The popularity of casino gambling has been steadily rising for the past few years. The global gambling market is forecast to hit $260.44 billion by 2027 and that’s largely down to the rise and rise of online gambling.
The USA leads the global market with a $54 billion share with China closing in at $44 billion. Other countries are starting to get in on the action too; easing gambling restrictions provides easy revenue for countries worldwide.
This is despite younger generations not necessarily indulging in casino gambling in the same way as their older counterparts. So, the industry has begun to adapt to this shortfall by introducing games that will appeal to potential Millennial and Gen Z players.
In this respect, the recent introduction of online sports betting, or E-sports, has been a positive step. But this is just the start of what could be a casino gaming revolution. And not just for a new generation of players, everyone is invited.
Let’s take a look at some casino gaming developments.
E-sports
This rapidly growing market has been adapting and improving to allow online players to hone their skills in specific areas. For example, among many options, players can now bet on who scores first and from where. And as the market develops, the scope to accurately bet on a wider range of events increases exponentially.
Skill based games
Continuing on the theme of making games more appealing to younger gamers, skill-based games are proving popular. They’re more likely to attract a more diverse (i.e., not predominantly male) audience too, so it’s a double win.
Social Gaming
Final one aimed at younger players. Instead of competing in VR Casinos with strangers, you and a group of friends can play together. This is, of course, an attractive proposition for first timers to dip a toe into online gaming secure in the knowledge they’re with friends.
Poker online
Those who play poker online is still increasing in popularity with more than 120 million players enjoying the game across the world. It’s predicted that this trend will continue to dominate the online casino industry but keep your eye on live dealer games…
Live dealer games
These are getting increasingly popular as the technology improves to support the user experience. More recently, VR has enhanced this latter aspect and it’s highly likely that VR Casinos could become the next big thing.
VR Casinos
They wouldn’t just host poker, everything you expect in a bricks-and-mortar casino would be included as well. Relatively speaking, VR, AR (augmented reality) and indeed the metaverse are in their infancy, but everything appears to be heading in the right direction. Watch this space, as they say.
Artificial Intelligence
On the subject of emerging technology, AI and machine learning (ML) will help to improve the user-end gaming experience while detecting fraudulent actively. The former aspect is of obvious advantage to the gamer, but with AI helping with compliance, the gamer will be safer online too.
Stream betting
Stream betting allows gamers to place bets in real-time. It’s had a few problems in the past, but steps have been made to reassure players that they can play safely online. There are an increasing number of sites offering stream betting, and its popularity is on the rise.
Bricks-and-Mortar Casinos
Just because there has been an explosion of technology to support online casinos, the traditional land casino is far from finished. But these days you’re more likely to find these types of casinos included in high-end leisure resorts alongside hotels, bars, restaurants etc.
Green Gaming
The shift towards online gambling away from land casinos has certainly had environmental benefits. No need to fly and drive to a casino when you can play online. And the continued integration of brick-and-mortar casinos in resorts has also cut down on carbon emissions. These days, you’re more likely to walk into a new casino contained within a leisure complex.
Responsible gambling
As the industry develops, the need to encourage responsible behaviour when playing, especially online, has stepped up. Tighter regulations are on hand to encourage safe playing and to ensure online casinos are adhering to developing directives.
It should be quite obvious that the casino industry is currently riding on the crest of a wave and the future is looking bright. Sure, changes are coming thick and fast but, with younger, more diverse, players coming into the market, the industry can afford to be optimistic.
However, it’s important to remember that attracting new audiences comes with responsibility, which is why the industry needs effective regulations to protect everyone.
It’s also important to acknowledge that these regulations also benefit the online companies promoting their games. After all, poor practice won’t encourage the next generation of gamers. Not only that, badly managed regulations could affect the retention of the current generation as well.
Disclaimer: Gambling involves an element of financial risk and may be addictive. Please play responsibly and at your own risk. This post contains material that may or may not be legal in your country. Please play subject to applicable law.