Through the years, casino games have continued to evolve and improve through digitalization. In fact, this technology has been a driving force behind the evolution of games. The impact of technology on casino games does not end at making equipment more accessible because it continues to transform player experience as well.
In fact, it is because of these newfound experiences that the market constantly seeks out products and services that can make it even better.
Now, let us take a look at the past and present to help us decide what we should prepare for in 2022:
What Happened Before?
Before we talk about anything else, let's first see how digitalization has changed casino games over the years. Most of you might be too young to imagine playing any casino games without the help of technology, but there was a time when that was the only option available.
For example, back in 2006 online poker or slots were not as high-tech as they are now (and we're not talking about 3D graphics). Most of them used Java programming language and most bets were made through text.
So if you had to make things simpler, you could say that the digitalization of online casino games kicked off in 2001 with the introduction of 3D graphics.
The first step toward making online casinos more accessible was made by Microgaming's Quickfire platform (quickfire is an HTML5-based solution). The platform allows game providers to maintain account security while allowing them to bring their games to other online casinos.
This was followed by the creation of other online casino software, such as Chartwell Technology (a subsidiary of Playtech) and Cryptologic (now known as Amaya). The former delivers HTML5 solutions while the latter has components that include everything from game management to reporting.
Today's Digital World
Now that you have seen the evolution of digital casino games, let us take a look at how it has influenced customer behaviour.
For instance, according to igamingbusiness' State of Play II in 2016, there is an increasing number of players turning to mobile slots in order to enjoy multiple game options. The report also found out that 65% of mobile casino players have spent money in slots games.
In fact, you can find a lot of content providers that are using HTML5 solutions to stay relevant. The reason why these companies choose this platform is that it allows them to focus on what really matters—marketing and creating viral content for their users.
Now that we've seen how HTML5 has influenced customer behaviour, it is time to take a look at the possible changes that are bound to happen in the following years.
What Will Happen in 2022?
Based on everything that you have seen above, what are some of the ways that casino games are expected to change in the next couple of years? Here are some predictions:
Casino Game-Themed Content: Some people might say that there is nothing new about this prediction. After all, we've already seen games receive the Hollywood treatment in films such as Oceans 11 and 21. The difference here, however, is that players can actually become part of these stories. For example, you will soon see more casino games that revolve around high-stakes poker and other related themes.
Casino Game Development: Whether it is a new mechanic or theme, casino game developers will go to any length in order to create something innovative. In fact, you can say that there is already a lot of attention being put on this matter because the industry has welcomed plenty of casino game developers that increased competition.
Final Thoughts
Every industry evolves over time, and the gaming industry is no different. The market constantly seeks out products and services that can help it achieve its goals, which is why new trends are bound to happen in the years to come.