Online casinos have existed for a while now, and they have immensely evolved since the first games became available online. Veteran players remember it well, and newcomers probably never heard of it. Still, playing a casino game right now is very different from playing one in the early 2000s.
If there are different slot games you can try on a smartphone effortlessly, it’s because of some incredible technological evolutions. Here’s an overview of the new technologies that blessed players with instant gaming.
HTML5: Erasing past relics of gaming
The HTML5 web format has completely redefined how websites are designed and it revolutionized online casino games. Before, adding content from a third party was limited and for games it was a borderline nightmare. Many games relied on Adobe’s Flash extension to run.
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While Flash games could offer unbelievable fidelity, they were limited. The games’ loading times were incredibly long. Those without the perfect gaming setup to enjoy them or a slow internet connection could wait for an eternity. It was even possible to wait for a loading time, only to have to refresh the page because it failed.
Nowadays, providers use HTML5 to power every game, allowing easy API integration by the casino site. For the player, it means loading the game in a matter of seconds or at least under a minute for slower connections. Furthermore, the games can run in the browser without having to download an app on mobile. Even better, responsive features ensure the site adapts to the user’s smartphone.
Cryptocurrency: Breaking the bank
Payment methods have always been a central concern when it comes to online casinos for both players and operators. Players scoured the internet looking for the site that could allow them to deposit and withdraw as fast as possible with minimal fees. Operators had to comply with various regulations depending on the players they wanted to accept.
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Cryptocurrency entered the scene with a bang. It allowed all transactions to be processed automatically without the external intervention of a central authority. Without said authorities’ lengthy processes, it became possible to deposit and withdraw instantly with higher amount limits.
However, crypto volatility is still deterring many players from using it. Thankfully, it acted as a wake-up call. There are now more traditional banking services with automated transactions because of what crypto allows.
Live streams: Making the game more “real”
When online casinos first entered the scene, they were dismissed as something that could never equal the authenticity of playing at a land-based casino. It’s an understandable statement when seeing virtual games of the time. It’s the same comment that was made about video games in the 80s.
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Once again, it has completely changed nowadays. Many casino players never even set foot in a land-based casino. These establishments prove too expensive for some players, or they’re simply too far or require taking vacations.
That was until it became possible to livestream in high definition. Evolution, a reputed software provider, pioneered live dealer games. They did it by making great use of live streaming and peppering it with some HTML5. It’s now possible to enjoy table games such as blackjack and roulette. There are also game shows like the Wheel of Fortune. Each with a human host and other players enjoying the game at the same time.
From there, online players saw the gap close with those who prefer the land-based experience. Even better, online casinos can offer more games and different variants without any downtime. They welcome every player, with tables for both high-rollers and beginners.
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Gamification: Websites aren’t boring any more!
The online casino was limited to being a platform, like when someone connects to Netflix. The platform itself didn’t matter. Only the content it allowed access to was important. It meant that if two sites offered the same games, bonuses, and payment methods, nothing could set them apart except for personal preferences on the UI.
Gamification, the implementation of interactivity comparable to a video game, helped change this paradigm. Now, the website can offer exclusive rewards based on player activity and add social interaction into the mix. Many gamified casino sites have a chat where people can interact with each other and share their achievements. On crypto sites, there’s now a bot giving away gifts randomly to these players in the chat, encouraging social interaction.
It allows online casinos to develop a stronger community. Something new players look for in a world where video games like Fortnite or Call of Duty: Warzone keep captivating millions of players.
Online casinos will keep evolving with technology
The iGaming industry is technology-driven, and these are just some of the most impactful evolutions. Other technologies are more challenging to spot, like the use of AI for data analysis and customer support. Yet, they exist, and due to their fully digital nature, this industry always aims to be among the first to use new solutions in a unique way.
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