Video Games and Online Casinos: The Convergence
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In recent years, we have witnessed a growing convergence between video games and online casinos. Initially, one could say that there was a clear division between the two industries because gamers typically played for fun while gamblers played for real money. The lines have become increasingly blurred however and this can be attributed to several factors, including the increase in popularity of social casino games, as well as the development of new technology that has made it easier than ever to gamble online. As this trend continues, we will likely see an even bigger crossover between the two industries, in the future.
The similarities between the two industries
Both the gaming and the online casino industry are billion-dollar industries that offer a wider selection of games to their customers. In recent years, we have seen both of these industries increasingly rise in popularity because of the convenient fun and entertainment that they offer. Online casinos and video games may seem like two different things, but they offer many of the same benefits. Both can be great sources of entertainment, and can help you unwind after a long day. They also provide a good way to socialize with friends, or meet new people. Also, they can be played from the comfort of your own home. You don’t have to dress up or travel anywhere. Just fire up your computer or mobile device and you’re good to go. Even more so, they both offer a level of excitement and adrenaline that can’t be found elsewhere. And finally, one thing that many people don’t realize is that online casino games often resemble video games, in terms of their graphics and gameplay.
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What you should also know is that both the online casino and video gaming industries are also heavily regulated by the government, which means that they are seen as legitimate and safe for people to utilize. Despite the rise in popularity, both industries have their fair share of critics, with many believing that these industries promote an unhealthy addiction and a lifestyle that is more connected to virtual reality, than a physical one.
The point of convergence
We’ve already touched on the fact that both the gaming and gambling industries have grown increasingly popular recently. Video game companies have now started implementing different gambling mechanics into the gaming experience, such as token wagering and real-money gaming, for example. In the same breath, online casinos are also incorporating gaming features from popular video games such as rewards, storylines, challenges, and bonus rounds, to name a few. Some of the most popular online casino games are inspired by video games and it is very common to find slot machines that are themed after video games these days.
What this means for the future of both industries
These two industries have undoubtedly become two very dominant industries in the world. The online gambling industry has completely taken over the internet in recent years, especially since the introduction of COVID-19 which came with lockdowns and regulations that kept everyone at home, much more. Video games have also seen a similar rise in popularity, and many people prefer gaming or gambling conveniently without leaving their homes. Both the gaming and online gambling industries are expected to continue rising in popularity, especially with the constant release of new technology and innovations that make the gaming and gambling experience more immersive and engaging. The overlap in gaming and gambling activities is dubbed gaming-like gambling, and an example of this is when video games feature mini-games that you can bet on in a casino that is simulated. Another example would be loot boxes, where players are required to spend a certain amount of money before they can access unknown game features. Interestingly enough, some regions have completely banned loot boxes because of how similar they are to gambling.
These days you will find that free gambling-like games are played more commonly than online gambling and studies reveal that this may be a way to capture a younger audience and keep them gambling. Whether convergence is a good thing for society is still to be seen. Many experts believe that this can easily cause gambling problems amongst the younger generations, however, there is not enough data to support this claim.
Digital gaming and online gambling have shifted closer together in the past 5 years and certain gambling sites now even offer “avatars” when playing certain games, such as online poker. This emergence has made both video games and online gambling more popular than ever before and is allowing a much younger and more tech-savvy generation to be introduced into the world of online gambling. It is believed by many that these industries promote unhealthy habits and lifestyles. However, that has not stopped the rapid rise of popularity within both industries.
