The Birth of Online Casinos (1990s)
The internet went live in 1981. However, it took gambling services over a decade to utilise this revolutionary technology.
First, bookmakers introduced teletexts with live sports odds and phone betting services in 1993. By the following year, the first online casino, Gaming Club Casino, went live. It was launched by gaming software developer Microgaming.
The birth of internet casinos wouldn’t have been possible without Antigua and Barbuda’s government. In 1994, they became the first country to legalize online gambling. The Gaming Club Casino’s licence was obtained there.
During this phase, online casinos relied on basic technology and offered only a handful of classic games, such as slots. Additionally, their simplistic interfaces couldn’t match land-based casinos, but their convenience attracted a growing audience.
The Rise of Software Providers (Late 1990s to Early 2000s)
From 1996 to the early 2000s, the industry witnessed innovative developments. There was growth in site numbers. As of 1998, 700 online casinos were recorded, processing real-money wagers. There was an estimated $835 million to $1 billion in annual revenue.
The introduction of advanced software solutions resulted in better graphics, together with enhanced sound effects and expanded game selection. Casinos experienced an expansion in their user base because they could deliver enhanced, realistic gaming experiences.
This development has since led to the creation of casino review websites such as New Casinos, which introduces new exciting casinos and showcases their best attributes. They also compare different casinos so it is easier for players to choose their preferred platform.
Other aspects that this era is remembered for include online poker tournaments and secure payment methods. Speaking of poker tournaments, the 2003 World Series of Poker was the highlight, sparking a poker boom in several countries. At this point, transactions could be completed using credit cards and e-wallets.
The Introduction of Live Dealer Games (Mid-2000s)
Online casinos aimed to replicate the experience of physical gambling establishments. Some attempts were made in the late 90s, however, the technology was insufficient. The breakthrough came with live dealer games. They entered the market in the mid-2000s. This innovation revolutionized the industry and bolstered its growth. Many have been drawn to the experience.
With live video streams, players can interact with dealers and other players. This bridges the gap between online and traditional casinos. From the name “live dealer”, you know they are centred on table games. Blackjack, roulette and baccarat players can experience a more authentic gambling atmosphere.
The technology behind live dealer games is still improving. Today, people enjoy these games with high-definition video streaming and multiple camera angles. There are also some games with a backdrop themed around Las Vegas to further enhance the atmosphere.
Mobile Gambling: the Game-Changer (Late 2000s)
The release of iOS and the Android operating system revolutionized smartphones. This also brought a new form to online gambling as devices using these operating systems could properly display casino websites. Developers ensured gambling sites were functional on smaller screens while maintaining quality. With these portable devices, players can gamble anytime, anywhere.
By 2008, Apple’s App Store and the Android Market (Google App Store) were launched. This made mobile gaming more convenient, and most casino websites soon had their own app versions. Players can easily download them and get the same experience as from the website.
Aside from accessibility, mobile gambling also introduced features like push notifications for promotions and rewards. This convenience helped online casinos tap into a broader audience, including the younger demographic. Today, a growing number of players prefer mobile gaming, leading to most casinos being optimized for mobile websites or apps.
Cryptocurrency and Blockchain (Mid-2010s to Present)
Cryptocurrencies marked a new era in online gambling. By 2014, Bitcoin casinos had become common. Anonymity in transacting and faster payouts increased their popularity.
However, it wasn’t until 2020 that crypto casinos made a significant breakthrough. Due to the lockdown, many punters were forced to stay home and could only enjoy online gaming. At that point, cryptocurrencies were also experiencing price surges. Most players began wagering with cryptocurrencies. Since then, crypto casinos have become the norm.
As the backbone of crypto operations, blockchain technology has helped the industry. Blockchain brought about provably fair games and enhanced transparency. With these games, players can verify the outcome of gaming sessions. This has helped build trust between players and casinos offering provably fair games.
Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) (2010s to Present)
Technology has always been at the centre of online gaming transformation. The next era is expected to be built around VR and AR.
VR technology takes you to a 3D casino environment. This is the closest the online casino experience can come to real-life casinos. Here, you get to interact with other players and enjoy games as if you were in an actual casino. Table games are also better with this technology, as it feels like you are seated right in front of the dealer.
Although it has been around for a while, VR casino gaming is still in its infancy. There is, however, vast potential. Developers are working to ensure everyone can experience VR and AR gaming. Their plan revolves around affordable headsets for gamers.
Final Thoughts – the Future of Online Casinos
From humble beginnings to date, online casinos have undergone a remarkable transformation. We don’t expect this to stop soon, as almost every decade, there are new innovations that drive changes. The new technologies will then build on the existing ones.
From our article, you can tell that crypto and VR gaming will shape the industry’s future. As a punter, it’s advisable to get acquainted with these technologies. That way, you stay ahead of the curve when they come to dominate the industry.