The link-up is intended to tap into the growth in carrier billing solutions and online gaming money schemes, whereby gamers take part in initially free offerings such as Candy Crush, and latterly buy special fruits, powers or add-ons.

STFS was created to be a new kind of card acquirer and a one-stop-shop for merchant services and is active in the evolving games market.

Xsolla chose STFS as its partner in expectation of the speed, security and reliability of its services. The firm offers a full European cross-border acquiring service, vast experience in the European market and a focus on video gaming.

“As a customer and end-user oriented company, Xsolla is always seeking new partners who can assist us in evolving our solution and keep our customers happy,” said Vladimir Karnishin, card acquiring Manager at Xsolla. “That’s why working with STFS is so important for us. With them on board Xsolla hopes to achieve quicker credit card acquiring. Our association will allow us to process payments with less effort and always have a reliable partner to work through potential challenges.”

Mike Norton, STFS’ managing director, has identified video gaming as one of its most important sectors. “We’re looking to augment services that are already incredibly well suited to the video gaming industry by partnering. Xsolla specialises solely in the video gaming industry, so it’s a perfect fit in that regard.”