Episode 13·22:43·15 Jan 2026

AI Slots, 100% RTP Myths & Why Most Games Feel Disposable

with Aziz Akylbekov, Chief Product Officer at 18Peaches

Surya Palli

Founder of iGaming Real Talk.·15 Jan 2026

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In this episode of iGaming Real Talk, I sit down with Aziz Akylbekov, Chief Product Officer at ‪18Peaches‬ to talk about where slot games are heading and what most studios are getting wrong.

Aziz shares an interesting perspective on why not every game needs to solve a pain point and why making games "tastier" might matter more than chasing trends.

If you work in iGaming, game development, or product, this one will make you rethink how games should be built.

Key takeaways

Moving Beyond Problem-Solving. Aziz argues that not every slot game needs to solve a specific pain point to be successful in the marketplace.
Prioritizing Game Taste. Focusing on making games feel 'tastier' and more engaging is often more effective than simply chasing the latest industry trends.
Deconstructing Slot Myths. The episode explores common misconceptions, specifically addressing the reality behind 100% RTP (Return to Player) claims in game design.
The Disposable Game Problem. The discussion sheds light on why many modern slot games lack longevity and end up feeling disposable to players.

Notable quotes

Not every game needs to solve a pain point.

Making games 'tastier' might matter more than chasing trends.

About the guest

Aziz Akylbekov

Chief Product Officer at 18Peaches

Aziz Akylbekov is the Chief Product Officer at 18Peaches. He is a seasoned professional in the iGaming sector, recognized for his strategic approach to slot game development and product innovation.

Transcript excerpt

A short passage published by the podcast, not the whole conversation.

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Surya Palli
Welcome to iGaming Real Talk. Today, I am sitting down with Aziz Akylbekov, the Chief Product Officer at 18Peaches, to discuss the current state of slot game development and the mistakes studios are making today. Aziz, let’s start with the industry’s obsession with trends. Do you think we’re overcomplicating things?
Aziz Akylbekov
Absolutely. There is a prevailing notion that every new game needs to solve a complex pain point or completely reinvent the wheel. I think it’s time to move away from that. Instead of over-engineering mechanics, studios should focus on making games "tastier", placing the priority on the sensory experience and genuine player enjoyment.
Surya Palli
That’s a refreshing take. It feels like a lot of modern releases just don't stick with the player. Why do you think so many of these games feel so disposable?
Aziz Akylbekov
It really comes down to a disconnect. We are seeing too much data-driven development at the expense of actual entertainment value. When you prioritize raw data over the player's experience, you end up with products that fail to resonate.
Surya Palli
You’ve also been quite vocal about the technical and psychological myths surrounding 100% RTP models. What is the issue there?
Aziz Akylbekov
The problem is that these models often fail to capture the true essence of player engagement. People get caught up in the technical side of RTP, but that isn't what makes a game fun or engaging for the user. It’s a bit of a trap.
Surya Palli
It sounds like you're encouraging developers to step out of the industry's echo chamber. For those listening who want to craft better experiences, what is the core takeaway?
Aziz Akylbekov
Stop focusing on the echo chamber and start focusing on game architecture and product strategy that centers on the player. If you can bridge that gap between data and real entertainment, you’ll be able to create games that actually stand the test of time.