Online gaming has grown in popularity all around the world in recent years. It’s now estimated that more than 3.2 billion people consider themselves to be online gamers globally, with this number constantly growing. While gamers may be familiar with a number of interesting facts about the games they play and the equipment they use, some facts about online video and casino gaming may still surprise a few players.
Smartphones Are The Most Popular Gaming Device
A 2023 report shared by Statista shows that a whopping 83% of people who use the internet play games online using any kind of device. Of those gamers, 67.7% of the players reported that they prefer using smartphones to play. Following smartphone gamers, 35% reported that they enjoy playing on desktop or laptop computers. Other devices like gaming consoles, tablets, and VR headsets were also popular, but not as commonly used as computers or smartphones. As more online video and casino games become compatible with mobile devices, like smartphones, we’ll continue to see players opting to game on handheld phones. Smartphones also offer the convenience of being able to play anywhere and at any time.
VPNs Allow Gamers To Connect To Over 7,000 Servers Globally
While some gamers may use VPNs, not all gamers know about the benefits that they offer. Many video and casino gamers opt to use VPNs to connect to a huge number of servers all around the world, with some VPN providers offering over 7,000 server connections to choose from. Video gamers commonly use VPNs to protect their privacy and access geo-restricted content or games. Online casino players usually use VPNs to bypass tough local gambling laws and play on offshore betting sites. For example, in the US some states allow online betting, but others still prohibit it. In the states where online gambling is not yet legal, many players turn to offshore sites.
Andrew O’Malley notes that offshore betting sites allow players from anywhere in the world to play their favorite casino games online without hassle (source: https://www.business2community.com/gambling/offshore-casinos). Offshore betting sites are usually licensed and registered in countries with more lenient gambling rules. In addition, they usually offer bigger bonuses and special promotions to attract players, and can allow players to avoid self-exclusion restrictions they may have signed up to previously, like non-GamStop casinos for UK players. With so many perks of accessing geo-restricted content for both video and casino players, VPNs have become a popular option, with the number of available servers skyrocketing.
The U.S.A. Is Home To The Largest Gaming Market
America boasts the largest gaming market in the world, with reports showing approximately 46 billion in revenue and 209 million players. China follows the US closely, with a booming gaming market. Reports show that China’s gaming market revenue is approximately 44 billion with nearly 696 million players. Japan, South Korea, and Germany follow China and all show impressive gaming markets as well.
Gaming Can Be Relaxing and Build Real-World Skills
For many gamers, playing video and casino games is not only a form of entertainment but can be a relaxing pastime. 89% of gamers report that playing games provides stress relief. In addition, 88% of gamers agree that playing games online helps bring people together and makes connections among players, creating community.
Beyond being relaxing, gaming can help players fine-tune real-world skills. A recent study included professionals in various job roles playing games that helped them solve problems and puzzles, and organize, and manage resources. The study showcased the soft skills associated with gaming and how they may apply to the workplace.
