The popularity of online gaming is continuing to grow in Australia, with about sixty-eight per cent of the population playing video games online. On average, Australians spend around eighty-eight minutes each day playing games online. The average age of the players has risen to thirty-three, and the proportion of female players has increased to almost half, with forty-seven per cent.
Online games offer players the convenience of playing anytime they like, from the comfort of their own home, providing the excitement of gambling without the travel and cost involved, in visiting a land-based casino. Many popular games can also be played on mobile devices like smartphones and tablets. Among the casino games available online are card games, table games and pokies.
Top-rated is multiplayer games, which allow participants to play with, or against, other people from all corners of the world. These games offer complex storylines and advanced graphics, as well as opportunities to create online communities, and form friendships.
Online slots, or pokies, are the most popular choice for a majority of players. These are available in a high number of different themes and options. They are easy to learn, and there is no particular skill required. There are usually clear instructions, and any controls are clearly labelled, which allows anyone new to the game to be playing within minutes. Pokies are great fun and replicate a casino experience. Some of the most played pokies are currently:
- Player Unknown’s Battlegrounds
- Iron Man 2
- X-Men
- Counter-Strike: Global Offensive
- Dota 2
- Overwatch
Although online gaming is a lot of fun, and a great pastime, there is also a risk of viruses and malware. Players undoubtedly need to be aware of this and make sure that they have up to date security and virus protection installed on their device so that their sensitive, private information and valuable files are protected.