From concept to experience: The product strategy powering the shining globe with Dimitar Nikolov

In an exclusive interview with Focus Gaming News, CT Interactive’s Chief Product Officer Dimitar Nikolov unveils the creative vision and design philosophy behind the company’s latest release, The Shining Globe.

Exclusive interview.- Dimitar Nikolov, chief product officer at CT Interactive, brings over 13 years of expertise in igaming to the company’s product development and innovation strategy. Speaking with Focus Gaming, he discusses how visual design and gameplay dynamics shape player engagement and shares the creative inspiration behind CT Interactive’s new title, The Shining Globe.

How does light and visual energy play into the player’s experience?

Light and visual energy are key elements in shaping the player’s overall experience. They create atmosphere, guide attention, and evoke emotions that deepen engagement. Through dynamic lighting, colour contrasts, and visual effects, we not only make our games more appealing but also enhance the sense of immersion. For me, visual energy is a tool that transforms every game into a memorable experience.

What kind of features or bonuses can players expect that align with the “globe” or “illumination” theme?

In The Shining Globe, the magical crystal ball lies at the heart of the game, channelling the witch’s powers to reveal hidden rewards. Players can encounter Wild that open secret paths to wins, Scatter + Collect that gather mystical energies—here, players need to collect 6 crystal balls to claim the reward—and Nudge that shifts the reels with enchanting motion. Each feature sparks magical discovery, keeping the forest alive with mystery and anticipation. For me, it’s about crafting a world of constant wonder and movement that fully immerses players in the spellbinding universe of The Shining Globe.

The visuals seem to blend simplicity with detail. How do you decide where to innovate visually without overcomplicating gameplay?

For me, visual innovation is all about balance. In The Shining Globe, we aimed to create visuals that feel rich and atmospheric without distracting from the gameplay itself. The key is to use detail to enhance the player’s focus — not to overwhelm it. We combine clean, intuitive design with subtle animations and lighting effects that add depth and emotion. Every visual choice serves a purpose: to guide the player’s attention, support the theme, and keep the experience smooth and engaging. Innovation works best when it complements the gameplay, not when it competes with it.

How does The Shining Globe fit into CT Interactive’s creative journey this year?

The Shining Globe represents an important step in CT Interactive’s creative journey this year. We’ve been focused on combining strong thematic concepts with refined visual and gameplay innovation, and this title captures that perfectly. It showcases our dedication to creating immersive experiences where design, features, and storytelling work together seamlessly. For me, The Shining Globe is a symbol of how far we’ve come — a game that reflects our passion for quality, creativity, and the constant drive to bring fresh energy to our portfolio.

“[The Shining Globe] showcases our dedication to creating immersive experiences where design, features, and storytelling work together seamlessly.”

Dimitar Nikolov, Chief Product Officer at CT Interactive.

What emotions or sensations do you aim to evoke when players spin The Shining Globe?

With The Shining Globe, our goal was to evoke a sense of wonder, warmth, and discovery. We wanted players to feel as if they are entering a glowing, enchanted world where every spin reveals something new and exciting. The combination of light effects, vibrant colours, and dynamic features is designed to create anticipation and joy — that feeling of chasing the next bright moment. For me, it’s about delivering not just entertainment, but a sensory experience that leaves players energised and inspired after every spin.

The Shining Globe stands as a testament to CT Interactive’s ongoing pursuit of creativity, innovation, and emotional connection in gaming. Through the leadership of industry specialists like Dimitar Nikolov, the company continues to redefine how visual energy and gameplay intertwine to captivate players around the world. As CT Interactive moves forward, The Shining Globe shines brightly as both a symbol of progress and a promise of even more inspiring experiences to come.