Not many people expected much when gambling websites first started popping up in the 1990s. Although the graphics, sounds and overall experience were clunky and basic at best, they were still cutting edge at the time with many casino fans enjoying their favourite games from home, probably on some sort of Packard Bell antique with 8mb of RAM. Despite these huge jumps, there were still a lot of casino purists who dismissed online casinos as a fad that wouldn’t be able to match the thrill of real life. Fast forward 20 years however and online gambling needs to be taken seriously.
When Ireland decided to make online gambling available, people were already actively placing lots bets on a daily basis; spending almost €14 million at betting shops and gambling halls to be precise. The uptake in online gaming has been no surprise thanks to this pre-existing love of gambling, keeping in line with the UK and the rest of Europe when it comes to having a flutter online. It is now estimated that 2% of Ireland's adults gamble online, a figure which has grown year on year since 2015.
Gambling companies have taken a lot of notice of these figures and the biggest players have all formulated strategies to expand in Ireland, capitalising on an already established physical market that boasts high numbers of bingo players, horse racing fans and casino visitors.
888casino are widely regarded as the best online casino, their success is a very good barometer for the online gaming industry. Established as an offshore online casino in Gibraltar in the 90s, the company has gone on to provide an exceptional product portfolio. Their growth from start-up to globally successful organisation just goes to show how much money customers are willing to spend on online gambling, taking it from a hobby to a daily obsession.
The good news for gamblers in Ireland is that the experiences will only get better as time progresses. Online gaming companies are making a lot of money at the moment and are always looking for the next big draw, meaning better games, investment in cutting edge technology and incredible offers to generate more customers. Game changers like Live Casino and VR gaming are also helping online gambling companies to reach new players, meaning better customer experiences as technology improves. The other huge benefit is that you don’t have to get dressed up and head out to the casino to enjoy a few games. Anyone with a computer, tablet or smart device and an internet connection can get involved, saving the hassle of expensive drinks or casino overheads that you end up paying for in the real world.
If you’re thinking of investing in the gambling industry, then now is definitely the time. As online gambling companies have proven, players are willing to part with their cash and there are still hundreds of countries that are yet to embrace online gambling, as well as customers who are yet to discover it. In the meantime, why not make a few euros without having to leave the house playing online poker, roulette or blackjack?
