Could augmented and virtual reality lead online casino gaming’s next evolution?

The online casino gaming sector has never been far from the latest innovations and technology. One of the key catalysts behind the industry's growth during the last 20 years has been its ability to capitalize on changing trends.

In particular, the industry's move to the smaller screen following the introduction of the smartphone during the mid to late 2000s represented a major step change. It allowed players to enjoy their favorite games on the go and helped the sector engage with a new category of player.

But what might the future look like? Here we discuss the role that augmented and virtual reality might play in the sector, whether that's enhancing the experience for experienced players or helping to engage with even broader audiences.

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Immersing the player

One of the key challenges for the online casino sector has been to deliver an authentic experience and numerous strategies have been employed to achieve this. For example, live casino games have connected players with real players and croupiers.

This has helped to bridge the gap between digital and land-based casinos and offer experienced players an experience more in keeping with the one they may already be used to from trips to Las Vegas or physical games nights with their friends.

Augmented and virtual reality can also help to deliver an immersive experience to players, so it is no surprise that operators are considering and experimenting with the possibilities that the technology could deliver.

How could AR and VR be implemented?

There are lots of potential implementations for augmented and virtual reality, with potential applications for a range of games. The technology could allow the player to use their phone's camera to plot casino elements around them, or the experience could be delivered through a dedicated headset.

In roulette, a player may be able to see a physical roulette wheel on the table in front of them, or enjoy a game of poker on their own dining table, with virtual avatars of their opponents seated around them.

The technology could be utilized for players who enjoy their games at home, where they can enjoy true escapism, but, equally, it could work on the go, such as while spending time with friends or enjoying a break from work at lunchtime.

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What are the obstacles?

The technology to deliver augmented and virtual reality experiences in online casino gaming is clearly already there, with the technology being utilized heavily in console gaming. But perhaps the biggest challenge surrounds adaptation.

For many players, their casino experience is casual and less immersive. To some, it's as much about relaxing on their phone as it is enjoying a total gaming experience, so operators must work hard to strike a balance.

The growing popularity of hyper-casual games is clearly impacting trends in the online casino sector, and the industry's responsiveness to changing habits will prove crucial. Whether or not AR and VR will be a major part of the next evolution remains to be seen.