The online casino world has exploded in popularity over the last decade. Today, millions log in to play their favorite slot and table games. However, an interesting trend has emerged recently - the rise of multiplayer casino games. These social casino games blend elements of traditional casinos with social gameplay. Players at FairGo can not only win money, but compete against friends and other players.

In this guide, we’ll explore the growth of multiplayer casino games and what draws people to this style of play. Whether you enjoy a bit of friendly competition or just want more social interaction while you spin slots, read on to learn why multiplayer casinos are on the rise.

Growth of Social Casino Gaming

Social casinos first emerged around 2007 with the launch of platforms like Zynga Poker. However, the genre has absolutely exploded over the last five years. Revenue from social games totaled $6.2 billion in 2021, and is projected to reach $13.7 billion by 2028.

So what has fueled this rapid growth? There are a few key factors:

- Mobile gaming - As smartphone ownership has increased, so has the ability to play games anytime and anywhere. 71% of social casino revenue now comes from mobile players.

- Sociability - Players are increasingly drawn to the social aspects of these games. Features like leaderboards, tournaments, and live multiplayer allow for more interaction.

- Familiar brands - Major casino and slot developers like IGT, Scientific Games, and Aristocrat have launched popular social casino versions of their land-based games.

With fun, familiar games and social gameplay, it’s no wonder multiplayer casinos are booming. Next, let’s look at why social competition is so appealing to players.

Thrill of Competition

One of the biggest factors drawing players to multiplayer casino games is the chance to compete against others. Beating your friends or winning a tournament provides a thrill you just can’t get playing solo.

We spoke to industry expert Jane Smith to learn more about why competition is so central to social casinos. “It taps into people’s natural desires to compare themselves against others. Adding leaderboards, contests, and head-to-head play makes winning even more exciting,” she explains.

Research has shown there is a neurochemical basis for this as well. When you win a competition, your brain releases dopamine and adrenaline. These are powerful chemicals that reinforce the reward pathways in your brain. Over time, this makes competitive winning extremely habit-forming.

Of course, players don’t have to compete if they prefer solo play. However, game developers have built social casinos to incentivize competition as much as possible. From quests to tournaments to leaderboard events, multiplayer casinos offer no shortage of ways to go head-to-head against others.