There are two reasons for the need to examine trends and issues in the Australian electronic games industry. The first is to take a snapshot of the current state of gaming. The second is to provide a basis for improving the industry in the future.
Both tasks – understanding the present and planning for the future – are part of industry analysis, looking for opportunities and challenges in the business environment. Let’s get our research started!
An Overview of the Australian Gaming Industry
According to https://betmaze.net, data on the size and growth of the gambling market in Australia is relatively sparse, with most studies conducted by industry organisations. There is evidence to suggest that gambling expenditure is growing and is not only a function of disposable income, but also of the price and availability of gambling products. This has become a problem as poorer sections of society are more attracted to high value types of gambling.
Research shows that indigenous and ethnic minority groups are more attracted to gambling and problem gambling is more common among them. This has led to the belief that gambling has a regressive redistributive effect on people’s incomes.
Australia has one of the highest gambling penetration rates in the world. Gambling expenditure is mainly on betting, although there has been growth in the pokies and casino market.
The rapid development of the gaming industry and its impact on society has raised concerns about the extent of problem gaming. This has led to government demands to reduce the availability of gaming entertainment. An example of this is the introduction of the Interactive Gambling Act 2001, which prohibits Australians from offering and advertising online gambling services.
Exploring Trends and Challenges
In general, trend analysis is about understanding the possible scenarios and taking the necessary steps to move into a more favourable future. The first step towards sustainable development of the gaming industry!
In addition, forecasting can identify areas where the industry needs to evolve. The gaming industry is constantly changing; a product or service that was successful one year may not be successful the next. By analysing changes in sales, a specific type of change can be identified, and the industry can then more effectively determine how to adapt its products to meet the new demands.
To meet the challenge of improving the sustainability of the gaming industry, it is important to first understand the current system and its position. This can be done by studying trends and issues in the industry. Using this information, actions and strategy are more likely to be successful because tactics are based on consideration of likely changes in the industry.
Trends in the Australian Gaming Industry
The Australian gaming industry has shown constant growth and change in line with technological and socio-cultural trends. In recent years, there have been several trends that have shaped the essence of the gaming industry in the country.
The Rise of Mobile Gaming
Among the most significant trends in the Australian gaming industry is the rise in popularity of mobile gaming. With the development of smartphones and tablets, the gaming experience has become more accessible to a wider audience. Mobile gaming not only offers the convenience of playing anytime, anywhere games, but is also becoming a platform for innovation in game design and monetisation.
Many Australian gaming companies have shifted their focus to developing and releasing games for mobile devices, which is reflected in the market dynamics. Mobile games range in genre from casual games to serious online multiplayer games and continue to attract new players, particularly from a younger audience.
Growing Interest in Cybersports and Competitive Gaming
In recent years, cyber sports have become hugely popular around the world, including Australia. Competitive games such as Dota 2, League of Legends, and Counter-Strike: Global Offensive attract millions of spectators and participants around the world, including in Australia.
The growth of cybersport events and tournaments in Australia is fuelling interest in this form of entertainment. Cybersport is becoming not only a competitive sport, but also a cultural phenomenon attracting sponsors, investors and media.
The Impact of Virtual Reality Technology
Another notable trend in the Australian gaming industry is the growing interest in virtual reality (VR) technology.
Australian developers are actively experimenting with VR, creating games and apps that utilise the full potential of the technology. In addition to gaming, VR is also being used in a variety of fields, including education, medicine and entertainment.
Challenges for the Australian Gambling Industry
Along with the rapid development and growth of the Australian gambling industry comes some serious problems that both players and the community at large are facing. Here are some of the major issues that need attention and solutions.
The Problem of Gambling Addiction
One of the most serious problems in the Australian gambling industry is the spread of gambling addiction among the population. For many players, gambling ceases to be just a recreational activity and becomes a compulsive behaviour that can lead to serious financial and psychological problems.
Increase in the Number of Problem Players
With the increasing availability of gambling facilities and online gambling platforms in Australia, there has also been an increase in the number of problem gamblers. This category of gamblers may lose control of their finances, spend large amounts of money on gambling and suffer psychological problems as a result of their addiction.
Impact on Local Communities and Culture
The proliferation of gambling and gambling establishments can also have a negative impact on local communities and culture. Gambling addiction can lead to the breakdown of families, increased crime and a deterioration in the quality of life in local communities.
