Evolution–Playtech Dispute Deepens as Case Takes Another Dramatic Turn

The long-running legal showdown between Evolution and Playtech has taken a new and unexpected turn in New Jersey, as newly filed sworn testimony threatens to undermine the central defense of the Swedish supplier.  A December 1 submission by investigative firm Black Cube introduced new technical evidence that, if accepted, could change how regulators and courts assess the case.

Black Cube Seeks to Shift Attention Back to Evolution

The new filing revolves around an affidavit from Black Cube director Dr Avi Yanus, who asserts that Evolution’s live casino content remained accessible in several prohibited markets well into 2025. The document mentions access from countries such as Iran, France, Russia, Singapore, Italy, Spain, and the UK, sometimes without VPNs or location-masking tools.

Yanus states that the investigation followed the same methods applied by law enforcement and intelligence, including IP verification protocols and recorded betting sessions. He even states that almost all of the original findings presented to regulators remain uncontested by Evolution, a point directly challenging the company’s public position that the claims are unfounded or misleading.

The new evidence could reframe Playtech’s role in the case. Evolution has repeatedly accused its rival of orchestrating a smear campaign, while Playtech insists it acted on credible warning signs of regulatory breaches. Playtech has attempted to spin its employment of Black Cube not as commercial sabotage but as a reaction to potential sanctions and compliance exposure.

The Accusations Could Have Significant Consequences

So far, court documents paint a messy picture. According to filings,  Playtech paid more than GBP 1.8 million ($2.4 million) to Black Cube between 2021 and 2024 for a confidential project focused on Evolution. Witnesses claimed that investigators, disguised as investors or business partners, approached current and former Evolution staff and secretly recorded encounters. Portions of these recordings were later edited and included in the regulatory dossier.

Evolution has consistently denied all allegations, branding the report false, defamatory, and commercially motivated. The firm asserts that the material aims to tarnish its image and distort competitive dynamics rather than to uncover real regulatory faults. Evolution has pledged to pursue all legal options against Playtech, Black Cube, and associated parties.

Despite Evolution’s claims, the latest filing represents a real danger, potentially drawing renewed scrutiny from gambling authorities in several European jurisdictions. The affidavit also has implications for the company’s anti-money laundering enforcement and sanctions compliance, areas that could attract the attention of global financial regulators.