Dubbed ‘future intelligence’ by most publications, AI is an advancement in computer systems technology to perform tasks that require human intelligence. Technology has advanced in almost every sphere of life, including the online gaming industry.
AI or Artificial Intelligence is the next significant tech innovation taking the world by storm. There have been numerous tests of its capability in the motor industry. Self-driving cars are already becoming a thing, but AI must still be proven in most industries, such as health.
Most gambling enthusiasts have already called on the future of technology to integrate fully into the gambling industry. As it is, gaming providers already develop casino games using the technology. In online slot machines, for instance, the outcome is determined by Random Number Generators (RNGs), which are algorithms that use mathematics to calculate a probability.
How Can AI Work in an Online Casino?
The RNG algorithm is already considered an inferior form of artificial intelligence in online slots. It works by calculating and rendering the probability of numbers to display the reels differently.
However, AI-powered games will differ from an algorithm-only game which is based on a mathematical system. The idea behind this tech is that it will be an interactive system that harnesses a player’s data, including patterns and behaviour. This enables the system to profile customers, optimising a unique gaming experience.
It will improve odds-making and risk management, benefiting the player and the casino. AI will help curate odds for the players such that there is a balance between an enjoyable gaming experience and expected winnings. In casino games, AI can smartly crunch data in the wagering patterns of a player to curate specialised bonuses in online table games and E-games.
There are new formats of table games at casinos, such as Video Poker, where the dealer picks cards on a live stream, and you get to predict and stake on a hand. Once the dealer lays out the cards, you can check whether your anticipated hand is on display and win the bet.
Such gaming formats and real-life sporting events are out of the casino and sportsbook’s control. We highlight how AI will ensure players get value for money in such instances.
AI and Fair Play
One of the crucial considerations of an online casino is safety and fair games. To gain the confidence of players, top online casino sites will have their games audited by reputable third-party companies like eCOGRA or iTech Labs. However, that still isn’t enough and the many player reviews can paint a different picture.
Employing AI means that casinos will have up-to-date gameplay information safeguarded and catalogued for future reference. It will detect algorithm patterns to highlight irregularities in a game showcasing foul play. This will help promote fair play, especially in games like Live and Video Poker, Baccarat, and Blackjack, where casinos can manipulate cards.
Consequently, AI will also monitor player behaviour to ensure they are not defrauding the casino.
AI on Sporting Odds
Since most modern-day casinos also incorporate a sportsbook, it is also essential to detail the role of AI on odds. Most, if not all, oddsmakers use AI to curate the odds used in a sportsbook.
Patterns and field activities in sports are only sometimes as they seem because humans can’t always understand everything happening before us. In a sporting event, for instance, a team might play well and lose the game.
As a fan or spectator, especially in tennis, basketball, or soccer, your focus is on the ball rather than the spaces covered, the length of the field etc.
On the other hand, AI interprets large data, especially that which is overlooked by a spectator. In a soccer game, it will analyse data such as the speed and height of the players for all 22 players on the field simultaneously.
The complexity of such aspects of a sports game helps the AI determine odds for a win-draw-loss bet and opens other markets such as live bets, number of yellow/red cards, corners, etc. This is how AI takes over the role of risk management by smartly curating odds for bettors.
Conclusion
AI is expected to make online gaming a more entertaining experience overall. iGamers are particularly excited about the fair play advantage, which will improve their margins and cash wins. With more AI security checks, gambling is will be much safer for players and the casinos as well.
About two decades ago, gambling transitioned from brick-and-mortar casinos to online. It seems inevitable that algorithm-based games will switch to AI-powered games one day.
David Prior
David Prior is the editor of Today News, responsible for the overall editorial strategy. He is an NCTJ-qualified journalist with over 20 years’ experience, and is also editor of the award-winning hyperlocal news title Altrincham Today. His LinkedIn profile is here.
