Expert predicts online casino rise led by new legislation
Countries such as Australia and the USA could be responsible for an increase in online casino use over the next few years, a new report from KPMG has claimed.
Currently the territories do not allow online gambling, a move which, for example, has resulted in Australians spending $790 million on online casinos offshore. Anthony Travers, the head of KPMG's gaming industry practice in the country, believes that deregulation is an inevitability in the wake of the worldwide financial crisis.
He said: "You would have to think that, longer term, a regulated market with support for gamblers would be a better way to go for the governments.
"With the potential for growth in the sector increasing, the market we see now could be just the tip of the iceberg."
Deregulation would mean that Australians will have a greater opportunity to experience the wide variety of games on offer at online casinos.
Online blackjack could be a particular favourite down under.
Top Hat 21 may prove to capture the imagination of players in the country. The game offers a twist on the traditional blackjack formula, and is set on a theatre stage. This is because it is based around a magic show, with a phantom dealer conjuring cards before your very eyes.
The magical theme is also incorporated into the cards themselves. Kings in the deck are replaced by magicians wearing top hats and cloaks, while Queens become theatrical assistants and tarot readers. Lastly, the Jack picture card is transformed into a sword swallower.
Who knows, maybe online casino games such as Top Hat 21 will have Australia under their spell within the next few years?