The gaming industry is witnessing an unprecedented surge in popularity, with the development of games increasing daily including esports, indicating sustained growth. The types of bets available can vary depending on the game and the betting provider.
These days, younger gamers are drawn to gaming formats featuring rapid-fire gameplay and intriguing mechanics.
As a response to this preference, game developers are actively working on creating new crash games and diversifying their portfolios to meet the demands of this dynamic player base.
In a report by Slotegrator, two significant insights have emerged. Firstly, there is a noticeable growth in the demand for crash games, particularly among players aged 25 to 34.
This age group, characterized by its affinity for fast-paced and engaging gaming experiences, is becoming a key target audience for developers in the gaming industry.
Secondly, the report reveals that 75 percent of the surveyed game developers are either already offering crash games or have plans to incorporate them into their future offerings.
This statistic underscores the industry’s recognition of the rising popularity of crash games and the strategic intent of developers to tap into this trend, reflecting a dynamic landscape of game development and player preferences.
Esports, or electronic sports, also evolved from niche entertainment to a mainstream phenomenon. Popular games like League of Legends, Dota 2, and Fortnite have become esports staples, contributing to the esports betting industry’s rapid growth.
The competitive nature, skill levels displayed by players, and the sense of community around esports have contributed to its widespread appeal, making it a dominant force in contemporary entertainment.
Similarly, betting on esports has also emerged as a significant aspect of the esports industry.
In 2024, the esports betting industry had a rollercoaster year marked by significant advancements and marketing expansion, coupled with challenges arising from the financial instability within the esports sector.
This expansive industry is poised to potentially reach a value of US$2.5 billion in 2024.
Currently, approximately 20% of all bets made at bookmakers are directed towards esports events.
That is why raising awareness about gambling addiction and promoting strategies to prevent it becomes a primary responsibility for both regulatory bodies and responsible betting platforms.
China’s booming esports scene
The 2022 Asian Games held in Hangzhou, taking place in September and October 2024 due to pandemic delays, marked a significant moment for esports. Unlike the 2018 Asian Games in Jakarta, where esports was a demonstration event, Hangzhou included it as a medal event.
This inclusion not only brings legitimacy to esports teams and players but also signals progress toward potential integration into future multisport events, including the Olympics.
Moreover, the Asian Games fostered national investments in esports development, with 476 athletes from 30 countries participating.
Governments increased funding for esports programs, built training facilities, and updated legislation to support esports athletes.
The China Hangzhou Esports Center, specifically constructed for the Games with an investment of RMB 4.6 billion ($640 million), stands as a testament to China’s commitment to nurturing its growing esports industry.
China’s esports industry also saw rapid growth, solidifying its influence in the global gaming scene. Shanghai is positioning itself as a prominent esports hub, with Perfect World announcing the debut of the Shanghai Major this year.
The introduction of this major tournament, scheduled for December this year, aims to further elevate the popularity of the game Counter-Strike in China and Asia.
The announcement, made during the 2024 CS Asia Championships, underscores Shanghai’s increasing significance in the worldwide esports landscape.
This event signifies a milestone as it marks the first major tournament for Counter-Strike in Asia since its inception in 2013 and the first time the game’s highest level will be hosted on the continent since 1999.
Notably, Shanghai has previously hosted prestigious gaming events, including League of Legends in 2020 and Dota 2 in 2019, showcasing its commitment to fostering esports culture. Additionally, the city will host a Major for the game Valorant in the coming year.
China’s gaming spectrum
Other than esports, China is also known for its betting scene. Both esports and online betting games are part of the larger gaming industry in the country, sharing a digital and online nature.
Betting platforms such as bitcasino.io, are digital versions of traditional betting, offering virtual entertainment. They cater to a diverse audience seeking casual gaming experiences.
In recent years, the popularity of esports betting has surged, attracting numerous sportsbooks to venture into this dynamic field. However, as the industry matures, a significant transformation is underway.
Betting operators are moving away from unreliable, unofficial data and odds sources, opting instead to make substantial investments in official data streams. While esports focus on skill, strategy, and competition, betting is a game of chance associated with casino gaming.
Chinese-themed slot games are also popular. They often incorporate cultural elements such as traditional symbols, folklore, and aesthetics. These games aim to resonate with the cultural preferences of Chinese players, including themes related to luck, prosperity, and ancient traditions.
Sensing the potential, Scientific Games Corp, a global supplier of casino games and lottery services, is capitalizing on the success of its Chinese-themed slot products both within and outside Asia.
Ken Jolly, the group’s managing director for Asia, confirmed the expansion of game development labs globally, with a focus on Chinese-themed lines.
The Duo Fu Duo Cai was showcased on Scientific Games’ DualosX cabinet at MGS Entertainment Show 2019.
The platform features a 27-inch main screen, 27-inch top screen, 27-inch topper, and runs the new ArgOS operating system used globally in the group’s slots and electronic tables products.
Bitcoin and Tron reshape slot game payments
As for payment, the integration of digital currencies such as Bitcoin and Tron has introduced a new dimension to the gaming experience. Cryptocurrencies offer fast and secure transactions, reducing the traditional barriers associated with fiat currencies.
Bitcoin, as a decentralized digital currency, has found its way into online slot and betting platforms, providing an alternative payment method for players who prefer the security and anonymity offered by cryptocurrency transactions.
Moreover, the adoption of cryptocurrencies in online games aligns with the broader trend of incorporating innovative technologies into the gaming industry.
The utilization of blockchain technology has further enhanced the transparency and fairness of games.
Smart contracts on the Tron blockchain can be employed to ensure fair gaming, assuring players that the outcomes are not manipulated. This transparency contributes to building trust among the gaming community.
