Are Online Games Set to Replace Traditional Casino Gaming?

Online games have been growing in popularity in New Zealand. Gaming companies are seeing the value of promoting online casino games instead of pokies. Land-based pokie machines are losing their popularity according to recent studies. Around 200 gambling analysts are converging in Auckland this year to discuss New Zealand’s success in reducing pokies enthusiasts.

However, as pokies lose their appeal, experts say that another addiction threat is brewing. Gambling companies are now using non-monetary online casino games to pave the way for millennials to play real-money games. These real-money online casino games will enable players to bet using their smartphones and internet devices.

NZ as a country has introduced gambling laws that have legalized online lottery games and sports betting. While the country hasn’t legalized online casino gaming, it is surprising that people are free to bet online.

Online Games are like Gateway Drugs

These casino games are the new gateway drug for younger demographics to wager real money. Dr. Sean Sullivan of Auckland’s Abacus Counselling mentions a Canadian study that finds 54% of the most popular Facebook games includes suggestive gambling content.

“We research the way in which kids take up the messages that are in gambling, such as William Hill’s sponsorship of the Australian Open tennis,” said Associate Professor Samantha Thomas, an Auckland-born public health expert at Deakin University in Melbourne.

“We now have evidence that kids aged 8 to 16 not only have very high levels of recall, and can name four or five or six sports betting companies, but that, given a range of products such as junk food, alcohol, and gambling, some prefer a gambling product over a junk food.”

Evolution of Online Gaming

The evolution of online gaming has been marked by remarkable growth and advancements in technology. With the development of high-speed internet connections, improved graphics capabilities, and sophisticated gaming platforms, online games have become more immersive and engaging. From simple browser-based games to complex multiplayer experiences, technology has played a pivotal role in transforming online gaming into a thriving industry.

The introduction of online casino platforms has been a game-changer in the online gaming landscape. These platforms have successfully replicated the excitement and thrill of traditional casino games, offering players a wide range of options such as slots, poker, blackjack, and roulette. With realistic graphics, immersive sound effects, and interactive gameplay, online casino games have provided players with an authentic casino experience from the comfort of their own homes.

Online gaming has experienced a surge in popularity, driven by its increasing accessibility. Players can now enjoy their favourite games anytime and anywhere, thanks to the convenience of online gaming. The availability of gaming platforms on various devices, including smartphones, tablets, and computers, has further contributed to the widespread adoption of online gaming. Additionally, the incorporation of social elements in online gaming has fostered a sense of community, allowing players to connect, compete, and collaborate with friends and fellow gamers globally.

The evolution of online gaming has brought about significant changes to the gaming industry. The growth and advancements in technology have transformed the gaming experience, offering players more immersive and engaging gameplay. The introduction of online casino platforms has expanded the range of gaming options, providing players with a virtual casino experience. Moreover, the increasing popularity and accessibility of online gaming have made it a preferred choice for many players worldwide. As technology continues to advance, it is likely that online gaming will continue to evolve, offering even more innovative and exciting experiences for gamers.

Advantages of Online Games

Because it provides ease, a wide range of gameplay possibilities, and engaging social aspects, online gaming has completely changed the entertainment sector. Players can now fully immerse themselves in an exciting and connected world thanks to accessibility at their fingertips.

Accessibility and Convenience

Online games provide unparalleled accessibility and convenience for players. With just a few clicks, gamers can access a vast array of games from the comfort of their homes or on the go. Whether it’s a quick gaming session during a break or a longer immersive experience, online games offer the flexibility to play whenever and wherever suits the player’s schedule and preferences. The ability to access games on multiple devices further enhances the convenience, ensuring that players can enjoy their favourite games seamlessly.

