The casino industry has always been at the forefront of innovation, constantly looking for new technologies to enhance player experience. The rise of online casino games and recent digital tech has had a profound impact on the gambling industry.
Virtual Reality casino games tend to get most of the headlines, but Augmented Reality (AR) has become a transformative force in the casino world, elevating player experience and taking the immersive aspect of modern gaming to new heights.
Take a look at how it is changing the industry, how AR casino games differ from VR, and what a virtual casino game could look like in the near future thanks to these emerging technologies.
What is Augmented Reality (AR)?
Before getting into augmented reality casino games, it’s essential to understand what they are and how they differ from casino VR.
Where VR offers the promise of completely transporting players from the room they are in to another reality, AR simply enhances real-world experiences using digital devices. So, with a VR headset, players would play a virtual casino game somewhere else. In contrast, an AR device “augments reality” by adding sounds and visuals that you can interact with in your environment.
An excellent example for those who aren’t too familiar with AR is the Pokémon GO craze that took the world by storm in 2016. Players were still immersed in the real world, while smartphone technology elevated the experience by adding Pokémon to it that players could catch while completing side tasks and interacting with other players.
AR and the Casino Industry
Augmented Reality is already used in the casino industry in many subtle ways, but here are some of the more transformative ways it is and will continue to impact the industry.
Immersive Gaming Environments
AR can be used to transform the physical environment of casino spaces into an even more immersive gaming experience. Using AR-equipped devices, like AR glasses or smartphones, players can seamlessly interact with digital elements that have been integrated into the environment. This could be as simple as playing virtual online slots at a “machine” on the casino floor.
Enhancing Live Dealer Games
Live dealer games have already provided a glimpse into the future of high-tech gaming. While they are increasing in popularity in the online casino sector, AR can take them to the next level. Live dealer games act as a bridge between online and real-world gaming, and by using AR glasses or other technology, players can interact with a holographic version of the dealer at their physical location. This provides an additional layer of interactivity and immersion to casino games.
Gamifying Casino Floors
There’s already lots to enjoy on the casino floor, and it’s brimming with jackpot slots, table games, and more for you to enjoy. Wouldn’t it be fantastic for the casino environment to be even more gamified? This could include using AR devices for interactive challenges, quests, scavenger hunts, and more within the casino. Think of them as a game’s side quest that will get you extra bonus points, adding a different level of excitement and entertainment to the casino experience.
Real-Time Information
The integration of AR offers an exceptional opportunity for real-time information during gaming sessions. For example, players could use AR to discover live data on a particular game, like how many people are currently playing, when it last paid out, game statistics, information on odds, and more. This data could have a significant impact on players’ decision-making and strategy.
This would be particularly useful in sports betting. Imagine watching a live game on TV or at the actual stadium, and your smartphone app gives you statistics, real-time odds, and interactive betting options during the game. If utilized correctly, AR can turn any sporting event into a dynamic and exciting betting experience.
Emerging Technologies and the Future of Casino Gaming
There’s no doubt that VR and AR are ready to transform lives. Emerging technologies are ushering in a new era of casino experiences with heightened immersion and interactivity. Given the constant advancement of technology like AR, it’s only a matter of time before it is used in other creative ways within the industry.
The integration of AR and VR promises a hugely dynamic and engaging casino gaming experience that will continue to improve for years to come. It’s an exciting time to be involved, and you can’t help but feel like the industry is on the precipice of something truly transformative.
Play Responsibly With BetMG
BetMGM is always looking for new and exciting ways to delight its customers — whether through new technologies, modern games, prizes, bonuses, or discounts. BetMGM is also committed to responsible gambling, and you can read more information about it on the blog, like how VR therapy can help problem gambling and more.
Register with BetMGM to play immersive casino games.
