In the electric, technology-driven world, the inclusion of gamification elements in the iGaming industry promises an immersive and captivating entertainment experience, subtly reshaping the fabric of digital gaming and gambling.
In a world dominated by technology, the growth of iGaming has been nothing short of dramatic. An intriguing paradigm that has caught the attention of experts and enthusiasts alike, cantering at a rampant pace, is the integration of gamification elements from popular games into this digital landscape.
The iGaming industry, at its core, is a digital counterpart of traditional gambling, comprising online casinos, sports betting, poker, and a wide range of other betting games, played over a variety of digital platforms.
One might wonder why the need for gamification elements in iGaming when it itself is part of the gaming industry. The answer lies in the new breed of online gamers who demand a more immersive and interactive experience, which is beyond the scope of traditional gaming models. Gamification helps in satiating this demand.
Gamification is not a new concept, but its integration into iGaming is relatively fresh. At its simplest, gamification is the concept of applying game mechanics to non-gaming environments to make them more engaging and fun. In the universe of iGaming, it involves the incorporation of elements like enhanced graphics, narratives, challenges, non-financial rewards, loyalty programs, player moderators, virtual goods, and currencies, ripped off from popular games. This has resulted in rendering a highly visual and interactive environment for users.
While critics may argue this could diminish the original quality of both gaming and gambling, industry leaders and their loyal customer base would beg to differ. Leading iGaming platforms like 888poker, LeoVegas, and Unibet have seemingly tapped into the “motivational psychology” of players, irresistibly drawing them into a more interactive and captivating world, with the infusion of such gamification elements.
Take, for instance, the concept of ‘missions and quests’ – a common feature in numerous popular videogames – now transposed into iGaming platforms. Players are not just playing against odds but also immersed in compelling narratives, completing quests, unlocking levels, and earning rewards that enhance their overall gaming experience.
Another fascinating aspect is the implementation of virtual currencies and goods borrowed from popular gaming titles. They serve a dual purpose – allowing users to understand the basics of the game without spending real money and encouraging them to play more to earn these virtual accolades, which can later be converted into real-world rewards.
Leaderboards and tournaments offer a competitive platform for users. These elements, inspired by the thriving eSports industry, have found their place in iGaming. High scorers and winners are rewarded, fostering healthy competition and user engagement.
One cannot ignore the business perspective of the incorporation of such gamification elements in iGaming. Apart from attracting more users, these elements also have a crucial role in retention and customer loyalty. As users get more involved with the platform, they are likely to return, and even better, bring in more users through word of mouth.
While the iGaming industry continues to gallop ahead, blurring the traditional outlines of gaming and gambling, concerns about responsible gaming and gambling addiction cannot be shunned. Strict regulations, age restrictions, self-exclusion tools, and gambling therapy resources should be emphasized by every platform to ensure responsible gaming.
In conclusion, as we tread ahead in the acceleration of the integration of gamification elements in iGaming, the landscape looks vastly promising. While it is just the beginning, this silent revolution might fundamentally alter the perceptions, experiences, and the very essence of gaming in the years to come.
Sources:
1. “What is iGaming?” Gambling Sites; https://www.gamblingsites.com/online-casino/introduction/what-is-igaming/
2. “Hit Me: How iGaming is Taking Page from Video Games’ Book”. Casino News Daily; https://www.casinonewsdaily.com/2019/04/07/hit-me-how-igaming-is-taking-page-from-video-games-book/
3. “The Evolution of Gamification in the iGaming Industry”; Affiliate Insider; https://affiliateinsider.com/featured-story/the-evolution-of-gamification-in-the-igaming-industry/
4. “Leaderboards in iGaming: Tournaments and Rankings”. SOFTSWISS; https://www.softswiss.com/white-paper/leaderboards-in-igaming-tournaments-rankings/.