Diverse and Engaging Gameplay

Online games offer a diverse range of gameplay options and engaging experiences. From action-packed adventures to strategy games, puzzle challenges, and immersive role-playing worlds, there is something for every type of gamer. The extensive selection of game genres and themes allows players to explore different gaming styles, discover new interests, and find games that align with their preferences. The constant updates, expansions, and new releases in the online gaming world ensure a continuous stream of fresh and exciting content to keep players entertained.

Interactive Social Features

One of the unique advantages of online games is the ability to interact and connect with other players from around the world. Online gaming platforms often incorporate social features such as chat functions, multiplayer modes, and online communities. This fosters a sense of community and allows players to collaborate, compete, and communicate with fellow gamers. Whether teaming up for cooperative missions or engaging in friendly competition, the interactive social elements of online games enhance the overall gaming experience and create opportunities for shared enjoyment and camaraderie.

Online Games Have Replaced Traditional Gambling

Traditional casino games are experiencing a decline for 20 years. Gambling companies are now using online casino games to entice a younger generation of bettors. An Internal Affairs Department survey shows that lotto and pokies were introduced in the ’80s. The astounding fact is that 28% of New Zealand teens aged 15 and above were playing pokies and 78% were buying lotto tickets in the ’90s.

Recently, pokies’ popularity has dropped. A Health Ministry survey showed much larger numbers of about 12,000 people, against 1200. The popularity of the lotto and casinos plummeted from 1995 to 2000.

Today, international surveys and studies have shown that global online gambling by 50% from 2010 to 2015. It rose from 7.6% to 10% of total gambling losses. It predicts that it will have an online share of 12.9% by 2020. This only shows that online casino gaming will grow popular every year. As the world becomes more connected through mobile devices, expect online casino games to overwhelm physical casino games.

Benefits of Traditional Casino Gaming

Authentic Casino Experience and Atmosphere

Traditional casino gaming offers an authentic and immersive experience that cannot be replicated online. The ambience of a physical casino, with its bustling atmosphere, the clinking of chips, and the anticipation in the air creates a unique and exhilarating environment for players. The sights, sounds, and interactions with real-life dealers and fellow players contribute to the overall authenticity and charm of traditional casino gaming.

Social Interaction and Networking Opportunities

One of the key advantages of traditional casino gaming is the opportunity for social interaction and networking. Being in a physical casino allows players to engage face-to-face with other players, creating a sense of camaraderie and community. It provides a platform for socializing, meeting new people, and sharing experiences. Traditional casinos often host events, tournaments, and gatherings, fostering connections and building relationships among players.

Live Dealer Games and Immersive Gameplay

Traditional casinos offer the unique experience of live dealer games, where players can interact with professional dealers in real time. The presence of a live dealer adds an element of authenticity and excitement to the gameplay, enhancing the overall experience. From roulette to blackjack and poker, these games provide a level of immersion and engagement that online counterparts strive to replicate.

Current State of Online Gaming and Traditional Casinos

Online gaming and traditional casinos currently coexist, catering to different player preferences and demographics. Online gaming has gained immense popularity due to its convenience, flexibility, and diverse options, particularly among younger players. On the other hand, traditional casinos continue to thrive by offering an immersive and social gaming environment, attracting a broader audience who appreciates the ambience and tactile experience.

Recognizing the rise of online gaming, traditional casinos have adapted by incorporating online features into their offerings. This adaptation allows them to reach a wider audience and provide additional convenience and accessibility. The coexistence of online gaming and traditional casinos highlights the importance of choice and catering to the diverse demands of the gaming landscape.

Potential Impact of Online Games on Traditional Casino Gaming

Traditional casinos face challenges in attracting and retaining players amidst the rise of online gaming. However, they also have opportunities to differentiate themselves and provide unique experiences.

Some potential impacts are as follows

• Increasing competition for players’ time and attention
• Younger generations showing a preference for online gaming
• Convenience and accessibility of online games impacting casino visits
• Traditional casinos need to adapt by incorporating online features
• Opportunities for traditional casinos to differentiate through unique experiences
• Challenges in attracting and retaining players amidst online gaming growth
• Use of technology to enhance the traditional casino experience
• A potential decline in traditional casino revenue due to online gaming popularity.

