How the Gambling Industry Influences the Global Economy

Ilija Jaksic January 15, 2024

The gambling industry as a whole has developed into a considerable economic force. It’s responsible for substantial revenues in the tourism and hospitality industries, but its influence goes beyond traditional casinos, with online platforms accounting for a massive piece of gambling transactions. Join us as we dissect how gambling’s convoluted yet intriguing economic footprint affects the global economy, contributes to GDP in various nations, and creates jobs.

The Significant Role of Gambling Platforms in Local Economies and Small Businesses

When Atlantic City began its operations, the intention was to boost tax revenue and help urban redevelopment. Initially, there was a positive impact on the regional economy, with the industry generating capital investment, high-paying jobs, and a consistent flow of tourism. Employment in the metropolitan area more than doubled in the decade following the first casino opening in 1978.

The ripple effect of the economic contributions is significant and far-reaching, benefiting a wide array of sectors and supporting a diverse range of small businesses.??

If we take the US as an example, we can see that casinos are responsible for generating a staggering $52 billion in revenues for small businesses in diverse industries such as real estate, finance, health care, STEM, manufacturing, and information technology. In terms of employment, they support approximately 350,000 jobs in small businesses.

These jobs are not limited to the industry alone; a substantial portion are in non-gambling sectors like local restaurants and shops. These businesses often see a marked increase in customer traffic and economic activity due to their proximity to gambling properties.

Furthermore, the contribution of casinos to small business employee wages is notable, with $13 billion being supported annually.

Economic Benefits of Land-Based Casinos & Online Gambling Platforms

These platforms contribute significantly to government revenues through taxation and licensing fees, sustaining public services and infrastructure. Gambling ventures boost local economies and create numerous employment opportunities, from technology and software development to customer service roles. They also stimulate technological innovation as the competitive market drives advancements in digital security, user interface design, and gaming software. Lastly, regulated gambling markets aid in the fight against illegal gambling by improving consumer protection and promoting responsible gambling habits. Let’s go over these advantages in greater detail below.

Tax Revenue

The capability of the gambling business to generate tax revenue is a critical economic benefit, allowing increased government investment in essential services and infrastructure. Direct tax contributions include corporate taxes, gambling-specific taxes, and license fees.

Indirectly, it adds to sales and service tax income. Spending on hotels, restaurants, and other local services in known casino locations increases the government’s proceeds.

The tax revenue generated from the gambling industry is often earmarked for specific public welfare projects. Governments use tax income to finance education, healthcare, social services, and community development initiatives.

To understand the scope of these numbers, betting online resulted in $1.5 billion in sports betting tax revenue for 27 US jurisdictions in 2022. New York, Pennsylvania, and Illinois generated more than $100 million each.

When we look at the market share of online poker in the US, the numbers are just as impressive. In 2022, the poker market size was worth $86.2 billion and is expected to have a growth rate of around 13.5% between 2023 and 2030. Given the sheer magnitude of the market, we can say with certainty that online poker contributes heavily towards tax revenue, among other economic factors.

Job Creation

The jobs created by the industry also contribute to tax revenue. This contribution is substantial, given the industry’s role in employment across multiple sectors, including technology, hospitality, and customer service:

Direct employment includes positions such as dealers, security personnel, managers, customer service representatives, and technical support staff. Online platforms also demand a range of IT professionals, from software developers to cybersecurity experts.
Indirect employment expands opportunities in companies specializing in game design, online security, marketing, and advertising.

The industry also contributes to the workforce’s skill development. Many roles in the gambling sector, especially in online casinos, require specialized skills, prompting the need for comprehensive training programs. This skill development can benefit employees’ long-term career prospects, even outside the gambling industry.

Reduction in Crime

Legalization directly influences the reduction of illegal operations, which are often associated with other forms of crime. However, the effect of legalized gambling is a subject of ongoing research and debate. Although research indicates that legalization does not necessarily lead to a rise in crime, specific types of crime, such as theft or fraud, may increase in areas surrounding casinos, possibly due to addiction issues.

Tourism

Gambling attracts visitors from around the world and stimulates local economies. Locations like Las Vegas, Macau, and Monte Carlo are prime examples of how casinos can become central to a city’s identity.

