Online casinos were introduced thanks to the desire to transport luxurious land-based casinos straight to your living room.
When virtual casinos appeared, the land-based casino industry became worried about their effect on the old-school gambling venues. Predictions were grave. The potential harm to the established sector loomed over as people turned to websites rather than familiar venues.
However, the doubts were soon dispelled. It was quickly proven that there are still players that like to frequent the good old venues that they are accustomed to. The sense of familiarity, in the face of the digital revolution, prevailed.
But the threat never disappeared. As technology progressed, so did the digital gambling spots. Year after year, new trends emerged – live casinos, mobile casinos, social casinos. The gambling industry adapted to every digital change. And year after year, we ask the same question: can land-based casinos preserve their spot under the spotlight? Or will they eventually succumb to the will of the technological society? Let’s discuss that.
Chameleon
The history of land-based casinos is quite colourful and eventful. A lot of things have transpired within the walls of one single venue. But one point always stood – people enjoy playing there.
When we first met digital casino sites, the land-based casino sector stood before numerous obstacles. Constantly updating offers to keep pace with the new technology was paramount. In a way, brands were competing with their shiny, polished, more accessible clones.
But land-based casinos had several aces up their sleeve. For example, no one can compete with the authenticity of such venues. Playing online might be excellent for various reasons, but the feeling of entering a massive gaming floor? It was priceless. It could not be replicated, no matter how many advantages online casinos offered.
After online casinos launched live dealer games and accompanying studios, the ground sector was again endangered. Live casino games, with real dealers at tables in real-time, challenged the authenticity. Venues pulled another trick from the sleeve: bonuses tailored to individual players.
Each player, regardless of his status, was complimented by the host. Drinks during playtime, dinners, and similar treats were in store for the players. In a way, an online casino could not compete with that considering they represent virtual interaction. Then came mobile games and an increase in slot machines. Ground casinos overcame each obstacle graciously, by updating their lobbies, offers, and bonuses. And they kept their place under the spotlight.
In a true chameleon manner, land-based casinos changed colours and shape to adapt to each wave of changes in the industry.
Dual Nature
The entire industry depends on the clients. What the audience wants, the audience gets, as always. However, one would think that land-based casinos might go extinct once live casinos go live.
But an interesting happened – the audience wants both. While many players enjoy the versatility and flexibility of mobile and online casinos, some like tangible experiences. For them, the glamour, luxury, and opulence cannot be felt on an iPhone. Instead, they choose to visit real, brick-and-mortar casinos.
This trend led to a multitude of casino openings and launches. Popular tourist locations have transformed into attractive gambling hotspots. People from all over the world flock to new spots for a slice of the gambling paradise. The dual nature of the gambling community created enough space where land-based casinos and digital sites co-exist in harmony.
The technology that separated them at first now unites them at last. Land-based casinos with top gaming units sport the latest tech. And online, real-time casino sites create a genuine atmosphere.
Suffice it to say, the future of land-based casinos might be rocky, but it certainly won’t be bleak.