What Retro Gamers Can Teach Modern Casino Players

At the time when there was no way to save and load games, and when hardware capabilities were very limited, the design philosophy was drastically different. Games were significantly shorter and, as a result, harder, as it was the only way to extend 45 minutes of content into several days.  So, if there is one thing that defines retro games, it’s this trial-and-error dynamic that had you going over the same sections a dozen times. 

This focus on punishing gameplay is what makes retro titles appealing, and teaching players patience was one of the main benefits of video games. This is why development studios are often inspired by this design philosophy and use it when creating new releases. So, it was only a matter of time before people started thinking - Is it possible to combine casino gaming with retro games, and if this approach could work? Let’s discuss. 

Strategy Over Instant Gratification

One of the main complaints retro gamers have when playing video games released by AAA studios has to do with instant gratification. The progression is fast-paced, and players are often showered with rewards from the get-go, so that they are kept focused. The logic behind it is that you should award your players even for a shorter playing session, so that it doesn’t feel like a waste of time. 

In retro games, there was no need for these rewards because the knowledge of what was to come was a reward on its own. Remembering enemy or trap placement and how to overcome those challenges was precious, as it allowed you to progress further. So, older players who were never conditioned by instant gratification design actually crave this type of content. 

We actually see these same concepts in poker and blackjack. These games allow you to reflect on your past mistakes, adjust your strategy, and perform better. In other words, retro design and gambling already have some similarities. 

Mastering the Basics First

Another important characteristic of retro games is that they didn’t hold your hand. You had to master the basics on your own in order to move forward. In a way, the tutorial itself was a meaningful chunk of content, not something players can just skip, or devs should add for accessibility reasons.  

Those who play at online casinos in Canada use a similar approach. They test the game in demo mode with an imaginary budget to see how it plays, how often they win, and how much their budget would last at a specific bet limit. They can also get acquainted with the casino itself by relying on online casino real money reviews that list out notable features, support banking options, available games, etc. Knowing these things in advance can save you time and money, as you can pick a reputable site with bonuses that correspond to your game and spending preferences. 

Embracing Challenge and Skill

Now, is it possible for casinos to cater to modern gamers by focusing on content that rewards skill? Well, yes and no. Let’s start off by saying that in certain Vegas resorts there are arcades that have been turned into gambling entertainment for retro players casino goers. We are talking about Pac-Man Battle Royale which combines the iconic Pac-Man with the battle royale genre that’s present in many modern game releases. 

The same logic can be applied to other old game online titles if developers use a matchmaking feature. The players wouldn’t compete against the house, but rather against other players, and the casino would take a cut for hosting these matches, the same way they make money from poker. However, it doesn’t need to stop here, because the tech for going a step further and making a single-player retro gaming experience is possible.

Procedurally Generated Retro Experience

Many modern online games use procedurally generated content to extend their longevity and keep the experience fresh. For example, when a player enters a dungeon, the whole map, enemy placement, traps, and loot become randomized. So, it’s impossible to tell what to expect and how difficult the run will be, because there are many unknowns.   

So, all casinos have to do is figure out how stakes and payouts will work in such an environment. Do players get random cash drops by defeating enemies?  Maybe they need to complete the level within a certain time limit, and based on their performance, the returns are calculated? It’s still a skill-based play, but it prevents players from learning the level by heart and blitzing through it, since the whole stage is randomized or procedurally generated.  At the same time, learning the mechanics and basics will definitely improve their odds of overcoming the challenges.