Modern establishments are a vital part of integrated resorts, offering a combination of entertainment, hospitality, and retail services and appealing not just to gamblers but also to families and business travelers.

Casino venues also host events like poker tournaments, entertainment shows, and conventions. These events often garner international attention, creating a cycle of economic growth and development for the hosting regions.

Everlasting Imprint of The Gambling Industry on the Global Economy

With its complex web of economic, social, and cultural impacts, the gambling industry plays a multifaceted role in society. The economic impact of the industry on a global scale is far-reaching, with just as significant influence on national economies. Whether land-based or online, revenues generated contribute heavily towards the way countries build, employ, and ultimately, prosper.

It is needless to say with this industry growing at the pace it is, the role of regulatory bodies and legislation are responsible for keeping up to ensure that individuals, communities, and countries can thrive alongside the industry, without the risk of jeopardizing the safety and well-being of local and global communities.

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What Is House Edge in Blackjack?

Blackjack is one of the most popular casino games, enjoyed by players of all experience levels. However, winning at blackjack isn't always easy, and many players lose more often than not. One of the reasons for this is the concept of the blackjack house edge, which can have a significant impact on a player's chances of winning. In this article, we'll explore what house edge is in the context of online blackjack, how it affects your chances of winning, and what you can do to minimize its impact on your gameplay. What Is the House Edge in Blackjack? The house edge is a term used in the casino industry to refer to the mathematical advantage that the casino has over the player in any given game. In the context of blackjack, the house edge is the percentage of each bet that the casino expects to win over the long term. This means that if you bet $100 on a hand of blackjack with a house edge of 1%, the casino expects to win $1 from that bet over the long run. The house edge in blackjack is determined by a number of factors, including the specific rules of the game, the number of decks used, and the skill level of the player. Generally, the house edge in blackjack ranges from 0.5% to 2%, with some variations of the game having a higher house edge than others. Understanding the concept of house edge is essential to improving your chances of winning at blackjack, as it can help you make informed decisions about when to hit, stand, double down, or split your cards. How Does House Advantage in Blackjack Work? In any casino, you can find several types of blackjack with different rules, which can further increase the house's edge. Consider, for example, the number of decks in a game. Blackjack strategies that use one deck have a slightly lower house edge than those that use multi-deck blackjack strategies (around 0.25%). That's because it's easier for players to keep track of the number of high cards or picture cards when they play this way. There's no rule preventing you from counting cards, but you can better predict the next card if you count cards.Furthermore, the fact that the dealer is required to take another card on a soft 17 can have a significant impact on the odds. Among other things, if you're allowed to double down in blackjack after a split, you can reduce the house edge by about 0.15%. Furthermore, the fact that the dealer is required to take another card on a soft 17 can have a significant impact on the odds. Among other things, if you're allowed to double down in blackjack after a split, you can reduce the house edge by about 0.15%. Finally, check the chances of hitting blackjack in your game. In most casinos, you are likely to receive a 3-to-2 payout for blackjacks, which means that if you wager $10 and hit blackjack, you'll win $15. Nevertheless, there are a few casinos out there that offer a meager return on blackjack of 6-to-5. A player's bottom line is likely to be affected by this. How to Decrease the House Edge in Blackjack There's a way to reduce the house advantage in blackjack to around 0.5%, which is one of the lowest profit margins of almost any casino game. However, you must have a solid blackjack strategy. You also have to know when it's time to double down, split, or stand to greatly increase your chances of winning. Another tip is to avoid insurance bets. The insurance bet in blackjack is a side bet that pays 2:1 if the dealer has a blackjack. However, the odds of the dealer having a blackjack are not in your favor, so it's better to avoid this bet. You should also choose your table carefully. Look for tables that offer favorable rules, such as the dealer standing on a soft 17 or allowing you to double down after splitting in blackjack. Avoid tables that have unfavorable rules, such as the dealer hitting on a soft 17 or only allowing you to double down on certain hands. Finally, use a card counting strategy, which involves keeping track of the cards that have been dealt to determine the cards that will be dealt next. Still, even though card counting is legal by law, it's frowned upon by casinos and can result in you being asked to leave. House Edge in Blackjack Variants It's important to note that there are many variations of blackjack, each with its own rules and subtleties. Rules and regulations vary from one casino to another and are usually displayed on the table. Players should be familiar with these rules in advance and pay particular attention to the changes in the house edge. If we take Super Fun 21, for example, we can see that the house edge is more than 1%, provided that the player sticks to the basic strategy. This game variation usually works against players considering the house edge of classic blackjack is less than 1%. Blackjack layouts at some casinos include field bets, also known as side bets. If a player decides to take advantage of these optional side bets, they should be very careful, as these bets work in the casino's favor. In addition, there are some variants of blackjack that have a house edge that's determined at the beginning of the game. Red/Black is a blackjack variant played in the following way—the player makes a bet in accordance with the dealer's first hand. If the first card is a two and matches the color of the player's initial bet, the house edge is nearly 3.8%. Conclusion In this article, we've seen how different house edges can affect the course of a game. Thus, players should familiarize themselves with the game's rules and the house edge before playing since this makes the difference between winning and losing. It’s an important step in an effort to learn how to play blackjack. FAQ How is blackjack house edge calculated? Blackjack house edge is calculated based on the specific rules of the game and the playing strategy used by the player. The formula for calculating the house edge involves dividing the expected loss of the player by the total bet amount. The expected loss is determined by multiplying the total bet amount by the house edge percentage. Why does blackjack favor the house? Blackjack favors the house because the dealer plays last, and the player must make decisions before knowing the final outcome. This means that even if the player has a better hand than the dealer, they can still lose if they go over 21 (bust) before the dealer's final hand is revealed.

