With the advancements in virtual reality (VR) technology, there has been a surge of interest in exploring new possibilities in the field of gaming. Skill-based gambling games in VR have been touted as one of the most exciting prospects for the future of entertainment. Could something similar to Manchester’s’ Crystal Maze Live Experience be made available in VR to provide the killer experience that will make us invest in VR equipment?
Does anyone else feel like they need a pep talk like this from @VickyPattison every once in a while? 😂 pic.twitter.com/wsQETr46Gw
— The Crystal Maze LIVE Experience (@CrystalMazeHQ) March 7, 2023
Reality calling
Online casinos have been hugely successful in recent years and many Manchester residents regularly place bets or play casino games as a regular form of entertainment. The fairly recent addition of live casino games such as blackjack, roulette and game show experiences with live dealers or hosts that players can interact with has been something of a turning point. These live games have offered real-money gamers an immersive experience that appeals to both casual and serious gamers alike.
They can do more with traditional casino games as they have added multipliers and other features that you simply won’t find in a land-based casino. While these games are popular and profitable for the providers, the online casino industry is competitive and innovative, hence developers are looking for the next big thing. That next big thing increasingly appears likely to be a combination of skill-based live experiences, such as Manchester’s’ Crystal Maze Live Experience and gambling.
For those that haven’t participated in the Crystal Maze Live Experience in Manchester’s city centre, it has become a popular attraction for both tourists and locals. The adventure is divided into four zones: Aztec, Medieval, Industrial, and Futuristic, each with its own set of challenges.
A highly interactive and engaging activity, the Maze Masters guide and encourage you throughout. The challenges are intended to be both enjoyable and challenging, and success requires teamwork and communication skills.
While it’s great fun and other similar attractions exist with escape rooms and a Tomb Raider Live Experience in London, there are some downsides. Chiefly, it can be expensive, organizing a visit with friends or colleagues can be a hassle and you don’t really win anything. All of these issues could be eliminated with a VR gambling offering of the same or similar ilk.
Bet on yourself
The VR live experience and the hybrid gambling games offer a more engaging and interactive experience than traditional gambling games, which rely solely on chance. By introducing skill-based elements, players can use their abilities to influence the outcome of the game, making the experience more satisfying and rewarding. Imagine you and your friends all throwing some cash in and betting on your ability to compete against other teams in a series of challenges and win.
Unlike traditional skill-based gambling games such as poker or blackjack, which are often played alone, VR gambling experiences can provide a social element that allows players to interact with each other. This social aspect can add an extra layer of enjoyment to the game, making it more appealing to a wider audience.
The skill-based games have the potential to attract a younger demographic. Skill-based gambling games in VR can appeal to younger players who enjoy games that require skill and strategy and are increasingly interested in VR technology, making it a perfect fit for this type of gaming experience.
Skill-based gambling games in VR offer a more responsible form of gambling. By introducing skill-based elements, players are encouraged to think more about their decisions and the potential outcomes of their actions.
This helps promote responsible gambling habits, as players are more likely to make informed decisions rather than relying solely on chance.
There are, of course, some challenges that must be addressed before skill-based gambling experiences in VR can become the future of entertainment. Ensuring that the games are fair and transparent is something game developers have achieved with games such as online blackjack, but with more complex skill-based games there is a risk that some players may have an unfair advantage over others. It will be necessary to develop systems that ensure fairness and transparency in the game, to prevent any potential cheating or exploitation.
With the increasing popularity of VR technology and the growing interest in skill-based gambling, the potential for this type of game is enormous. While there are challenges that must be addressed, the future looks bright for skill-based gambling games in VR.
