The igaming industry is constantly changing and it seems like a vastly different proposition now compared to what it looked like a decade or so ago. Technological innovations have been sweeping through the industry and the underlying principle influencing organizations is to make the experience more immersive and engaging as possible for players.
Indeed, the igaming market is in an exciting place at the moment, and it will only continue to grow. With that in mind, we have dug out our crystal ball and explored a few key trends, predominantly looking at casinos, while also paying a bit of attention to Esports.
Rise of VR
Perhaps one of the most noteworthy developments that you will need to pay attention to in the future is VR. Short for Virtual Reality, this technological advancement will enable players to step into a virtual casino atmosphere and compete with players all over the globe while savoring the atmosphere of being in a lifelike casino establishment.
There will be a buzz sparked by VR, and what’s even better is that you can create a special gaming space from the comfort of your home. Moreover, VR headsets are starting to fly off the shelves and they have become more affordable. The level of realism embedded in popular table games, such as blackjack and roulette is simply incredible, and while live casino games are nothing new, there is significant promise on the VR front.
Prominence of AR
Augmented Reality or AR, as it is more commonly known, is starting to shape the digital casino industry. The overlay of detail from the virtual world will allow players to blend their online and offline gaming experience, and this incorporates a strong visual element too.
For example, a player could be wearing a pair of AR glasses that will convey real-time data on odds and statistics, and it only adds to the level of sociability that comes with interacting with other players on the casino floor.
The convergence of AR and digital casinos is just the tip of the iceberg, and it will be fascinating to see how this plays out in the years to come.
Tapping Into AI
Unless you have been hiding under a rock, it has been virtually unescapable to avoid hearing about the benefits served up by AI or Artificial Intelligence. All kinds of gadgets will become subject to AI modifications, and AI-powered algorithms can be used to power insights into player behaviors and preferences to create a more customizable experience that will be tailored to their needs.
While some will have deep reservations about AI bemoaning how systems will become more automated and negate the need for human creativity, it’s fair to assert that AI can provide telling insights, and it will have its place within the igaming industry.
New Branding Avenues
Although it could be said that this is more pertinent for Esports as they will be exploring more ways to make themselves more marketable, the nature of branding in igaming has changed significantly.
Over the past few months, there have been an increasing number of sponsorship deals and partnerships engineered between other gaming platforms and even global payment platforms, such as MasterCard who collaborated with Riot Games over the summer. Indeed, MasterCard’s involvement with Riot Games provided a ringing endorsement of their desire to be more of a presence in the Esports arena and give the fans something to shout about.
However, diversifying and rebranding isn’t just the preserve of or should be solely the responsibility of Esports organizations. Rather, the igaming industry as a whole needs to recognize the need to recalibrate itself and make itself more relevant in a highly competitive environment. This is something that all casinos should be wary of, including those not on GamStop.
To attract positive press and to position their brand as being more committed to encouraging responsible gambling, casinos that are currently not a part of the UK’s responsible gambling measure, GamStop, could decide to take part in it in the future. This decision is not to be taken lightly, of course, as they might risk losing their current portfolio of loyal customers. Indeed, the future of casinos not on GamStop remains an interesting topic for a lively discussion, especially for players who have enjoyed the freedom and flexibility these casinos have provided around their gambling preferences.
What Does the Future Hold?
It is evident that the igaming industry is moving at a considerable pace, and the changes that are expected to take place will help to shape its future. While some of these developments may be deemed as a threat, the way the community embraces them will go some way to dictating how successful they will be.
Nevertheless, the igaming industry has a bright future, and the increased use of or incorporation of AI and VR, for example, will no doubt complement a wide target audience, therefore providing a more authentic gaming experience going forward.
