Games play a significant role in human culture and have done so since ancient times. With technological advancements, the nature of games is changing. Gamification techniques are becoming increasingly popular, and the gamification market is predicted to reach nearly $31 billion by 2025. When you play casino games online, gamification helps to increase your motivation to play. Some elements that help to do this include points, badges, and leaderboards.
Why does gamification have such appeal?
Gamification taps into aspects of your psyche such as your desire to say, “I did it!” When you play at a real money online casino, you may play games where you can unlock special rewards or see your name on a leaderboard. You may receive award badges for winning a certain amount in a session or mastering a certain game. This reinforces your self-image, and you feel more competent.
Any rewards you receive add value to the activity. Online casinos also use artificial intelligence (AI) to track your behavior and suggest games that align with your needs and preferences. Every badge you earn or challenge to complete also gives operators more information they can use to provide even more engaging experiences for you.
Gamification can transform even playing a slot game into an exciting and rewarding experience. The features and rewards can keep you glued to the screen. This can translate into longer sessions and more frequent visits. Casinos that use gamification often see a boost in engagement and loyalty compared with those who don’t use it.
The relationship between addiction and gamification
When using your card (credit card) to gamble online, it could be a sign that you are unable to resist playing and are creating debt you can’t afford. Researchers are looking into the relationship between addiction and gamification. Some papers point to a link between the two. They believe gamification can cause mental disturbances that lead to negative social consequences. However, many studies view gamification in a positive light. In fact, there are even articles documenting the use of gamification as a rehabilitation technique for gambling addiction.
People gamble for a variety of different reasons. For some, it is simply a way to entertain themselves. Others do it for the excitement and the challenge. It is when gambling becomes all-consuming that it turns into an addiction. It is not yet clear whether gamification can cause this, and more research is needed. What it can do is give you a dopamine rush that can transform you from a casual player into a more serious one. You constantly want that rush and will do just about anything to experience it.
Is gamification good or bad?
Gamification is not inherently good or bad; its value depends on how operators implement it. When used effectively, it can help regulated operators thrive by distinguishing themselves from the competition. In fact, it can be the key to winning lifelong customers.
Dedicated players don’t keep coming back just for bonuses or to earn generic loyalty points. They want an experience that money can’t buy. This can transform them into loyal customers, which are the bread and butter of casinos. Gamification can even give gamblers incentives to stay away from unregulated casinos.
The jury is still out
The online gaming business growth forecast is very positive. There isn’t enough information yet to suggest that casino operators are pushing gamification too far. They can definitely find value in using gaming elements. Their conversion rates can skyrocket which ultimately means a stronger bottom line. However, it is probably wise for them to exercise some caution and be fully aware of both the limitations and the benefits of gamification. They need to apply it in such a way that it offers players a more engaging and immersive experience.