COVID-19 – Another Reason to bet online

If the online gaming and betting industry was consolidating its expansion before the arrival of COVID-19, social isolation has finished pushing online casinos as the prevailing leisure trend. Without risks, without moving from home, and with a range of possibilities, both free and real money pokies players always find a new casino to play the casino games of their choice.

The casinos have taken advantage of this increase in demand to launch new and seductive promotions such as good casino bonuses and free spins without a deposit, which are the best way to start entering the world of Internet gambling houses and successfully attract thousands of new players every day.

Mobile casinos on the rise

Also, the rise of mobile casino platforms has given the opportunity for all people to experience what a real money casino feels like at the virtual table. All the online casinos have optimized their games in HTML format, compatible with all kinds of mobile smartphones be it iOS or Android. You needn’t worry about any downloads.

All you need is to simply type the casino URL on your web or mobile browser be it Chrome or Safari or any other of your choice and get going instantly.

Moreover, free pokies are fast becoming a trend. These free casinos, free pokies, or games of various themes come in the form of apps that you can download fast in seconds on your mobile and play as long as you want without spending any penny. Free pokies are available at online casinos as well in New Zealand.

Social casinos give another wave to online games and players love that fun. Social media sites like Facebook offers hundreds of social casinos where you can play with your friends, chatting and challenging them to the leaderboard. A few examples of social casinos are Double Down Casino, Slotmania Casino, Cashman Casino, Big Fish Casino, and many others.

Online casino site operators have ensured that their sites are user-friendly and mobile-responsive. This ensures that users are getting a PC experience on mobile display as well.

In addition to this, it has brought about the kind of simplicity that people who were originally locked out wanted to experience before participating. What this means is that there are barriers to existing in the traditional casino are no more now. Players and gamers can now participate without the need to learn some traditional casino etiquette. They can even take part in these games without worrying that they will be looked down upon by expert casino enthusiasts who sit the whole day in a land-based casino.

Reasons players are lured to online gaming

There are many genuine reasons why players are lured to online gaming

• The first is online games are cheap to play. Online gaming is a gambling bet that is much cheaper when compared to offline gambling games. Simply add the cost of dressing up for a land-based casino venture, making a trip by your conveyance, buying the high-cost chips to enter the casino tables, and adding to your bill your wish to fine dine and wine. Online casinos are cheaper when compared to land casino visits and playing chips.
• Online casinos are more practical and safe and no one can deny that playing online gambling bets is much safer compared to playing offline gambling bets. How not, when you bet in an online gambling portal, you will be able to play gambling anytime and anywhere without fear of exposure.
• You need to know, almost 50% of online gambling users are not senior or experienced bet mania. They are mostly gambling players who at first only wanted to try and try. Online casinos offer free games to practice in demo mode with free credits and then venture into real money play.
• Another reason that underlies why online gambling is more loved by bettors is in terms of the type of game. In the online casino portal, you can choose any game that you like be it pokies, table games, live casino games, poker card genre to sports betting, everything you can choose freely. You can even customize your choices with your expertise and wait for your moment of victory.

Some other Reasons

• As you already know, in online casino sites there are already many bettors that prove winnings are possible. This certainly proves that the chances of victory provided by online casinos are far greater if you compare them to land casinos. The New Zealand tax laws touch the operators more than the players. If someone will only be playing in the country, and not hosting the games, they won’t be taxed for their wins.
• Online casinos offer awesome lucrative bonus offers which attract punters to play pokies online. Be it no deposit bonus, welcome bonus, free spins or any reload or currency-based bonus like a Bitcoin bonus, you have ample choice to add some money to your bankroll. Many casinos are on the trend to offer bonus codes to players. Bonus codes let you place free bets on big games such as roulette spins and many others. Most sites now offer generous bonuses for their players to enjoy multiple games at any given time. For instance, Jackpot city casino NZ  gives up to $1,600 on your first week of playing. With this much, you can literally test all games before deciding to settle on the one you like.

