Since the introduction of online casinos, traditional games like poker and roulette have been the main attraction. But, as a younger, tech-savvy generation entered the scene, casino game developers realized that these players brought an opportunity for the same traditional games to evolve into something entirely new. Developers needed to be creative in their game designs, producing online casino games that appealed to future gamers. So, they started to create innovative and unusual online games to adapt to changing consumer needs. Online casinos have also begun to prioritize adding more non-traditional games to their websites because they saw the importance of innovation for player retention and engagement.
Although these games are relatively new to casinos and gamblers, they’re rapidly gaining popularity. While some think that they may not stand the test of time, they can’t disregard the fact that these games are reshaping what players look for when they gamble online. Read on to find out more about non-traditional casino games you should try.
Non-Traditional vs. Traditional Casino Games
A primary reason gamblers flock to the online domain is the convenience, but they also like the sheer variety of games on offer — along with rewards and bonuses. These factors explain the surge of non-traditional games such as Slingo and live dealer casinos.
But what exactly is the difference between traditional and non-traditional casino games? Traditional games such as roulette, craps, and poker have been based on established rules and conventions for centuries. They are the standard games you picture when you think about casinos. On the other hand, non-traditional casino games incorporate a range of innovative gameplay mechanics, interesting features, and technological advancements to give classic casino games a more modern spin. Some examples of how online casino games have evolved include incorporating features like virtual reality and live streaming for a more interactive online gaming experience. These unique casino games also incorporate some unconventional rules to add a unique element of entertainment.
Of course, just because certain games are traditional, that doesn’t mean they can’t be adapted as alternative options for contemporary gamblers. Famous examples of such adaptations include live dealer blackjack, poker, and roulette, as well as slot games with interesting themes and exciting bonus rounds.
The Different Types of Non-Traditional Games
America is one of the pioneers in the online casino market, with Silicon Valley being a significant hub for the development of innovative games. Take a look at the different types of non-traditional casino games below.
Virtual Reality
One of the most recent developments to become quite mainstream is Virtual Reality (VR), where players put on a headset and transport into a parallel world. Immersive and exciting, casinos have begun integrating VR into online gambling. Just imagine walking through Casino de Monte-Carlo or Caesars Palace from your living room to play a game of roulette. With VR, this is entirely possible. And if roulette isn’t your favorite game, you can choose to have the same experience playing a vast range of other casino games, including slots, poker, bingo, and craps.
Arcade Games
Arcade games are an excellent combination of gambling and sports, a great option for enjoying with friends or blowing off steam. For example, players can bet on arcade-themed sports events such as mini-golf and racing or on what character will win the Mario Kart race. Other strange events to bet on include eating competitions, bog snorkeling, and ferret bingo.
Live Dealer Casino Games
With its ability to replicate the authenticity of playing with a dealer in land-based casinos, live dealer games have captivated the gambling world and seem to be here to stay. If you’re wondering what games incorporate this new format, they include every conventional casino game that requires a dealer, like poker, roulette, and blackjack.
Social Casino Games
Other alternative options include social casino games like social slots, poker, and casino-themed games that allow players to compete against friends. They may also allow players to post their results on social media. Social and peer-to-peer games include Slingo, Plinko, and top-rated crash games such as Aviator.
Themed Games
From online slots and poker to roulette and bingo, casinos constantly release popular casino games with a twist. Themed games have been popular for years; they incorporate a range of famous musicians, eras, movies, and series, ensuring there’s something for everyone. Examples include a Rolling Stones-inspired roulette wheel or Jackie Chan-themed bingo cards.
These games also intertwine themes with well-known calendar dates like Christmas and Thanksgiving. They could even integrate popular sporting events like the Super Bowl.
What Demographic Do Non-Traditional Games Appeal To?
As gambling’s demographic shifts to include a younger generation (millennials and Gen Z), consumer needs in the industry also change. Non-traditional casino games have found some early success because they speak to a young demographic who grew up with a range of non-traditional video and mobile games.
In today’s environment, young adults seek stimulating and immersive games with excellent graphics, which the likes of VR and live dealer casino games offer. Their popularity is further enhanced by the prevalence of social media and the fact that alternative casino games offer multiplayer options, social interaction, and community engagement.
Why Do Online Gamblers Enjoy Playing Non-Traditional Casino Games?
As mentioned, the younger generation of players look for something new and exciting when they visit online casino websites. Here are a few of the main reasons that players in the digital era prefer non-traditional games:
- Novelty and Variety: Casino game developers constantly release new games with engaging bonus features, entertaining bonus rounds, and different themes. There’s a game to suit every type of player and their unique interests, so gaming experiences are more exciting and personalized.
- Entertainment Value: Non-traditional casino games are often designed with entertainment in mind. They may have engaging storylines, captivating graphics, and immersive sound effects, creating a more entertaining and enjoyable experience for players.
- Skill-Based Gameplay: Some non-traditional games involve an element of skill rather than pure chance. This appeals to players who enjoy using their skills to influence the outcome of the game. Skill-based games can provide a sense of accomplishment and challenge.
- Social Interaction: Traditional online casino games, while convenient, lack the social aspect that playing games at a casino has. You’re behind a computer instead of playing against someone face-to-face. Certain non-traditional games incorporate social elements, such as multiplayer features, live stats, chat options, or collaborative gameplay, to appeal to players looking for an online gaming experience that still lets them socialize and interact with other players.
- Cross-Platform Accessibility: Most casino games released today are easily accessible across various platforms, from mobile devices to desktop computers. This flexibility allows players to enjoy their favorite games on their preferred devices at their convenience. Plus, the fast-paced gameplay of these new casino games is perfectly suited to mobile gaming.
- Themed Games: Non-traditional casino games, especially new online slots, may be based on popular themes from movies, TV shows, or other cultural elements. These themed games can attract fans of the source material, creating a connection that enhances the overall gaming experience.
- Innovations in Technology: Non-traditional casino games often leverage cutting-edge technology, such as VR or augmented reality (AR), to create a more immersive and futuristic gaming experience.
Play Non-Traditional Games on BetMGM
Forward-thinking and innovative, BetMGM offers a great selection of non-traditional casino games. Practice with free demo games and enjoy the luxury of playing from the comfort of your home or on the go. Register today and enjoy a selection of variety games, themed tables, social games, and live dealers. From Slingo, themed slots, and bingo to live dealer poker, roulette, and blackjack, play from anywhere at any time.
