If you’ve ever played a slot game, then you’ve probably noticed that they’re quite similar to video games. While this similarity may not be intentional on the part of slot game developers, it’s an undeniable fact: slots draw inspiration from the video games industry in more ways than one!
Casinos are working to draw in younger players, and what better way to do this than to bring in their favorite video games?
The Popularity and Influence of Video Games
As the name implies, slot games are inspired by the video game industry. In fact, this type of casino game is one of the most popular forms of entertainment in modern culture. The popularity and influence of video games cannot be overstated–they have been around for decades and have inspired many other industries, including film.
They bring people together, entertain, and provide a temporary escape from the pressures of the real world, an appealing notion for slot game developers. Why not draw in on that pull? Create immersive games that attract new players.
Familiarity and Nostalgia
● Video games are more popular than ever.
● People are familiar with slot games because of their popularity and familiarity in pop culture. Slot machines have been around for decades and require little skill to play
● Slot games are a natural extension of video games’ influence on pop culture today. Whether it’s through movies like “Ready Player One” or even just looking at social media feeds filled with references from classic titles like “Street Fighter II,” people love seeing these elements come together in unique ways.
● People are going to be drawn to something familiar, whether it’s a video game character from their youth or modern trends.
Engaging and Interactive Gameplay
Video games are designed to be engaging and interactive, which means that they should be easy to learn and understand. The game should also have a narrative that players can follow as they play. In a world where so many things have undergone gamification, where certain actions receive rewards and competition is encouraged and tracked through leaderboards, slot game creators would be foolish not to follow along. Gambling video games are even better.
Bonus Rounds and Mini-Games
Bonus rounds, or mini-games, are a big draw for players. Players love the thrill of winning a bonus round and can become obsessed with trying to trigger it again and again. Bonus rounds are designed to be fun and engaging, as well as rewarding players with extra cash prizes or free spins of the slot machine.
With slots catered after their favorite games of Wheel of Fortune and Monopoly, they earn up to 50 free spins with their bonus rounds.
The Role of Technology in Slot Game Development
Software developments like that of Unreal Engine 5 allow game developers to make more photorealistic environments. This transforms virtual gaming experiences into something more engaging for the average audience. Changes in graphics, software security, and access have greatly changed the slot game industry. No more so than the popularity of mobile devices.
Mobile Gaming and its Influence
Mobile gaming is a huge industry, and it’s only getting bigger. The number of people playing mobile games has increased dramatically over the past decade, as has their interest in gambling. Mobile-enabled games have moved online gambling away from the desktop to anywhere and everywhere. Gambling and playing slot games are now convenient because your casino is right in the palm of your hand at any time.
The Profitability Factor for Slot Game Developers
Microsoft is taking a lesson from Sony and already investigating their involvement in slot game development after Sony’s incredible success with the anime slot game Genshin Impact.
You can’t deny, the statistics are out there, that slot games that are inspired by video games simply draw more attention.
Licensing Agreements and Partnerships
Licensing agreements can take 1.5 to 2 years to complete, and there’s no guarantee that a hot video game will still be as popular once the process is complete. So, it’s not only about what video games are currently popular but what video games have been popular long-term and which ones are favored by slot players.
Licensing for social casino games is far easier to finish and lower risk, which is why you’ll find so many internet and mobile slot games with the licensing from favorite games.
It’s much easier to reach out to followers of an already-established brand and get them interested in playing online slots.
The Future of Video Game-Inspired Slot Games
The future of video game-inspired slot games will be influenced by the popularity of mobile gaming, the use of technology, and the profitability factor. The rise in cryptocurrency is changing the online gaming market, and you’re finding more games that combine gambling and cryptocurrency, including NFT prizes.
Add in new games with more complex gameplay, where sometimes players don’t even realize they’re gambling because the in-game immersion is so deep, and there’s a potential for a deep world of video game-inspired slot games that are out of this world.
Conclusion
There are many similarities between the two industries, video games and slot games, but there is also room for innovation and creativity when it comes to designing new games. As technology advances and more people get access to mobile devices around the world, we expect there will be more opportunities for developers who want their game idea turned into an interactive experiences! They aren’t mutually exclusive, and both industries benefit from the advertising and followers of the different types of gaming.
