The metaverse is a term used to describe a computer-generated 3D world that can be accessed from any decent Wi-Fi/internet-enabled desktop computer, laptop, smartphone or tablet.
However, in my personal experience, the best way to enter a metaverse and truly appreciate everything it has to offer is to do so using a VR (virtual reality) headset or AR (augmented reality) device.
On this page, I will be exploring how this highly sophisticated technology will shape the iGaming industry over the coming years, changing the face of online casinos forever and completely pushing the boundaries of what is possible in this global multi-billion dollar industry.
What are the most popular examples of metaverses, and what equipment do I need to access them?
One of the most popular metaverses out there today, often referred to as the pioneer of the metaverse, is Roblox, which some of you may already be familiar with by now and boasts around 59 million daily users.
I’m not particularly keen on this one, but I have explored several centralized and decentralized metaverses, and some of my favourite platforms that you might also like to try are the following:
- Decentraland
- Axie Infinity
- Second Life
- Fortnite
- Upland
- Sandbox
- Horizon Worlds
- Somnium Space
Most people, myself included, enter these stunning virtual worlds to play the games available on these platforms, but not all of them are focused on being able to play.
You can also access one or more of these metaverses to work, attend musical concerts, travel the world and see iconic landmarks or one of the seven wonders, socialize with friends and other people you meet, shop, learn, and even buy real estate.
As mentioned, to access the metaverse, you ideally need a PC or mobile device, or better, a VR/AR device, so you can truly immerse yourself in any 3D world you enter. Using a VR device leads to a far more engaging experience. Projection devices/screens are also a great way to experience the metaverse.
It also helps to have a responsive, intuitive, user-friendly and secure web browser. You will also need a trusted and topped-up online payment method, such as a digital wallet, mobile wallet, credit or debit card or crypto wallet, to make payments at the virtual checkout/cashier section using Bitcoin or other cryptocurrencies.
Users must create a free account to enter their chosen metaverse and will need to select a digital avatar that will represent their physical self when entering a metaverse, plus a stable Wi-Fi/internet connection is advisable. You may also need to download and install the required software onto your chosen device to gain full access to the metaverse.
Each metaverse has defining features and technology and offers a unique experience. Most are cross-platform, easy to access, and have unique virtual economies. They are great for social interaction and typically have a large variety of games to play.
Metaverses are essentially persistent, digitally drafted worlds driven by key ground-breaking technologies, such as artificial intelligence and its many applications and tools (e.g., machine learning and generative AI), web3, and blockchain technology.
Besides fully immersive 3D experiences, the metaverse also includes 2D and projected 3D experiences, and some of today’s biggest corporations backing this technology are Apple, Microsoft, Google, and Facebook, to name a few.
Will metaverse technology revolutionize websites that currently offer classic favourites like blackjack, roulette, and online fruit machines?
According to the experts, and I agree with many of them, metaverse technology will completely revolutionize online casinos over the coming years.
Operators and software developers are already working closely with some of the industry’s biggest brands to bring their content to these unique worlds, which will completely transform how people like me interact with these websites and play our favourite content.
Metaverse worlds with thousands of feature-rich, computer-generated online fruit machines, poker, blackjack, poker, video poker, keno, bingo, slingo, craps, and baccarat, which can be accessed using VR headsets, would completely transform traditional casino sites into something utterly unique and extraordinary.
The technology would take hit titles like MONOPOLY Live from Evolution, Buffalo Blitz Live from Playtech, and Sweet Bonanza Candyland Live from Pragmatic Play to unimaginable new heights, unlocking the true potential of what is possible in this industry.
Many of today’s safest sites that may one day be accessible via a unique metaverse world are currently featured on the world-famous AskGamblers UK review site. Fortunately, they also have a frequently updated list compiled by experts that show the blacklisted sites that must be avoided at all costs.
Industry leaders predict that when the safest sites enter the metaverse realm for the first time, it will not only create a more immersive experience but also boost real-time interaction, increase accessibility, include cryptocurrency integration and blockchain technology, and allow for a more socially interactive experience with other like-minded players.
Final thoughts
Metaverse technology and the iGaming industry are both undergoing significant transformation, and the current trends suggest that our favourite sites could very well become metaverse-based quicker than expected.
Anyone who is of legal age to play on sites like this is strongly urged to gamble responsibly and set things like session time reminders or win/loss limits. I also find that setting a weekly deposit limit massively helps me remain within my initial spending budget.
Companies continue to collaborate and develop crucial new technologies that will one day make metaverse betting sites a reality, and I think I’m not alone when I say that I can’t wait for the day when I can sit down and play my favourite fruitys and live dealer titles from within a secure metaverse.
Until that day comes, though, we will just have to make do with traditional websites using PCs and mobile devices.