Gambling has existed in some form for thousands of years, providing players with the excitement of taking risks for potential rewards. With so much time to develop, it’s no surprise that the gambling landscape has changed dramatically over time. Today, we have the luxury of choosing from traditional gambling at brick-and-mortar casinos and online gambling, like the many NZ casinos operating online, that can be played from the comfort of our own homes.
There are many similarities between traditional gambling and online gambling. Both options are popular and involve wagering real money on various games of chance or skill, whether land-based or virtual. However, while there are many commonalities, there are also key differences between the two. This article provides aspects of both traditional and online gambling in an attempt to identify the best player experience.
Traditional Gambling vs Online Gambling
Gambling’s rich history dates back centuries, and since online gambling wasn’t established until 1994, it makes sense that traditional land-based casinos have been preferred by gamblers. Brick-and-mortars offer a variety of games, including casino classics such as poker, blackjack, roulette and craps, as well as player favorite slot machines. The face-to-face interactions with other players and dealers that are a part of real-life gambling make it more of a social experience. The excitement experienced at a busy casino is unmatched.
Convenience, Accessibility & Game Selection
However, as the gambling industry embraces the digital age, there has been a significant rise in online gambling. Unlike traditional casinos, internet gambling offers the convenience of playing from the comfort of your own home via smartphone, computer, or tablet, whenever you want. Accessibility is a convenience offered by online platforms that is unparalleled.
Players can also typically choose from a wider variety of games at online platforms versus traditional casinos where there may be more of a limited selection due to space constraints and less variety within each category. Online casinos offer a broad range of slots that feature advanced game mechanics, immersive storylines and sequels to players’ favorite titles; table games and live casino games that give the real feel of TV game shows, and even sports betting. These offerings provide players with a realistic and thrilling gaming experience that recreates the atmosphere of a traditional casino while delivering all the advantages of online play.
Online gambling is considered by some a “lone-wolf” activity and can be isolating. However, an increasing number of platforms are starting to address the social aspects of gambling. Unlike the virtual casinos of old, many of today’s online casinos offer live dealer games with real-time chat among fellow players, tournaments and leaderboards, each providing a greater level of social interaction.
Bonuses & Promotions
Another real benefit of online gambling is the level of anonymity and privacy offered, which cannot be matched by traditional casinos. Meanwhile, perks such as bonuses, promotions and loyalty programs are often offered by online gambling sites. Meant to attract and retain players, these incentives are not as common in land-based casinos and are proven to be effective drivers of traffic to virtual casinos.
Payment Methods & Payouts
Online casinos also offer a larger selection of payment methods, including cryptocurrencies and digital wallets, whereas traditional gambling venues are typically limited to cash and credit cards. Payouts are an important aspect and one that most consider to be the most important. This is one area where a physical casino has the edge. Winnings are immediately paid in cash when the game is over at a traditional casino, while you can wait anywhere from 10 or 15 minutes to up to a week, depending on the online casino’s payment methods and policy.
Safety & Security
Whether you choose traditional or online casino, you want to be assured you’re betting at locations you know are safe, secure and fair. That means licensed and regulated by reputable gaming authorities, so you know your personal information and payments are handled securely. Personal preference and circumstances also go a long way when considering when choosing one form of gambling or the other.