Online gambling is one of the fastest-growing trends of the digital age. According to expert data, the average revenue by users in India is expected to reach US$146.40 in 2024. Convenience, accessibility, and smartphone penetration are a few factors responsible for the rise in mobile gaming.
Although the legality, reward, and risk involved remain a grey area, we can all agree that online gambling has influenced entertainment so much that it has blurred the lines between popular media like films or TV shows and traditional gaming. That said, to what extent? In this post, we’ll break down the role of online gambling in reshaping the film and movie industry.
The Rise of Online Gambling
The internet ushered in the era of online gambling. Thanks to the availability of mobile devices and high-speed internet, people now access online slots without registration needed from anywhere. Whether you’re waiting for a bus or taking a break in between work, players gamble with ease.
Apart from this, advanced software from heavyweight software providers like Microgaming, Playtech, and Pragmatic Play, among others, have made games more engaging. They boast better sound effects, animations, and graphics, making gambling more realistic. Unlike land-based casinos, gambling sites offer more games at the touch of a few buttons. From classic table games to slots and live dealers, there is something for everyone.
As a result, online gaming has attracted newbies and seasoned players. Plus, the websites are available 24/7. Meanwhile, these platforms use attractive promotions such as welcome bonuses, no deposit bonuses, free spins, and loyalty packages to retain these players. The integration of social gaming is another reason for online gambling’s popularity.
How Casinos Are Influencing Popular Cultures
Online gambling culture is shaping cultures in different ways. From movies to TV shows, music, art, fashion, and lifestyle, the shift has helped normalize gambling as a form of entertainment. The allure of winning big has backed the idea that you can be lucky and pursue fortune.
Not only this, but novels like Ian Fleming’s James Bond series portray the fun and suspense in a casino setting. These mediums paint the picture of the adventure that occurs in a casino, feeding into the cultures.
Casino-Inspired TV Shows
TV shows with casino themes have successfully blended drama, suspense, and the high-stakes gambling world. The shows, either set in real or fictional casinos, showcase what goes on behind the scenes. Depending on the theme, the movies explore crime or deception, complex betting systems, psychological warfare, and more.
The show features stellar performances and intense storytelling that appeal to different audiences. Some famous casino-inspired TV shows are:
- Las Vegas (2003-2008): The show explored how a team of casino employees manage security challenges and daily operations.
- Breaking Vegas (2004-2005): This is a documentary-style series that showcases the real stories of people who beat the house using impressive techniques.
- Tilt (2005): The one-year show follows a group of poker players and their antics in taking down Matador, a legendary poker player.
- Luck (2011-2012): Dustin Hoffman took fans into the world of gambling by offering a glimpse into the lives of jockeys, trainers, and gamblers.
- Casino Confidential (2012): Casino Confidential is set inside the Golden Nugget Casino, revealing what goes on behind the scenes.
Indian TV shows with gambling themes include The Casino (2020), Badnaam Gali (2019), Hostages (2019), and Kaala (2023). The TV shows offer a glimpse into the gambling world. On the other hand, they break down barriers and stereotypes, reshaping entertainment in their own way.
Films That Amplify the Impact of Online Gambling
Films have also played a significant part in everyone’s fascination with the gambling world, making it a theme in popular culture. Most notably, Casino Royale. The movie deviated from the conventional James Bond movie, offering a glimpse into high-stakes gambling.
Most importantly, it got people hooked. Casino movies capture the risks, consequences, and excitement of online gambling. Besides, they provide a window into the impact of wagering, allowing exploration and serving as a cautionary tale. Some popular films that fit this category include:
- Molly’s Game (2017): It tells the story of Molly Bloom and how online gambling has increased the popularity of poker.
- Runner Runner (2013): Ben Affleck and Justin Timberlake are drawn into the lucrative world of online gambling, revealing the dangers involved.
- 21 (2008): The true story of the MIT blackjack team inspired the movie. It shows how the digital age has made gambling more popular.
- The Gambler (2014): In this film, Mark Wahlberg provides insight into the psychological aspect of gambling addiction.
Other movies that provide insight into the online gambling boom in India include Teen Patti (2010), The Great Gambler (1979), Striker (2010), and Fukrey (2013).
Social Gaming: Live Streaming and Communities
Live streaming is another rising trend, with platforms like Twitch, Kick, and YouTube at the forefront. Instead of conventional movie production, influencers with a huge following are popularizing gambling trends. PewDiePie has 104 million YouTube subscribers, while Ninja has over 269 million subscribers.
These individuals broadcast their experiences playing online casino games, sports betting, and esports. Not only this, but viewers engage in real-time, asking questions and sharing in the excitement. Gambling influencers showcase different gambling strategies. They also review games and join high-stakes betting sessions.
Like movies and films, they contribute to normalizing online gambling and, most importantly, extending its reach to the younger, tech-conscious audience. Online gambling streamers form communities on platforms like Reddit and host tournaments, making gambling a more social experience.
The Future of Online Gambling and Entertainment
The synergy between gambling and entertainment is evolving. Although no one can predict the future, some trends stick out. They include the adoption of extended realities, eSports integration, gamification, and blockchain technology. Explore them below.
Extended Realities
Virtual and augmented realities will make gambling more immersive in the future. Gamblers will experience what it feels like to play in a physical casino from the comfort of their home. Not only this, but they will walk through a virtual casino, chat with other players, and forge connections. In the future, people will be able to watch TV shows with gambling scenes and play similar games within virtual reality and extended reality settings.
eSports Integration
As eSports betting continues to rise, we will witness tournaments where players can compete in casino games and eSports matches. Hence, individuals with gambling skills can put their gaming knowledge to use. Instead of just following their favourite teams, enthusiasts will bet on outcomes in real-time and interact with others. This new level of excitement will make online gambling more social.
Gamification
We expect many online casinos to incorporate gamification elements like leaderboards and missions and make experiences more interactive. Gambling apps with integrated features like chat apps will also contribute to the sense of community by allowing players to share their wins on social media. The rise in gambling-themed shows and films will encourage more people to play games related to the show’s storyline.
Blockchain Technology
Blockchain is revolutionizing various sectors, including the casino industry. Operators leverage it to provide a decentralized platform where no one can alter the outcome of games and payouts. The use of cryptocurrencies will increase in coming years, and TV shows may even offer NFT-based collectables to individuals who play games related to the show.
Conclusion
Online gambling has evolved beyond just placing bets and winning money. In contrast, it is now a form of entertainment. As such, gambling now influences TV shows, films, and social interaction on streaming platforms.
These outlets reveal the high-stakes nature of the betting world. By incorporating storytelling, the gambling culture is more relatable for many people. As technology evolves, the fusion of online gambling and TV shows and films will deepen.