February 24, 2023

Posted by Content Team

List of Funny Bingo Calls & Their Explanations

The callers at Bingo and the nicknames for the numbers are both integral parts of Bingo’s electrifying entertainment value. It’s a bonus to wait for your number to be called in a funny and sometimes cheeky way, along with the thrill of marking off your numbers and winning prizes. Today, bingo fans can play a classic game of Bingo on an online bingo site, where the numbers are selected by a random number generator (RNG), thanks to modern technology. However, if you visit your local Bingo Hall, you’ll hear the catchy and witty Bingo calls you’re familiar with. Depending on the setting, formal or informal, bingo calls can be customized to fit the occasion. Here, we list and explain some of the all-time favorites and some of the new bingo calls doing rounds today. What Are Bingo Calls? Bingo calls serve as individual clarifiers for the 90 numbers displayed during a game. These unique nicknames arose as practical solutions for distinguishing similar-sounding numbers, particularly in noisy environments. This linguistic creativity has roots in London's bingo halls and has since evolved, incorporating elements of pop culture. Understanding these calls is a key aspect of learning how to play bingo, as they add both fun and clarity to the game. The following section provides a detailed list of bingo numbers alongside their corresponding calls, shedding light on the variations that emerge from different regions and caller styles. Traditional Bingo Calls Traditional bingo calls resonate with a sense of historical importance, nostalgia, and charm. Each call, unique in its own right, transforms more than just a number. They are associated with stories, origins, or rhymes, adding depth to the bingo names for numbers. As players navigate the bingo calls list, they experience a journey through a rich cultural tapestry. The bingo calling numbers 1–90 are not just a sequence but a collection of narratives, each with its unique flair. The list below goes beyond mere calls; it delves into the heart of the game, revealing the creativity and tradition behind bingo number rhymes. NumberBingo callBrief explanation1 Kelly's eyeMilitary slang term. Possibly linked to the outlaw Ned Kelly.2One little duckThe number two visually resembles a duck.3Cup of teaA playful rhyme with a British touch4Knock at the doorEchoing a line from a children's rhyme5Man aliveA rhyming phrase6Half a dozen Tom MixStraightforward count Tribute to a Western film star7Lucky sevenUniversally recognized as a lucky number8Garden gate One fat ladyA rhyming code "8" resembles a voluptuous figure9Doctor's ordersOriginates from a military laxative pill number10(Prime Minister's) den Customizable with the current Prime Minister11Legs elevenThe number looks like a pair of legs12One dozenSimply twelve units13Unlucky for someReflects superstition around the number 1314Valentine's dayMarks the date of the romantic holiday15Young and keenRhymes and reflects youthful enthusiasm16Sweet sixteenCelebrates this coming-of-age milestone17Dancing queenReference to the famous ABBA song18Coming of ageSignifies adulthood in the UK19Goodbye teensMarks the end of teenage years20One scoreA traditional counting term for 2021Key of the door Royal saluteAge of independence Military tradition22Two little ducksThe number resembles two ducks23The Lord is my shepherd Thee and meBiblical psalmAn old rhyme24Two dozenSimply 2425Duck and diveVisual and rhyming play with 2 and 5.26Half a crownOld British currency reference27Gateway to heavenA rhyme linking to divinity28In a stateDerived from Cockney slang29Rise and shineEncouraging a bright