Online Casino Virtual Reality
- Online Casino Virtual Reality Headset
- Online Casino Virtual Reality Arcades
- Online Casino Virtual Reality Games
- Online Casino Virtual Reality Entertainment
For centuries, land-based casinos in the US were the only way to enjoy casino games. However, online gaming has become a more convenient alternative. But brick and mortar casinos still have one big advantage over their online counterparts—the experience.
Virtual Reality online casino A recent survey found that 92% of people are now aware of virtual reality (VR), with almost a quarter having tried the technology at least once. It has sparked a revolution, with the technology no longer blurring the lines between the real and digital worlds, but bridging the gap entirely. Virtual reality may be the next big step in the evolution of online gaming. VR can eliminate the screen that stands between you and a casino floor. Assuming virtual reality gambling takes off, it may even replace brick and mortar casinos. The virtual reality revolution is taking off and you have the chance to be a part of it and experience a whole new casino world, thanks to Slots Million and their virtual reality casino. The future of online casinos is happening right now. Moving forward, players should expect virtual reality casinos to emerge as one of the next major trends in the marketplace. Upcoming VR Games. Thus far, Microgaming is the developer to express the most interest in virtual reality casino games, having unveiled a playable roulette demo at ICE Totally Gaming 2016. Those who tried it were.
In land-based establishments, you can actually sit at a table, hold cards, and chat with dealers. No form of gaming has ever replaced these experiences.
Live dealer casinos bring you closer to what brick and mortar venues offer. Live gaming, which features human dealers and real tables, streams action directly from a land based studio or casino.
However, not even live casinos are able to completely replace the feeling of actually being at a gambling venue. What can replicate this experience?
Virtual reality may be the next big step in the evolution of online gaming. VR can eliminate the screen that stands between you and a casino floor.
Assuming virtual reality gambling takes off, it may even replace brick and mortar casinos. I’m going to discuss whether this is a realistic possibility along with more on the current state of live gaming.
Where Is Live Dealer Gaming at Today?
Live dealer casinos are as lifelike as you can get when gambling through a smartphone, tablet, or computer. Again, these sites offer most of the same elements that a land-based casino does.
The croupier deals real cards on a standard casino table.
The studios add a lot to the experience as well, with their high-quality streams, professional lighting, and their selection of different dealers.
One more great thing about live casinos is the game variety. Once relegated to classics like blackjack and roulette, live gambling has expanded to offer a larger range of table games. You can even look forward to more obscure offerings, such as Dream Catcher and Dragon Tiger.
What’s Currently Holding Live Casinos Back?
Live dealer sites have had plenty of success within the past decade. Many players appreciate having a chance to enjoy land-based casino games from the comfort of their living room.
However, live casinos don’t fully match the real-life gambling experience. The screen is the biggest thing holding you back from feeling like you’re truly sitting in a brick and mortar casino.
Instead, you may simply feel like you’re Facetiming the casino and placing bets on the side. Looking at the table and cards through your phone or PC doesn’t offer complete realism.
Live gaming is definitely more realistic than virtual table games. The latter features a software-generated dealer, table, and cards.
But live casinos still have a screen separating you from the action. As long as this remains in effect, then live sites will never be totally perfect.
How Can Virtual Reality Upgrade Live Dealer Casinos?
Virtual reality is getting a second life after being dormant for the better part of two decades. Major tech companies like Google, Facebook, and Sony have made serious investments into this area.
Suddenly, VR is a hot topic again. The entertainment industry figures to benefit significantly if virtual reality finally becomes big among consumers.
The problem, though, is that VR still hasn’t gained widespread adoption. Certain people are buying headsets, but the masses aren’t.
Nevertheless, online gaming figures to benefit greatly if virtual reality reaches its potential. After all, VR can make you feel closer to the action than standard live dealer online casinos.
Virtual reality poker games have already been rolled out. They make it seem as if you’re really at the table by showing your hands, cards, and close proximity to opponents.
It’s only a matter of time before casino table games go VR as well. Baccarat, blackjack, and roulette are natural fits for this technology.
Will VR Help Live Dealer Gaming Catch Up to Land-Based Casinos?
VR has the potential to bring internet gaming closer to you than ever before. But will it truly catch online casinos up to the land-based experience?
Probably not. First off, virtual reality still has a long ways to go before hitting mainstream adoption. Even with tech giants pouring money into the industry, VR headsets aren’t flying off the shelves.
