Karma Gaming International is excited to announce the launch of a new category of next-generation lottery games- Crossword Hidden Object, based on Karma’s patent-pending technology.

Crossword-style instant win games are considered an evergreen lottery product category, while Hidden Object games are a popular sub-genre within puzzle-style games, popular on Facebook, tablet and mobile devices. By merging crossword with Hidden Object-style puzzle casual games, Karma has created a lottery game category for the casual gaming generation.

The first two titles – Haunted Hotel and Secrets of the Pyramids – hold the distinction as being the first-ever episodic lottery games, featuring storylines played out over multiple levels.

Each level contains a hidden object puzzle and a crossword. Players must uncover hidden letters within the puzzle to solve the crossword to win real-money. Players can also uncover additional bonus cash mini-games, as well as hidden clues to solve the mystery storyline, including hidden notes and artifacts.

Karma’s games can be played across all devices and are available in HTML5, Flash or native iOS.

“Karma has gained deep understanding of how to effectively combine the thrill of winning and gambling, with the entertainment value of gaming,” said Jay Aird, Karma’s Chief Innovation Officer. “Word-based games and puzzle games are universally popular among lottery players and casual gamers alike, and also share similar player profiles.”

“Lotteries around the world are suffering from an aging player base and a lack of relevance among younger audiences,” said Paul LeBlanc, Chief Executive Officer of Karma Gaming. “By reimagining a familiar lottery instant win game as a casual game, we are making lottery relevant to the digital generation.”

Karma will be showcasing Haunted Hotel at the upcoming World Lottery Summit in Rome. Haunted Hotel and Secrets of the Pyramids are available through Karma directly as well as through Karma’s distribution partners, such as GTECH and Scientific Games.