Why Do Some Gamblers Still Prefer Land-Based Casinos Over Online Ones?

The “Night Out” Feeling and Social Element

A lot of people have historically incorporated going to a casino with a full night out. Perhaps go to a bar beforehand and then go to a casino with friends and make the most of the evening. It is a social gathering just like pretty much any other event. Going for a night out can take place in a lot of different locations and incorporate pretty much anything people are interested in, but casinos are definitely geared up for this and will welcome many groups of people.

Some even have dress codes and it is nice to get dressed up and go for a more formal night out rather than just playing some games on a phone or other device. Some people definitely prefer it, and casinos know this.

In-person casinos often have a lot of different facilities to allow for this, too. Some even have full restaurants on-site as well as bars. It is a bit like going to an event venue or a football match, there is likely to be other facilities there besides the “main event” in the form of the games. Casinos will view this as another form of revenue, too. Casino tourism as a large sector, just think about Las Vegas, in 2023 around 80% of visitors to the city who completed a survey said they gambled whilst in the city.

The social side of going to a casino in person is definitely one of the big plus points. Many people like to chat with the dealers and fulfil a social need as well as just playing some games. There’s always a lot of buzz at casinos and potential groups to socialise and mix with. Around tables playing games like blackjack there are a lot of chances to chat, mingle and increase the hype of each others wagers.

Poker Players May Prefer Eye Contact

There are poker players out there that would much rather sit and play in a room with their competition. The poker revolution that has happened since the internet has made the game bigger and also provided people with a lot of options for how they play as well as popularising the many forms of poker.

Body language and eye contact may play a part in poker. Some players try to read the body language of others and garner more about the hand they have or the style they use when they are playing the game. There are ways to analyse player behaviours online but not in the same way as looking them in the eye or trying to look for a “tell” in poker.

It is a different experience sitting around a table playing poker and some people would consider this the ultimate way for people to play. There’s certainly something about sitting at the historic poker tables and seeing the others that are playing the game. It gives you the sense of feeling like a VIP player. You can also consider the inverse of this point as a plus for online casinos, not everybody who wants to gamble does actually want that eye contact or body language as a tell. Introverted gamblers will likely seek and prefer the atmosphere and safety net of playing ‘anonymously’ in an online poker game.

The Glamour of Casinos

This ties closely with the other points about wanting to turn a casino game into a night out. Traditionally, casinos have been associated with glamorous nights on the town. Think about the way casino scenes are used in movies; it is usually to show a glamorous vibe with people suited and booted as well as quite grand settings. Locations like Vegas and Monaco have always been associated with casinos and they have grown to be glamorous locations (on and off the casino floor).

A lot of people like to surround themselves in these sorts of locations once in a while, especially for special occasions. Casinos are one of the locations left that people can go to and still experience an authentic experience of glamour. Some people choose to go while they are on holiday while others may just occasionally head to a local casino and soak up the atmosphere like they are James Bond in a new movie! A lot of casinos are in big and impressive buildings, too. It all helps add up to a glamorous location.

Watching Other Games

Casinos turn some games into a spectator event, too. You won’t want to go and stare at somebody’s slot machine while they are playing, but some people do like the fact that they can watch other games. Games like craps and blackjack can often get a little crowd gathering, not to mention the fact that poker tournaments potentially provide a chance for players to observe. Some people watch things like poker on television so the chance to watch tournaments and games unfold in person makes a big difference.

It isn’t always about playing, being able to view other games can be a big part of the casino experience. There’s also the chance to potentially watch games while you get used to them and understand how they are played. Casino brands are constantly adding new games for people to play including both slots and table games.

The Feeling of Security

The internet can be a lawless expanse in the eyes of those with less experience. The physical security and safety of a bricks-and-mortar casino can likely influence those who may be on the fence about where to play some slots or card games. Online casinos do have more options for payments and withdrawal options, but perhaps the overabundance of payment options can give some gamblers “too much choice”. With a land based casino you know what you’re in for, secure payments and physical security can ease gamers minds and give that peace of mind. Being able to physically see and hold the chips compared to image assets online also may be an added bonus for those seeking an experience rather than just feel like they’re clicking tiles and spinning virtual reels.