Since virtual reality (VR) headsets such as Samsung Gear, HTC Vive and the Oculus Rift hit the market this year, consumers’ expectations have been growing. Taking a VR test drive, going on a virtual tour of the house you’d like to buy or climbing a virtual Everest are only a few examples of what’s possible if you own a headset.
In the world of gaming, the new technology has been greatly anticipated by users, for instance with VR first-person-shooter games adding a good dose of adrenaline to gameplay. In the world of iGaming, things are no different: this article on bgo about the future of online poker highlights just some of the new features players will be able to enjoy thanks to virtual reality.
According to the article, immersion will probably be the most important aspect for poker players. For instance, during a live tournament multiple cameras will get players up close to the action as it unfolds and they will be able to interact with the pros like never before. Going Back to the Art of Reading Tells
For instance, players will be able to read the all-important “tells” (body signals and facial expressions), as well as chat with their opponents to really get to know who they are potentially up against and evaluate their bluff.
Bye-Bye Shyness.
The internet has opened new possibilities for people who have been shy all their life or don’t have the courage to interact with others. When it comes to gaming especially, it can be such an intimidating experience plonking yourself on a table of strangers in a casino with chips in your hand, ready to bet money.
Online gaming has already allowed new players to lose this fear thanks to the anonymity given by the screen. VR will take this a step further as there is much less commitment and pressure to pop on a VR headset for a short time or players can dip in and out if needed.
And that’s not all. As Jeffrey Lande from Lucky VR explains in the bgo article, VR will let players come up and close to the pros by taking part in prestigious tournaments such as the World Series of Poker from the comfort of their home. They’ll be able to interact with fans, glean tips from the pros and may even get a chance to chat with them “in person”.
The Future Is Already Here
We’ve just looked at the example of casino games here, but VR is also set to change the way punters bet on their favorite team. A well-integrated social element means that fans will be able to meet and exchange tips and even ride a virtual horse as if they were the jockey. Like with poker, VR is set to revolutionize fantasy sports, turning them into a more accessible hobby.
Credit: Staff Writer
