Casual games and their transformation into gambling products

1) Introduction

Casual games are mechanically simple products available to a wide audience that were originally created for entertainment without serious bets on the result. However, with the development of online gambling and the popularity of mobile platforms, many casual formats have received a "second life" in the form of gambling with the ability to win real money. This transformation has become an important trend, attracting both experienced players and a new audience.

2) Distinctive features of casual games

Simple mechanics: clear rules, no complex combinations.
Short game sessions: games last from a few seconds to a couple of minutes.
Wide availability: initially designed for smartphones, browsers and social networks.
Visual attractiveness: bright graphics and light interface.

3) Mechanisms of conversion to a gambling product

1. Add a rate system

The ability to make a cash bet before the start of the round is built into the basic mechanics.
Example: a regular match-3 turns into a "bet on a level result" with a payout coefficient.

2. Introducing Random Winnings (RNG)

The result depends partially or completely on the random number generator, which gives the game excitement.

3. Tournament monetization

Players compete among themselves, and the prize pool is formed from their bets.

4. Microtransactions with win output

Instead of in-game currency, real currency is used, with the ability to withdraw.

4) Examples of adapted formats

Match-3 with money bets: familiar puzzles, where passing the level gives a chance to multiply the bet.
Mini-golf with betting: victory depends on the accuracy of the shot and the course.
Casual arcades (Flappy Bird-style): the duration of the passage or the number of points determines the payout coefficient.
Time Attack games: The faster the player completes the task, the higher the win multiplier.

5) Impact on the industry

Attracting a new audience: people who have not previously played in casinos are trying their usual formats.
The rise of mobile gambling: casual mechanics are ideal for smartphones.
Increased engagement time: Players return due to the simplicity and repeatability of the scenarios.

6) Psychology of players in casual gambling formats

Low entry threshold: Lack of complex rules lowers the barrier to starting the game.
Habit effect: Players adapt more quickly to gambling elements in familiar mechanics.
Instant reward: A short cycle from bet to result encourages you to keep going.

7) Development prospects

Hybridization with AR and VR: transferring casual games to augmented or virtual reality.
Social formats: integration of multiplayer, team betting and PvP.
Mechanics with skill elements: increasing the role of the player's skill while maintaining a random factor.