Across the United States, individuals are practicing social distancing, with some states even shutting down completely in order to try and stop the spread of the coronavirus. In New Jersey, residents seem to be logging online to have something to do as boredom sets in. Online gaming operator DraftKings has announced that their online casino is seeing an increase in player numbers due to the casinos shutting down in Atlantic City as well as players trying to stay at home.
Nice Increase in Gamers
Usually at this time, players would be taking part in sports betting in record numbers. March Madness would be in full swing and fans of NCAA basketball would be betting on their brackets. However, with the coronavirus attacking the nation, sports teams have shut down their leagues entirely. Sports bettors have nothing to wager on and many are turning to online casino gaming as a form of entertainment.
This week, DraftKings reported that a few weeks ago, they saw a huge increase in players at their online casino site in New Jersey. According to Head of Gaming for the company, Jason March, from March 10th to the 17th, the online casino saw an increase of 34% in players. There is no doubt the increase is due to lack of sports betting as well as casino closures.
March was asked if the increase of traffic will continue and stated that the unknown factors makes it hard to tell. However, other entertainment companies have been forced to shut down and DraftKings remains operational. They are continuing to find new ways to offer customers premium entertainment options.
What About Live Dealer Games?
With the virus easily spread, many have wondered if live dealer games will continue via online casinos. For now, the answer is yes. DraftKings offers live dealer gaming via Evolution Gaming in the state of New Jersey. The casinos may be shut down, but gaming studios remain open.
According to March, the live dealer games are continuing with reduced table numbers. Operations will be assessed as time goes on with changes made based on what health agencies say as well as mandates made by the government.
With the live dealer games, there are an infinite number of seats available. There is always an option for table gaming if the studio remains open. Players who are usual casino visitors may soon opt for the live dealer sector to get as close as they can to playing the games they enjoy, but from home.
For now, players in New Jersey have access to the standard online casino gaming options. This includes slot games, poker, video poker, blackjack, craps, live dealer and more. Even if the live dealer studios get shutdown, players will still have a long list of gaming options online.
It will not be surprising to see a huge surge in online gaming revenues as well as traffic totals as players take advantage of this gaming option as everyone tries to stay safe during this pandemic.