While casinos in physical form have been around for decades, online casinos are still relatively recent. In fact. they have only been around since the early 1990s — unsurprising, as that's when the internet really began to take off.
In these early days, games were few and far between. What slots were on offer were very similar to physical slot machines in terms of layout, design and even payouts. This wasn't for too long though, as very quickly, video slots were developed introducing new and innovative game mechanics. Back then, game variety was also rather limited. Virtual table games were almost nonexistent; an emphasis on slots. Now, new games and improved game mechanics are flying thick and fast. These changes were mainly thanks to the development in technology, faster internet speeds as well as the growing popularity of online gaming.
In this article, we will take a look at the history of online casinos, important dates, gaming providers, licences and payment options and how they have changed over the years. Read on to find out more.
How Casinos Have Developed
Since their inception in the mid-1990s, online casinos and their games have developed significantly. The first online casino games were basic and limited in terms of graphics, sound, and gameplay. They were mainly text-based and required players to download software.
However, thanks to the introduction of Flash technology in the early 2000s, online gaming offered more advanced graphics and animations. This feature led to more complex online casino games with a more immersive gameplay experience. Also, with the rise of smartphones and tablets, online casino games became available on mobile devices. This allowed players to access their favourite games from anywhere at all times.
Card Games Can Be Played Online
Important Dates
Since the mid-1990s, the online casino world has undergone significant changes. Here are some of the most important dates that have helped shape the history and development of online casinos.
- 1994 - Antigua and Barbuda opened its borders to gambling business. This Caribbean nation was the first country in the world to regulate online gambling.
- 1994 - Microgaming launched the first online casino in 1996, The Gaming Club.
- 1996 - The Kahnawake Gaming Commission became the first regulatory body for online gambling.
- 1998 - Planet Poker became the first online poker room.
- 2001 - The Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) was established. It is responsible for overseeing all forms of gaming in Malta, including online gaming, casinos, lotteries, and sports betting. Today, it is one of the leading gaming regulators. The MGA enforces strict standards for player protection, including measures to prevent underage gambling and problem gambling.
- 2005 - The British government passed the Gambling Act, the most liberal gambling law in Europe.
- 2006 - The Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act (UIGEA) was passed in the United States. This legislation made it illegal for banks and financial institutions to process transactions related to online gambling.
- 2007 - Under the Gambling Act 2005, the UKGC (United Kingdom Gambling Commission) launched. The UKGC is responsible for regulating commercial gambling, ensuring that all play is fair.
- 2011 - Black Friday, the US Department of Justice seized the domains of several major online poker sites, including PokerStars and Full Tilt Poker, on charges of illegal gambling and money laundering.
- 2013 - After Nevada and Delaware, the US state of New Jersey legalized online gambling
- 2018 - The US Supreme Court overturned the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA). This paved the way for individual states to regulate sports betting.
- 2020 - Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, more people had to stay at home and online gambling became one of the most popular forms of entertainment. This led to record revenues for many online casinos and sportsbooks.
MGA One Of The Most Respected Licences
Gaming Licences
There are several important online gaming licences that operators should obtain to ensure the legality and legitimacy of their gaming operations. Some of the most important include:
- Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) - Recognized as one of the most respected online gaming licences in the gaming industry, the MGA is a reputable, regulatory body that is responsible for issuing gaming licences in Malta.
- United Kingdom Gambling Commission (UKGC) - Any operator offering online gaming services to UK residents must obtain a licence from the UKGC. This regulatory body is responsible for overseeing all gambling activities in the UK.
- AGCO (Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario)- This is the regulatory agency responsible for administering the gaming industry in Ontario, Canada. It is responsible for issuing lottery licences, charitable gaming licences, casino licences, and horse racing licences.
- Gibraltar Gambling Commission - This is another well-respected regulatory body that is in charge of issuing licences to online gaming operators in Gibraltar.
Alderney Gambling Control Commission (AGCC) - The AGCC is a reputable regulatory body that is responsible for issuing gaming licences in Alderney, a British Crown dependency.
The History Of Gaming Providers
Software developers date back to the mid-1990s when the first online casinos were launched. In that period, the technology behind online casinos was comparatively new. That meant gaming providers had to work hard to create games that were both entertaining and secure. Today, each developer has unique offerings and features and strives to produce top-notch games.
Microgaming (now Games Global)
Launched in 1994, Microgaming is one of the most influential software developers. It was the first company to develop online casino software, and over the years, it has established itself as a leading player in the industry. Not only does Microgaming create some of the most popular games today, but it also developed some of the first security protocols for online transactions.
The company developed sophisticated fraud detection and prevention systems to detect and prevent fraudulent activities at online casinos. These systems can identify suspicious patterns of behaviour and alert casino operators, who can then act accordingly. It has also developed responsible gaming tools to promote safe gaming. This includes offering players deposit amounts, self-exclusion options and external help.
Playtech
This is another leading developer with a long track record of delivering high-quality products to both players and operators. Founded in 1999, the Playtech portfolio boasts hundreds of games, ranging from classic slots and video slots to table games like roulette, blackjack, and baccarat. The company also offers a range of progressive jackpot slots and more. Today, some leading casinos in the online gaming industry employ Playtech's software while offering its products in multiple languages and currencies.
NetEnt
Launched in 1996, NetEnt is a software provider that specializes in creating high-quality online casino games with cutting-edge graphics and innovative features. NetEnt offers an immersive gaming experience with a wide range of casino games. Some of its most popular games are Gonzo's Quest, Starburst, and Jack and the Beanstalk. It also offers live dealer games and popular table games like blackjack, roulette, baccarat and casino hold 'em. Additionally, NetEnt's live dealer games feature live dealers and allow players to interact with each other in real-time.
Evolution Gaming
Founded in 2006, Evolution Gaming is a leading software provider that specializes in live dealer games. The company provides online casinos with a variety of live dealer games, including blackjack, roulette, baccarat, and poker, as well as unique games such as Dream Catcher and Lightning Roulette. These games are streamed in real-time to players around the world, providing an immersive and interactive gaming experience.
Unique game mechanics
It's not just the type of games that have improved, but also what occurs within more traditional games such as slots. Back in the day there was a single payline. Nowadays, you can get in the millions thanks to unique game mechanics such as the Megaways reel which adds a whole new dynamic to gameplay. Other innovative mechanics include cluster reels, cascading reels and so much more. These days, it's imperative for players to check out exactly what game functions are available, as there's inevitably something new to enjoy.
VR Games
More recently, casinos have integrated virtual reality technology. This allows players to immerse themselves in a virtual casino environment while interacting with other players in real-time. By donning a headset, players can now feel like they are in the casino lobby or floor, even more so than with live dealer games.
Online Gambling Has Seen Significant Growth
Final Thoughts
Among the numerous factors that contribute to the growth of online casinos, mobile gaming and the vast selection of online payments also play their part. The gambling industry has seen significant growth in recent years and is expected to reach over $260 billion globally in 2027.
Online casinos offer a safe and secure gaming environment, and casinos with a valid licence provide advanced security measures. This ensures that players' personal and financial data is safe. Players can also look forward to an array of bonuses and promotions as well as the latest games.
