Traditional casino games have largely been classified into pure chance-based games (e.g., roulette, slots) and skill-influenced chance games (e.g., poker, blackjack). However, as gaming preferences diversify, it becomes necessary to analyze player behaviors through multi-dimensional segmentation frameworks.
The model described in this article introduces a six-dimensional segmentation framework to identify opportunities for innovative casino game design:
To understand innovation opportunities in casino game design, we define the mentioned six core dimensions that shape player engagement as follows:
1. Skill-Dependence
Measures how much player decisions, mastery, and execution influence
2. Complexity
Represents the number of rules, mechanics, and strategic depth in a game.
3. Game Persistence
Determines whether progress carries over between sessions.
4. Social Interaction
Reflects how much players interact and influence each other’s experiences.
5. Execution Intensity
Determines how much reflexes, reaction speed, and real-time decisions affect gameplay.
6. Information Uncertainty
Measures how randomness and hidden information affect decisions.
The model can be graphically presented as a polar chart:
The games form distinguishable patterns, allowing to compare them, revealing similarities and differences by dimension:
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Although these six dimensions appear independent, they can push and pull against each other. Based on their definitions, the most competing pairs typically involve a trade-off when one dimension increases:
1. Skill-Dependence vs Information Uncertainty. High Skill-Dependence reduces randomness, requiring mastery and decision-making. Example: Poker (high skill, low uncertainty) vs. Slots (low skill, high uncertainty).
2. Complexity vs. Execution Intensity. Deep, layered decision-making conflicts with rapid, reflex-driven gameplay. Example: Bridge (high complexity, low execution) vs. Crash (low complexity, high execution).
3. Game Persistence vs. Execution Intensity. Long-term progress encourages slow, methodical play, while twitch gameplay downplays persistence. Example: Poker (persistence in bankroll/skill) vs. Crash (fleeting rounds, real-time reflexes).
4. Game Persistence vs. Information Uncertainty. Long-term progression thrives on controlled variables, while chaotic randomness resets advantage. Example: Blackjack (moderate persistence, trackable odds) vs. Lottery (high randomness, no cumulative progress).
Metagaming can help unify or bridge what initially seem like opposing forces. Here, metagaming refers to additional layers of gameplay, progression, narrative, or achievements that overlay the core mechanics. Sometimes, these meta layers are so tightly woven into the experience that they feel like a natural part of the core gameplay.
While the most natural application might be to unite Game Persistence with Execution Intensity (i.e., adding global progression on top of high-intensity rounds), metagaming can be much broader, helping reconcile other seemingly antagonistic dimensions.
For instance, in Skill-Dependence vs. Information Uncertainty, players might gather “knowledge tokens” or “clues” over multiple sessions, which can be exchanged for partial reveals in an otherwise random round. This preserves the thrill of uncertainty in each individual session while rewarding strategic planning and skill across many sessions.
The most successful recent innovations in casino gaming have emerged not by competing within a given dimension, but by shifting player experience toward an underdeveloped dimension.
Some examples:
1. Crash Games: Increased execution intensity and pseudo social interaction without changing other dimensions.
2. Social slot gaming: Significantly increased persistence, pseudo social interaction and even further reduced execution intensity
3. Skill-Based Slots: Added mild execution intensity and increased game complexity and persistence at cost of information uncertainty…
… making them closer to Blackjack pattern without social interaction:
The illustrations above highlight two key points:
1. By examining recent examples of new games in contrast to traditional casino offerings, we can see which dimensions have changed and how that shift appeals to different players.
2. The framework reveals that certain dimensional combinations can attract entirely new player segments. For example, skill-based slots and blackjack share a broadly similar dimensional profile, but each emphasizes different strengths. This does not imply that blackjack players will automatically move to skill-based slots; rather, it indicates there may be an untapped audience that does not currently engage with either game yet would be drawn to the skill elements present in a slot format.
By applying this principle to all dimensions (not just skill dependence), developers can experiment with fresh configurations to create novel game mechanics that resonate with unexplored audiences. Focusing on non-competing dimensions or deliberately refining the balance between competing ones lets designers deliver innovative experiences without sacrificing the key elements that sustain or enhance player interest and engagement.
At CGS, we are actively exploring new combinations and mechanics based on this approach. One of the most promising directions in our research is the enhancement of persistence in games of chance without significantly impacting other dimensions. This allows for increased player engagement and long-term retention, while maintaining the core appeal of these games. Additionally, we are developing other innovative approaches that redefine player interaction and strategic depth in gambling experiences. For more details about our research and game development strategies, feel free to contact us.
Custom Games Studio is a highly specialized software development contractor dedicated to casino games design. Our customers ― game developers, casino operators, platform providers, gambling startups ― engage millions of players with fair and unbiased math, high-quality graphics, sound effects, animations, and interface. With over 150 game titles released, we always put the needs and satisfaction of customers first, investing in long term win-win partnership.