If you are interested in online gambling, you may have come across the terms eGaming and iGaming. But what do they mean and how are they different? In this article, we will explain the definitions, history, and current trends of eGaming and iGaming, as well as provide some tips on how to enjoy them safely and responsibly.
What is eGaming?
eGaming is a broad term that covers any form of electronic gaming that does not involve real money wagering. This includes video games, online games, mobile games, eSports, and virtual reality games. eGaming is a popular form of entertainment that attracts millions of players worldwide. According to Statista, the global eGaming market was worth $159.3 billion in 2020 and is expected to grow to $200 billion by 2023.
What is iGaming?
iGaming is a subset of eGaming that involves real money wagering on the outcome of a game or event. This includes online casinos, online poker, online bingo, online lottery, online sports betting, and online fantasy sports. iGaming is a lucrative industry that generates billions of dollars in revenue every year. According to Grand View Research, the global iGaming market was worth $66.7 billion in 2020 and is projected to reach $127.3 billion by 2027.
The Current Trends of eGaming And iGaming
The current trends of eGaming and iGaming are influenced by the rapid advancement of technology and the changing preferences of consumers. Some of the most notable trends are:
Mobile Gaming
Mobile gaming is the fastest-growing segment of eGaming and iGaming, as more people use smartphones and tablets to play games and gamble online. According to Newzoo, mobile gaming accounted for 49% of the global eGaming revenue in 2020 and is expected to reach 56% by 2024.
Similarly, according to Juniper Research, mobile gaming accounted for 41% of the global iGaming revenue in 2019 and is expected to reach 58% by 2024. In short, the statistics are in favor of further expansion of mobile gaming.
Live Gaming
Live gaming is a popular feature of eGaming and iGaming, as it allows players to interact with real dealers, hosts, and other players in real time. Live gaming enhances the realism, immersion, and social aspects of online gaming and gambling. According to Technavio, the global live eGaming market was worth $6.8 billion in 2019 and is expected to grow to $14.4 billion by 2024. According to Research and Markets, the global live iGaming market was worth $3.9 billion in 2019 and is expected to grow to $8.6 billion by 2025.
Blockchain Gaming
Blockchain gaming is an emerging trend of eGaming and iGaming, as it uses blockchain technology to create decentralized, transparent, and secure gaming platforms and systems. Blockchain gaming can offer benefits such as faster transactions, lower fees, greater fairness, and more ownership for players. According to MarketsandMarkets, the global blockchain eGaming market was worth $86 million in 2019 and is expected to grow to $287 million by 2024. According to Coherent Market Insights, the global blockchain iGaming market was worth $58 million in 2019 and is expected to grow to $153 million by 2027.
How To Enjoy Egaming And Igaming Safely And Responsibly
eGaming and iGaming can be fun and rewarding activities, but they also come with some risks and challenges. Therefore, it is important to enjoy them safely and responsibly. Here are some tips on how to do so:
- Choose reputable and licensed eGaming and iGaming platforms: That way, you can ascertain that they offer high-quality games, fair payouts, and secure transactions. You can also check the reviews, ratings, and credentials of different platforms before signing up with them.
- Set a budget and limit for your eGaming and iGaming spending and stick to it: Do not gamble more than you can afford to lose or chase your losses. To help, you can use tools such as self-exclusion, deposit limits, and time-outs to help you control your gambling behavior.
- Play for fun and entertainment, not for money or addiction: Do not gamble when you are stressed, depressed, or under the influence of alcohol or drugs. You can seek help from professional organizations such as GamCare, Gamblers Anonymous, or BeGambleAware if you have a gambling problem or know someone who does.
Conclusion
eGaming and iGaming are two related but distinct forms of online gaming that offer different experiences and opportunities for players. eGaming covers any form of electronic gaming that does not involve real money wagering, while iGaming covers any form of online gambling that involves real money wagering. Both eGaming and iGaming have a long history and a bright future, as they are influenced by the latest technologies and trends.