Even console gaming Is outselling VR by a wide margin. Over 70 million PlayStation 4s were sold last year, and this is just one type of console.
Sales and lack of adoption aren’t the only reasons why VR online gambling will struggle to replace land-based casinos. Here are a few other reasons to consider.
Virtual Reality Still Isn’t Amazing
Poor performance is one big aspect that previously held VR back. This technology received a big push in the 1980s, only to falter when it left users with headaches and disappointment.
Virtual reality is back again in the consumer market and better than ever. However, it’s still far from what many people expect.
The point of VR is to offer a more lifelike experience than what’s available through a screen. But recent virtual reality casino games don’t exactly live up to this vision.
For example, NetEnt’s Gonzo’s Quest has been re-released as a VR slot. Originally launched in 2010, this game is one of NetEnt’s greatest hits of all time.
The virtual reality version of Gonzo’s Quest doesn’t feel any better than the original. In fact, it seems worse from a visual perspective.
This game does allow you to look around the screen and get a closer view of the reels. However, the closeup graphics feel like a bad video game.
Not Much VR Gambling Available Right Now
You don’t have to look far for land-based gambling options these days. Many states and countries now feature at least one casino.
SlotsMillion was the first casino to offer a virtual reality version. Their VR casino is housed in a skyscraper and is complete with slot machines, a bar, and lounger furniture.
PokerStars has beta tested a virtual reality poker room. The beta test occurred a while ago and little information has been offered on it since.
NetEnt is one of the few US casino gaming developers that’s gotten into the VR space. Aside from Gonzo’s Quest, they’ve also released a new version of Jack and the Beanstalk.
As you can see, the pickings are slim for virtual reality gambling. This tech hardly appears revolutionary thus far when so few games exist.
Most Gamblers Are Still Satisfied With Smartphone and PC Gaming
As they say, if it ain’t broke, then don’t fix it. Real money online gambling is still highly popular around the world and may not need fixed just yet.
Live dealer casinos play a sizable role in this popularity. Many gamblers are still perfectly fine with pulling up a virtual seat at their favorite live dealer’s table.
They’re already prepared for an experience that’s somewhat realistic, albeit not perfect. These players are okay with the screen impediment as long as they can see real cards and chat with dealers.
Few gamblers feel the need to abandon smartphones, tablets, and PCs or Macs in favor of a headset. The latter adds more cost and comes with a learning curve.
One day, players may see a VR headset as a necessity for enjoying their favorite table games. But that day isn’t now.
Conclusion
Nothing looks to supplant brick and mortar casinos in the foreseeable future. Current technology can’t replace the feeling of physically sitting at tables and slot machines.
Live dealer gaming is the closest thing to land-based casinos now. But it still has limitations when considering that it forces you to view everything through a screen.
Even with the current revival of VR, this technology isn’t absolutely perfect. Recent efforts by NetEnt, PokerStars, and SlotsMillion haven’t really resulted in much for the industry.
Another problem is that this tech isn’t adopted yet. The sales of smartphones and gaming consoles are dwarfing those of VR headsets. Nobody is going to ditch land-based casinos for the virtual reality experience when they don’t even own a headset.
One more dilemma facing VR gambling is the satisfaction rate with current technology and internet gaming. Most people are content with playing casino games through their smartphone or computer. They don’t feel any desperation to run out and buy a VR set just to gamble with it.
Long story short, virtual reality gaming may still become big in the future. However, it may take a while for it to ever replicate what land-based casinos offer.
It’s a brave new world we live in, and virtual reality is changing
everything. Casinos won’t escape the shakeup, and in fact, the online gambling
industry is the tip of the VR spear.
We’re going to look at what VR casinos are, how they’re likely to evolve and
develop in the next few years, and how VR casinos compare to brick-and-mortar
casinos. By the end, you’ll have a much better idea of which is best for you.
Let’s begin with the basics. If you’re new to VR casinos, we’ll take a look
at exactly what they are and how they work.
What Is a VR Casino?
If you’re a little confused by the very concept of a virtual reality casino,
don’t worry, you’re not alone. We’re entering uncharted territory with VR, and
it’s natural to feel a little mind boggled by the whole thing.
VR casinos, in a nutshell, are purely digital casinos which feel real.
These are virtual mini-worlds generated by a VR headset, which allow you to
move around the VR casino, interact with dealers and players, and play various
casino games, just as you would if you were on the floor of Caesars Palace in
Vegas.
