The casino sector is undergoing a transformative evolution with some standout trends shaping the future of casinos and how they are enhancing player experience.
These days, casinos are looking to adapt to attract a younger generation of players and with this in mind, a number of trends are set to shake up the industry. Key among these is the surge in online casino games and mobile gaming, the integration of advanced technologies (such as VR, AR and AI) and the growing prominence of cryptocurrencies and blockchain.
Below we look at some of these gambling industry trends and consider how they’re reshaping the landscape for casinos. More importantly, we’ll see how these developments are paving the way for a new era of immersive and innovative experiences and why it’s so important to stay ahead of the tech curve in online gaming.
Play Casino Online: The Growth in Online and Mobile Gaming
The rise of smartphones and easy internet access has fueled the growth of online and mobile gaming. Players now have the flexibility to enjoy their favorite games anytime, anywhere through online casino platforms and mobile apps. The increasing popularity of mobile devices prompted a necessary shift from online gaming to mobile platforms.
As a result, a greater number of games specifically tailored for mobile devices have emerged and gained traction among players. This rise of mobile gambling and convenient, on-the-go gaming has made it a favored choice for players.
This surge in mobile gaming has also significantly boosted the iGaming industry’s popularity and subsequently increased the revenue of the online casino sector. Mobile gaming has also opened doors for developers to create secure and lightweight games designed for mobile platforms, enhancing both the gaming experience and overall safety.
VR, AR and AI in Casino Online Betting
Virtual Reality has been touted as the next big thing in online gambling for some time now, while Artificial Intelligence has already proved to be a valuable asset in the digital realm. How exactly are these technologies being integrated?
Virtual Reality (VR)
The online gaming industry is already providing gambling games for major VR developers. It is predicted that more players will be expecting casinos to give them a truly immersive experience from the comfort of their own homes. Lockdowns from the pandemic also played into the public’s need for more engaging and dynamic gambling experiences that can safely mirror the glitz, glamor and fun of land-based casinos.
Live dealer casino games have done a lot to bridge the gap between the physical casino and the online casino, making player experiences feel more authentic. But VR casinos take that level of authenticity to a whole new level.
Naturally, a player must own or have access to a specialized headset to access these games. As such, some commentators are less optimistic about the growth of VR. While VR accessories are becoming less expensive and more accessible, it has been pointed out that platforms are still in their infancy and hold few opportunities for real-money games. This makes a radical overhaul unlikely, but it’s difficult to ignore the growing interest in VR and how it’s poised to shape the future of online gambling.
Augmented Reality (AR)
AR, which overlays information onto the real world through devices like smartphones or smart glasses, has been a disruptor in the way bettors play casino online. This tech needs some improvement, but the effects are already being felt.
The technology demands that players interact with more information while playing at virtual tables, bringing a heightened sense of realism to the gaming experience. Its functionalities resemble those found in VR gaming, so there’s anticipation around its performance in more interactive games like online blackjack, online roulette and online slots.
Artificial Intelligence (AI)
The incorporation of AI and Machine Learning (ML) in digital gambling platforms has a range of advantages, from improved user experiences to personalized gameplay. By identifying and flagging suspicious activities, AI plays a crucial role in protecting gambling firms from fraudulent behavior and the potential consequences of non-compliance penalties. As a result, AI is set to continue bolstering the legitimacy of the gambling industry long into the future.
Crypto and Blockchain in Online Casino Games
Cryptocurrencies faced major setbacks in 2022, including the FTX trading platform’s implosion. Yet they are seen to play a significant role in the future of online gambling. For many players, blockchain technology has been a game changer and the ease, enhanced security and anonymity of crypto make it a preferred method for withdrawals, deposits and gameplay.
While traditional payment methods are expected to remain, for many operators, crypto may slowly start to replace these methods for both brick-and-mortar and online casinos. With blockchain technology and cryptocurrencies, players can be assured that their financial information is safe and that their security can be guaranteed due to the anonymity and decentralized features of blockchain technology.
Bitcoin is already accepted at top online casinos, with more sites likely to start embracing cryptocurrencies like Ethereum, Tether, Dogecoin, Solana and Cardano. Specialized crypto-betting sites are expected to rise in 2023 and beyond, as approximately 74 million US residents already use cryptocurrencies for gambling, with numbers expected to grow steadily.
Will Online Casinos Dominate the Gambling Industry?
Land-based casinos won’t be obsolete anytime soon. How can you beat the tactile and sensory experience of jackpot slots or the excitement around a hot craps table? Yet online casinos have managed to disrupt the viewing experience of users. An increasing number of bettors are choosing online platforms to experience real-money gambling and local casinos are set to face significant losses.
Factors contributing to this shift include the convenience of online betting sites, enticing welcome bonuses, more secure payment methods and the availability of games not found on the traditional casino floor. The online space also tends to be more inclusive and appeals to a more data-driven, analytical generation.
iGaming, particularly sports betting, has shown consistent growth even during economic slowdowns. Buoyed by the trends mentioned above, the online gaming industry is well-placed to sustain its upward trajectory.
Welcome the Future at Borgata Online
At Borgata Online, we keep up-to-date with the trends to bring you the newest, most exciting online casino games. Whether you’re into slots, blackjack, poker or sports betting, we have it all. Register today.