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Dave & Buster’s App to Feature Competitive Betting
Dave & Buster’s is set to introduce a new feature in its app that will allow customers to engage in betting among themselves on competitive games, the company announced on Tuesday. This move is indicative of the increasing normalization of tech-based gambling in the United States at an unprecedented pace, seemingly disregarding long-term consequences.
Partnership with Lucra
As the self-proclaimed largest operator of entertainment centers globally, Dave & Buster’s is collaborating with Lucra, a gamification software company established in 2019, to develop these betting capabilities within the app.
Lucra’s press release, published online on Tuesday, stated that the integration of their proprietary gamification software into the Dave & Buster’s app will enable loyalty members to engage in digital competitions, earn rewards, unlock exclusive perks, and compete with friends at Dave & Buster’s, creating an unmatched gamified experience.
Lucra aims to provide a secure and reliable environment where users can place bets among friends in a familiar setting they already enjoy. Their goal is to transform cash-based competition into a fun, friendly, and social experience, thus destigmatizing the concept of gambling.
Monetization and Customer Engagement
While the primary reason for incorporating betting into the app is to drive revenue by encouraging new behaviors, it is also expected to attract new foot traffic and enhance customer retention within the ecosystem, according to Lucra’s press release. The gambling industry has mastered the art of keeping customers engaged to ensure a continuous flow of income.
Notably, approximately 2.5 million Americans are classified as having a severe gambling addiction, with an additional 5-8 million individuals experiencing mild or moderate gambling issues. The recent legalization of sports betting across the U.S. has only exacerbated the situation, allowing users to place bets at any hour through their mobile devices.
Unlike traditional gambling terms, Lucra opts for describing their offerings as “real-money contests or challenges” rather than using terms like “bet” or “wager.” This strategic choice is influenced by the fact that skills-based games do not fall under the same regulatory scrutiny as games of chance, despite users essentially engaging in betting activities.
Future Outlook
Simon Murray, the Senior Vice President of Entertainment and Attractions at Dave and Buster’s, expressed excitement about the collaboration with Lucra, stating that it will provide customers with unparalleled gaming experiences and enhance their commitment to delivering innovative and cutting-edge technology to elevate the overall customer experience.
Customers in 44 states who are 18 years and older will have access to these new app features. However, there has been no immediate response from Dave & Buster’s regarding the safeguards in place to prevent minors from participating in betting activities through the app.
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