As online gambling platforms continue to flourish and bring in billions in revenue for surrounding communities, there is apparent fear of what would become of land-based casinos. The onset of the Covid-19 pandemic did not help matters as it led to the sudden closure of in-person gambling venues, causing punters to migrate to online casinos. Many fans of casino games like slot machines or nyerőgépek, as Hungarians call them, found a new and exciting home in iGaming sites as forced lockdowns were imposed on physical gaming facilities.
So, the million-dollar question is: now that we have moved beyond the pandemic, will the thriving Internet gambling sector crush the centuries-old sector of brick-and-mortar gambling establishments? Well, the fact is that physical gaming venues have come a long way. From the times of the opulent casinos of Monte Carlo to the glitzy lights of Las Vegas, the industry is constantly adapting to societal changes and fast-paced advancements in technology. As we stand on the cusp of a new era, it’s crucial to delve into the historical evolution of brick-and-mortar gaming facilities and explore how they are leveraging technology to shape their future.
The Historical Evolution of Land-Based Casinos
Physical gambling houses have always been considered a historical phenomenon that dates back centuries. The industry has been on an ever-changing trajectory since its inception, where European operators focused on elegance and sophistication, providing patrons with a classic ambiance to enjoy the games.
At the time, they were associated with the aristocracy and the elite, a concept that has shaped how the venues are presented today. All along, the one challenge that has often brought strife to the sector has been regulation. Governments and gambling authorities have been employing different oversight measures to prevent notorious individuals and groups from exploiting any loopholes.
Adapting to Changing Times
As the Internet graced the scene and iGaming websites emerged, significant challenges were posed to traditional brick-and-mortar casinos. However, although iGaming platforms offer convenience and accessibility that appeal to a broader audience, physical gaming halls have advantages that appeal to specific groups of punters.
As a result, proprietors of land-based facilities did not give up when faced with the possibility of extinction. For one, they responded by focusing on their unique strengths, including providing the sensory experience, social interaction, and the thrill of being immersed in a real-world setting.
Brick-and-mortar casinos also transformed into entertainment hubs, offering not just gambling but also top-tier restaurants, live shows, and high-end shopping. They capitalized on their ability to provide an unforgettable experience beyond just playing games.
Embracing Technological Advancements
Today’s gambler is all about an immersive experience when playing online or in person. As mentioned, land-based facilities offer some unique capabilities, including:
- AR and VR Tech: since technology has become a game-changer in the gambling world, venues have chosen to incorporate cutting-edge innovations like AR and VR to enhance the overall gaming experience of the players. These allow gamblers to take a virtual tour of the casino floor before even arriving;
- Digital Payments: Digital payment systems allow people to pay swiftly and securely with the click of a button. Gambling houses with digital payment systems reduce over-dependence on cash and collect money quickly from different places;
- Cryptocurrency: Apart from fiat currency, some casinos offer different payment methods and channels like cryptocurrency, which they can easily convert to fiat when needed. Moreover, integrating cryptocurrencies and blockchain technology might revolutionize payments and security within the industry. Players can then enjoy quicker transactions, enhanced privacy, and reduced fraud risk;
- Digital Identity Cards: These ID cards allow casinos to analyze how users bet, including their favorite slots, markets, and betting hours. The reports generated from the analysis allow gaming establishments to better understand how their customers behave, leading to personalized recommendations and focus on areas that gamblers love most. Digital IDs also allow casinos to create memberships to reward loyal customers with extra incentives.
Adaptation Is the Secret to Staying Alive
Land-based casinos may face adverse competition from their online gambling counterparts, but it is obvious that they are not about to give up. Instead, the steps taken by most of the stakeholders in the industry point to adaptive mindsets, willing to embrace different aspects of technological changes to stay relevant.
With this in mind, land-based gambling houses in the future will likely involve a blend of entertainment, technology, and innovation to create appealing destinations for a wide range of visitors. This is because they are on the verge of bringing something even more unique and engaging in the future by intertwining their historical allure with the ever-improving technology.
