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As of 2019, many casino executives are looking for games that appeal to a new generation of gamblers. Since the appeal for skill-based online games, like Call of Duty, Overwatch, and Fortnight have been so popular in the past couple of years, online casinos are seeking a way to capitalize on the need to play games that aren’t just reliant on chance.
Multiple surveys were conducted to see what gamers want out of their skill-based games, and Synergy Blue, a provider of skill-based games and software tools, found that most consumers want fewer games of change. 81 percent of those polled felt that skill-based games would prove a different player experience.
The Focus on Generation X
Generation X, which ranges from ages 45 to 60, is thought to be the most attractive demographic for casinos because they are usually financially stable. Past demographic surveys have targeted casino visitors in the 50+ range, with few looking at the Millennials (born 1981 to 1996) demographic as a source of inspiration for new gaming content.
Whereas Baby Boomers tend to focus on games of chance, Xs, Ys, and Millennials are more likely to choose skill-based games. This may be due to the fact there is more control over gameplay coupled with the growing popularity of online videogames. Still, slots represent the vast majority of casino games, with video slots outperforming in regards to revenue.
Poker, Baccarat, and BlackJack and Their Appeal
Skill-based games like poker, baccarat, and blackjack have remained popular for centuries due to their easy to understand concepts and possible consistency to win big. Online casinos, like Casumo live casino, have used this popularity by offering live rooms where players can interact and play with other gamers in real-time.
There are multiple reasons why people will choose skill-based games over slots. For example, poker, baccarat, and blackjack are social games that require you to interact and even outsmart other players to win the pot. The competitive nature of the game can be very appealing to extroverts who want to beat difficult opponents.
Skill-based games are suitable for all budgets, so everyone can enjoy the game regardless of how much the ante is. You can search for low stakes poker, baccarat, and blackjack on all online websites. As another positive for those new at skill-based games, low stakes tables tend to have new players who are also learning the game.
Poker and blackjack, especially, are easy to learn but complex to master, which is mostly the appeal of these games. Once you understand the hand rankings and the different actions you can take, you now have to learn when to hold and when to fold. Truly successful players know how to read their opponents and consistently make good decisions.
What’s Next: Skill-Based Slot Machines
Although slot machines are known for their reliance on luck instead of skill, many game designers are attempting to create slot machines with multiple levels. For example, a slot machine may start as a chance-based game, but once you connect the right objects together, a metagame starts.
From there, the player would match card faces together, guide a character through a maze, or maybe play against other players who are also in the metagame. Although there are already skill-based slot machines that exist, they aren’t prevalent as of now because the technology is still in its infancy.
A skill-based slot machine could bring in the Boomer generation, mostly because Boomers tend to choose chance-based games over skill. With a skill-based component, more players who tend to stay away from skill-based games like poker, baccarat, and blackjack may try them and acknowledge their appeal.
