When you are looking to play on a big budget, quality Triple-A video games are at the top of the tree. With these types of games, players get to immerse themselves in the action, plus get to enjoy some side games, too. It is the captivating graphics, incredible storylines, and amazing narratives that pull in millions of players.

What has started to happen over the last few years is that these games incorporate gambling mini-games within them. With this type of collaboration between AAA games and gambling online, what are the implications for the gaming community?

Non-GamStop Casino Activities You Can Find in AAA Video Games

Top-Rated AAA Games

The games listed below have added gambling elements as a side game to add another dimension to the gaming experience. Some of the titles we are about to list are available at no GamStop CasinoGap sites, however, these types of establishments are suitable for players who have “healthy” relationships with gambling.

Watch Dogs 2

Ubisoft created an unforgettable hacking-themed game set in San Francisco.  Marcus Holloway is the lead character and the one player’s control. There are many missions and adventures within this gaming experience, as well as some fabulous mini-games, including slots and poker games. Players can enjoy gambling in this urban setting with high-quality graphics.

Red Dead Redemption 2

You will find several gambling opportunities throughout this Rockstar-created game. If you like going back in time, then Red Dead Redemption is great. It is set in the 1890s when bounty hunters are chasing two outlaws. It is an exciting gaming experience that involves blackjack, dominoes, and poker. Red Dead Redemption offers one of the most close-to-real casino experiences in video games. These types of side games make it possible to win large rewards. 

Grand Theft Auto V

This is a game developed by Rockstar North, and it features a casino where players can enjoy a host of gambling activities, including roulette, poker, and slots. Gamblers can use GTA dollars for all betting, which is a great touch to the realism within the gaming experience. 

The Witcher 3 Wild Hunt

The game takes place in a fantasy world based on Slavic mythology. In this game, players can play Gwent, which is a card game. This game became so popular and played that it was released as a game on its own. Playing Gwent, players must think strategically as it delivers a realistic gambling experience. 

Similarities Between Gaming and Gambling

The reward system is very similar when you are playing both types of games online, and is one of the pillars of the connection between video games and gambling. There is nothing like the thrill of winning, whether that is in gaming, where you can win virtual currency or level progression, or gambling, where you win real money. The reward system is something players enjoy. Another similarity between these types of activities is that they both have a psychological impact. If you are winning money at blackjack or going through the stages in The Witcher, the excitement and psychological effects are similar. Both types of games offer elements of luck and strategy. If you want to succeed in either game, luck and skill are involved. 

Differences

There are some distinct differences between gambling and gaming online. The first and most obvious is the monetary factor. Gaming will require some funds to play the game, but it is very different from the amount of money involved in gambling online. Gaming offers a much lower financial risk than gambling. If we take a look at the regulations involved with gambling activities, we can see that they are very strict and regulated. In-game gambling is not so heavily regulated, so there is a chance for younger players to gamble without protection. Gambling offers players convenience as they can get involved with the game with little to no barriers. This is totally different from online casinos, where verification is required. 

Possible Implications 

Because more AAA games are including gambling activities within them, there are some implications:

  • Possible Addiction 

It is possible players can get into negative gaming habits, such as excessive play and spending too much time and money playing. 

  • Normalisation of Gambling

With more AAA games involving gambling activities, it has the power to influence younger players into gambling. This can lead to problem gambling and negative habits. 

  • Economic Concerns 

Loot boxes can potentially be dangerous to a younger audience as they can lead to big spending. There is debate on whether loot boxes and microtransactions should be regulated.

Summary

Besides video games that simulate casino activities, the intersection of AAA games and casino gambling is not a simple issue. There are many video games favoured by casino players who say that mixing these two popular pastimes together adds to the gaming experience and excitement. But there are those who say it is potentially dangerous and can lead to issues. The gaming industry will continue to evolve, so it is critical for developers to collaborate with regulators to protect players. It is important that when players escape reality into the gaming world, they are safe and not in a more dangerous place.