Addiction 2: The Complexities of Gambling Regulation and Game Mechanics

Addiction: An Hour With Auer

Hosts Dr Michael Auer and Jon Bruford are joined by Simo Dragicevic, formerly of the Game Safety Institute and many other interesting projects…

This episode we explore the complexities of the gambling industry, focusing on the evolution of regulations, the importance of data in identifying problem gambling, and the structural characteristics of gambling products. The challenges faced by initiatives like the Game Safety Institute, the impact of game mechanics on player behaviour, and the need for innovative regulatory approaches is covered, and we get into the differences between lottery and casino gambling, the role of marketing, and the future of player protection in a rapidly changing landscape.

It's a lot, and we hope you enjoy the show.

• Key takeaways:
• Regulatory approaches vary significantly between countries, impacting player safety and industry practices.
• Data plays a crucial role in identifying and addressing problem gambling behaviours.
• The gambling industry must innovate to keep pace with changing player expectations and technology.
• Structural characteristics of games influence player behaviour and risk levels.
• Marketing strategies in gambling often prioritize engagement over responsible gaming practices.
• The distinction between lottery and casino gambling is significant in terms of player behaviour and regulation.
• Regulators need to adapt to new gaming formats and player preferences to remain effective.
• Collaboration between operators and regulators is essential for creating a safer gambling environment.

Episode length: 1:29:25

Simo Dragicevic on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/simo-dragicevic-54469b13/

Dr Auer on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-auer-51a48a/

Jon Bruford on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jon-bruford-84346636/

Podcast website: https://www.thegamblingfiles.com/addiction/