Gaming online is a lot of fun, and during this time, many players carefully avoid any gambling. However, with the rise of betting mini-games, this might not have been entirely possible. This year, mini-games with betting opportunities have become increasingly prevalent and available, landing on feeds or being recommended on gaming sites. And the thing is, many players don't even realise these are betting games. So what are these games and how are they changing the way gaming occurs online?
What is a betting mini-game?
A betting mini-game is often a small, fast-played game that is part of an app, casino game like those found on PremierBet Malawi or even on social media. They're also often found embedded in games or apps purchased from the app store. They tend to sit in the fine line between just some fun and gambling. This is because they combine some of the simple mechanics, such as pick, pattern, matching, crash games or guessing. On top of that, the game only requires small or micro-bets, which go almost unnoticed when played. These games also offer high-frequency rounds of play. Essentially, players play the round and then cash out or simply lose. Because of this, it becomes very easy to get drawn into the game to continue playing multiple rounds. Social features are usually attached too, making it very easy to share wins or progress on leaderboards. Because of this, these games are specifically designed to be quick hits and are often considered a little bit addictive as they trigger feedback loops to keep playing another round.
Why haven't you noticed them?
Well, part of the reason for this is that they have a very casual, or simple appearance. Often, they appear to be a mini-game or just some casual entertainment. Many of these games even look like non-betting games due to the language, graphics or even UX. Importantly, these types of games are often part of a much larger setup such as a casino or betting platform, free bonus offers or even in a social media ad. This means it's easy to try them out without necessarily realising what they're all about. Many social media channels such as streamers on TikTok often encourage others to try them, which normalises playing these games and generates huge interest.
Top mini-games you didn't realise you played
There are some exciting and viral betting mini-game types that you may have seen over the last year. Some you may have even given a try, and never realised that they're actually a betting game with risks involved.
For example, in recent years, crash games with multipliers have become increasingly popular. Some of the most popular, like Spribe's Aviator, are well-known, but others much less so. These games include an increasing multiplier and players need to cash out before it crashes down and ends. The longer the player can wait, the bigger the potential gain, but the multiplier might crash during that time and the player will lose everything. These games are simple to look at, fast to play and very easy to stream on any device. As such, they've become one of the main mini-game options.
Plinko, popularised on TV, is another mini-game that's gone viral, but which many players may not realise is actually a betting game. The ball in the game drops down and bounces off different pegs. As it falls, it can land in different slots, each of which has a different payout. Sometimes there are multipliers involved, and the board setup can look different. Many online casino sites offer this type of mini-game as they're easy to play.
Finally, there are increasing various Pick a Door games. Within many casino games, there's often the additional feature of choosing a door or object to see what reward it reveals. These often give extra cash prizes, the chance to cash out early, or to continue playing. It all depends on the game.
Other top games, such as Crocodino, offer variations on these mini-games. But what they all have in common is that they change the way people gamble. They have a low-stakes entry, often don't specifically communicate the odds of winning (or losing), make the game emotional and benefit from social or viral marketing.
