Casino games have been around for decades and are still just as popular a pastime today as they were in the 80’s. However, modern technology has recently transformed the industry, sometimes making it unrecognisable compared to the old slot machines that we used to find in the back of a bar. Long gone are the days where people would be forced to travel miles to the nearest casino if they wanted a spin on the roulette table.
As new and emerging technologies have been adopted by the industry, more people than ever have been able to access the latest games across the world through online sites. Thanks to the rapid spread of 4G and 5G technology, many people can now access their favourite traditional casino games when they want, and wherever they want. In fact, the global social casino market reached a value of $4.64 billion in 2020 and grew at a CAGR of 5%.
Advanced internet connectivity is not the only thing that has been innovating the casino industry though. Below, we will take a look at some of the latest modern technologies that have recently transformed the industry.
What caused the rise in casino game popularity?
Over the past few years, the popularity of casinos has boomed, showing a staggering amount of growth in such a short period of time. The key to the industry’s success has been the rapid and widespread adoption of the latest technologies available. In terms of digital transformation, the casino industry has shown one of the fastest uptakes globally, with almost every physical casino now having an online presence too.
The widespread adoption of online casinos, as well as thousands of exclusively online based mediums has meant that more people than ever can now access such games, including in countries where gambling was perhaps illegal. Through offshore providers, fans are able to safely access their favourite games, with modern technologies making it easier than ever to interact from across the world.
Online casino innovation
Not only have casinos shifted to an online presence, but they’ve also completely transformed their online offering to make it just as and if not even more enjoyable than the brick-and-mortar experience. Affiliate sites can help players to seek out the best online casinos available as there are so many online, making it difficult to choose a provider to go with. The best affiliates such as Gambling.com can help players identify the sites with the best bonuses and promotions too.
While online games first showed a divide between the physical experience and online playing, the latest technologies have been able to bridge this gap between the physical and virtual worlds, creating a much more interactive and enjoyable experience.
Let’s take a look at some of the technologies that have positively impacted online gambling.
New payment methods
When internet payments first became a common notion, entering bank details was a long and tedious process which took a while to clear with the bank, as well as credit card fraud and the cloning of legitimate sites being a common issue. Also, many people were naturally cautious of trusting new technology and many avoided these payment methods all together. This trust takes time to build up and this can only be done through maintaining a sterling reputation.
However, today’s internet security has been ramped up and there are many more convenient and safer ways to pay, including popular e-wallets like Venmo and PayPal, mobile payments with the likes of Apple and Google Pay, and of course, cryptocurrencies, offering a more advanced way of paying that isn’t linked to any central banking authority.
Live dealer casinos
Live dealers have become an incredibly popular option for players who want an authentic experience but are still able to play from the comfort and convenience of their own home. Live dealers broadcast a live feed of a real-life dealer in a casino to online players in real time. The players can interact with the dealer like in a physical casino, and the outcome of the game is determined by the dealer rather than automated software to give players more peace of mind. The popularity of live dealers shot up dramatically during the COVID-19 lockdown, as many players had no other options and this method of playing offered a close alternative to the physical thing. This trend has stayed in place ever since lockdown and looks likely to continue into the next decade.
Enhanced games
Unlike the first computer games to hit the market in the 80’s, today’s casino games feature the very latest sound and graphic technology, offering an experience that’s closer to a video game than a traditional game.
Games are more immersive and interactive and also often come with many different themes that keep players amused for hours. Many slot games are now based around the latest blockbuster hits and popular tv shows, allowing players to get up close and personal with their favourite characters.
Mobile gaming
Mobile gaming is another technology that has completely transformed the casino sector. Many now provide integrated apps that offer a more convenient and highly customised experience for players that makes it easier than ever for them to access their favourite games. The options are plentiful and with the pace that mobile devices are improving, this trend is looking likely to increase on an exponential scale.
The popularity of physical casinos
While online casinos are ruling when it comes to the growth of the industry, physical establishments have still nonetheless benefited from advancing technologies. The games offered in brick-and-mortar casinos now incorporate the latest gaming graphics and sound, as well as sophisticated software’s that improve game fairness too.
Overall, the casino industry’s rapid uptake of the latest available technologies has helped it to boom over the past few years, in which it’s only continuing to grow at a staggering rate. While physical venues are not as popular as they once were, there’s no denying that casino games are here to stay and are only going to get more innovative as more advanced technologies become available.