Traditional gambling giving way to interactive virtual games

Rendering of laptop computer that resembles a slot machine.

By Will DeMarco ’18

The internet is altering the gambling landscape. Traditional forms, such as scratch-off lotto tickets, are slowly being phased out in favor of more interactive, skill-based virtual games.

What’s more, gambling is becoming more accessible on computers, smartphone apps, and video games.

As the digital realm gives a flurry of new avenues for gamblers, lawmakers grapple with the challenges posed by emerging technology and an evolving scientific understanding of gambling addiction.

“Is paying real-world money to open up ‘loot boxes’ for a chance at obtaining rewards within a video game considered gambling? What about earning virtual points on an online poker site?

The staples of contemporary gambling — slot machines, card games, craps tables — may be considered primitive technology soon, says Kahlil Philander, an assistant professor of hospitality business management at WSU Everett with an expertise in the economic impacts and public policy of gambling.

See the full story at the Washington State Magazine website.

Next Story

Recent News

Aging societies more vulnerable to collapse

Societies and political structures, like the humans they serve, appear to become more fragile as they age, according to an analysis of hundreds of pre-modern societies.

Insider will return Monday, Nov. 27

WSU Insider is taking a break to join with the rest of the university community in celebrating the Thanksgiving holiday. We’ll be back the morning of Nov. 27 with fresh posts and all the latest WSU information.

Charting a clear path forward for WSU Athletics

Statement from WSU President Kirk Schulz and Director of Athletics Pat Chun about today’s ruling affirming that the future of the Pac‑12 should be determined by the members who remain in the conference rather than those who are leaving.

Marshall Scholar finalist Katy Ayers explores fungi

WSU senior Katy Ayers, a bioengineering major minoring in biochemistry and mathematics, is the latest finalist for a Marshall Scholarship to study in the United Kingdom.