Evolution of Online Casino Games: Convergence with Computer Games
Bogdan LashchenkoTechnology over the past two decades has changed the way we live our lives. The increasing availability of high-speed internet, advanced mobile devices and social media platforms have changed the way we interact and work. They have also had a huge impact on how we spend our free time. We can stream movies and TV shows on demand, listen to any song whenever we want, and communicate via video with friends and family around the world. Gambling and online gaming have also played a big part in this shift to digital entertainment.
The world of computer gaming and casino gaming are extremely similar, so much so that the iGaming sector even uses the words interchangeably. One of the key differences is that gambling is usually about money and is based on chance. Games are skill-based and generally not played for money. However, there are points where they do converge, and that is the subject of this article.
How computer games and gambling converge
As the demand for digital entertainment grows, the line between gaming and gambling is becoming increasingly blurred. Those working in the gambling sector are increasingly using the word 'gaming' to refer to their industry, including slot machines, casino games and eleven sports betting. When and how did this change occur?
There is no doubt that casinos remain in their own category, but aspects of their operation have begun to evolve. More and more developers are integrating competitive features into their offerings. These include competitions and the ability to earn in-game points. This is very similar to concepts used in popular video games.
Another way in which gambling sites are undergoing gamification is through their design. Gambling games now incorporate elements reminiscent of childhood video games and more conventional arcade games. This could be a Scrabble-themed scratch card or a slot game with a Space Invaders theme. Social gambling sites that simulate gambling without actually taking cash bets or making withdrawals have also emerged. These options are popular with younger people and those who do not want to bet with cash. But it is not just gaming elements that are making their way into gambling. Some gambling features are also appearing in the gaming world.
- Growth in popularity of loot boxes
Loot crates are becoming increasingly popular in video games of all kinds. They are in-game items that can be purchased for a nominal fee. The player has no idea what is in the crate until they buy it and open it. These can be items useful to the gameplay or something completely pointless. Players essentially gamble on whether the item has any value or not. Currently, loot boxes are unregulated, although this may change in the future.
The cost of each loot box is low, but this means that payers can easily overspend without noticing. While the consequences may not be the same as typical gambling, spending on loot boxes is expected to exceed $50 billion next year. The problem is that many of these purchases are made by under-18s, meaning tighter controls are likely.
- Skin gambling
Another point of convergence for the gambling and gaming sectors is skin gambling. Skins are in-game items such as weapons, life, potions or clothing. In games and between players, they have their own value. Some items are rarer than others. Gambling with skins involves using these items as a form of digital currency to bet on the results of games or tournaments.
There are various websites set up for skin gambling, although their legality is something of a grey area. Problems include underage gambling, fraud and the use of skins to bet on regular sports matches. Currently skin gambling is stuck underground, but there is a market that regulates and promotes it.
Gambling and games
When we talk about games, we mean digital games played by one or more people. These can be role-playing or social games, based on phones (e.g. Candy Crush) or consoles (e.g. League of Legends). In terms of themes, sports, strategy and fighting games are popular.
The most popular games at present are:
- Call of Duty Modern Warfare;
- Super Smash Bros;
- Fortnite and Minecraft.
The latter is the best-selling video game in history, having sold over 180 million copies.
Gambling, however, is particularly associated with games of chance. The most popular gambling games in the world are poker, video slots, roulette and baccarat. These are available in video format or with a live dealer, where players can interact with the dealer and other players. The most popular way to gamble in 2021 is on a mobile phone, followed closely by a tablet and a regular computer. This means that games are designed to fit small screens and to be fast and fluid. Gambling games tend to have centuries-old origins, but are themed and updated to appeal to modern audiences.
What does the convergence of gambling and gaming mean for operators?
The convergence of gambling and gaming has several implications for operators. Firstly, they need to be aware that it is driven by player demand. As both sectors become increasingly competitive with a myriad of new platforms and games, innovation is key. In short, you need to give players what they want.
Gambling sites will need to integrate games that have arcade and social elements alongside their random offerings. They may also look at skins betting and offer similar features in their own games. Game developers will also need to try to capture players' attention. In-game gambling or partnerships with gambling sites are just some ideas. Either way, both sides need to keep an eye on regulation. As this convergence is still developing, regulators have not yet caught up.
Esports
E-sports is a perfect example of the convergence of the online gambling industry with the gaming sector. E-sports is the viewing of gaming tournaments for entertainment purposes, with a growing audience that also bets on the results. The sector has enjoyed a huge uptake over the past few years and has helped create a world of gaming for gamers and vice versa. The e-sports sector is now worth around $2 billion and growing rapidly. It is further bolstered by revenue from sponsorship, streaming subscriptions, software and hardware and merchandise. In terms of cross-over, betting on e-sports is also finding a place among betting on other sports, with more and more people betting on and considering it a sport in its own right. In the coming years, it is clear that we will see more convergence between iGaming and regular gaming, resulting in a bigger, broader and better sector than many of us could have ever imagined.
Bogdan Lashchenko – content manager at EgamersWorld.Bogdan has been working at EGamersWorld since 2023. Joining the company, he began fillin the site with information, news and events.