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Exploring Skill-Based Casino Games

From Clough


For centuries, the casino industry has been built entirely upon the unbreakable, predictable mathematical foundation of pure chance.


Millennials and Gen Z grew up playing highly interactive, reflex-driven video games that demand constant engagement and skill.

How Skill Games Differ from Slots

If the player exhibits high skill and performs flawlessly, they mathematically win more money than a player who performs poorly.


However, it is crucial to understand that these games still contain a small underlying element of luck or a built-in house edge.

The house edge is variable, dropping significantly for highly skilled playersPoor players will lose their money much faster than they would on a standard slotThe RNG (Random Number Generator) still dictates the difficulty of the level or puzzle
The Two Types: VGM and Skill-Influenced

The industry currently divides these innovative machines into two distinct categories: Video Game Gambling Machines (VGM) and Skill-Influenced Slots.


However, when the bonus round triggers, instead of free spins, the player is launched into an interactive, skill-based mini-game.

The Challenges Facing Skill Gambling

Furthermore, because highly skilled players extract more money from the machines, casinos are hesitant to dedicate massive floor space to them.


However, the online sector is experiencing massive success with skill-based games, specifically targeting the mobile gaming audience.

Game CategoryCore MechanicExample ConceptSkill-Influenced SlotSlot base game, arcade bonusAsteroids bonus round multiplierTrue Arcade (VGM)100% gameplay drivenFirst-person shooter for cash

While they will never completely replace the classic slot machine, they are the undeniable, highly interactive future of the gambling industry.