So far, statistics have it that the online casino industry has grown by 70% in a span of two years. These sites bring occasional fun spins of pokies for members to play and win real money or prizes.

What do you think of this recent study? Do you think there are now more people playing online casino games compared to physical casino games?

Impact of Technology

Advancements in technology have greatly influenced the online gaming industry, revolutionizing the way players engage with games and shaping the future of the industry. From improved accessibility to the emergence of immersive technologies like Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR), technology has had a profound impact on online gaming.

1. Advancements in Online Gaming:
   • Accessibility – Technology has made online gaming more accessible than ever before, allowing players to enjoy games anytime, anywhere, and on various devices.
   • Enhanced Graphics and Audio – The evolution of hardware capabilities has led to visually stunning graphics and realistic sound effects, enhancing the overall gaming experience.
   • Multiplayer Capabilities – Technology has facilitated seamless multiplayer experiences, enabling players to connect and compete with others globally in real time.
   • Live Casino Games – The integration of live-streaming technology has brought the excitement of land-based casinos to online platforms, allowing players to engage with live dealers and experience an authentic casino atmosphere.
2. Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR):
   • VR Gaming – VR headsets provide players with immersive experiences by transporting them into virtual worlds where they can interact with virtual objects and characters. This technology has the potential to revolutionize the way players engage with games, creating a highly immersive and realistic gaming experience.
   • AR Gaming – AR overlays virtual elements onto the real world, blending the physical and digital realms. This opens up possibilities for innovative gameplay experiences, such as location-based AR games or AR-enabled casino experiences.

Technology has had a transformative impact on the online gaming industry, enhancing accessibility, graphics, and multiplayer capabilities, and introducing immersive technologies like VR and AR. As technology continues to evolve, we can expect further advancements that will shape the future of online gaming, offering players even more immersive and interactive experiences. The integration of technology in online gaming has created a dynamic and ever-evolving landscape, providing players with exciting opportunities to engage with games in new and innovative ways.

Potential Challenges and Limitations

1. Internet Connectivity: Limited access to reliable internet infrastructure in certain regions can hinder online gaming experiences, leading to connectivity issues and disruptions during gameplay.
2. Trust and Security: Concerns about the security of personal and financial information, as well as the fairness of online games, may deter some players from fully embracing online gaming platforms.

Addressing these challenges

1. Improved Internet Infrastructure: Governments and service providers should invest in expanding and enhancing internet connectivity to ensure a seamless and reliable online gaming experience for players.
2. Robust Security Measures: Online gaming platforms must implement strong security protocols, encryption, and authentication measures to protect player data and transactions, fostering trust and confidence.
3. Regulatory Frameworks and Licensing: Establishing comprehensive regulations and licensing requirements for online gaming operators ensures responsible gambling practices, fair gameplay, and player fund protection.
4. Education and Player Awareness: Educating players about online gaming risks, responsible gambling, and identifying reputable platforms can empower them to make informed choices and protect themselves.

By addressing these challenges and limitations, the online gaming industry can foster trust, enhance player experiences, and potentially become a preferred alternative to traditional casino gaming.

Conclusion

While online games have gained significant popularity and market share, it is unlikely that they will completely replace traditional casino gaming. The convenience, accessibility, and diverse options offered by online games appeal to a broad player base, particularly younger generations. However, traditional casinos continue to offer unique experiences, including ambience, social interaction, and live dealer games, which cannot be replicated online. To navigate the evolving landscape, traditional casinos must adapt by incorporating online features and leveraging technology to enhance the gaming experience. By capitalizing on their strengths and embracing innovation, traditional casinos can coexist with online gaming and continue to provide a vibrant and immersive gaming environment for players.