In recent years, we have seen a proliferation of poker machines based that use popular television shows as their inspiration. The trend has been spawned by pokie manufacturer’s need to get in touch with the younger generation of casino and pub goers. According to the Sydney Morning Herald, industry reports have found that the younger demographic of poker machine players is seeing the biggest decline in revenue.
To combat this, pokie manufacturers have had to use a new tactic to target younger players, which includes the creation of games based on pop culture brands like TV shows, movies and video games. Today, there are dozens of licensed and branded pokies that pull from pop culture brands. These include The Walking Dead, Sex and the City, The Dark Knight, The Hangover, Call of Duty and Tomb Raider.
These games appeal to players who are also consumers of popular television programming and film media. Branded pokies have seen tremendous success in recent years, as younger players identify with TV, video game and film brands. The titles connect their interests with the gaming world to encourage modern punters to give pokies a spin.
While these games create an engaging and entertaining experience for pokie players, responsible gambling advocates are concerned that TV-based pokies are a bad influence on young people. As such, it is important that safeguards are employed. Firstly, underage gambling prevention should be a major priority, as older players should be well aware that branded pokies are not the same thing as arcade games.
For other vulnerable parties, such as problem gamblers, it is important for pubs and clubs to take initiative. Self-exclusion is available to players who concerned about losing control of their gambling spending, and gaming venue staff are encouraged to offer this service to at-risk patrons.
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