Darker, Bolder, Deeper: The Making of Dark Waters 2 Power Combo™

The ocean depths are stirring once again. Following the award-winning success of Dark Waters Power Combo™, Just For The Win® is back with a sequel that promises to plunge players even deeper into the unknown. Dark Waters 2 Power Combo™ is not just a continuation, it’s an evolution. The game brings new mechanics, diamond collections, and the ever-watchful Kraken to the forefront.

To dive beneath the surface of this highly anticipated release, we sat down with Johan Persson, CEO and Co-Founder of Just For The Win®. With years of experience shaping the iGaming landscape, first on the operator side at LeoVegas and now as the creative force behind Just For The Win®, Johan shares his insights on what it takes to craft a sequel that’s darker, bolder, and brimming with player appeal.

What inspired you to create a sequel to Dark Waters Power Combo™?

The original Dark Waters Power Combo™ was a hit with both players and our team, even earning the prestigious Game of the Year title at the International Gaming Awards. Beyond the recognition, it was simply a joy to create and a major success. Still, we felt there was more potential to explore in its features, atmosphere, and overall experience. So, we pushed forward. The three core features remain, but now they evolve across four levels with the power of the Kraken, allowing us to dive deeper, embrace darker tones, and deliver an even more intense adventure.

What new mechanics have you introduced to Dark Waters 2 Power Combo™?

The new mechanics we’ve introduced in Dark Waters 2 Power Combo™ have taken this sequel to the next level. The Power Combo™ mechanic has been supercharged with a full upgrade. Each of the three features, Giant Reels, Golden Reels, and Stack Collect, now has a four-level collection system. That means greater engagement, more variation, and bigger potential. On top of that we’ve added the Diamond Menu (aka the Buy Feature), which gives players direct access to bonus action in multiple configurations (where available). Whether looking for a full Kraken Power Combo™ or just want a Coin Burst spin, players can dive right in.

How do you think players will react to the sequel?

We’re anticipating a serious hype. This isn’t just a repeat of what came before, it’s a true evolution – a step forward. The new collection brings added engagement and buzz, the audio-visual atmosphere is next level, and the game intensity is still very much there. Whether you’re enjoying the base game or aiming for the full Kraken combo, we think players will feel the depth we’ve built into this.

Can you share a memorable behind-the-scenes moment from making Dark Waters 2 Power Combo™ - maybe a funny mishap or an ‘aha!’ breakthrough that still sticks with the team?

There were quite a few “creative discussions” during development. Especially when I kept sending our game designer new “brilliant” ideas. Most of them got politely ignored… but a few actually made it in! One thing we really leaned into was giving the Kraken more presence. Early on, someone joked that it should feel like the Kraken’s always watching and that stuck. It’s amazing to see that it’s there in the background, blinking, waiting, reacting.

Could you explain the new Buy Feature in Dark Waters 2 Power Combo™ and share what inspired the decision to include it in the game?

The Diamond Menu gives players five different ways to jump into action. From a Coin Burst spin with higher chances of cash and Collect symbols, all the way to the Kraken Power Combo™, where all three features are fully maxed out. We designed this because players want agency. It’s not just about buying free spins. It’s about choosing your experience. It adds variety and replayability.

Can you give us a sneak peek at what’s next - are we setting sail for Dark Waters 3 Power Combo™, or is the team charting a completely new course?

We’ve got a bunch of ideas floating around. Right now, we’re happy with how Dark Waters 2 Power Combo ™ turned out and taking a moment to look at the data. Whether we go back to the ocean or head somewhere totally different, we’ll figure it out when the time feels right.