Virtual Reality Casinos
An estimated 50 million people visit a casino each year. While playing in a land-based casino certainly has its perks, many players would prefer to play their favorite casino games at home if given a choice. While online casinos have significantly risen in popularity in recent years, most do not authentically replicate the casino environment. That is where VR technology comes into play.
Online casinos that use virtual reality (VR) are able to more accurately mimic a casino atmosphere by creating a three-dimensional environment in which players can experience the sights, sounds, and sensations of a real casino. While VR casinos are still in their infancy stages, the technology is expected to transform the online casino industry within the next decade.
History of Virtual Reality Gaming
Virtual reality has a long and complex history. Some experts believe that technology has been around since the 1860s in its most primitive form. However, some of the first modern VR machines were launched in the early 1960s. This is when the Sensorama, a machine with stereoscopic color displays, a stereo-sound system, odor emitters, fans, and a motional chair, was created.
By the late 1960s, Bob Sproull and Ivan Sutherland had created the first head-mounted display, called The Sword of Damocles. It was too heavy to wear on the head, so it was suspended from the ceiling.
Arcade game company Atari went on to create one of the earliest first-person combat games that used VR technology. In the game, which was called Battlefield, the player controlled a tank that they had to protect from other tanks and missiles. The game used 3D graphics, as well as viewing goggles that were worn on the face.
By the 1990s, Sega had introduced its Sega VR for arcade games. Nintendo followed suit by creating the Virtual Boy in 1995. In 2010, the first Oculus Rift prototype was developed by Palmer Luckey, which was capable of rotational tracking. In 2016, there was a reported 230-plus companies developing VR products.
Equipment Needed to Use VR
If you plan to try VR at an online casino that offers this technology, you will need to purchase the proper equipment. As a general rule of thumb, you will need a headset, headphones, and sensors. You may also need a controller equipped with buttons, triggers, and thumbsticks used to control the game.
The computer you use can greatly impact your gaming experience. Different online casinos require different computer specs. However, a powerful desktop is needed. This typically includes a GeForce GTX 970 or greater with a CPU that is greater than or equivalent to an Intel Core i5 – 4590.
You can usually purchase virtual reality equipment in bundles that include everything you need to get started with VR. If you’re willing to invest in the Oculus Rift, there are several VR products now available, including the HTC Vive and Samsung Gear VR, which work in combination with certain smartphones.
Online Casino Virtual Reality Games
While virtual reality is becoming more commonplace in the gaming industry, the number of online casinos offering this technology is still fairly limited. Slots Million was one of the first casinos to offer VR games. This online casino recommends using the Oculus Rift for a more authentic casino experience.
One of the very first VR games released by leading software provider NetEnt was Starburst. However, other VR games have since been released, including popular titles like Gonzo’s Quest and Jack and the Beanstalk.
Slots are not the only games you can play using virtual reality technology. VR blackjack and roulette are also highly popular in online casinos. When in the VR world, you’ll feel like you’re standing in a real casino. VR allows players to pick up chips, spin a roulette wheel, and collect bets, among other actions.
Playing Online Virtual Reality Casino Games
To get started playing a VR casino game, you will need to register an account at an online casino that offers this technology. You will also need to download the casino application directly to your computer. While you don’t necessarily need VR goggles to play these games, you will not get the full virtual reality experience.
Once in the game, you will be able to see and interact with other players who are also playing the VR game. That means that they can see you too. However, your privacy is still protected, as no one will be able to see your game screen. Playing in a virtual reality casino provides many of the same features as a regular online casino, such as bonuses and other promotions. After you’re finished playing the VR game, simply press Esc on your keyboard, and the game will stop.
Virtual reality in online casinos has become a popular form of entertainment. With VR, avid gamblers can experience what it’s like to be in a land-based casino without ever leaving home. While it can be costly to purchase the equipment needed for virtual reality casino games, many players find the expense well worth it.
