Online entertainment has experienced explosive growth in the last few decades. Key factors shaping this growth have been the ongoing rollout of fast and reliable home internet connections across the globe, the mass adoption of smart technologies, including smartphones, and the increasing power and sophistication of computer processors. Today, most homes in the developed world will have access to a wide range of internet-linked smart devices. These can include next-generation consoles and gaming PCs, smart speakers (such as Amazon Alexa), and web-based subscription services to film, TV, and music streaming services. Together, these technological advancements have combined to create a home environment where there is a vast range of online entertainment options for consumers. In this article, some of the key advances in online entertainment will be discussed.
Authentic casino experiences from the comfort of your own home
In the not-so-distant past, if you wanted to visit a casino to enjoy an evening of excitement and gambling, you would need to travel to your nearest brick-and-mortar establishment. Typically, you would need to dress smartly and organize accommodation if you were planning to indulge in alcohol at a venue that was far from home. Today, the rise of online casinos has allowed gamblers to experience thrills and excitement from the comfort of home, with little more than a smartphone and an internet connection. There are now estimated to be around 4,000 online casinos worldwide and the best sites will offer a gaming environment and experience that is virtually indistinguishable from that of a high-class physical venue. However, with the vast range of online sites, it is important to make an informed choice when choosing an online casino. Casino comparison sites, such as Crazy Vegas, can be incredibly useful in this respect. Such sites compare a range of reputable online venues, providing information on the various welcome bonuses that are offered to gamers, along with information on the average payout rates of the games. In short, they can be invaluable in helping adults to choose a site that is right for their gaming style.
VR creating immersive gaming environments
Virtual reality technology has become increasingly sophisticated in the last few years. Today, gamers can purchase a range of VR headsets (which typically come with hand controllers). Some headsets can be linked to consoles or gaming PCs to benefit from increased processing power, while others, such as the Meta Quest 2, can be used as standalone devices. The gamer uses this tech to enter incredibly realistic 3D worlds and enjoys an immersive experience that conventional forms of gaming cannot match. Whilst the current processing power of most VR headsets is far behind that of a high-end gaming PC, it is expected that this form of gaming tech will improve rapidly in the coming decade.
The use of curated recommendations in film streaming
As a brief final example, it is important to consider the power of curated recommendations in film streaming services such as Netflix. Complex algorithms are used to monitor the consumer’s viewing behavior. After several films or TV shows have been watched, the algorithm can accurately predict other titles that are likely to be of interest. Platforms such as Netflix may even give a percentage value on the suitability of the recommended media to the viewer, based on previous choices. In an age where consumers can access thousands of TV shows and films from one streaming platform, algorithm-driven, curated recommendations help to highlight new content that the viewer will likely enjoy.
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