Since being legalised, online casino gameplay in Ontario has become hugely popular, with online slots leading the way. Technological advances such as VR/AR, Virtual reality, blockchain, AI, and gamification are transforming the Canadian online casino world at a rapid pace. These technologies influence how individuals play casino games and wager online.
In today’s article we’ll be exploring the technological impact upon Canadian slots by taking a closer look at the current and developing technology, and how it is used to improve Ontario online slot experiences at online casinos such as Spin Genie.
Evolution of Slot Technology in Ontario
From its mechanical ancestors in the 1880s to the interactive digital games of today, the history of online slots is over a century long and recently the online versions of these games have become pretty popular with Ontario players. Developers have been able to provide new themes, unique features, and immersive experiences thanks to technological developments and in today's article we'll be taking a fun retrospective, looking at the impact technology has had upon the Ontario slot machines you know and love.
Technological Innovations Shaping Slot Games
Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR)
Virtual Reality (VR) has become a buzzword in recent years. VR employs 3D screens near the eyes and position tracking to let users interact with and navigate a virtual area convincingly.
VR technology has made immersive gaming possible. Virtual reality slots are spearheading this technological revolution in online gambling, allowing players a new and immersive way to play their favourite casino games from home.
VR headsets transport gamers to a virtual casino where they may play slots. In this virtual casino, players may pick and engage with slot machines as in a real casino. VR slot games use flashing lights, background audio, and player conversation to simulate a casino.
Motion controllers let players pull levers or push buttons while the simulated reels spin. It feels like a genuine slot machine. Players feel more connected to a slot machine than with regular online slots or live online slot games because of this combination of hearing, seeing, and haptic (touch) input.
AR, or ‘Augmented Reality’ is like the halfway house between the real and virtual worlds. In AR gameplay, some elements will be digital and can interact with the player or (in the case of live casino games, where this tech has taken off) with the host, while the game is still largely presented within the real world.
Blockchain Technology
Defined as a 'decentralized digital database, meaning that its base of operations has no one physical location, blockchain securely keeps data across a network of computers in an open, unchangeable, and tamper-resistant manner. Every "block" has data; blocks are connected in a chronological "chain." Blockchain technology has boomed in the last decade, and while it’s a bit confusing to figure out, it is this tech that allows cryptocurrency like Bitcoin to work.
Nowadays, there are cryptocurrency casinos which only operate with crypto, and blockchain technology is also making its way into traditional online casinos too; largely surrounding cyber security and banking.
Blockchain technology is also used by online casinos to make games more secure and fair. This technology keeps track of all transactions that can't be altered, protecting from fraud. Every bet, win, and loss is tracked on a blockchain ledger.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning
AI (Artificial Intelligence) is often referred to as Machine Learning and is being used in modern online Ontario casinos to make games more personal and safe.
The AI software monitors the players' activity and gaming habits and can use this information to suggest new or similar slots to a slot machine player based on their history or current promotions suited to their existing playstyle.
Machine learning also enhances platform security. It can detect suspicious activity that may indicate account hacking or cheating. Online casinos can protect player data by quickly identifying these threats.
Enhancing Player Engagement through Technology
Social Features
When online casinos first started, one of the biggest advantages real-world casinos had over them was the social element. Due to the technology of the time, many of the first games were played solo and with simple graphics, meaning logging on and playing could be quite a solitary experience.
While many people enjoy playing solo, plenty of others wanted to add a social dynamic to their gameplay, just as you would with any hobby. As technology has improved, so too have how players can connect. Live chat is featured in many live casino games, including live slots. Alongside this, live tournaments and real-time site updates help players to feel more engaged with the site as they play.
In more recent years, and certainly more in the future, we will see further use of VR/AR technology (as mentioned), which may even allow players to walk through a realistic casino floor, or engage with other players.
Gamification
Gamification applies game design and ideas to non-game circumstances. Defined as a collection of actions and methods that use gaming aspects in non-gaming applications, classic examples of gamification include points/level systems, award badges, and leaderboards.
While these elements have originated from games, they are now applied in all aspects of our lives. From house points in schools to achievement badges in Scouts and Guides, Employee of the Month, and even shopping loyalty cards. Gamification is a powerful engagement tool because of the simple fact that it's satisfying to achieve things, and having a fun and trackable way to gain these achievements, encouraging further motivation.
Technological improvements have made it so these gamification elements can be seamlessly incorporated in online settings, being accessible from mobile devices and easily tracked in real-time. When it comes to online slots, features such as our Hot/Cold feature for monitoring slot trends, our slot tournaments which update in real-time, ‘My Levels’ reward schemes, and even progressive jackpot networks all offer higher levels of engagement for players who wish to use them.
Addressing Security and Fairness Concerns
While the early years of the internet were akin to the Wild West with regulations and technology still being formed to protect users from scams, nowadays things are far more safe. So long as you’re playing at an online casino that holds an active license you can be assured that the online slot games you play are fair, and most importantly, that your personal information is safe.
All casinos operating in Ontario, Canada must hold a license from the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO). To gain a license, the casino must comply with the AGCO, and meet industry standards. Without AGCO registration, casinos cannot legally function in the province.
Fundamental online security measures such as firewalls, secure payment gateways, and encryption technology have been used in online casinos since day 1; improving and advancing over time as technology advances. For example, while blockchain technology isn't classed as an encryption tool, it draws on and enhances many of the aspects of encryption technology.
AI and machine-learning algorithms are being used by online casinos to not only enhance player experiences but also to keep players safe through anti-fraud software.
Cybercriminals are always searching for new ways to exploit online casino security flaws. AI software can detect many of these attempts, but it isn't perfect. Therefore, many platforms now do regular security audits to detect and address problems. Speaking of audits, when it comes to the games themselves, such as slots, the developers of the games must be licensed by a recognised regulatory body and must have their math model audited by third-party bodies such as eCOGRA or the GLI.
Lastly, advances in tech allow players to protect themselves. One such example of this is two-factor authentication. This requires the player to pass two checks to access their account. This can be through approving the log-on on an external device, but can also include face recognition and/or device fingerprinting.
Conclusion
As technology has improved so too has the online slot experience that Ontario players can enjoy. Technology has helped streamline all aspects of the casino experience, making gameplay convenient on both desktop and mobile devices.
In the coming years, gameplay utilizing emerging technology such as VR and AR is likely to become more commonplace, more affordable, and higher quality. Alongside this, the utilization of AI will increase, keeping players safe from scams and providing expertly tailored casino experiences to all players.
In just the last few years, the technological improvements seen at online casinos such as Spin Genie Ontario have revolutionised the gameplay experience. Come along for the ride and join us, sign up and play at Spin Genie Ontario today.
