Casinos are an institution that’s been around for centuries, with their history tracing back to the 1600s. Even before that, there were dedicated gaming establishments in countries throughout the world. Over the course of so much time, they’ve had to undergo some major changes – none bigger than the shift to online.
The widespread adoption of the internet prompted many casinos to explore online gaming options, from digital table games to online Slots. In the space of just a couple of decades online casinos have expanded significantly, so it’s worth exploring just how they got to where they are today.
The start of online casinos
During the 1990s the world saw a significant shift as the internet really started to take off. This advancing technology encouraged casinos to explore the idea of online gaming, adapting classic games to this new format.
It wasn’t until 1994 that the first online casinos were officially established, following the passage of legislation that allowed for licences to be granted to companies operating online. Microgaming was the first pioneer to release functional online casino software that year.
Another important development was the creation of technology that allowed for secure online financial transactions. Online security was essential in paving the way for online casinos to evolve and flourish.
There had already been some digitalisation in the gaming sector before this, as slot machines had moved away from their mechanical origins to incorporate digital elements. Physical reels were replaced with digital ones shown on a video screen, allowing developers to increase the number of reels and experiment with elements like the paylines and graphics.
This also allowed Slots to make the transition to online play more easily, as they were already almost entirely digital in nature.
The growth of online casinos
As the technology advanced heading into the 2000s developers were able to deliver an improved gaming experience. The initial offerings of online casinos were limited in their graphical design, sound effects and visual flourishes. This changed as the graphics capabilities of devices improved and internet connectivity strengthened across the board.
Poker was one of the first games to find its online audience, but online casinos began to offer an increasingly wide variety of games over the course of the decade. Blackjack, Baccarat, Craps and Roulette all made the transition to online, benefitting from improving visuals and more powerful software.
Mobile and live gaming developments
As smartphones and tablets became more popular during the late 2000s and early 2010s this prompted another shift in the casino gaming landscape. This expanded the range of devices that players could access a game from, with casinos developing mobile-friendly websites and dedicated apps.
Live dealer games also emerged during this period, largely thanks to livestreaming technology and rising broadband speeds. These games brought together online gaming elements with real-time streams of live dealers who would run the game from a studio.
Through adaptation and innovation, online casinos kept up with the times and brought classic games to a new platform. As long as technology continues to develop, gaming looks set to follow suit.
Disclaimer:
CBD:
Qrius does not provide medical advice.
The Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1985 (NDPS Act) outlaws the recreational use of cannabis products in India. CBD oil, manufactured under a license issued by the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940, can be legally used in India for medicinal purposes only with a prescription, subject to specific conditions. Kindly refer to the legalities here.
The information on this website is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions regarding a medical condition or treatment. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have read on this website.
Gambling:
As per the Public Gambling Act of 1867, all Indian states, except Goa, Daman, and Sikkim, prohibit gambling. Land-based casinos are legalized in Goa and Daman under the Goa, Daman and Diu Public Gambling Act 1976. In Sikkim, land-based casinos, online gambling, and e-gaming (games of chance) are legalized under the Sikkim Online Gaming (Regulation) Rules 2009. Only some Indian states have legalized online/regular lotteries, subject to state laws. Refer to the legalities here. Horse racing and betting on horse racing, including online betting, is permitted only in licensed premises in select states. Refer to the 1996 Supreme Court judgment for more information.
This article does not endorse or express the views of Qrius and/or its staff.
Stay updated with all the insights.
Navigate news, 1 email day.
Subscribe to Qrius
