As we leave 2020 behind, we are left with only one question – Just how different is 2022 going to be? The previous year has taught us that a lot can change in 12 months and that even though we know some things for certain, we should always have a backup plan.
Gambling and sports betting industry also had to learn this lesson the hard way. After suffering terrible losses when the pandemic started and all sports events had been cancelled, they had to turn all their focus on their online operations. Every casino in UK and the rest of the world had to close their doors for all visitors, without knowing if and when they could re-open again.
The entire situation caused the speedy development of all online operations, placing an accent on their accessibility and convenience. Therefore, our expectations of the trends in online casinos for 2022 were greatly influenced by this rapid shift to the online world.
Mobile Gambling
Even though mobile gambling isn’t a new trend in online casinos, it certainly is in the rise. In the previous decade, people have moved almost all of their social and business interaction to their smartphone devices. So, it came as no surprise that the same happened to their gaming habits. As much as 50% of people who played a casino game in 2019, did so on their mobile devices. And the number is expected to grow even further in 2022. Mobile gambling is much more convenient and faster than the traditional way, as many players had the opportunity to see in 2020. It’s even easier to make an online casino strategy since all the information that you need are in the palm of your hand.
E-sports Betting Options
One of the true stars of the gambling industry in 2020 had been eSports. After being neglected and dismissed as “reserved only for those who like playing video games”, eSports had a major breakthrough during the pandemic. The new trend was especially popular among students who had already been familiar with all major LoL, CS: GO, and Dota 2 events. They had spent many college days relaxing with these video games, and now they were given a perfect opportunity to place a bet on them. More than ever before students began exploring new casino venues online that offer great promotions. As eSports became globally popular, the students became more interest in exploring Gamblizard and its new casino free spins options, as well as many other online casinos from around the world. Months passed, and new eSports events started emerging, so have the new betting options. These attracted new visitors, besides students, that have thus far only placed a wager on traditional sports. It’s expected this trend to continue in 2022 with even more events and betting options available to punters.
Cryptocurrency As A Method Of Payment
With the popularization of online gambling, cryptocurrency has also become a sought-after method of payment, prefered by younger generations. However, it has taken some time until operators included cryptocurrencies as a form of payment. For a while, this delay in accepting this new method of payment didn’t make much sense, since it’s one of the most secure and convenient ways to make a transaction. In 2022 it’s expected that almost all online operators will include cryptocurrency in their offer.
VR Gambling
VR has been shaping the gaming industry for a long time. It has become obvious that VR is the future of gaming, but no one expected it to also include online casino games. Luckily, the online casino industry saw the potential that lies in this new technology and decided to use it to their advantage.
It’s expected that in 2022 there will be further development in VR online casinos, where a user can enjoy the benefits of both online and land-based venues. With VR technology, the player will be able to have a real-life casino experience without leaving his home.
Conclusion
It goes without saying that 2020 greatly influenced the future of the casino industry. The huge shift to online operations saved the industry from a complete collapse, but it also set the course of future trends. Even though many people had already accepted online gambling and sports betting, over the course of the previous year, even more, joined, being left with no other option. This brought to light the convenience that online venues have to offer. Land-based casinos will always be attractive to many visitors who are in need of a change or a spectacular day in their life. However, there’s no more denying that online casinos are the future, and that 2022 will be proof of that.
Author’s Bio:
Leslie Alexander is the devoted Content Lead at Gamblizard who inspires everyone around her with her enthusiasm and love for writing. Leslie spends most of her time perfecting her SEO skills because her sole goal is to become a better writer. She also has a passion for online gaming and sports events which she likes to explore in her articles.