Since the very early days of its inception decades ago, the online casino industry, has been proven its potential. The millions of iGamers around the world can stand testament to the fact that internet gambling is here to stay. There’s no telling what new changes we’ll see in the industry over the next few years.
Fortunately, 2023 is just around the corner, and we’ve got a pretty good idea of what trends we can look forward to for next year:
- Increased use of VR and AR technology
- AI-driven casino systems
- Rise of crypto casinos
So, without further ado, let’s dive into the top 3 iGaming trends we can expect for 2023!
Increased Use of VR and AR Technology
Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) aren’t new to the gaming scene.
For years, video gamers around the globe have been donning VR goggles and stumbling around their sitting rooms while clumsily fighting virtual zombies and ghouls (much to the delight of any onlookers).
However, both VR and AR are relatively new to the iGaming – or casino websites – sphere. Let’s go over the difference between these two immersive technologies.
Augmented reality is a way to enhance your surroundings by adding digital elements. Take Snapchat lenses, for example, where you can digitally place objects in your surroundings and view them through your mobile. Virtual reality, on the other hand, replaces the real world with an immersive experience or simulation. This is the crux of the technology that will power the long-awaited metaverse.
But how exactly do VR and AR fit in with online gambling?
Thanks to VR and AR, online gamblers will gain the opportunity to flex their skills and try their luck in an engaging and life-like manner. Players will be able to step foot in virtual casinos, packed full of exciting games and other VR gamblers.
Despite popular casino games like online slots and video poker being further enhanced by VR capabilities, it’s live dealer games that will really shine.
Standing face-to-face (albeit virtually) with the dealer and other players, ready to put your skills to the test, is a different type of rush. Previously, it was only land-based casinos that could offer this experience.
We’re not sure whether the technology needed for widespread VR live dealer games will be polished and ready by the time we welcome in the new year, but be sure that the best minds in the business are on the job.
A Continued Rise in Crypto Casinos
Crypto is nothing new. In fact, Bitcoin made its first appearance all the way back in 2009.
In 2011, Litecoin was the second cryptocurrency to join the party. Needless to say, these digital currencies have become one of the most popular means of payment and investment in the world.
Naturally, casino sites were quick to jump on the bandwagon, facilitating crypto payments for the convenience of their players. Most of these sites still offer all the traditional payment platforms, like bank cards and e-Wallets like PayPal and Apple Pay.
A newer trend that we suspect will continue to rise next year is blockchain casinos. These sites, also known as ‘crypto casinos’, provide a form of gambling that is not regulated by any government. All games are decentralized, which means that the infamous ‘house edge’ is a thing of the past. You can be sure of provably fair games thanks to the random number generator programs that power crypto casino games.
One potential challenge that blockchain casinos will have to confront is the matter of volatility. It should come as no surprise that the values of altcoins are always changing.
But the attractive mix of better odds, immediate payments, and privacy seems to make up for this potential downside.
In 2023, we suspect that more and more blockchain casinos will enter the market.
AI-Enhanced Casino Sites
Artificial Intelligence (AI) has long been accepted by society.
Whether it’s your Alexa device waking you up on time every day with a happy tune, or your Instagram feed serving you posts on your favourite topics, AI is a part of our everyday lives.
It’s no surprise, then, that it’s also had an impact on the iGaming scene. AI has been helping users during their online gambling journey for some time now, and it seems like it will continue to do so in some surprising ways.
AI is responsible for many of the noteworthy features that make online casinos so appealing to gamers. Some of these features include:
- Enhanced security and player protection
- Tailored player experience
- Enhanced customer support
- Systems that detect and prevent cheating
- Programs that identify problem gamblers
Looking to The Future
There you have it, 3 iGaming trends that will make their mark on the online gambling industry in 2023.
There’s no sure way to measure the real impact that VR, crypto gambling, and AI will have on the iGaming sphere. For now, we simply advise you to get your VR goggles out, put your poker face on, and get ready for the future.
