Virtual reality is a technology that was first introduced to the gaming world in the mid-90’s and became a game changer for the way people could experience video games. However, at this time the technology was largely expensive and everyday consumers could not afford such a luxury. At the time, the technology was reserved for conventions, exhibits and architectural firms to showcase their work to clients and investors.
However, around a decade ago, virtual reality headsets became affordable to more consumers, meaning that virtual reality began to become more popular in the gaming world. As such, online casinos began offering virtual reality games that transformed the experience, bridging the gap between the physical and online worlds. More and more people began to play at online casinos at this point, in which learning how to play bingo at casinos like Jackpotjoy became a whole different and more immersive experience.
The advancements in the gaming industry were not without its criticisms though as while VR brings many pros to the gaming experience, there are some negatives too. Let’s take a closer look at these below, as well as defining what virtual reality is exactly.
What is VR (Virtual Reality)
VR is a computer generated simulation that presents a three-dimensional image or environment that can be interacted with. The person using the equipment is made to feel like they are really in that environment, in which they can move around physically and see things happen in response to their movements.
What are the Pros of Using VR Technology at an Online Casino
While online casinos are much easier to access than their land based counterparts, there’s something about the virtual experience which creates a sense of loss to players as you do not get to experience the glamorous environment and all that comes with it. Let’s take a look at how VR technology addresses this issue.
Enhanced Socialistation
While many online casino games have a chat feature available, there’s something about being in the real casino environment as an avatar that makes talking to other players there much easier. When using VR for online casino games like poker or blackjack, the technology allows you to see other player and interpret their body language and facial expressions as you would in a real game.
In addition, players can feel like they are really walking around a casino and chatting with others. This helps to preserve the social nature of a casino in the online environment.
Real Time View of Casino Games
Feeling less involved in the game when playing online? VR casinos allow the player to feel like they are really standing at the game table, watching every inch of the game unfold in detail. Many gamers comment that it feels like they are standing in front of a real life dealer.
Not only does this make the game more engaging and exciting, it can help those worried about the legitimacy of playing online to feel like the game is more authentic.
Play Advanced Games
There are a lot of online casinos out there in the world now, but only a few select casinos offer a virtual reality experience, making it not your everyday gaming affair. As such, playing at a VR casino can be incredibly exciting and makes playing online casino games a bit different than usual.
The Cons of VR casinos
While there are an incredible amount of bonuses that VR technology brings to the online casino world, there are also a few drawbacks to be aware of too. Let’s take a look at some of these below.
It Can be Expensive
In order to play at a VR casino, you need to own a VR headset and this can be costly. High costs of the equipment mean that VR casino games are reserved for the few that have the extra cash to afford to play such games. This limits the experience as there is only a set group of wealthier people playing VR casino games.
Health Concerns
There are a few drawbacks of using a VR headset to a person’s health, as some users report feeling nausea and extreme tiredness after playing with a VR headset on for a while. The technology can cause a sense of feeling dizzy and disorientated, which can be severe for some people, while milder for others.
In order to avoid such side effects, players should invest in the best VR headsets available that have features that can combat such side effects. However, this again can be costly and not available to everyone.
Overall, it’s clear that VR technology significantly enhances the online casino gaming experience. However, more needs to be done to make the technology accessible to all online casino players across the globe in the near future.
