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Electronic Table Games Are All the Rage in the Gambling World

ETGs Are Projected to Generate $3.42 Billion Globally by 2031

Electronic Table Games Are All the Rage in the Gambling World
A socially-distanced electronic table game for roulette | Ethan Miller/Getty Images/AFP

Rising Popularity

Perhaps I watched too many James Bond films as a kid but, ask me about the allure of betting casinos, and Electronic Table Games (ETGs) wouldn’t crack my top three. Yet, if we look at recent casino news, ETGs are not only popular, they’re booming.

I’m no purist, so I won’t bash those who prefer these electronic games. We’re gamblers at heart, always looking for an edge. Speaking of edges, did you know video poker can have a house edge of less than 1% when played optimally?

So, while ETGs aren’t my style, I’m not above giving them a fair shake. After all, ETGs are digital versions of traditional casino table games such as baccarat or roulette.

What’s behind this explosion and are they better than the real thing? With AI enhancing gambling experiences, we might see constant improvement in this format. So let’s shuffle up and deal with the facts.

ETGs Are Cashing in Big Time

ETGs are projected to generate $3.42 billion globally by 2031, with a 7.09% annual growth rate. This isn’t a fluke. What started as a pandemic-era necessity due to labor shortages and gambling regulations that enforced social distancing, is now a permanent fixture on casino floors worldwide.

Asia was first to adopt ETGs years ago, but North America is catching up fast. Currently, almost 20% of casino floor space is dedicated to these machines. Casinos in Las Vegas and Macau are doubling down and starting to make ETGs the centerpiece of their offerings.

For operators, ETGs are like pocket aces. They need fewer staff, and labor costs are less. In an industry where efficiency is king, running multiple games like blackjack, roulette, or baccarat on one machine also saves floor space.

Players’ Jackpot

ETGs offer substantial advantages to gamblers. For starters, they’re budget-friendly.

Nowadays, finding a table to play blackjack for money with a $5 minimum can feel like searching for buried treasure. But ETGs offer bets as low as $1 or less in some venues.

These electronic games are also way faster. No waiting for dealers to shuffle or payout bets manually. ETGs deal instantly and manage chips digitally, so the action is quick and continuous.

Another bonus is convenience. Instead of exchanging stacks of chips at the cage, ETG players just cash out at ticket kiosks.

AI Puts Its Cards on the Table

An interesting subject is the integration of artificial intelligence in these electronic games.

Casinos use advanced AI algorithms to analyze player behavior, customize game experiences, and detect problem gambling. Companies like Konami and IGT are leading the charge, rolling out features like facial recognition and real-time data analysis.

Soon, features originally exclusive to online casino settings will be available at brick-and-mortar establishments.

Is Tradition at Risk?

Despite the benefits of ETGs, some casino enthusiasts worry they’ll kill off traditional tables. While electronic gaming offers speed, accessibility, and affordability, many players still love the real cash casino atmosphere of real cards, chips, and live dealers.

The truth is, whether you’re a traditionalist or an innovator, electronic table games are here to stay. They’re a practical, efficient, and fun alternative that’s too good for operators and players to ignore.

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