Augmented Reality: Its pros and cons in the online gambling world

Software providers and casino operators work hand-in-hand in pursuit of innovation to make online gambling more engaging than ever. One of those paths is the application of augmented reality (AR) on classic table games. This exciting direction sparks intrigue among gamblers but the potential remains uncertain. 

Key Takeaways

• AR enhances live casino games by adding digital elements. It’s different from VR which is about creating a casino game in a completely virtual space. 
• AR casino innovation has many advantages including adding new mechanics to a beloved table game, offering enhanced experience, and engaging new audiences. 
• Using AR for casino game development has its challenges, including cost-effectiveness, concerns with interface design, and competition with modern video games. 

How augmented reality works in casinos and how it’s different from VR

It’s worth noting that augmented reality casinos are not the only concept software providers are looking into. They are also exploring the possibilities of virtual reality (VR) casinos and how they can enhance the gambling experience. Both AR and VR add a digital layer to online casino games but the applications are different. Here’s how:

• AR is about adding elements to live casino games to improve them. That includes adding random multipliers on roulette to create Mega Roulette from Pragmatic Play or Lightning Roulette from Evolution. 
• VR is about creating the casino and its games in a virtual space. One example is Gonzo's Treasure Map from Evolution where you play a VR slot game with a dealer. Likewise, it also includes Metaverse casinos like Decentral Games where gamblers can explore and sit on digital assets arranged to represent functioning gambling venues.

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Advantages AR can bring to casino gaming

AR’s implementation in casino gaming is brimming with exciting innovations that attract software providers worldwide. It has changed how game development is handled and it has been successful according to Evolution, Pragmatic Play, and Ezugi. To clarify, here are the advantages AR casino innovation has brought to gamblers:

Adds a new layer of gameplay mechanics to the classic casino games

There is only so much that the classic roulette wheels, dice, or standard 52-card deck can provide in terms of game mechanics. All of them are limited by physical constraints and it limits their volatility. Augmented reality allows software providers to add new elements to these classic games and make them much more volatile and therefore exciting to play. 

Offers a more exclusive casino experience 

Brick-and-mortar gaming houses and luxury hotels have their way of making their game floors feel special and AR gaming is online casinos’ answer to that. This way, there’s an experience that players can only get from live table games using an interface that makes the games better experienced on screen than in person. 

Augmented reality online casino games come from the top providers with the means and creative minds to realise them. Those are Evolution, Pragmatic Play, Ezugi, and Live 88. These brands only provide their games to the best casinos in the market, like Gamdom. Having the opportunity to play their games knowing this already creates an air of exclusivity.

Can appeal to a younger generation of gamblers

The point of innovation in the gambling sector is to make the industry more welcoming to younger audiences. Unfortunately, software providers have to compete with console and PC games which offer players lots of interactivity. Casino games’ luck-based conditions make them too different from video games but AR can make it just as engaging if not more.

Challenges AR casino gaming is facing 

Augmented reality casino innovation is an exciting innovation but comes with significant challenges. These often stem from the limited access to technology for the casinos to bring their AR experiences to players. Here’s a breakdown of those challenges and why they matter in the grand scheme for gamblers. 

Cost limitations to hardware and solutions

Developing AR games is a costly and complex process, requiring time, resources, and expertise. Creating a single game is expensive enough and making them available for all their casino partners is even more so. A software provider also can’t stop with just one game. They have to make more to maintain their brand. 

Some developers have an in-house team that can design, develop, and code the game for them. Others outsource help and keep them on a project-to-project basis only. Even after the game is made, the providers also require professional staff to be the dealer on the table.

Given that the AR game they made is unique to them, they have to train new dealers before they appear live for the players. Hiring someone with experience is off the table because nobody else has experience with tech exclusive to the brand. 

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