Online gaming has never been more popular. From classic casino games to first person shooters such as “Call of Duty” or record-breaking titles like “Grand Theft Auto”, players are spoilt for choice.
Despite fierce competition from the thousands of games available, one iconic game that has been around in many forms for hundreds of years, is proving to be a huge hit with fans around the world. Yes, the humble game of Bingo is now more successful than ever since it moved online.
Perceptions of Bingo as a game that was played by elderly generations in old, draughty Bingo halls have long gone. Today, Bingo is perceived as a fun and exciting pastime that appeals to people aged eighteen and up.
The transition from physical old buildings to bingo sites online has seen the game undergo an impressive modern makeover. It has turned this once old-fashioned pastime into an exciting, edge of the seat entertainment activity with broad appeal.
Convenience and Accessibility
The proliferation of smartphones means people can now play Bingo on the go should they so desire. That means gamers can access their favourite games anywhere and anytime they choose.
Other customisation features such as adjustable text sizes and voice commands, enhance accessibility by allowing players with certain disabilities to participate. While user friendly options such as auto-dabbing – which automatically mark off numbers on a card – make it simpler to keep track of progress.
The role out of 5G and ever improving Wi-Fi standards, has seen improvements in the speed and reliability of internet connections. This not only further broadens the size of the potential Bingo audience, but improves gameplay quality and allows the creation of more advanced and exciting features.
Artificial Intelligence (AI)
The integration of cutting-edge technologies such as AI, have allowed online Bingo operators to offer gaming experiences that are just as immersive and exciting as they are in a bricks-and-mortar setting – arguably, even more so.
One of the key benefits of AI is the level of personalisation it brings. Computer algorithms are able to rapidly analyse user data and identify traits in their behaviour, thus allowing operators to make recommendations tailored to individual players. This could be in the form of promotions, bonuses, customised game offerings, game themes, real time assistance, and more.
Ultimately, this ensures players feel valued and stay engaged with the platform, ensuring their gaming perfectly matches their preferences and needs.
Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR)
While there is considerable excitement around the potential of AI, the recent advances in Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) technologies are creating an even bigger buzz in the online gaming world.
- Virtual reality: A computer-generated environment allowing users to explore and interact in real time. The technology currently requires users to wear a headset.
- Augmented reality: An interactive experience that uses both the real world and computer-generated 3D content to create a multi-sensory environment.
Virtual Reality Bingo
Virtual reality bingo offers players a traditional bingo game but in a much more immersive environment than any smartphone is able to currently replicate. It will allow gamers to be transported to a virtual 3D Bingo Hall where they can take a seat, chat with other players, and watch as the caller draws the numbers.
Social Features
The social aspect of Bingo has long been a key part of its appeal. It is traditionally a game that has allowed people to come together and have fun as part of a shared experience. By using VR, online bingo platforms will be able to recreate this social aspect and take it even further, allowing players from around the world to play together. Some of exciting social features will include:
- Virtual Bingo Clubs: Players will be able to form their own virtual Bingo clubs where they can socialise and meet up. This could be family, friends or even a local group.
- Competitions and Leaderboards: Creating competitions and leaderboards will add another dimension and help create healthy competition amongst friends.
- Live Chat: Through live chat options, players can celebrate wins, engage in friendly banter, or commiserate together, mimicking the atmosphere and social enjoyment of a bricks-and-mortar Bingo Hall.
In the future, these exciting technologies will deliver unmatched immersive experiences for players. They will replicate the exciting sights, sounds and unique atmosphere of the traditional Bingo Hall, providing players with a real sense of community.
Virtual Reality, Augmented Reality, Artificial Intelligence, and other exciting new technologies will continue to evolve, creating ever more exciting opportunities for online platforms to improve their offerings to gamers. Bingo is a simple and highly sociable game that has been played for hundreds of years, but there is no doubt that the integration of these cutting-edge technologies will ensure the games longevity for many more years to come.
