Online Casino Score

Believe it or not online casinos have been developed for over three decades. However, only in the past ten years have they become popular and mainstream. Online gaming has a short but rich history of processes that have built upon one another with the output being the results we see today.

In the Beginning

During the mid 1970’s gaming software was making its presence on land-based casinos. Around this time, computer software-based slot machines began replacing electromechanical slots. Concurrently software for blackjack strategy was also being developed by professional card counters. This was one of three primary building blocks.

Now that the software had been developed, casinos needed a method of connecting different computers together and running the gaming applications from a stored location. Unfortunately it wasn’t until the availability of the Internet in the early 1990’s that this could idea could become a reality.

The final factor contributing to the creation of online gaming was the regulatory aspect. This came to fruition in 1994 when Antigua and Barbuda enacted The Free Trade and Processing Zone Act that allowed gambling licenses. This was the first online gambling jurisdiction. These two countries continue to be a well-respected and popular jurisdiction.

Microgaming

Since all three aspects of online gaming were implemented, Microgaming stepped in to string them together. The company recognized it had all pieces except one; an internet security company that could protect financial transactions across the Internet in a safe manner. Microgaming hired Cryptologic to ensure secure transactions. Cryptologic developed an eCash system for these transfers and also developed the first casino, Intercasino, in 1996.

Since this initial development, the industry has been booming. It’s estimated there are over 2,300 online gaming sites that include casinos, poker rooms and sports books. The online gambling industry has combined revenue of over $15 billion annually.

Although graphics have improved, more games have been added, focus has changed and larger bonuses offered, the games remain the same. Online gaming has come a long way from the initial software development to server storage and gambling regulations. It’s gone from lawless to heavily regulated or even illegal in many countries like the United States. Many online gambling businesses are listed as public companies on various stock exchanges.

As internet gaming continues to grow and newer, more improved technology is implemented, the revenue will skyrocket. Many online casinos are continuing to profit even during this tough economic struggle. In the end, the history of online gaming has built a strong foundation so it’s here to stay and prosper.