Hard Rock Digital is eying both nostalgia and innovation by launching New Jersey’s first-ever live trivia game show on its online casino platform. Developed in collaboration with Playtech, the trivia experience aims to merge the excitement of traditional game shows with the thrill of real-money gaming, echoing the viral appeal of the now-defunct HQ Trivia.
Called Playtech’s Live Trivia Game Show, this product is part of the broader trend reshaping iGaming, where platforms are moving beyond spinning reels and digital cards toward more interactive, entertainment-driven formats. Trained presenters host the show, which streams live. Players can answer quiz questions in real-time. They have a chance to win rewards like Golden Chips and Free Spins.
“This is the exact type of immersive experience that we’re hoping to continue to develop on Hard Rock Bet,” said Rich Criado, VP of Casino at Hard Rock Digital, in a statement. “It’s not just about the game — it’s about recreating the neighborhood trivia night vibe, where people return weekly for fun, interaction, and community.”
Shifting toward interactive entertainment
Since they began collaborating in 2024, Hard Rock and Playtech have launched many traditional iGaming products. These include slot games, card games, and advanced live dealer options for online casinos. The launch of Live Trivia marks a shift towards interactive entertainment. It mixes online gambling with live digital engagement.
The show looks very similar to HQ Trivia, a viral sensation from the late 2010s. The app drew in millions with its live daily quizzes, fun hosts, and real money prizes. HQ collapsed because of money and operation issues. However, its main idea — live, mobile-focused, and social trivia — made a lasting impact.
Now, with a more stable infrastructure and a gambling license in place, Hard Rock and Playtech are attempting to revive and evolve that concept within a regulated iGaming framework.
How does Live Trivia work?
Live Trivia sessions take place every Wednesday at 8:00 p.m. ET. Themed events such as the Memorial Day edition and “Summertime at the Shore” bring seasonal flair and anticipation to each session. No buy-in is needed, making the game is easy to access and ideal for both bringing in and retaining customers.
Each session presents players with 10 rapid-fire questions delivered by a live host. Those who correctly answer at least seven questions split the prize pool evenly. For example, a $5,000 pool on one day would yield $50 per player if 100 participants qualify.
Jonathan Doubliet, Playtech’s Vice President of US Business Operations, emphasized the milestone this launch represents, stating in a press release: “We are proud to celebrate this milestone with the launch of our Live Trivia Game Show on the Hard Rock Bet platform, bringing a new level of entertainment to their players.” His sentiment is echoed by Grant Williams, Senior Vice President of Casino at Hard Rock, who highlighted the pioneering nature of the launch: “We’re thrilled to be the first in New Jersey to offer Playtech’s Live Trivia Game Show, and continue to elevate the player experience with cutting-edge, innovative content.”
Gamified content doesn’t only compete with other iGaming
What’s most important is the positioning. Hard Rock Bet aims to compete for screen time. They offer scheduled, live-hosted, appointment-based gameplay. This targets the same audience as social media apps and streaming services. That means they’re not just competing with other casinos — they’re aiming to carve a slice of daily entertainment habits.
For the gaming industry, it’s a compelling signal. Regulators, operators, and developers want to keep players engaged and build communities. Live trivia shows offer a way to combine entertainment with real-money play. This gamified content has great potential.
If executed well, this format could change online gambling in the U.S. It would focus less on solitary play and more on interactive, appointment-based experiences. The big question now is whether this trivia revival can avoid HQ Trivia’s fate — and instead build a loyal, engaged player base that keeps tuning in.
Analyzing a potential trend brewing here
This launch of Live Trivia reflects a broader industry trend toward gamification and hybrid entertainment models. As more states open their doors to regulated online gambling, operators who embrace innovation — especially with low-risk, high-reward formats like this — will be better positioned to build loyalty and extend their reach. It also underscores another critical trend: Innovation is no longer optional. With market saturation on the horizon and player preferences shifting toward experiences that are more interactive, social, and entertaining, game developers and operators are under pressure to differentiate.
As Doubliet noted, the future of iGaming hinges on “creating seamless, immersive experiences that integrate with broader digital entertainment ecosystems.” The Live Trivia format — a hybrid of game show excitement and casino accessibility — fits squarely within this vision. It mixes real-time interaction, skill-based fun, and easy participation. These are all essential for attracting and keeping today’s audiences.
