Over the course of the past few years, social gaming has become a huge part of the online gaming world. Every day, millions of players log on to social networks to play their favourite games, and operators make a mint from ad revenue and in-game purchases. While social gaming is hugely successful, the market lacks regulation – and the new Social Gaming Association will work towards establishing unification for the industry.
Federal politicians have been entertaining the idea of regulating social gaming – but the market is so vast, it is difficult to know where to start. So, there is a need for social gaming professionals to provide guidance on the issue, addressing major concerns about the industry.
“One of the SGA’s primary objectives will be to develop a self-imposed, socially responsible set of standards to promote responsible gaming, the protection of minors and the vulnerable and to ensure our members conduct their business operations with probity and good governance,” reads a statement from Stuart Tilley, Director of the Social Gaming Association.
Lawmakers around the world have expressed the need to regulate the market in order to ensure that all operators are on the same page with regards to a wide range of issues. One major issue is underage gaming, as many social games feature gambling activities. Even though social games do not require players to wager any money, there is concern that they could be conditioning young people to gamble.
Since the market is not regulated, it is important for social gaming operators to come to their own consensus on how to deal with minors. The SGA will make this possible. The association will also aim to education lawmakers about the social gaming market. It will act as a unified voice that address the concerns of gaming regulators and provide insight into the industry.
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