Gambling may be a pastime that has been around longer than anyone has been alive, however, it is enjoyed differently by those across different generational gaps.
Those who form part of the ‘Baby Boomers’ generation (born between 1946 and 1964) and the ‘Generation X’ period (1965 and 1980) will have a very different outlook toward gambling activities compared to those who were born as part of the ‘Millennials’ or ‘Generation Z’ eras (between 1981 and 2020).
Notable differences can be identified between each era, with how they approach the activity and ways it is consumed as entertainment. Technology has arguably played a key role, as have social influences, creating trends and attitudes that have made it an almost entirely different pastime that older generations recognize.
How have gambling behaviors and habits differed?
When comparing the way people gamble today to yesteryear, technology is perhaps the most immediately noticeable change. Today, players have greater accessibility to gambling activities and a level of convenience that was once unavailable.
Individuals can simply use their smartphones nowadays. They can download a real money casino app that provides them with instant access to their favorite casinos and play their favorite pokies from the touch of a button. In the past, players that formed the Baby Boomers or Gen Z eras would have had to go to a physical location. A trip to an actual casino establishment or a shop would have been the only option they would have had available to them.
Players that make up the Millennials or Gen Z eras have grown up with technology. They’ve been able to learn and grow with tech updates. They’ve essentially known no different, as they’ve always had the power to do things at their fingertips. Millennials are slightly different to Gen Z’ers, as they’ve largely grown up with the internet and smartphones being introduced as they get older. For Gen Z’ers, it’s something they’ve had available to them from birth.
While technology has arguably transformed and changed how gambling activities are enjoyed, player behaviors and trends may be very different now. Compared to those who enjoyed gambling as part of the older generations, it’s possible to suggest that gambling isn’t enjoyed in the same way.
Baby Boomers and Generation X are likely to prefer the social aspect of gambling games due to the traditions that they have enjoyed. As they would have had to play in a social setting like a casino, they may like to continue keeping those experiences going. The casino atmosphere is something that is enjoyed, while the ability to socialize while playing is something that is believed to be enjoyed. Although games are being developed to create authentic experiences – live casino options, they have struggled to capture it for traditionalists.
In addition, those born as part of the earlier generations can be described as being part of the eras where they experienced a period of economic growth and prosperity. They lived in a time where they had more disposable income than Millennials and Gen Z have ever had, with costs far from as high as they are today. As a result, they could afford to spend money on entertainment forms like gambling games. Today, people are having to save or are earning just enough to live.
Remaining Adaptable
Casinos – whether online or physical brick-and-mortar establishments – have had to ensure they focus on demographics and adapt where possible. As each generational era gets older and new ones become available, brands and businesses must remain focused on the trends that are being experienced.
It’s not hard to see that disposable income levels are dropping compared to the levels that Baby Boomers and Generation X may have had available in the past. At the same time, technology has changed the way that younger generations obtain entertainment.
The casino industry must ensure to stay on top of each of these factors. However, there is a fine line and a balancing act that needs to be managed. There are still many gamblers who prefer traditional experiences. Technology may have revolutionized the industry and entered players’ homes, but many like the social element casinos provide. Simultaneously, not everyone is tech-savvy and able to use a smartphone.
Older generations can be resistant to change or simply be scared of new technologies.
In addition, younger generations may not be interested if the latest tech isn’t being used, such as providing new immersive and authentic gaming experiences.
This juggling act is likely to become even more difficult in the future as newer generations become accessible to the casino industry. Still, remaining adaptable is arguably the biggest key to success.
