The world of gambling is changing fast, and today, iGaming plays a big role in that change. But what exactly is iGaming? How did it start, how does it work, and what does the future hold? Let’s put everything into plain, understandable terms. no confusing terms, no heavy jargon just the facts.
What Does iGaming Mean?
iGaming simply means playing games or placing bets online using the internet. It includes:
- Online casinos
- Sports betting
- Lotteries
- Poker
- Fantasy sports
- Bingo
- eSports betting
In short, if you’re using the internet to gamble or play for prizes, you’re part of the iGaming world.
The Two Sides of iGaming
- Narrow view: Only includes games of chance played online (like slots or roulette).
- Broad view: Includes all online gambling games of chance and games of skill like poker, chess, and backgammon.
Some say games of skill should be separate, but many experts count them as part of the iGaming family.
A Quick Look at How iGaming Started
- 1994: Antigua and Barbuda passed a law to allow online casino licenses.
- 1996: The Kahnawake Gaming Commission began giving out licenses too.
- 2005: The UK passed the Gambling Act and set up a legal framework.
- 2006: The US passed a law banning online gambling ads, but this changed later.
- 2013: SOFTSWISS entered the iGaming space with its online casino platform.
Today, iGaming is a huge industry with players and companies all over the world.
Who’s Involved in iGaming?
Here are the main people and businesses in the iGaming ecosystem:
- Operators: These are the online casinos or sportsbooks. They run the websites and offer games to players.
- Suppliers: They make the software (like platforms and odds engines) that powers the operator’s site.
- Game Providers: These are companies that create the actual games slots, card games, crash games, and more.
- Players: You! Anyone who plays games or bets money on an iGaming platform.
- Affiliates: These are marketers who promote gambling websites and earn commission when players join and play.
Rules and Regulation: Is iGaming Legal?
It depends on where you are.
- In Europe, many countries have legal and licensed iGaming markets like Germany, Sweden, the Netherlands, and Romania.
- In some places like Israel, online gambling is banned.
- Other countries, like the Netherlands before 2021, had no clear laws, but now regulate online casinos.
Each country makes its own decision. Some require a local license. Some don’t allow foreign operators. Others offer no rules at all.
How Big is iGaming Today?
The COVID-19 pandemic helped iGaming grow fast. While land-based casinos closed, online platforms became the only option. In 2021, the global iGaming market hit $70 billion. By 2025, it’s expected to cross $100 billion.
And here’s why people like online gambling more:
- You can play anywhere using your phone
- Fast internet makes games smoother
- Great designs, fun themes, and cool music
- More game choices than land casinos
What’s Next? Future Trends in iGaming
The iGaming industry keeps growing thanks to new technology. Here are some trends to watch:
1. Crypto and Blockchain
- Crypto casinos let players use Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other coins.
- Blockchain casinos offer full transparency no cheating, fast withdrawals, and total privacy.
- No banks or middlemen, so fees are very low.
2. Live Streaming
- Platforms like Kick (and previously Twitch) allow streamers to show live casino games.
- Streamers build communities and bring in viewers who later become players.
- Some platforms limit gambling ads, but casino streams are still very popular.
3. Gamification
To make games more fun, online casinos add:
- Levels and rewards
- Character choices
- Quests and missions
- Tournaments and leaderboards
This keeps players excited and loyal.
4. 5G and Game Graphics
- With 5G internet, games load faster and run better.
- Tools like HTML5 and Unity make smooth, beautiful games with cool 3D effects.