They work in the same way any virtual reality experience does. You slip on
your headset, and it generates a 3D world which you can explore. If you use a
data glove, it’s even possible to feel tactile sensations in VR casinos.
Pretty amazing stuff, isn’t it? The truth is, VR is only getting started!
If you’re interested in following the progress of virtual reality to this
point, check out our History of Virtual Reality page by clicking the button
below.
Comparing VR Casinos and Land-Based Casinos
The first casino to open on the Las Vegas strip was the El Rancho Vegas, way
back in 1941. Ever since, Vegas has been the jewel in the crown of the casino
world.
However, VR could shake Vegas (and elsewhere) up in a massive way. While we
wouldn’t go as far as saying it poses an existential threat to Sin City, it’s
certainly going to cause some casino owners a few
sleepless nights.
As it develops and reaches its full potential, it’s possible that you won’t
even need actually to go to Vegas or any other land-based casino in a physical
sense!
With such exciting things on the horizon, it’s natural to want to try VR
casinos for yourself. Before making that decision, let’s compare VR casinos to
land-based ones, looking at both from various angles.
Chances of Winning the Games
As far as actual mathematical probability goes, your chances of winning
casino games are roughly the same in both VR and brick-and-mortar casinos.
Whether playing in a digitally generated world or a real-world establishment,
a game of roulette is a game of roulette and the odds don’t change that much.
Of course, they do change between variants (single zero versus double zero,
for example), and the strategy you use, but whether you’re playing in virtual
reality or actual reality makes little difference.
One thing which could slightly improve your chances of winning at online VR
casinos is the bonuses offered. Free spins on VR slots and deposit bonuses, for
example, are widely available online. Unless you’re a high-roller, a real-world
casino is unlikely to comp you anything.
That said, each bonus comes with its own terms and conditions, and it’s up to
you to decide whether it actually helps or hinders you.
VR casino bonuses with no wagering requirements will always improve your
chances of winning. Seek those out and take them wherever you find them.
Social Value
Human beings are social animals, and part of the fun of going to a casino is
the chance to interact with other players and dealers.
Yet, VR is not a lonesome experience, either. As things have progressed, it’s
now possible to interact with other players’ avatars within the VR casino.
Dealers will also have avatars, and you can interact with them like you would
when playing live casino games.
These simulated social interactions trigger the same chemicals in the brain
as actual real-life scenarios. A rush of blood to the head when a hot avatar
walks past, or a mutual grin when a winning streak occurs feel real to the
brain, which interprets them the same.
Yet, there are definite limitations to the VR social experience. In a
real-world casino, you can shake hands, high five, hug, enjoy drinks together,
and maybe head to a club or after party with the people you meet there.
There’s no denying it – real casinos win the social value point. For now, at
least!
Which Costs More?
This is a tricky question to answer because it depends on a variety of
factors such as how close you live to a brick-and-mortar casino.
It’s probably best to outline the main costs associated with both, and you
can decide for yourself which apply to you.
When playing at real-world casinos, costs include travel to and from the
venue, food and drinks, the cost of playing the games themselves, and possibly
hotel rooms (if on vacation). The minimum buy ins for table games is likely to
be slightly higher, too.
Online Casino Virtual Reality Headset
The costs associated with playing at VR casinos include the initial headset
price, a data glove (optional), and the cost of playing the games.
Since decent VR headsets can now be bought for as little as $100, we would
say the cost of playing at real-world casinos is likely to be more.
Which is More Popular?
Land casinos are by far the more popular, for now.
In 2017 alone, over 39 million people visited Las Vegas, and we’re willing to
bet a substantial percentage of them visited and played in a casino. Also keep
in mind that while Vegas is casino mecca, the number of casinos there is a drop
in the bucket when you consider the whole world.
VR casinos are springing up all
over the web, and the number of online casino players is increasing year by
year. As the experience gets better (more life-like) the demand for VR casino
experiences will grow, and once a tipping point is reached, there’s no telling
how big virtual reality casinos could become.
There will always be some advantages to visiting a real casino, such as
eating delicious food and enjoying real-life shows and entertainment, but as VR
technology develops, that gap is going to begin closing.
Let’s revisit this question again 10 years from now and see what’s up!
Which is More Fun?
Ask 20 people what “fun” means, and you’ll get 20 different answers. Whether
VR casinos or real ones are more fun depends entirely on one thing…you!
