Alina Mihaela Popa, ICONIC21: “We want to be that reliable partner operators turn to, not just for content, but for long-term growth” 

ICONIC21’s CCO unveils the company’s growth strategy for 2026, emphasising innovation in dedicated studios and customised RNG solutions. A vision centred on flexibility and crafting unique experiences for operators and players.

Exclusive interview.- In an exclusive interview with Focus Gaming News, Alina Mihaela Popa, CCO at ICONIC21, shares the company’s ambitious roadmap for 2026, focusing on strengthening its verticals, expanding the innovative Gravity Series, and solidifying tailored solutions like dedicated studios and branded RNG games. With an emphasis on flexibility, speed, and creating distinctive experiences, ICONIC21 positions itself as the strategic partner operators need to stand out in a competitive market and build lasting player loyalty.

Could you share insights into ICONIC21’s roadmap and growth strategy, including your vision and priorities as you look ahead to 2026?

Well, you know, we started in live casino and very quickly grew into a full-spectrum content provider. Looking ahead to 2026, we’re really focused on three main things. First, strengthening all our verticals, making sure each one grows in the right direction. Second, expanding the Gravity Series – you’ll see Gravity Poker, a new wheel-based game show, and more. And third, growing our dedicated partner solutions, both in studios and branded RNG. We want to be that reliable partner operators turn to, not just for content, but for long-term growth. 

We’ve seen a growing demand for dedicated studios. What opportunities do you see in this area, and how is ICONIC21 positioning itself to capture them?

Yes, the demand for dedicated studios is stronger than ever, and it makes sense. It gives operators full ownership of the player experience.  It’s about creating a branded environment that feels completely theirs. Our process is fast and flexible. We go from moodboards, discussing game types, styles to assembly and live operations. At the end of the day, what we’re really building is a stage that belongs to the operator, and that’s what turns attention into loyalty. 

“The demand for dedicated studios is stronger than ever, and it makes sense.”
Alina Mihaela Popa, CCO at ICONIC21.

Branded RNG products are becoming increasingly important. How does customisation play into your strategy, and what value does it bring to operators and players?

You know, customisation is a big driver in RNG right now. Operators want their games to look and feel like an extension of their brand. That’s what gives them differentiation, and for players, it builds trust and familiarity. It keeps them coming back. Our roadmap here is modular. We can adapt existing titles or create fully branded originals. And we tie that back to our dedicated studio philosophy: whether live or RNG, we give partners the tools to make the experience truly their own.

“Customisation is a big driver in RNG right now.”
Alina Mihaela Popa, CCO at ICONIC21.

ICONIC21 emphasises flexibility and client-driven innovation. Can you share examples of how you’ve adapted your portfolio to meet specific partner needs?

Flexibility is one of the things that defines us. A good example is how we’ve built out our Originals, a series of fast-to-deliver, branded RNG games, which can be done quickly and affordably. And if a partner wants something unique, we can build a custom game from scratch around their vision. The way we see it, you just come to us with a need, and chances are we’ll make it happen. Fast, and in a way that fits the budget.

In a competitive market, what are the key USPs that make ICONIC21 stand out and create long-term value for your partners?

Yes, the market is competitive, but there are a few things that set us apart. Speed: We deliver quickly, and the quality stays high. Flexibility: whether it’s live, virtual, or dedicated studios, we adapt to what our partners need. Product DNA: our Gravity Series has become a real driver of engagement.  

And finally, our client-first mindset. Operators know their players better than anyone, and our role is to take that knowledge and turn it into iconic experiences that last.