Bojoko: "Live Casino Games Have Become Increasingly Key in Attracting Players"
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Live casino games have captivated a broad audience across the UK. However, as technologies evolve and consumer preferences shift, live casinos are undergoing transformative changes that redefine the gaming experience. Is offering a solid product enough, or do live casinos need to innovate to stay competitive and ahead of the curve?
To understand the changing landscape better, we spoke with Christoffer Ødegården, a seasoned expert in the online gambling industry who currently serves as the Head of Casino at Bojoko.com.
In this interview, Ødegården discusses the major trends reshaping live casino gaming in the UK, from the introduction of innovative game types to the ways operators are enhancing player engagement through technology and design. We also explore the challenges these operators face in a competitive market.
Live casino gaming has become incredibly popular in the UK. Can you describe some of the major trends you've noticed in this sector?
One of the most noticeable trends is the diversification of the games that are actually on offer. Back in the day, live casinos simply had blackjack, roulette, baccarat, and perhaps a couple of other classic live table games as well. Those days are long gone.
We're seeing a rise in innovative new live games, including a string of live game shows and other novel formats that blend entertainment with gambling. These games are often highly interactive, featuring engaging hosts and themed environments that resonate well with a broader audience.
New live games are popping up regularly, and it is fascinating to see what new ideas will spring to life over the next few years.
Another less obvious trend that has been playing out for a few years already is the increasing diversity within the games themselves. For example, variants of classic games are being introduced to cater to different player preferences and betting styles, including speed versions and games with altered gameplay mechanics. This diversification helps keep the content fresh and engaging for players.
That's quite interesting. How are technological advancements impacting the live casino experience?
Technology is not really at the heart of these innovations in the way many might think, as they could have also been brought to life a decade ago. However, high-definition streaming, for instance, is crucial. It ensures that players can view dealers and gameplay with crystal-clear clarity, which is essential for trust and user experience.
Another area where technology is vital is mobile gaming; there's a noticeable shift towards optimizing live casino games for mobile devices, acknowledging that a large segment of users if not most, prefer playing on their smartphones.
What challenges do operators face in the live casino market?
The live casino market is incredibly competitive. One of the primary challenges is differentiating oneself in a crowded market. Operators must offer something unique to attract and retain players, whether exclusive games, attractive bonuses, or superior user experience.
One quick fix brands can do to ensure they are always displayed on relevant pages of their affiliate partners, such as Bojoko's selection of the best live casinos. They should also make the necessary tweaks to ensure that they can also rank well on such pages, including diversifying their game selection, offering live casino bonuses, etc. Any casino with questions about optimizing their live casino traffic can also reach out to us and other partners to see what makes our users click on live casino brands.
What role do you think live dealer games play in the growth of an online casino?
Live dealer games have become central to the growth of many online casinos as interest in them has increased. Not offering a solid live casino experience can cost you quite a few players in terms of sign-ups and retention.
It is important for operators to understand that live dealer games are not just about gambling; they're also about social interactions and the immersive experience. Live casino games replicate the traditional casino experience in the digital environment, providing the human element many players appreciate. This has widened the appeal of online casinos to include those who have previously preferred brick-and-mortar locations.
How do you see the future of live casino gaming evolving over the next few years?
Looking forward, I believe we will see several new live casino games be born, and at least a couple of these will become classics we won't believe we didn't have access to all along.
I also think we might see further gamification, where elements typically found in video games are incorporated into live casino games to create more engaging and interactive experiences.
Finally, what advice would you give to operators looking to enter or succeed in the UK live casino market?
Operators need to focus on quality and innovation. It's not just about having live dealer games but offering them in a way that enhances the player's experience. Always work with the key live casino developers. Skimping and not having games by Evolution Gaming in your lobby is an instant red flag for many players, for instance.
Additionally, understanding the regulatory environment and maintaining high standards of compliance will be essential for success in the UK market.
