Lessons from video games: How gamification is changing the online casino world

Interestingly, at least 70% of all online casinos use gamification elements in 2025. This trend that is the defining element of video gaming has already infiltrated the gambling industry and already is a big part of it.

The online casino world has been growing at a tremendous rate in the last couple of years. According to data by Grand View Research, the market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 11.9% between 2025 and 2030. With this massive growth comes development. Talk about flashy graphics, engaging features that keep players hooked and personalised offers. All these have been changing how gamblers interact with the industry.

Of all the evolutionary features of the online casino world, gamification is among the elements that are causing a huge shift for the industry. For example, if you sign up to Wheelz Casino or a similar casino, you will find daily challenges, progress bars and rewards according to the level you are at. The main goal is to increase player involvement and increase user retention.

Common gamification elements

The longer a player can stay engaged on a site, the more they are likely to place wagers. This is a strategy that online casinos use to keep their clients entertained for longer and make them feel like they are making progress. This is irrespective of whether they are winning any real money or not. The game stops from just being a game of luck but one of curiosity and competition. Here are some of the most common gamification features:

Level and experience points (XP)

You can get to higher levels and earn experience points in casino games through various ways, just like in video games. For example, when completing daily or weekly challenges or playing certain games, you are given the opportunity to level up and earn points. With these “level-ups” and points, you can unlock new gaming features, bonuses or rewards. Gaining XP gives players a sense of accomplishment even if they do not win all their bets.

Daily missions and quests

Various casinos offer daily or weekly missions. This may include a variety of tasks like playing a specific kind of game (like playing certain rounds of poker) or placing a certain number of wagers. By doing so, you can unlock a perk. With missions comes purpose. Instead of just placing wagers left right and center, you are working towards a particular goal. By completing such, you can gain perks like free spins or cashbacks.

Slot games with RPG elements

It is true that slots are random. But what if you could combine that with the character progression and narrative of role-playing games? These games often include features like loot systems, skill trees and character customisation, which allow players to build and evolve their character as they spin the reels.

A good example of this game is Dungeon: Immortal Evil by Evoplay Entertainment. In this game, players follow the journey of the hero as he battles the game's monsters and accumulates loot. Every spin is a journey through different territory battling new monsters on different levels. Throughout the game, the player follows the hero’s adventure through a third-person 3D camera. Such games keep players entertained and enthusiastic of what might happen in the next level.

Tournaments and leaderboards

There is nothing that catches the hearts of casino players like good competition. Imagine being at the top of the table. Apart from just winning cash prizes, human beings are intrigued by competition as they want to satisfy their ego. In that case, players play for long or spend more in order to climb ranks, especially when lucrative bonuses and prizes are at stake.

Loyalty programs and VIP perks

Most online casinos are designed in tier systems which keep players chasing for the next level. The more you play and the higher the deposits you make, the higher you go up the tier, and the better the incentives. For VIPs, you can get personal account managers, luxury gifts and bonuses. For example, for a VIP poker player, you can get tickets to go watch a live poker tournament and be accommodated in a luxury hotel.

How does gamification affect player behaviour?

After looking at the different gamification elements used by online casinos, it is not hard to tell what gamification does to players. For a start, the sense of progress makes players feel like they are achieving something. When you see your XP bar rising, you become more engaged, even though luck might not be on your side. Also, the random prizes and achievements trigger a dopamine response, which is equal to someone winning. In that case, casino gaming becomes a win-win situation, whether you are on the winning or losing side.

Just as mentioned above, competition is deeply embedded in the personalities of people. You don’t want to see someone else taking your spot, encouraging you to play some more. However, the most important thing is to keep it responsible in order to avoid problem gambling. The aim is to make gambling a bit more fun and social, unlike traditional betting, which can seem monotonous. If you enjoy a good challenge, then gamified casinos can be a great way of elevating your experience.