If we could say that any quality has characterized the casino gaming sector over time, a word like longevity might spring to mind. After all, many casino games have been broadly the same over the last 100 years. Indeed, if you plucked someone from 1924 and popped them in front of a blackjack table, they would instantly recognize the game and, probably, how to play. Take someone from fifty years later and sit them in front of, say, a PlayStation 5, and they would probably be scratching their heads in disbelief.
Yet, while the casino sector wears its traditions proudly, there have been several changes to the sector, including a sudden shift in the late 2010s toward casino game shows. Effectively, they heralded a brand-new genre of casino games, the first in decades, arguably. And their popularity seems to be increasing all the time, particularly as the games benefit from new gaming technology.
In saying that, the traditional games still rule the roost. Games like baccarat, poker, roulette, and, especially, blackjack. There are many reasons why the latter remains the undisputed king (online and in land-based casinos), ranging from its simplicity to the fact it has the best casino odds when played with optimum blackjack strategy. Nonetheless, the game shows are hogging more and more of the limelight online, and they may soon change our perception of casinos forever.
What Are Casino Game Shows?
The clue is in the nomenclature. Game shows are a broad term to describe new types of live online casino games that mimic some of the elements of television game shows. Indeed, some of the most popular versions have been based on the concepts of popular television game shows like Deal or No Deal and Who Wants to Be a Millionaire.
Perhaps the biggest nod to television is the fact the games are played with a host rather than a dealer. This leads to a more jovial atmosphere compared to the serious business of a card table.
The Role Of Technology
You won’t find many game shows in Las Vegas (although we expect that will happen sooner rather than later), but you will find them in live online casinos. The key technology is console tech, providing real-time feedback between the physical equipment in the studio and your laptop or smartphone. In addition, the games can have stunning visuals and immersive effects. The best example of this is Monopoly Live, which transports players to a stunning, immersive 3D Monopoly Board for the game’s signature bonus.
The Payouts
This is where game shows arguably trump their traditional counterparts. The payout awards can be much bigger than those for classic cards and tabletop games. Indeed, some of the games may link into online progressive jackpot networks, potentially leading to multi-million-dollar payouts. That said, the trade-off comes in the fact that the house edge is usually higher. As mentioned, there is no game that compares to blackjack when it comes to minimal house edge.
The Hybrids
Our argument is not to suggest that game shows’ popularity comes to the detriment of traditional games. It’s better to suggest that they are complementary to existing games, offering a more varied experience. Moreover, it’s worth noting that many game shows are now based on the classics, creating hybrid forms like Lightning Blackjack and Power Blackjack. Slots, too, have this treatment, with classic games like Buffalo Blitz (Playtech) being paid communally by live hosts calling the action.
The Future
There has been a lot of talk of AR/VR transforming the live casino experience. However, we should point out that this has been mooted for the last decade with little progress.
Nonetheless, it feels like a natural fit, especially with new technologies and gadgets like the Apple Vision Pro. Could you be transported into the studio ‘in person’ to spin the Wheel of Fortune or have a walk around the Monopoly board? It’s not far-fetched.
Blackjack Will Remain On Top
Despite all this new technology and new ways of entertainment, it’s hard to see blackjack losing its crown. Game shows usually rely on blind luck, whereas blackjack success comes with skill. It’s for that reason that it will continue to be the go-to game for many players, whether they are playing a few hands online or going for a night out in a swanky casino.
