THREE CASINO GAMING TRENDS IN 2018
The global casino industry has experienced huge growth in the last few years, fuelled by the advent of mobile online gaming and various other social apps.
In 2018 there exists a great opportunity to link the offline and online gaming casinos. In America alone, the casino industry is worth a little over $70 billion. Given the number of online gamblers today, it is no surprise states such as New Jersey have state-regulated gambling options, with New York, California, and Pennsylvania expected to follow shortly.
![Online casino gaming trends of 2018](/app/uploads/2018-casino-gaming-trends.jpg)
Furthermore, the August 2017 statistic shows 16 of the top 100 grossing iPhone apps of the year where social casino games. Game developers have started creating online casino apps that are engaging and story driven to keep players coming back for more.
Here are the three expected trends of 2018 in the online casino industry:
VIRTUAL REALITY
The use of virtual reality (VR) has seen a massive increase in the last year, and it is expected to get even bigger in 2018. The improvements in technology have meant VR is more affordable and accessible than ever. VR casinos can lead to a more immersive online gaming solution, which allows the player to feel like they are really at a live casino. A more realistic and immersive gaming experience can result in greater player retention. Now you truly can experience the thrill of gambling online.
LIVE CASINO POPULARITY ON THE INCREASE
The last year saw some live casinos reporting increased traffic and profit. It seems like players enjoy the extra human interaction that live online casinos offer. Live dealers, real-time video and real casino equipment, help online players to feel like they are at casinos and gambling with real equipment. It has been reported that live online casinos are the new preferred playground for high rollers. The best online casinos have started increasing their live table game offerings and are providing more live casino games all the time. This trend is expected to continue into 2018, and we should see an increase in live casino games.
THE CONCEPT OF GAMIFICATION
The concept of gamification refers to game-like elements found in video games. Developers have noticed a trend in that players enjoy online casino games that offer storylines, narratives, power-ups, avatars, unlockable content, levelling-up etc. These game elements are believed to hold a player’s interest for longer, meaning they will play for longer. Player interaction is thought to be on the increase, and without it, a game will most likely not get played. Expect to see bigger, flashier games in 2018, with more game-like features.