start30Dirty GertieFrom a wartime song31Get up and runEnergizing call to action32Buckle my shoeFrom a popular nursery rhyme33Dirty knee Fish, chips, and peasRhyme Classic meal34Ask for moreA follow-up rhyme to 3335Jump and jiveEvokes a lively dance36Three dozenA simple multiplication37More than 11Factually, more than 1138Christmas cakeAnother Cockney slang phrase39StepsRefers to the movie The 39 Steps40Naughty 40 Life beginsRhyming fun A proverb about life's start41Time for funRhymes with the desire for enjoyment42Winnie the PoohRhymes with the beloved children's character43Down on your kneesA phrase from military history44Droopy drawersA humorous visual rhyme45Halfway thereMidpoint in a game of 90-ball bingo46Up to tricksSuggests playful mischief47Four and sevenSimply the numbers stated48Four dozenAnother straightforward count49PCA nod to an old police series50Half a century It's a bullseye!5 – 0, 5 – 0, it's off to work we goFifty years Darts scoreSnow White reference51Tweak of the thumbA rhyming phrase52Danny La Rue Deck of cardsTribute to the entertainer Number of cards in a deck53Here comes Herbie! Stuck in the treeDisney car reference Visual rhyme54Clean the floor Man at the doorRhymes with 5455Snakes aliveRhymes and resembles snakes56Was she worth it? Shotts busOld marriage license cost Local reference57Heinz varietiesFrom the company's slogan58Make them waitA simple rhyme59Brighton lineRefers to a train line60Grandma's getting frisky Five dozenHumorous age reference Count61Baker's bunA playful rhyme62Tickety-boo Turn the screwPressure phrase Rhymes with 6263Tickle meRhymes, a light-hearted call64Almost retired Red rawOn the cusp of retirement age Rhymes with 6465Old age pensionThe milestone age for pension eligibility66Clickety clickRhymes with 6667Stairway to heavenInspired by the famous Led Zeppelin song68Pick a mate Saving graceEncourages choosing a companion A phrase denoting a fortunate turn69Any way up A favorite of mineThe number looks the same upside-down Referring to the 69 sex position70Three score and 10A biblical way of saying 7071Bang on the drumSuggests making a celebratory noise72Six dozenA simple multiplication, twelve times six73Queen beeRhymes, suggests authority or a pivotal figure in a group74Hit the floor Candy storeAn invitation to dance A sweet treat75Strive and striveRhymes with 7576TrombonesA reference to the musical number in the show The Music Man.77Sunset StripA nod to the famous TV show7839 more stepsA clever doubling of the number 3979One more timeRhymes with 7980Gandhi's breakfast Eight and blankA pun on "ate nothing" Simply "8" and a space81Stop and run Fat lady with a walking stickRhymes, a contradictory phrase Visual imagery of the number82Straight on throughRhymes with 8283Time for teaRhymes, a quintessentially British phrase84Give me moreRhymes85Staying aliveA reference to the popular Bee Gees song86Between the sticksA soccer term for the goalkeeper's position87Torquay in DevonA geographical reference to a place in the UK88Two fat ladiesThe shape of the numbers resembles two women side by side89Nearly thereIndicates being close to the end90Top of the shopHighest number in bingo Modern and Funny Bingo Calls As bingo continues to evolve and adapt to modern times, its calls also undergo a transformation. This dynamic shift in calls is a reflection of contemporary cultural influences, evident in the updated list of modern bingo calls. These new calls often draw inspiration from recent events, celebrities, and current trends. They represent a fresh take on the classic game, injecting humor and relevance into every round. As for funny bingo calls, they add entertainment, often eliciting smiles from players. While