’re staying. They’re listening. They’re asking questions. They’re walking the floor at industry events and speaking directly with operators and suppliers.

Roger described attending a recent industry gathering where the regulator didn’t just present — they participated. They sat with operators, asked about pain points, and tried to understand the realities of running a compliant business in Germany. For an industry used to one‑way communication, this shift matters.

Dimitry added important context: the GGL is tiny. Around 20–30 people are responsible for overseeing operators, approving games, monitoring the black market, and enforcing AML and KYC rules. For such a small team, the increased engagement is a meaningful step forward.

The wheels are turning — slowly, but undeniably.

Despite the bureaucracy, despite the delays, despite the tax pressure, Germany remains a cornerstone market. With more than 80 million residents and one of the strongest economies in the world, it’s not a market operators can simply ignore.

Dimitry was clear: Germany sets standards. When Germany tightens AML, others follow. When Germany adjusts KYC, others take note. A functioning German market doesn’t just benefit local operators — it influences the regulatory direction of Europe as a whole.

This is why, even with its challenges, Germany is still considered essential.

Both guests reflected on what surprised them most over the past year.
For Roger, it was the shift in tone. Operators who once had only four or five approved games now have broader catalogues. The approval process is still slow, but it’s no longer frozen. Innovation is creeping back in.

He also noted that operators are taking player protection more seriously, not because they’re forced to, but because they recognise its long‑term value. The industry is maturing — and the regulator is responding in kind.

Dimitry echoed this, pointing out that the GGL has begun actively consulting with industry leaders on AML, KYC, and game approval processes. A year ago, this level of cooperation felt impossible. Today, it’s becoming normal.

Looking ahead, Dimitry warned that 2026 will not be gentle on unlicensed operators. Blocking efforts will intensify, and the regulator is preparing for more aggressive action against the black market.

At the same time, several regulatory adjustments are under discussion — including changes to minimum stakes and other gameplay parameters. These aren’t cosmetic tweaks. They’re part of a broader effort to make the regulated market both safer and more attractive.

Germany is not trying to shut the door on entertainment. It’s trying to ensure that entertainment remains safe, transparent, and sustainable.

Roger brought up a topic that sits outside traditional iGaming but is becoming impossible to ignore: prediction markets. Globally, they’re gaining traction, especially in the US and crypto‑driven communities. Whether Germany will ever regulate them is unclear, but public interest is growing — and with it, questions about integrity.

He also highlighted a trend that has nothing to do with regulation and everything to do with player psychology: games have become too complicated. Too many animations, too many features, too much noise. Players are overwhelmed.

His argument was simple: the games that last are the ones that feel clean, intuitive, and satisfying. The industry doesn’t need more chaos — it needs more clarity.

Yes — but only for operators who understand what the market demands.

Success in Germany requires patience, compliance, and a willingness to work with the regulator rather than against them. It requires products that respect the rules, protect players, and still deliver entertainment. And it requires accepting that Germany will never be a “fast” market — but it can be a stable and profitable one.

Roger and Dimitry were aligned: the market is improving. Slowly, steadily, and with more transparency than before. Growth is possible — but only for those willing to play the long game.