Online gaming websites have evolved significantly over the past decade, incorporating a variety of popular titles and betting modalities onto their platforms.
iGaming, or online gaming, has become the umbrella terms which encompasses any form of gambling which takes place on the internet. It includes online casinos, sports betting, poker rooms, bingo and lottery play, and betting on esports events.
With so much interest and rising visitor numbers, iGaming operators are investing heavily in technological innovation to cater to changing player behaviors and to stay ahead of their competition.
Operators have introduced cryptocurrency payment options to some of their sites, allowing users to transact quicker and more cost-effectively while enjoying higher levels of anonymity. Cryptocurrency payments have transitioned well onto online casino and iGaming platforms, and have revolutionized classic table games such as poker, black jack and online baccarat with crypto use.
Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) are helping to keep players engaged by immersing them deeper into the action.
Bettors have been able to play on the go, thanks to quicker internet speeds and the rise of mobile gaming platforms and apps. Live dealer games are adding to the social aspect, making online gaming even more rewarding and realistic. And Artificial Intelligence (AI) is helping operators to provide fairer playing conditions and better online support.
It is no surprise that visitors are flocking to iGaming platforms, motivated to check out the tech upgrades and experience what’s new for themselves.
Read on to learn more about the innovations in iGaming and what they mean for your gameplay sessions.
The Biggest Changes Happening On iGaming Platforms
1. Cryptocurrency and Blockchain Technology
Existing gamers will know that traditional bank transfers, especially those made internationally, can take several days to clear into their online accounts. The time and admin cost involved with these types of transactions can be frustrating to gamers wanting to get into an imminent game or withdraw their winnings.
Cryptocurrencies have solved much of that problem, by providing players with an almost instantaneous way of depositing and receiving funds. Players can use several cryptocurrencies to top up their accounts and withdraw winnings. Casinos typically accept Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin, USDC, Dogecoin and several other popular tokens.
Another benefit of cryptocurrency usage is anonymity. This online privacy is beneficial to players who find themselves in countries or territories with restrictive online gaming legislation. The use of cryptocurrencies linked with a good VPN can help players access and enjoy online casinos and iGaming platforms. Which helps to cut down on the number of scammers and black-market casinos catering to those unable to play in their own country.
2. Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR)
VR and AR will have an enormous effect on the entertainment industry, including the iGaming market. The ability for developers and iGaming operators to create titles using VR and AR, will have an a profound effect on gameplay. Imagine the vivid colors of online slots, a live poker game or standing along your favorite esports personalities while wearing a headset and sitting in your home.
3. Artificial Intelligence (AI)
AI algorithms are helping casinos to personalize and optimize gameplay for a player. They do this by analyzing past gaming behavior and titles played and are then able to make recommendations on enjoyable titles for future play.
Customer support is also benefitting from AI introduction, with chatbots providing reliable service around the clock. In addition, AI tech can search iGaming websites to detect fraud and ensure that fair play practices are being upheld.
4. Live Dealer Games
Players can socialize with their dealers and fellow players as they would at a regular casino, thanks to live dealer games. Live streaming allows gamers to immerse themselves fully in a game and receive immediate feedback. This makes traditional table games such as poker, baccarat and craps much more exciting and strategic.
Players are also more able to trust the online game, thanks to the involvement of real dealers. This sense of safety, trust and fair play has led to increased visitor numbers.
5. Mobile Gaming
Smartphones and stable internet connections have allowed players to take their games with them. Game developers have tailored their titles to smaller screens with simpler prompts. Ensuring that graphics, functionality and the overall experience are optimized for mobile players.
Mobile gaming has opened a new market segment to iGaming operators, including younger players. Many of these players prefer their handheld devices to large PCs and laptops.
6. Gamification
Gamification is the principle of using gaming elements in non-game environments, to enhance engagement. iGaming developers have introduced leaderboards, challenges and bonuses to make their titles more thrilling, in line with gamification principles. By making gaming experiences more interactive and rewarding, operators can increase player retention and satisfaction.
7. Responsible Gambling
Responsible gaming initiatives, including tools for self-exclusion and betting limits, are being integrated into platforms, promoting safer gambling practices. iGaming operators are offering support links on their homepages as well as documentation on responsible gambling practices.
In Summary
iGaming has grown significantly by keeping up with technological improvement. Cryptocurrency usage, mobile play and live dealer games are becoming incredibly popular. AI, VR and AR are growing rapidly within the industry and will become wider spread as development costs drop.
The future of online gaming promises to be more engaging, transparent and player-centric than ever before.