Gambling and gaming are two words that have been used interchangeably on several occasions. For many, there is no difference between the two. However, there is another group that thinks otherwise. Although there are some elements that are common between gaming and gambling, they represent different things.
To get a clear picture, perhaps we can start by understanding what is gambling.
Gambling is a game of chance. It involves wagering something of value on the likelihood of an outcome to win a prize. In gambling three elements need to be present, that is the consideration, risks involved, and the winnings. For instance, while selecting brand new slots in a casino, a player needs to consider whether the platform will offer fair games, one that is not influenced by external factors. It ought to be a game of chance, where a player has an equal chance of winning. In gambling, the outcome is normally immediate.
Gaming vs gambling
Different regulatory bodies have given definitions of the two terms. One such definition is provided on the Connecticut State website where the authorities have differentiated between gaming and gambling. The website states that the two are different. For gaming, the site states that it involves participation in legally sanctioned wagering whereas gambling constitutes an illegal activity where one wagers on a platform that is not allowed.
According to this definition, gambling is not allowed as it involves playing at non-permitted sites. Different jurisdictions and even people would contest this definition on the basis that it criminalizes an activity based on a misunderstanding. Ella Houghton, an online gambling expert points out that some authorities are yet to recognize online gambling and they normally use terms to describe what is not allowed in their jurisdiction. She believes that this distinction is wrong as it criminalizes gambling, an activity that is not harmful if engaged responsibly.
She belongs to the school of thought that argues there is no difference between gambling and gaming. She outlines the following in support of her view:
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Most gaming and gambling activities are games of chance, where the player may not use his or her skills or judgment to win. It will all depend on how lucky one is.
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An element of money comes into play in both cases although it is more prevalent in gambling. While it is not always that people engage in gaming intending to win some money, players can agree among themselves to involve money.
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There is an element of luck in both gaming and gambling although in the latter it is the main thing where a player relies on chance to win the prizes. On the other hand, not all gaming activities depend on luck, some you have to use skills and judgment to win.
Those who are opposed to the view that is held by Ella Houghton and others have provided the arguments to support their claims. They argue that there is a clear distinction between gambling and gaming and this mainly dwells on the motivation. According to this school of thought, gambling is a game of chance where players are motivated by the prize that may be won if they are lucky. Gaming on the other hand involves pure skills and strategies that a player needs to learn to win. The game is purely for fun, it does not have any monetary gains.
They argue that if money is involved in gaming, it turns out to be gambling. This is the school of thought that is held by authorities in countries where some form of gambling especially over the internet is not allowed.
What is common?
Although the two sides point out some differences between gambling and gaming, they seem to agree that there is a nexus. Regardless of the motivation, they both involve fun, where players are looking to have a good time. For those in gambling, playing with friends and even at times, total strangers offer some excitement especially when one wins. A similar experience has been reported by those in gaming, there is thrill and excitement when a player wins a game.
A loss can be disheartening in all cases especially if the player had set his or her mind on a win. This happens in almost any competition; we are in it for a win and losing can make us sad. Psychologists suggest that one should compete with an open mind where one can either win or lose. In an event of a loss, one needs to understand that there will be another chance. At no time, whether gaming or gambling should a player chase a loss as this may lead to further disappointment.
They are great hobbies that can be taken up by people who are looking to have fun and at times win some prizes. They both provide opportunities that investors can utilize; for gaming, developers can come up with games that they can sell to players and platforms. The online casino as a gambling platform is currently a big investment where those who have ventured are raking millions.
The debate on whether gaming and gambling are the same and can be used interchangeably will continue. While some have a fixed view on the subject, there are calls for flexibility where both terms are perceived as similar with minor differences.