Each year brings new trends and fresh ideas to the online gambling industry. The sector has been popular ever since the first digital providers were established in the mid-1990s, but recent growth has taken gambling to a new level.
The introduction of online play to certain states in the USA from 2018 onwards has provided a huge boost, and projections remain healthy for the foreseeable future.
In order to maintain that momentum, online betting providers need to keep producing new innovations, so what are players likely to be drawn to throughout 2024?
Staying Steady
Some of the trends for 2024 are relatively new ideas, while others are well-established. Live casino rooms fall into the second category, but their popularity continues to increase among new and existing players.
The live experience is as close as possible to that produced in the outside world, and that’s why the trend continues to stay strong. While it is an established area of all major platforms, it doesn’t stand still. Games producers release new, entertaining titles on a regular basis, and that’s another reason why live casinos will continue to attract attention in 2024.
Social Play
One of the newest developments in the industry is the rise in social play. Instead of offering real
money games, the operators use a virtual currency. When players sign up, they are given free coins, and there are many other ways to earn additional funds moving forward.
While it’s not possible to win cash by spinning the slots, or taking your place at the tables, most operators will let players exchange currency for rewards. Gift cards and cash prizes can be obtained when enough coins have been earned, but the emphasis here is on fun and free play.
The social aspect is often enhanced by the operator, who looks to build an online community. It’s an interesting approach to online casinos, and one that’s proving popular this year.
Spin the Wheel
Wheel of Fortune games are already in place in live casino rooms. They are also referred to as “game shows” as the format includes a host, and some titles, such as Deal or No Deal, follow the rules of popular TV programs.
The rules differ between each game, but the basic concept is similar. The host spins the wheel, while players stake on which segment, they think the pointer will land in.
It’s one of the biggest growth areas in online casino play and will increase in popularity over the next twelve months. Game developers are becoming more innovative, and new Wheel of Fortune games arrive online on a regular basis.
Live Slots
Online slots and live casino rooms are the two most popular areas of any casino. Until recently, it’s not been possible to combine them, but that situation has changed, and a new trend is in place for 2024.
Live slot play is now possible, thanks to innovative games providers who set up popular titles in a similar way to wheel of fortune games. Hosts spin the reels, and players see the slot play out in front of them.
As a new concept, live slot games will continue to increase in number, while gameplay improves, but early take up among players suggests this will be a trend to watch in 2024.
The Biggest New Innovation
Virtual reality and augmented reality offer the two most exciting areas of potential for many online industries and the casino sector is no exception. VR technology has been in place for decades, but it’s been slow to influence online casinos and gaming in general.
Players are still waiting for these games to fully take off. The process is slow, but there are some virtual reality titles already in place. Options for roulette, blackjack, baccarat, poker, and slots are available, and the list is expected to grow through 2024 and beyond.
The appeal of virtual reality and augmented reality games is obvious. While live casino play aims to provide a realistic experience, these titles can take that reality concept a stage further.
VR and AR have the ability to take the player into the heart of the action. They can pull up at a table, take their seat, and wait for the turn of the cards or the spin of the roulette wheel. The advances in technology add a high level of realism, and this will offer the closest possible experience to real life gaming without the need to leave home.
The likely casino trends for 2024 offer an interesting mix of games and platforms. Some are new to the industry, and that freshness is one of the reasons why they attract attention.
It will be fascinating to see how the year plays out and whether these predictions are confirmed. The industry continues to innovate, so we may also see new trends that nobody is expecting.
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