Gaming Apps Surging in Popularity in Asia Since Pandemic
The COVID-19 pandemic has forced people to stay at home, leading to a rise in cases of “gaming disorder” among young people. With schools closed and many recreational activities curtailed, young people have been turning to video games and online gaming to pass the time. This has led to an increase in the number of people developing gaming disorders, and with the World Health Organization (WHO) recognizing “gaming disorder” as a new addiction in 2019, the problem is only getting worse.
The mobile phone gaming market has been trending upwards throughout the pandemic – particularly in Asia, as young adults found entertainment and connectivity with friends was only possible through smartphone apps. ©DrMedYourRasenn/Pixabay
Recent studies have shown that the number of patients suffering from gaming and internet addiction is on the rise. According to a study conducted by the Nozoe General Psychiatric Hospital in Kurume, Fukuoka Prefecture, 26% of patients under the age of 18 had symptoms of “gaming/internet addiction,” up 18% from five years prior. Another study conducted by Kouyoudai Hospital showed that 35% of inpatients from elementary, junior high, and high schools had problems controlling their gaming time.
Despite the growing number of people suffering from gaming disorder, the research on treatment and prevention is still behind that of alcohol and gambling addictions. A survey by the National Hospital Organization Kurihama Medical and Addiction Center found that the number of medical institutions treating internet addiction and gaming disorder nationwide was 89 in 2020, more than three times the number in 2016, but much more needs to be done to help those struggling with this addiction.
Product managers working for the gaming companies have become incredibly proficient at building games that require an intense daily delivery of tasks from users. Increasing the quality of these apps at runtime is one part of the job, but on top of this is the need to integrate known hooks into the product, making users more engaged.
Japan Taking Steps to Modernize the Industry
Japan has been slowly but surely modernizing its gambling industry over the past few years, and the trend is set to continue in the coming five years. The Japanese government has been working on introducing integrated resorts, which would see the development of large-scale casinos that would incorporate entertainment and hospitality facilities. These integrated resorts would be a major part of Japan’s efforts to boost tourism and economic growth.
One of the key examples of progress in the integrated resorts space is the development of the IR (Integrated Resort) Promotion Bill. This bill, if passed, would allow for the construction of integrated resorts across Japan, with the goal of attracting international tourists and generating significant economic benefits for the country. This bill has been met with much excitement from the industry, and if it becomes law, it could see the development of several large-scale casinos and resorts over the next five years.
Pachinko, another form of gambling in Japan, is also set to see major changes in the coming years. The government is looking to modernize this industry and increase regulations to help prevent problem gambling and ensure the safety of players. For example, the introduction of a central management system for pachinko parlors has been proposed, which would allow for the monitoring of machine use and help to prevent problem gambling.
Gaming and Gambling Apps Target Different Types of Users
It’s important to distinguish between addictive gaming apps and regulated gambling apps. Unlike addictive gaming apps, gambling apps operate within strict legal frameworks and are more tightly regulated to ensure consumers are protected. Many gambling operators have taken precautionary measures to ensure the well-being of their users, such as setting deposit limits, offering self-exclusion options, and providing access to resources for problem gambling.
For example, the online casino and sports betting platform 888.com offers its customers a variety of tools to help them manage their gambling activities. This includes setting deposit limits, taking time-outs, and accessing support and resources for problem gambling. Another example is the online casino Betway, which has a responsible gambling section on their website that provides information on how to stay in control of your gambling and access to resources for those who may be struggling.
While the rise in cases of “gaming disorder” among young people is a cause for concern, it is important to note that gambling apps are different from addictive gaming apps. Gambling apps are regulated and operate within strict legal frameworks, and many operators have taken precautionary measures to create safe gambling environments on the platform. By being informed and aware of the risks, young people can make better decisions about their gaming habits and seek help if needed.
