Evolution Gaming's EZ Baccarat makes strides in the American and Canadian markets.
In a significant move for the baccarat industry, EZ Baccarat, a leading baccarat brand in North America, has made its digital debut on Evolution's subsidiary Ezugi in key U.S. states and Ontario, Canada.
The expansion, which began in New Jersey, Michigan, and West Virginia, marks a major milestone for EZ Baccarat as it seeks to strengthen its brand recognition in the competitive digital baccarat market. The brand's focus on live dealer and RNG platforms has seen it partner with major operators such as Caesars, Hard Rock, Rush Street, and Parx.
Francisco "TJ" Tejeda, co-creator of EZ Baccarat, emphasised the importance of brands in the digital space, stating that EZ Baccarat, being the best-known brand, makes a difference.
EZ Baccarat preserves the traditional baccarat play while eliminating the 5% commission on winning Banker bets, resulting in a "push" for a winning Banker hand totaling seven cards. The game, which was originally created by Robin Powell and Francisco "TJ" Tejeda, also features proprietary side bets such as Dragon7 and Panda8.
The digital expansion of EZ Baccarat comes as online gambling legalization and live dealer game popularity continue to grow, particularly in U.S. states that have started or expanded regulated iGaming markets. The brand's North American push is in line with this trend.
However, there is no indication of expansion outside North America in the latest updates. In July 2024, Evolution announced its plan to acquire Galaxy Gaming for $85 million in cash, which could potentially widen EZ Baccarat's reach. The Talisman Group had also selected Galaxy Gaming to take over the distribution rights for EZ Baccarat in 2023.
Currently, EZ Baccarat is available on more than 100 websites worldwide, spanning North America, Europe, Africa, South America, and Central America. With over 730 tables in 150-plus casinos globally, the brand continues to add new markets and Tejeda believes this will be a powerful boost for the brand.
The launch of EZ Baccarat on Ezugi, an Evolution company and the world's leading live-casino provider, represents a pivotal milestone in the brand's global growth. The gameplay, with its optional progressive wagers, is gaining traction with operators in both the U.S. and Canada. Top companies like Caesars and Hard Rock have chosen to offer EZ Baccarat, fulfilling a long-held wish to give players access to the game on Live Dealer wherever they are.
In summary, EZ Baccarat's digital presence is rapidly growing in key U.S. states and Ontario, Canada, focusing on live dealer and RNG platforms accessible through leading online casinos. The brand's North American expansion underscores its aim to strengthen brand recognition in digital baccarat markets where competition is intense.