Compared to traditional video games, casino games might seem a little niche. In reality, however, the games offered by virtual casinos are played around the world. Favorites like blackjack, roulette, and slots have stood the test of time thanks to digitization.
But virtual casinos still need to attract players—and the competition can be fierce. Though players usually stick to their preferred platform, everyone likes to switch things up and seek out a new experience every once and a while. They might also be on the hunt for a specific game variation or a slot from a specific developer.
But what are the advantages of playing with new online casinos? And what sorts of features are players looking for when they sign up for a new account?
Let’s dig a bit deeper to look at the most advanced tech behind the world’s top digital casinos.
Personalization & Recommendations
One of the most advanced features of virtual casinos is its recommendation system. Based on player histories, platforms use advanced algorithms to determine what sorts of new releases they might like. Not only are these recommendations helpful, but they’re highly personalized.
This is particularly important for games like slots. Slots are the world’s most popular casino game—and players have literally hundreds of options at their fingertips. From sci-fi themes to high-volatility classics, AI-driven algorithms can root out and recommend to players their next favorite game.
This is also an important function when new releases are launched. Virtual casinos want to showcase their new titles, but they also want to make sure that they’re being marketed to the correct demographic.
Live Dealer Games
One of the coolest new trends in the virtual casino world is live dealer games, aka live casino games. With live dealer games, remote players are connected to real dealers who are working in remote studios. Using the magic of live video links, players communicate in real-time with dealers, who deal just like they would at a brick-and-mortar casino.
Though not quite as advanced as the algorithms that recommend new games to players, live dealer games represent the most immersive experience available to players—at least, for those without VR headsets. The goal is to closely simulate the real-life experience of visiting a casino, as most players prefer specific dealers. The same is true for the remote experience, as well.
Leaderboards & Social Features
Leaderboards and basic social features are available at many virtual casinos. Leaderboards are designed to let players benchmark their performance compared to others—which is something that’s available in most video games. It adds an extra layer of excitement and competition.
Social features, by comparison, tend to be a bit basic. Oftentimes, players are only able to communicate when playing table games together. However, the ways in which players can interact vary greatly depending on the platform. Some might not allow any type of group chat, while others allow for basic interactions between players. Usually, the interactions are via text chat—not voice.
Bundled Sportsbooks
Depending on the location, virtual casinos might be able to partner with sportsbooks. This gives players and bettors a one-stop shop where they can access bonuses and take advantage of new offers. Though they aren’t actually linked in terms of games or betting offers, players can sign up separately to take advantage of both.
It also makes it seamless to move between a virtual casino and a digital sportsbook; though regulated separately, it’s easy to move from one to the next—even via mobile. However, these types of bundled casinos-sportsbooks aren’t the industry standard. In the US, for example, some states might not allow this type of setup. Others, by contrast, might require it for new casinos.