As the digital world continues to embrace artificial intelligence (AI) and next-gen technology, the upshot is that life will get a whole lot more interesting for gamers in particular. Console games continue to reach new heights with the capabilities afforded by the PlayStation 5 and co, while online gaming will also enjoy another revolution of its own.
In iGaming, the name loosely given to the online casino sector, advancements in AI, machine learning and even virtual reality (VR) will take the gaming experience to whole new levels. 2025 is set to be a breakout year for slots, table games and other avenues of casino action.
The use of AI algorithms enables casino sites to learn more about their players, creating a digital footprint that can then be used to provide a more intuitive, personalised experience.
This is machine learning, a layer of AI that will aid online businesses of all types. As far as casinos are concerned, one of the key gains will be in how games are presented to individual players – specifically, with tailored interfaces that better serve the individual needs of each player, with a different look and feel for everyone.
Machine learning could also be used in providing personalised casino bonuses for existing players. Rather than having generic, ‘off the shelf’ deposit bonus and free spins offers, a casino will be able to leverage its algorithm to create a suite of promotions that the individual is more likely to take advantage of – not only good news for players, but also for the casino in retaining the interest of their existing customers.
AI can also be used to create loyalty programmes and smarter, more efficient customer support. These are just some of the ways that AI will be deployed by online casinos in 2025. The good news is that each player will likely benefit in some way from exactly that.
Virtual reality
Some innovative casino game developers have already begun to incorporate elements of VR into their new releases.
As VR hardware becomes more affordable for the end user – not to mention more readily worn and enjoyed – the trends will converge so that more games contain VR gameplay.
Imagine the possibilities of being seated at the blackjack table or roulette wheel while wearing a VR headset or glasses. You will be able to see the dealers and croupiers in action first-hand, with all of the drama and excitement of your chosen game playing out around you in glorious 4D.
It’s a surprise to many within gaming that VR is yet to really take off. However, the barriers to entry – namely, how expensive VR hardware is to buy – are likely to be removed in 2025, so by the end of the year, a raft of new titles and releases will have embraced the immersive tech.
And this can only be considered a good thing for discerning players looking for the next level of gaming to savour.
Next level
One of the current buzzwords in gaming is ‘immersion’. How can developers create games that see players engaged for longer? The answer is in gameplay that rewards repeat play without becoming repetitive.
In theory, basic casino games have become old hat. They are still immensely popular, of course, but is simply spinning the roulette wheel or the slot reels enough for players well-versed in dynamic gaming? Is the attraction of tapping hit, stand or split in blackjack still there?
One of the key areas of progression for iGaming in 2025 will be in creating immersive, multi-layered experiences. VR is just one element of this, but also look out for augmented reality (AR) features, side games and even story modes as casino game developers take inspiration from their console counterparts.
Live dealer games could be a key frontier in this, with the introduction of VR and AR elements that will bring the live studio environment to life. Streaming will also likely become smoother and faster for many in 2025, so a potential barrier that puts players off the live gaming experience will be removed.
Expect iGaming to embrace evolution, rather than revolution, this year. Not only will games released in the second half of 2025 be more immersive and layered, but the casino environment itself could also be enhanced beyond all recognition.