traditional calls hold a special place in the hearts of many, these bingo callouts provide a refreshing change, and we'll go over some of them now in the table below. NumberModern Bingo CallsBrief explanation1One DirectionA nod to the famous British boy band2Doctor WhoA tribute to the iconic British sci-fi television series8Tinder dateReflecting modern dating culture, where swiping right can lead to a date9Selfie timeCapturing the era of smartphones and the selfie craze14Netflix and chillA popular phrase indicating a relaxed night in, often with romantic implications.15Yass queenA phrase of empowerment, popular in gay culture22Tay TayA playful reference to Taylor Swift, the renowned pop singer48Not another Brexit debateA humorous nod to the seemingly endless discussions about Brexit49Amazon PrimeSignifying the era of rapid online shopping and streaming services71J-Lo's bumCelebrating the famous pop star Jennifer Lopez, known for her curves86Instagram picsRepresents the culture of sharing life moments on Instagram88Wills and KateReference to the royal couple, Prince William and Kate Middleton The Origin Story of Bingo Nicknames The tradition of using rhymes with bingo numbers dates back to mid-20th century London. Initially, these rhymes served a unique purpose, functioning as coded messages or secret lingo among groups. When bingo started to gain popularity, players in bingo halls adopted these ingenious rhymes as a practical tool to distinguish between similar-sounding numbers. For instance, distinguishing between 15 and 50 in a bustling hall became easier with these unique nicknames. As bingo grew in popularity even more, these original rhymes evolved, resulting in new bingo phrases that varied from one region to another. Each district added local culture and humor to the mix. This evolution transformed bingo calls into a colorful mosaic of expressions, reflecting the diversity and creativity of bingo communities worldwide. To Call or Not to Call? The Bingo Lingo Dilemma Whimsical nicknames assigned to bingo balls have been a topic of debate among bingo callers. Is it better to stick to straightforward, clear number announcements or embrace the fun and playful aspect of bingo lingo? This dilemma often boils down to personal preference and audiences' expectations. The UK's first female bingo caller, Mandy Gorgan, offers a unique perspective. Prioritizing clarity and focus in her calling style, Mandy chooses not to use traditional calls like "legs 11." She argues that with significant sums of money involved in the game, silly lingo can be more distracting than entertaining. Beacon Bingo Club's assistant manager, Mark Wilson, notes a shift in trends, highlighting that certain traditional calls like 88 have become outdated. "It's very cheesy," he remarks, suggesting a continuous evolution of bingo lingo. The Internet's Influence on the Evolution of Bingo Calling Numbers The digital age has played a significant role in transforming bingo, particularly in how bingo nicknames are used and shared. With the rise of online gambling, bingo fanatics from the UK and beyond can connect and play free bingo, sharing regional sayings and enjoying camaraderie. This online interaction has helped spread bingo calls more widely than ever, keeping them vibrant and evolving. Playing bingo, whether on online bingo sites, in a pub, or in a traditional bingo hall, isn't just about the game; it's about the community. The humorous banter over various calls and numbers adds to the fun, creating bonds among players who share laughs and the thrill of the game. This sense of community is a key reason why bingo remains one of the most beloved gambling games worldwide.

