The salary survey shows an industry changing technologically, geographically and structurally, writes Alastair Cleland.
First, the headline: this gaming industry salary survey shows the strongest wage growth in three years, with an average salary increase of 4.09% globally. After two years of relative stability, this marks a meaningful shift in salary growth in the gaming industry – but one that’s far from uniform.
Growth continues to be led by Tech and Data & Analytics, reinforcing broader global gaming salaries trends where demand for high-impact talent remains sky-high.
These pressures are feeding directly into wider recruitment and retention trends for 2025, as operators prioritise experience, adaptability and immediate impact over volume hiring.
In contrast, salaries in Customer Services have remained flat, representing a real-terms decline when set against rising costs of living – a challenge for employers competing on experience, culture and retention. Therefore, how companies integrate and support new hires has become increasingly important, placing greater emphasis on effective onboarding practices as a driver of long-term retention.
AI and regulation begin reshaping gaming salaries
This year also marks a turning point in AI adoption, shaping gaming salary trends in 2025 in ways that are only beginning to emerge. While still early days, we’re already seeing its impact: streamlined teams, the phasing out of some entry-level roles and a reshaping of hiring needs across departments. The full effect of AI is yet to unfold, but forward-thinking companies are already asking the right questions.
Regulatory developments continue to shape where and how operators grow, reinforcing the global context behind this year’s igaming salary survey. Shifting rules and market structures has influenced global iGaming hiring policy across key regions. Brazil’s long-anticipated legalisation of iGaming has sparked rapid movement but also raised concerns. High taxation proposals risk fuelling black market activity, while a disconnect between local talent and international leadership highlights the importance of genuine localisation.
At the same time, we’re seeing growing interest in Asia and the Middle East, where regulatory barriers are gradually easing and market opportunities are expanding.
Shifting sands
For those making strategic hiring decisions, one message is clear: the landscape is evolving. Beyond headline growth, operators are reassessing how pay is structured, with deeper analysis revealing how iGaming salary trends are evolving across functions and seniority levels.
Understanding where talent is available – and how remote vs onsite gaming salaries compare, alongside expectations around compensation, flexibility and career growth – is essential to staying competitive.
As Pentasia approaches its 25th year, we continue to partner with ambitious companies worldwide to navigate this complexity. With deep data, a global candidate network and experienced teams in every major market, we’re proud to help our clients expand into new geographies, build new teams and secure the talent they need to lead the way.
iGB-Pentasia Salary Survey 2025: Salary averages, working patterns and pay trends
Thank you to our contributors, clients and colleagues who made this year’s report possible. We hope it helps you navigate change with confidence, make informed decisions, and seize the opportunities that lie ahead.
The survey concludes with a detailed breakdown of iGaming salaries by role and function, offering a clear view of current pay ranges across the industry.
Tomorrow, we will release key trends from this year’s edition and a roundup of developments around the world.
Read the full iGB-Pentasia Salary Survey 2025 report:
iGB-Pentasia_Salary Survey 2025
