How Did Lockdown Affect Physical and Online Games

As we get closer to the year’s end, many of us are reflecting on what has been in all a difficult year for the people of Canada and its economy. Having been almost a year since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, many countries across the world are facing a second-lockdown as the winter months and flu-season create another breading ground for the virus to wreak havoc. In Canada, multiple provinces are reporting record single-day increases in the virus, in which concerns are airing over the toll a second wave could take on the economy and Canada’s already struggling hospitals.

What impact has COVID-19 had on the Online Gaming sector?

Statistics indicate that in June, real GDP had recovered less than half its 50 percent losses in March and April. This indicates the effect that the pandemic has had on the economy, with small businesses struggling to hold on as they’ve been forced to shut. But as the I-gaming sector consistently grows, could it have been a lifesaver for brick and mortar gaming owners? 

While activity has not quite been what it usually is, the I-Gaming industry has had a certain level of higher resistance to the pandemic, thanks to its remote operations and accessibility. Some online game providers saw an increase in people signing up to their sites during the initial lockdown. In addition to new players, frequent visitors of brick and mortar gamers have been swapping their visits for their usual game.

As one of the few fortunate businesses be able to make it through, online gaming are in a unique position to continue offering their services throughout the pandemic.  Online providers such as JakspotCity online have a great variety of online games to keep people’s spirits up as we see through the second wave of COVID-19. 

Consumer behaviour with Online Gaming

While we have seen an increase in people signing up to online games, there has generally been a downturn in business for the I-gaming sector, with reasons been attributed to households having a decreased amount of disposable income. In addition, the costs of healthcare and other vital services have been a priority for households, meaning that gaming has been put on the backburner while people re-evaluate their finances. 

Has the pandemic changed things for land-based gaming places?

As brick and mortar gamers have been forced to close, the migration to online gaming has reached a peak. Yet, many are questioning whether land-based places will survive the period of closure? Whether or not consumers will be willing or confident enough to return to land based places, or whether they will stick to the convenience of online playing, will determine the fate of our classic venues. 

Overall, it seems there is a silver lining for the online industry, in which it could emerge from the pandemic stronger than before. But will we be saying the same for land-based ones? Only time will tell.