One the one hand, VR casinos can offer endless game variants (usually many
more slots than real casinos can offer, for example), the convenience of
slipping on a headset and playing in the comfort of your own home, and the
chance for shyer, more introverted players to interact in a way they feel
comfortable with.
On the other hand, land-based casinos offer tasty food, alcoholic beverages,
most offer some form of entertainment such as a band, and there’s the chance to
meet other real people and enjoy all the other scenarios which may unfold from
your interactions with them.
Both VR and land-based casinos are fun in their own ways. We’ll leave it to
you to decide which is more fun.
Which is Safer?
That’s a good question, and the answer is, both have some risks, and they are
completely different.
You’ll be happy to know that the chances of being held up in robbery in a
real-world casino are pretty slim. While such instances have occurred, they are
extremely rare. Your chances of being held up in a virtual reality casino,
however, are zero.
Online Casino Virtual Reality Arcades
Where money is involved, a few aggressive outbursts and fights are
inevitable. The odd highly-strung player does kick off at a real-world casino
after losing, but the danger to other players are minimal. Take a look at the
security team the next time you enter such an establishment. Very few dare to
mess with those guys.
With regards to theft, the risks in both instances are slim, as long as you
play at reputable casinos. The best VR casinos operate on secure, encrypted
connections and take data security seriously. The best real-world casinos have
world-class security operations, so the only real danger is if you leave the
joint with a 6-figure sum of cash in a briefcase.
Deciding Which is Best for You
Remember, most of the points listed above have a subjective quality to them
and depend on you as a person and your individual preferences. It’s impossible
to put an objective spin on “fun,” for example.
You’ll need to consider:
- What sorts of games you want to
play, and which offers the best variety - What your budget is, and which
offers you the most bang for your buck - Whether you are willing to invest
in a solid VR headset if you decide to go that route - Whether you want to meet real
people or are more comfortable interacting online - What you’re looking for from the
overall experience. Do you just want to play games, or do you want to eat,
drink, and be entertained, as well? - Which is safer, from your own
perspective of risk - Whether or not you’re going to
spend enough to get perks from a real casino, or whether an online VR casino is
more likely to give you a bonus
Answer whether a real-world casino or VR casino suits you best for each of
the points above, then add up your total number of answers for each. This will
tell you which type of casino is best for you.
Conclusion
VR casinos still have a long way to go before they catch up with the overall
experience of real-world casinos, but there are already some ways in which they
have the competitive edge.
While you can’t eat a real steak dinner in a 5-star restaurant at a VR
casino, you can sit on your own sofa, without having to move an inch, and enjoy
an equally immersive experience.
Ultimately, there are pros and cons to both. Hopefully, this has been an
insightful read and you now have a better idea as to which type of casino you
should choose.
Either way, best of luck. May the gods of odds have you in their favor!
Online Casino Virtual Reality Games
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Best VR Casino Online?
See the Virtual Reality Casinos button above? Whichever casino is in the top spot on that page is the one we favor,
currently. We constantly review and update our VR casino rankings. You can read
in-depth reviews of each one before making a decision.
How Realistic Are VR Casinos, as of Now?
Things are developing quickly, and the experience is getting more and more
refined, extremely quickly. You can even experience the sensation of touch in VR
casinos if you use a data glove. However, you’ll still know you’re in a VR
casino. Reality still has the edge, for now!
What Are the Main Limitations of VR Casinos?
The nature of virtual reality itself imposes some limitations. For
example, you can’t taste or smell anything. The other senses, including vision,
hearing, and touch, are all engaged, though.
Even still, the sensation of shaking hands with an attractive fellow casino
player just isn’t quite the same when interacting with avatars rather than real
people.
Lastly, there are some functions such as cashing out your chips which can’t
yet be done in VR casinos. You’ll have to go back to the main casino website to
do those things, whereas you can just cash in and walk out of a real casino.
Are VR Casinos Dangerous or Extra Addictive?
Online Casino Virtual Reality Entertainment
No, they’re not dangerous. The worst that can happen is you might feel a
little sick if you play for hours on end, just like if you stare at any screen
without regular breaks.
As for the addiction question, there is likely some extra risk. Since VR
casinos are so immersive and fun, you’ll need to gamble responsibly by setting
account limits, scheduling regular “reality checks,” and never depositing more
money to chase losses.
I Want to Try a VR Casino. What Do I Need to Get Started?
All you really need is a decent VR headset and an account at a VR casino.
As long as your computer has good enough specs, you’re ready to go. Experience
enhancers like data gloves are entirely optional.