August 2, 2022

Posted by Content Team

How Has iGaming Technology Caused a Boom in the Industry?

The 21st century so far has been marked by the rapid development of technologies that have affected many industry sectors. One of them is definitely iGaming. Online gambling is now more accessible than ever thanks to a fast, dependable internet connection and the most recent iGaming technology advancements. Despite the fact that the gaming sector's market value increased to 155.89 billion dollars in 2020 (Clement, 2021), the current casino industry figures reveal that the world of iGaming is developing further. In this article, I will explain what the iGaming industry is all about and which technological innovations have the most credit for the current and future sector development. What is iGaming? Before we dive into the topic, let’s take a quick reminder of what iGaming actually is. The iGaming industry usually refers to any type of online casino gambling and the game software that supports it. It's an umbrella term for all types of online betting, even if there's no actual gaming software involved. Therefore, this includes: Virtual sports Live casino games Table and dealer games Sports betting Slots and jackpots It started to develop in the 1990s with increased internet speed and the commodification of computer technology for regular households. More and more people started moving to digital spaces for entertainment, and the casino industry was no different. The international judicial system had to adapt to gambling laws, as moving to the online space provided more opportunities for players to access casinos and more opportunities for casinos to make a profit. Special gambling licenses had to be given to the companies operating online casinos, which to this day isn’t allowed in every country. Although many of the current online casinos have a Cura?ao iGaming license, in the 90s, Antigua and Barbuda was the first to recognize the opportunity to give offshore casinos gambling licenses, which would then be available across the world. Seeing the market potential iGaming had, many countries started implementing policies that would make it easier for investors to enter the industry. Although many online casinos are restricted in the United States, in 2018, the Supreme Court adopted new laws and repealed the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA) to enable its investors to get involved in such a booming market. The projected value for the iGaming industry in 2026 is expected to be over $100 billion (Technavio, 2022). It's no wonder this is the case, as the development of iGaming technology has been a game-changer over the last few years and is one of the main reasons why this industry is on the rise. Revolutionary iGaming Technology The iGaming industry depends on the most recent technological advancements as it expands. However, while some of these innovations become trends, others help define the whole sector's direction. Let’s look at four technological innovations that have and will change the iGaming landscape. #1 Blockchain Technology There's a reason that the iGaming industry has achieved such an expansion at the same time as the development of blockchain technology. Technological innovations from the blockchain sector have brought more gambling security while giving new payment opportunities and more accessible storage options to players and online casinos. The influence of blockchain as the leading iGaming technology can be seen through cloud-based storage, cryptocurrency, and the appearance of blockchain casinos. Incorporating the latest technological developments, online casinos employ cloud computing to handle and store player information while improving operational efficiency. The most recent developments in cloud-based technology can help the gaming industry reach and maintain millions of players globally. In nations where it's illegal to gamble in brick-and-mortar casinos, cloud computing offers gamblers a safe haven where they may play casino games without worrying about facing legal ramifications. Online crypto casinos are not as liable to these restrictions as their physical counterparts, which is why crypto-only online casinos are becoming one of the main online gambling trends. The participants' information confidentiality and anonymity are guaranteed by the encrypted storage mechanism, which minimizes security threats from the outside. Moreover, blockchain development has enabled new digital currencies to emerge. Most popular cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, Litecoin, and Ethereum are becoming omnipresent in online casinos. Crypto and FIAT payment options have become a new standard for all online casinos. With the help of this new technology, gamblers can receive their winnings immediately, which is a significant improvement over the high fees and drawn-out payout processes associated with credit reimbursement, bank transfers, and e-Wallets. Blockchain methods have become so integrated into the iGaming industry that many young casinos use only cryptocurrency. The benefits for players are obvious: Faster payouts Guaranteed anonymity Better security Game developers are also taking note of the blockchain integration and are now developing games compatible with FIAT and cryptocurrency. Furthermore, some new games are compatible only with crypto, so bets can only be made in cryptocurrency. This shows that blockchain technology has substantially changed the iGaming industry and will likely be a huge part of its further development. Augmented and Virtual Reality