For years, gambling researchers have linked online casino games to classic video games, however they have also determined that the latter appeal to a different audience than typical online blackjack or table games like online roulette.
In reality, these two pastimes have some characteristics in common, namely bright colors, loud sounds and the possibility of winning big.
It is no coincidence that the graphics have been made leaner and neon colors have been introduced to make the gaming experience much more similar to that of a video game.
The technology of gaming in slot format
The gaming and gambling industry is constantly growing. Virtual reality video games are becoming more and more technologically advanced and casino game developers are also looking for a way to use virtual reality to create 360 ° worlds with hundreds of slots just a click away.
In classic video games and apps, missions and achievements are used to equip players with better weapons and to unlock levels. Online casinos and poker sites are now offering their customers the “thrill” of goals to reach specific targets. The higher the number of achievements, the more bonuses the player can unlock.
Conversely, video games are looking for a way to become part of online casinos. Games like Bejeweled and Candy Crush are no longer used just to earn points or bonuses on Facebook. In 2018, the slot versions of these games give the opportunity to win real cash.
Focus on millennials
The developers of slots and casino games are constantly looking for new ways to make games interesting for players. Free rounds such as free spins and progressive jackpots are accompanied by a unique atmosphere and bursts of color.
In addition, the free spins that can be obtained thanks to strategic skills are starting to be integrated into the slots. Players will no longer have to rely solely on the Random Number Generator to win. Some games now offer bonus features based on a certain amount of achievement or the ability to wield a laser gun to win major prizes.
As we saw in Las Vegas, millennials are the future of gambling. Skill-based features and video games are the bread and butter of Generation Y and Z and that’s what we see more and more in new slots.
Take IGT’s slot, The Dark Knight , for example . Based on the famous 2008 movie (not to be confused with Microgaming’s version of the progressive online slot), this slot features a touch screen and multiplayer functionality.
Multiple players can then play at the same terminal and win bonuses to share. In addition, the slot also offers an arcade-style bonus game.
The future of gambling: more choice, always
Online gambling revenue is expected to potentially rise to over $ 1 billion.
Innovation and a more personalized gaming experience are the key factors for developers. In traditional gambling, developers are already trying to customize programs to offer specific bonuses to certain players.
But what will happen to the games? Should we expect a different variety of custom reels, symbols and bonus features? Let’s find out together.
Rabcat’s Castle Builder II offers a series of unlockable levels to win the main prize pool. While, NetEnt’s excellent game, Aliens , includes features and a free spin that makes the game more like a shooter than a slot.
Players also have more possibilities to customize it. The slot Good Girl Bad Girl Betsoft lets players choose their own level of “difficulty” (high, low or medium), thus making him run their own risks. Thus, players will soon be able to choose reels and change symbols.
As consumer preferences change, we also see that there are gamers who don’t like sitting in front of their computer or tablet at the push of a button. The new generation of bettors want more interactivity and constant technological progress will be reflected in online casinos.