For decades, brick-and-mortar casinos have been keeping players happy and engaged with flashy lights, free-flowing drinks, and dizzying sounds. Now casino sites are using similar techniques to keep players spending for hours on end. We’ve compiled a guide to some of the tactics that expert players use to ensure they’re not lured into spending more than they planned for.
Sounds
If you’ve ever stepped foot in a land-based casino, you’ll be familiar with the traditional sounds of slot machines. The echoes of plinking coins, fast-spinning reels, and alarm bells are music to the ears of slots aficionados. Even players who avoid slots are likely familiar with these iconic casino sounds. Although real money slots don’t feature levers or real reels, developers have cleverly added these classic sounds to the games.
When it comes to announcing a win, online operators have ensured that players will be greeted with loud, celebratory music – no matter whether you win a few dollars or a couple thousand. A concept in psychology known as the ‘flow state’ comes to mind. The idea is that individuals become so absorbed in their current pursuit that they no longer register or recognize unrelated activity. This mental state can make it easier to lose track of time and overspend.
Casino sites use this concept to their advantage. They employ sound design to immerse you and keep you focused on the reels you’re spinning, waiting with great excitement for your next win. In this state, it’s easy to overspend (in terms of both money and time). Keep in mind that the more time you spend on a particular casino game, the likelier it is that the house will win.
Lights and Colors
Visual design plays just as big a role in keeping players engaged. They also wield flashing lights and specific colors to enthrall players. Most of us associate flashing lights with celebrations, big events, and happy memories. When you’re highly excited, you’re more inclined to let loose and have some fun. This is precisely the attitude that makes us want to play games and take risks.
You’ll notice that online card games use vibrant colors and animations during gameplay. Almost every casino game is designed to be visually appealing, regardless of genre. For example, live dealer rooms are beautifully decorated and intimate. The dealer will be dressed to the nines, either in a gorgeous, sparkling dress or a dapper suit and tie. It’s been scientifically proven that looking at certain colors has a direct impact on our mood, and casino sites know this well.
Bonus Deals
How often do you see bonus banners pop up on your screen when you visit an online casino? These notifications don’t stop there, though. Casino bonuses can offer real value—if you understand the terms and use them wisely. Bear in mind, however, that these bonuses often come with hefty rollover requirements that you will need to meet if you wish to withdraw any winnings. You’ll have to wager the bonus amount a number of times before you’re eligible to withdraw, which means that you may end up spending more than you initially had in mind.
Emails and Codes
Similarly, if you share your email address with a casino online, you’ll be the recipient of a number of bonus codes on a weekly, or even daily, basis. These emails often feature tempting offers, new game announcements, and direct links to deposit or play. This type of communication, although irritating at times, has more of an influence on our psyche than we know. A few persistent reminders can make us eager to try our hand at some new games or take advantage of that exciting bonus code.
Website design
Casino operators also use impressive site design to drive deposits and traffic. For online casinos, intuitive and eye-catching web design is a key part of player retention. A site’s interface, aesthetics, and navigational elements can go a long way in increasing the time spent on a page. Without a doubt, the longer you spend browsing a casino site, the more likely you are to select a title from the game library and start playing. The fact that operators often display your account balance alongside the games you’re playing also drives you to deposit more.
Fuss-Free Payment
Here’s one thing that give online casino sites an advantage over land-based casinos. It’s incredibly easy to switch from a game’s page to the deposit page and make a quick transfer to replenish your account. On mobile platforms, this process is even more streamlined. In contrast, land-based casinos make depositing slightly harder—adding a small friction point that may curb spending. It’s certainly one way to put you off that next poker game. Online, the fuss-free process is less likely to deter you from continuing your session.
Gamble Responsibly
When approached responsibly, online gambling can be fun and mentally stimulating. It’s been known to increase mental agility and improve your mood. Above all, you can actually make a profit – or take home a massive win – in the process.
By now, you know the key tactics casinos use to encourage spending. It’s always a good idea to keep an eye out for these techniques, and understand how they can impact your behavior. Spending responsibly is the key to having a profitable online gambling career.
If you enjoyed this article, be sure to check out our post on online casino myths.
