ELA Games Celebrates “Best New Game Release 2026” Nomination for King and Flame

ELA Games’ King and Flame has been announced as a finalist for Best New Game Release at the 2026 SiGMA Europe Awards. This nomination reflects the studio’s focus on pairing immersive narratives with precise math models, perfectly timed ahead of the major industry gathering at the Casino Maltese in Valletta, Malta, on May 27.

A Subverted Take on a Classic Fairytale

King and Flame earns its nomination through a distinct visual identity and an inventive spin on the Hold and Win category. Acting as a unique hook for the title, the narrative breaks away from familiar casino storytelling by flipping classic fantasy tropes upside down. Players are thrust into a volatile realm where a power-hungry prince accidentally unleashes a terrifying Dragon Queen.

What makes the gameplay exceptional is how the mechanics constantly alter the battlefield. Regular spins feature coins that pay out their exact face value, while unpredictable Mystery Chests can shatter at any moment to award instant prizes or trigger the Grand Jackpot. The grid itself transforms when the "Tamed by the Crown" feature activates, where the Dragon Queen emerges as an expanding Full Reel Wild to deliver massive royal bounties. As players enter the Free Spins round, the stakes escalate with column-expanding coins and a Super Bonus Wheel that doubles all rewards, bringing high-volatility action into a carefully curated medieval realm.

Marharyta Yerina, Managing Director of ELA Games, commented on the nomination:

"We’re very happy to see King and Flame get a nomination at the very well-regarded SiGMA Europe awards. I know the work everyone at the ELA team put into creating an intricate back story and graphic world for this slot. It is one of the most narrative-based titles we have released to date, and the care the team put into the design has really brought that story to life. It is wonderful to see that dedication noticed on such a prestigious stage."

Cast Your Vote

Public voting for the Best New Game Release category is officially live. If you’ve experienced the heat of battle with the Dragon Queen, we would be grateful for your support.

Vote for ELA Games and King and Flame here: https://sigma.world/summits/europe/awards-2026/malta-awards-vote/ 

About ELA Games

ELA Games is a slot provider in the iGaming industry, dedicated to creating a captivating experience for players through its premium slots. Since its formation in 2022, it has been working to establish a strong reputation in the sector through its games’ top-quality graphics, interactive nature, and innovative features. The provider's portfolio is fast-growing, and focuses on creating immersion through strong stories and narrative-led entertainment, alongside a wide range of other engaging titles.

About SiGMA Europe

SiGMA Europe is an elite gathering for the iGaming, betting, and esports industries, bringing together industry leaders, operators, and affiliates to inspire innovation and celebrate excellence. The SiGMA Europe Awards 2026 will take place on May 27 at the historic Casino Maltese in Valletta, Malta. The evening highlights an industry built on innovation and influence, featuring 26 award categories, a C-level networking environment, and a special charity auction held to support good works funded by the SiGMA Foundation.

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