Maybe the most intriguing iGaming technology is virtual reality. Augmented and virtual reality allows online casinos to simulate the casino experience and offer a digital substitute for conventional sit-down gambling. While virtual reality (VR) is entirely based on the digital world, augmented reality (AR) incorporates elements of the digital environment into physical reality. These innovations are becoming more and more important for online casinos as they have the means to bring the full casino experience to players in any environment they are currently in. AR and VR have enabled the creation of new forms of online casinos. For example, there are now "video casinos" that allow users to connect with other online gamblers while seated at actual gaming tables. Utilizing special 3D cameras, the gameplay is streamed to online gamers, letting you fully immerse yourself in the experience. However, the technology is still at the beginning of its development, even though some of its main concepts date back to 1957. For instance, the graphics in virtual reality are a long cry from those in contemporary video games. In addition, virtual reality hardware is pricey and hence far less widely available. In order to maximize the benefits of VR technology, you will also need a powerful PC, which raises the price even further. Considering the costs and the low-quality graphics of VR games, virtual casinos might need some more work to do before they become a standard in the industry, especially if we consider the development and ease of mobile gaming. Virtual reality has limitless potential, even though its current condition is far from ideal. The good news is that many businesses have already made significant investments in the creation of virtual technology. VR is currently primarily used in the video game industry, but it will surely enter the iGaming sector more. With better graphics and accessibility, VR might become an integral part of the iGaming industry in the future. Artificial Intelligence Artificial intelligence and machine learning have transformed every industry possible, so iGaming is no exception. Self-learning algorithms have allowed online gambling companies to better personalize the experience for the players. The online casino sector's use of AI analytics enhances the player experience, spots fraud, and improves data-driven business choices. With the advent of modern iGaming tech, online casinos can now monitor player history, betting patterns, preferred games, and a myriad of other "signals" of player activity. A more individualized player experience, a safer gaming environment, and more operational effectiveness are made possible by the analytics layer's actionable insights and data usage for the iGaming technology stack. The same is true when it comes to iGaming advertisements. The algorithms can differentiate potential customers and their preferences through a thorough analysis of the data and find the right way to place the service in front of them. Vital details like a user's betting preferences are collected when they visit a betting site and are used to customize offers, bonuses, and other services. This raises revenue while bringing down marketing expenses. So, using machine learning algorithms benefits the player and the online casino company. Mobile Gaming One more very important iGaming technology development is the vast improvement in mobile gaming. Most gamers nowadays want access to their games at any time and place, so game developers started massively optimizing their games for mobile devices. Online casinos did the same, with their websites available on all devices and platforms to maximize the potential audience group. The development of stronger devices and better mobile graphics has allowed this transition to go smoothly. Stronger internet connections are also a big factor in mobile gaming development. In addition to enabling faster game downloads than current 4G networks, 5G networks also support the growth of mobile-based cloud gaming services and augmented reality (AR) games. One million devices can be supported by 5G in a single square kilometer, encouraging more people to play mobile games, especially multiplayer ones. In 2021, mobile gaming accounted for almost 57% of global video game revenue (Thematic Intelligence, 2022). We can see the shift towards mobile happening in real-time, which benefits the iGaming industry. Mobile casino games are simple and do not need a large amount of power to be run like some video games do. Therefore, it's perfectly suitable for mobile devices, and I believe these two industries will continue to grow together for years to come. iGaming Technology Final Words Several iGaming technologies have enabled the online gambling industry to develop rapidly. Blockchain technology has brought more digital security to the players and various payment options guarded by encryption. Although still in development, AR and VR have an interesting effect on the player experience in online casinos, as they can get real-life casino experience from the comfort of their home. The development of artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms has allowed casino companies to enhance the gambling experience with personalization and help with their advertising efforts while lowering expenses. Mobile gaming is probably the most important iGaming technology as it has become the main video game outlet. It will be very interesting to see how iGaming will continue to develop, but one thing is certain: These technologies will be involved in one way or the other.

