Made in the Cedar Valley: SciPlay's Story

posted on Tuesday, October 29, 2024 in Grow Cedar Valley

The Cedar Valley is full of surprises, including a growing hub of game development. In this Made in the Cedar Valley series, we’re featuring SciPlay, a company that’s been making waves in the world of mobile gaming right here in our own backyard. From a small startup to a global developer and publisher of free-to-play games, SciPlay's journey is an inspiring example of the Cedar Valley’s innovative spirit. 

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The Story of SciPlay

Originally founded as Genesis Communications in a small Waterloo studio, SciPlay began as a passion project by a group of recent college grads. Driven by a desire to make video games, they took on an ambitious goal in a place where few others were doing the same. Starting out with an amusement park simulator game, the young team soon found themselves pivoting toward a new and untapped genre: slot machines.

The early years saw the development of CD-ROM-based slot games, where players could purchase new slot content for a one-time fee. As the gaming world evolved, so did SciPlay. The company embraced the shift from physical CD-ROMs to digital platforms, making it easier for players to enjoy their favorite games anytime, anywhere.

Today, SciPlay has grown from its humble beginnings into a free-to-play mobile gaming global powerhouse, employing over 800 people across the world. Despite its growth, the company remains deeply rooted in Cedar Falls, where its flagship game, Jackpot Party, is developed.

The Success of Jackpot Party

Jackpot Party, SciPlay’s number-one social casino game, launched in 2012. Known for its authentic slot machine content and mechanics, Jackpot Party offers players a real casino experience from the comfort of their mobile devices. The game has consistently ranked as a top 10 downloaded app, year after year, making it a key driver of the company’s success and growth.

What makes Jackpot Party such a hit? Chief Technology Officer Forrest Stowe attributes it to “a little bit of luck and a lot of care and attention.” Jackpot Party's enduring popularity is fueled by a combination of authentic slot content that mirrors the real casino experience and an emphasis on player engagement through LiveOps programs and personalized features. 

Shaping the Gaming World Right Here in the Cedar Valley

At SciPlay’s Cedar Falls studio, innovation comes to life in many forms:

Jackpot Party App: This flagship game continues to be a hit, consistently ranking among the top 10 mobile downloads on Google and Apple’s app stores. With its exciting slot gameplay, engaging bonus rounds, and regular updates, Jackpot Party keeps players entertained.

Casino Slot Games: SciPlay is known for its innovative and player-centric LiveOps which are the driving force behind hits like Jackpot Party Casino Slots and Quick Hit Slots, another top game.   LiveOps are regular updates and events that introduce new features and challenges.  LiveOps keep players engaged, generate excitement, and encourage player participation.

In-House Sound & Music Design: SciPlay’s creative process goes beyond visuals. Their in-house music studio produces custom soundtracks and sound effects that add depth and excitement to gameplay.

Where Culture Fuels Success

The culture at SciPlay is the fuel that drives their success. The team believes in breaking molds and bringing diverse talent together to craft memorable experiences. SciPlay’s work environment is built on inclusion, creativity, and plenty of collaboration.

As Kimber Dall, SVP of Human Resources, puts it: "We really want people to come here as they are, with open arms of acceptance and clear communication. Everyone here has high drive, high energy, and thrives on working together. It’s that spirit of teamwork that makes people excited to come to work each day."

SciPlay’s employee resource groups add to the fun, creating spaces for community, connection, and culture-building activities. From celebrating different cultures to advocating for change, these groups give employees the chance to shape the company’s culture and future.

The company is committed to helping its employees learn and grow. "We have invested in different learning and development initiatives and training opportunities. We're seeing people progress through the organization, whether it's linear, or they're making a drastic change." Kimber shares. "One colleague started in accounting and is now a project manager on one of our games. It’s all about creating opportunities for people to explore what excites them."

Rooted in the Cedar Valley

SciPlay’s influence goes beyond gaming as it actively supports the community that helped shape its journey. From partnering with local organizations like Habitat for Humanity to supporting Cedar Valley Pride, SciPlay is dedicated to making a positive impact.

The company also prioritizes local talent by collaborating with area universities and offering internships that often turn into full-time roles. It’s all part of SciPlay’s commitment to grow talent, strengthen the local economy, and create lasting career opportunities right here at home.

SciPlay’s Next Chapter

SciPlay is constantly evolving, with new projects that aim to expand its game lineup and improve player experiences. But, even as the company explores new genres and technologies, it remains true to its Cedar Valley roots.

Through engaging games, a strong community focus, and a culture that values talent and fun, SciPlay truly embodies what it means to be Made in the Cedar Valley.

For more stories of success from businesses that call the Cedar Valley home, stay tuned to our series and visit growcedarvalley.com.