SOFTSWISS, a global provider of iGaming software solutions, announces the release of its latest playbook, which helps operators make smarter, long-term platform decisions. The new iGaming Software: Build vs Buy Playbookbreaks down the pros and cons of two main options: 5 million euro and up to 24 months for building a proprietary platform, or 1 million euro and six months for a third-party B2B solution.
The SOFTSWISS Playbook offers a practical framework for operators, affiliates, and investors making one of the industry’s most critical decisions. Comparing the long-term effects of in-house development versus licensed turnkey solutions sheds light on essential decision-making paths. The study delivers actionable insights into cost structures, timelines, operational risks, and scalability challenges facing online casino and sportsbook operators.
The study highlights key time-to-market comparisons:
- Building a standalone in-house platform that fully meets operational requirements may demand an investment of 2.5 million to 5 million euro on average and an MVP launch timeline of 12 to 24 months. And that’s without taking into account the significant responsibility for maintaining security, compliance, and continuous improvement of the system.
- Opting for a B2B platform can cut your rollout period to just six months. Estimated first-year expenses, including upfront costs, range from 500 thousand to 1 million euro. However, it requires thorough provider selection to balance limitations in customisation and scalability.
- Hybrid approaches combining vendor technology with custom feature development are becoming popular among ambitious brands that want to stand out from their competitors without investing a lot of money.
- Compliance, scalability, and technical expertise are the decisive factors impacting long-term success.
These are just general points — the real answer lies in the details. The Playbook offers a deeper dive into timelines, cost breakdowns, risk factors, and what these variables actually mean when launching an iGaming project.
Denis Romanovskiy, Deputy CTO at SOFTSWISS, added:
“Building an in-house platform guarantees total control, yet the cost and complexity of re-creating every core feature of other platforms can stall innovation. Choosing a reliable B2B solution provides essential functionality from day one, enabling teams to concentrate on brand positioning, player experience, and strategic growth.”
The iGaming Software: Build vs Buy Playbook also includes a salary index for key iGaming development roles split by region, sample cost calculations, and operational checklists, making it a crucial tool for strategic decision-making in 2025.
The Playbook helps operators establish clear paths in launching their projects. It guides them to create sustainable and profitable strategies in a fast-changing iGaming market.
The full guide is available for free download on the SOFTSWISS Reports page.
