Traditional games such as bingo, poker and roulette brought people together and had a distinctly social feel. As these titles were transferred to the digital world, they brought their community spirit with them, and today, online gaming is probably more social than ever. People can sit down for a few rounds with players they know or players they don’t, united by an appreciation for the same game. Soon, these casual sessions can shift to bigger casino tournaments or online games, which encourage people to compete in a friendly, collaborative way.
Games development enables social play
In recent years, game developers have driven the move to a more social form of gaming with integrated features such as chat rooms, forums and streaming. It’s fascinating work that’s full of opportunities, and people who are looking for news about the online gaming industry, as well as updates on internet recruitment, can head to Onrec. The site provides a range of engaging current affairs stories along with a directory of recruitment providers and information on industry events.
Which trends can players look out for?
Social features have helped to establish a sense of community among players, making it easier to meet friends in-game and continue the conversation elsewhere. This nurtures a comfortable environment in which people appreciate the company of like-minded players and can always find a new teammate or competitor when they feel like a session.
The lines of communication are open
In live games and multiplayer games, players have chat options that allow them to interact with each other in various ways. They often use texts, voice chats or video to get in touch, but increasingly these services are being improved and expanded with a range of other features. Today, reaction gestures, sound effects and group chats are integrated into the action, along with additions such as private chats and image sharing. They encourage players to build communities that thrive outside of the game, where they can link up to offer tips, learn new skills and organise group games.
Live multiplayer experiences allow gamers to bond
Live multiplayer games replicate the feeling of having fun with friends in the real world. These games allow gamers to share a common aim and reach goals thanks to teamwork. People of all skill levels can take part and bond over the experience, whether they are trying to find the loot, triumph over a boss or simply win a game. The trend has been given a huge boost by the growth of esports, as well as the engaging social interaction that takes place throughout a tournament. After a game, players can meet up on forums or chat groups to discuss the outcome and plan their next tussle.
Real dealers add authenticity to the casino experience
Live dealer games are already a firm favourite with players who want to feel like they are actually in a casino environment. Now, the action has been enhanced with HD streams, which allow players to watch the dealer in action and chat with other people around the table. Some of the key developers in this area, including Evolution Gaming and Ezugi, are expanding their live show output with new games such as Crazy Time and Monopoly, which are played socially, in real time. Fresh variants of classics such as poker, roulette and blackjack, all managed by a croupier, will also arrive in online casino libraries soon.
Virtually reality brings the casino into player’s homes
Virtual reality (VR) is no longer limited to console games and exploring the natural world, because casinos are getting in on the act through developers such as NetEnt and Microgaming. Both of these big names have recently designed titles for the VR market, allowing players to interact with holograms and immerse themselves in the casino world. They also take interactions to the next level, with VR effects that let players communicate effortlessly while they share a roulette or poker table.
Mobile gaming enters a new era
Games developers have continued to create titles that deliver a seamless crossover from desktop to mobile play. Now, smart devices such as mobile phones and tablets allow players to log on from wherever they are to play games and socialise. Many casinos are improving the experience and making their titles even more accessible with dedicated apps. These apps offer all the features that a casino has on its web-based service, but it’s easier to log in and games are presented on an intuitive interface. Better still, players can switch between their social media accounts and their casino account to chat with friends, arrange competitions and share new high-score updates.
