Why Do We Gamble & How Does Gamification Contribute To The Experience?

What is it that draws people to the risk-reward cycle of gambling online? Is it greed or desperation? Is it simply the act of winning that motivates us? Perhaps we gamble because it’s how we’re wired as a species?

✓Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs

When looking at the hierarchy of needs proposed by Abraham Maslow in his 1943 paper "A Theory of Human Motivation" we see that at our basest levels all people have the same needs:

Self-actualisation – achieving our full potential
Esteem – prestige and accomplishment
Belonging and love – friendships, close relationships, sense of belonging
Safety – safety and security, long terms and short term
Physiological needs – food, water, shelter etc.

Let’s explore how a satisfying online casino experience parallels Maslow’s pyramid.

➀ Science of Motivation

It is a well-established fact that casino games trigger dopamine reactions in our brains. In fact, Ian Robertson, Scottish neuroscientist, said:

“Winning increases the dopamine receptors in the brain, which makes you smarter and more bold.”

The BOSS gaming gamification system available at Bootlegger casino offers players ongoing motivational boosts through winning trophies for completing tasks and quests. In our ongoing quest to be the best version of ourselves, these dopamine hits could motivate us to be more aggressive in the pursuit of success.

➁ Prestige Programs

An important engagement tool at any casino is their VIP or Loyalty program. As we are hardwired to pursue achievements and accomplishments the various status levels on offer in these programs along with their rewards such as points and cash comps speak to the part of our psyche that requires the affirmation that leveling up brings.

➂ Where You’re Celebrated

Bootlegger casino offers personable support which meets our inherent need to belong to a tribe or group. The success of the television series Cheers was built on the premise of it being a bar "Where Everybody Knows Your Name". Friendly and engaging support teams will turn an online casino visit into your own personal virtual ‘Cheers’.

➃ Value and Security

The security and well-being of their patrons is of primary concern to any reputable casino. As part of Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, this has a dual requirement.

In terms of financial security, the provision of bonuses and promotions gives us the safety net of added value over and above what we deposit. At Bootlegger they offer new depositors a 50% first-deposit match, 100 Free Spins on Aloha! Cluster Pays slot and several additional ongoing promotions.

In the era we live in there is also the requirement for the casino to provide exceptional care and security for our data. As a casino licenced by the Malta Gaming Authority Bootlegger applies the highest levels of data security to your personal information.

➄ Entertain Me

While gambling online might seem like an abstract activity the reality is that the physical experience of gambling and leveling up is taking place at your home computer or on your mobile device. This makes the experience of playing the premium quality casino games offered by the likes NetEnt, BetSoft, Evolution and Microgaming as visceral and impactful as any visit to Vegas or Monte Carlo.

This makes selecting a casino known for their top game selection, ease of use, localised transactions methods and excellent support critical for an enjoyable long-term casino experience.