January 10, 2023

Posted by Content Team

Overview of the History of Backgammon

Without a doubt, Backgammon is a popular board game worldwide. But did you know it's also one of the oldest games in history? Unlike traditional games such as chess and go, Backgammon has been around since 3,000 BC. In this article, I'll talk more about the history of Backgammon, so read on if you're interested to learn the origins of this game. The History of Backgammon Evidence suggests that Backgammon has been played by the rulers of ancient civilizations such as Greece, Rome, Persia, and the Far East for thousands of years. Iran The oldest known backgammon board, which dates back 5,000 years, was found in 2004 in the Iranian province of Sistan-Baluchistan. Pieces were made of turquoise and agate, and the board was made of pure ivory. During those days, these materials were commonly used to construct backgammon boards and other board games. Around the same time, ancient dice made of human bone were also discovered. Ancient Mesopotamia In the 1920s, archaeological discoveries were made in ancient Mesopotamia and present-day Iraq, dating back 5,000 years and revealing six artifacts similar to what we see today in backgammon boards, dice, and different colored pieces. These discoveries provided a fascinating glimpse into the game's potential origins in ancient Mesopotamia. Even though there's a debate over the exact origin of Backgammon, it's known that Egyptians, Sumerians, and Persians all played games similar to our modern backgammon games. A 5,000-year-old backgammon board was found in the Royal Tombs of Ur in Mesopotamia in 1962. Although, as previously mentioned, this was the area where The Royal Game of Ur was played, the wheel, the first written language, and the first known math system were all invented. Roman Empire There were times when the Romans were so enthralled with the game that they proclaimed it to be the sport of emperors; they played it on surfaces such as wood, with stones as markers and dice made from bones, wood, or pottery as dice. It's believed that during the long journeys of Emperor Claudius, he incorporated a special board into his chariot to be able to play the game during those long journeys. Backgammon was believed to have been taught in the Holy Land and brought back to Europe by the Crusaders. In the Middle Ages, Backgammon was an advantage of knighthood in England; it was the privilege of the aristocracy and noblemen. References of Backgammon English literature and art used to refer to Backgammon as 'tables' until 1645 when the word 'backgammon' first appeared in print. There are several references to the game in works by Chaucer and Shakespeare, as well as Dr. Jan Steen's masterpiece of the 17th century, 'Argument over a Card Game,' which deals with the game's history. A reference in the book written by writer Edmond Hoyle in 1745 describes the rules of Backgammon and discusses some strategies still used today in the game. The invention of the double cube took place in the 1920s. The Doubling Cube Among the most significant developments in the history of Backgammon, the invention of the doubling cube is most notable. The doubling cube is shaped like any six-sided dice, except its numbers are different — six numbers are displayed on the doubling cube, 2, 4, 8, 16, 32, and 64. The cube sits between each player. So, using the cube, one player can double their stakes if they feel they have the advantage. In the 20s, the doubling cube became popular in New York City, but it's unclear who introduced it to the public. Today, the doubling cube is used by western players in modern backgammon games. And, for example, in Armenia and Greece, the doubling cube isn't commonly used. Backgammon Today During the 60s, there was a surge in the popularity of Backgammon, partly because of the influence of the Russian Prince Alexis Obolensky. It was believed that he was the father of modern Backgammon for a time. He was a co-founder of the International Backgammon Association and wrote the first set of rules for the game. He also hosted a series of tournaments in Manhattan in the 1960s, drawing many celebrities and royalty. Backgammon was once one of the most popular games in the Western world. Over the years, it has always been one of the most popular board games throughout the Middle East, and its popularity has never diminished over the years. In the late 60s, Hugh Hefner's backgammon parties were held at the Playboy Mansion. And during the last days of Hefner's life, he played the game with his family and close friends. In 1967, there was even a World Championship held in Las Vegas. As a result of the establishment of the United States Backgammon Federation in 2009, Backgammon has become more and more popular worldwide. This federation is composed of all-time top players and tournament directors worldwide. For this reason, backgammon tournaments have become increasingly popular in recent years. Backgammon has become a popular game in most land-based and online casinos. However, in casinos, it may have slightly different rules, but its popularity shows just how common it is. And lastly, home versions of this game are available at the major board game manufacturers. Digital Backgammon It's now possible to play Backgammon anywhere at any time. There are hundreds of backgammon versions available on flash game websites. Moreover, versions are available through Apple and Android's app stores. Alternatively, you can play a version of this game through iMessage with other iPhone users. Conclusion I provided a brief overview of what I've mentioned in this article about the history of Backgammon: In 2004, the ancient backgammon board was discovered in an Iranian province, dating back 5,200 years. In the 20s, six artifacts were in Iraq that originated approximately 3000 BC. A 5,000-year-old board was discovered in Iraq in the 60s. In England, in 1645, the word 'backgammon' first appeared in print. The father of modern Backgammon is Alexis Obolensky. First World Championship took place in Las Vegas in 1967. In 2009, the United States Backgammon Federation was established. It's one of the oldest dice games, but people still love playing Backgammon at home, at parties, land-based and online casinos. In case you don't know anything, you can learn the rules and gameplay of Backgammon.

October 30, 2022

Posted by Content Team

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