Japan Online Games Market and What the Future Looks Like
Japan has always been thought of as a leader when it comes to online gaming. Not only have they been leading the pack where technology and development are concerned, but the player industry is massive. Its software development industry was estimated to be worth an unbelievable $19.2 billion in 2018, and has continued to grow since that point.
But what about the casino gaming industry specifically? Again, it has been a huge revenue stream for the country, but does that trend look like it will continue? What does the future look like for the online casino games market? In short, it looks really good. But just how good? Let's take a closer look.
Japan is the third largest in-person casino market as of 2019.
A Multi-Billion Dollar In-Person Industry
When stacked up against other casino gaming industries, Japan is the third largest in-person casino market as of 2019. The gaming market was to pull in $8 billion last year, which still puts it behind Nevada, the home of Las Vegas which is in second place, and then Macau, which is so far ahead of all other industries there is likely no chance of catching up.
While these are the numbers for the in-person industry, it shows a clear interest in casino games in general and just how ingrained it is in the culture as a pastime and entertainment activity.
The Diversity Players are Craving
So, why exactly is the online gaming market proving to be such a huge hit in Japan? There are a number of reasons for it, but perhaps one of the most popular answers is the diversity it offers. When you walk into a brick and mortar casino, you are limited to the games it offers in that building. It still may offer a large selection, but when you compare that to the online world, there is a massive difference.
A typical casino may have hundreds of options, whereas the digital world of casinos offers players thousands of options thanks to the various sites they can visit.
Graphics and Gameplay Continue to Improve
Even when the online games first started being released for people to play, the graphics were impressive. But taking a look at what is being developed today, you can see that it's nothing short of mind-boggling. The graphics are sharp, gameplay is smooth and user-friendly, and players have an immersive experience meant to mimic the real thing.
And these developments aren't slowing down. Game developers are constantly bringing the latest and greatest to players, boasting new technology and features each time. It hooks players and draws them in, and also prompts them to keep coming back to these online casinos to see what's new.
That newness factor also plays into the trend. With a standard casino, the slot machines and games aren't likely going to be traded out on a regular basis. With an online casino, there are no space restrictions, so new games are added to the library regularly, with no sacrifices made to the existing options.
Create an Account and Enjoy Benefits
Players are also taking advantage of the ability to create an online account at a casino and then be treated to all kinds of bonuses such as being enrolled in a loyalty club. Often these online casinos feature welcome bonuses too in order to sweeten the pot and really draw people in. That could mean a match deposit, free spins, and various other incentives.
A great example is the Manekichi online casino, which has its own loyalty club that players can join by creating an account. Once that account is set up, simply log in each time you visit the casino to have access.
You can visit the online casinos any time of the day or night.
No Such Thing as Operating Hours
Online casinos also do away with restrictive operating hours. You can visit the online casinos any time of the day or night, play for a short time or a long time, and from any location. The majority of people are using their mobile devices to play, which means you need even need to be at home.
A Trend You Can Bet On
The whole thing with trends is that they take off fast, peak, and then drop. But the online casino gaming market in Japan, so far, is proving this typical model wrong. It took off fast of course, but there is no sign of it peaking or dropping off. Instead, this is a market that continues to evolve, expand its offerings and reach, and grow in popularity across the country and around the entire globe.
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