When people started working from home, many had trouble adapting to the new environments. It was not long before they realized they could influence their experiences using Soundscapes. By tuning in to these sounds, they could immerse themselves in work, forgetting they were in their home environments.
And just like that, their productivity improved, raising questions regarding the effects of Soundscapes and where else they could have such positive impacts. We look at how these sounds have influenced casino gaming.
Types of Soundscapes in Casino Gaming
Soundscapes have long been used in different environments, ranging from study rooms to bedrooms, for their favourable effects. It was thus not long before casino operators realized that integrating these sounds alongside interactive graphics would enhance gameplay. Reputable sites like Bizzo Casino have introduced soundscapes in different games for varying effects. So, what sounds do players experience?
Chaotic Soundscapes
Games in casinos vary from simple to challenging. Take the example of a Halloween-themed slots game. In this case, the player would deal with a fast-paced, simple game with a high RTP, impressive graphics, and a potentially huge payout. Once you add the element of luck, it’s easy to see why a player would experience a rising heartbeat, anxiety, and anticipation. After all, one of the most alluring features of slots is their adrenaline rush, as players have no control over the outcomes.
Casinos echo these feelings by using chaotic soundscapes that mimic what players are feeling. The crescendos rise and fall as the player watches the reels and progresses through the game. It makes the gameplay even more interesting as the player can follow the sounds and feel mirrored.
Per psychology, this kind of soundtrack has the following perks:
- Better emotional release: Many people listen to loud music as teenagers. And while this might seem like a phase, such sounds enable people to work through challenging feelings like anger and sadness. So, when casinos use these sounds, they have a similar effect by allowing players to deal with their negative emotions in a safe space. You might be playing a roulette game but also working through the stress from work.
- Feelings of safety: The chaotic nature of these sounds may make you think that the tracks would leave you feeling rattled. But they have the opposite effect as they match your feelings, comforting you.
So, the next time you start playing a game and realize the background tracks feel chaotic, you will understand why the sounds are integral to a smooth experience.
Lively Soundscapes
Some games feature many defining events that casinos punctuate using upbeat sounds. A good example would be bingo. The game requires players to mark their cards and wait for the caller to announce the winning numbers. Based on the type of bingo game, the players can win even if they do not have all the correct numbers. As such, once the calling starts and a player gets the correct number, the music changes to reflect this change in mood. It makes the player more invested in the outcome and adds to their excitement.
This kind of music is also often played in most slot games as they often feature lively graphics. For example, a holiday-themed slots game will likely feature such sounds as it echoes the holiday spirit. Such sounds engage players and pull them to keep playing for longer and are thus often used in casinos.
What do psychological studies show regarding these sounds?
- They improve moods: Suppose you feel down and need something to cheer you up fast. A feel-good track can get you there. These sounds focus more on the good, which helps your body release more dopamine, leaving you feeling satisfied.
- They boost energy: Have you ever noticed how excited people feel and act in a room where the music has lively beats? It’s all about how our bodies interact with sounds as they often try to follow the set pace. This kind of interaction helps players remain energized while playing games, especially those that are fast and require them to be on their feet.
These tracks also reduce blood pressure and cortisol levels, leaving you more relaxed.
Calm Soundscapes
While many casino games are fast, some take on a slow approach. Examples are poker and blackjack. Let’s use poker as an example. Players must review their cards to determine whether they have a good hand. They must also try to assess what their opponents have and decide whether they have a winning chance or if they should fold. Since they must make integral decisions throughout the game, silence is quite common in these games.
Casinos use calm soundtracks to help players tune into their strategies without getting distracted. They also allow them to take their time and review all their options without feeling rushed.
Where does psychology stand regarding these soundscapes? Calm soundscapes are not just used in casino games but also in other environments for the following reasons:
- They help you focus: These sounds allow you to immerse yourself in what you are doing, which makes it easier to succeed. For example, if you are playing blackjack and need to think about whether you should hit, this music will not interrupt your thinking.
- They relax your body: We live in a world where almost everything seems to move at neck-breaking speeds. Taking time to wind down using these calm tracks helps you recharge your spirit. Those minutes spent losing yourself to the natural sounds can do wonders for your well-being.
- They reduce stress levels: Playing challenging games can be difficult, especially for beginners. These calming sounds lower cortisol levels and increase your feel-good hormones, allowing you to focus on positive emotions instead of worry.
The state of mindfulness players get from prolonged listening to calming soundtracks translates into their sleep, eating habits, and other non-gaming activities, which helps them better their mental well-being in the short and long term.
