Michael Pedersen, CCO at Livespins, explains how streaming builds the communities online casino brands need to keep players engaged and returning.
Casino Streaming: Not Just for Acquisition
There is a common misconception that casino and slot streaming primarily serves as a tool for player acquisition. This perspective stems from the fact that most operators using streaming have focused on attracting new audiences, particularly Millennials and Gen Z. Streaming has indeed proven effective for this purpose, especially when harnessed by some of the world’s biggest crypto casinos to quickly gain mainstream attention.
However, the potential of streaming goes far beyond acquisition. In fact, it can be an even more powerful tool for retaining players and encouraging repeat visits to an online casino.
Why is that? Because streaming creates a community around an online casino, delivering the social and interactive experiences that today’s players, particularly younger generations, crave. In doing so, it offers a compelling point of difference and adds substantial value to the overall player experience.
The Power of Streaming for Retention
To understand why streaming is so effective for retention, it’s essential to consider what players are seeking in an online casino. While bonuses and game variety are important, the real key lies in social interaction.
Millennials and Gen Z are part of the connected, digital generation, accustomed to sharing their entertainment experiences—whether playing video games, streaming a movie, or engaging on social media. Online casinos have traditionally lagged in providing these shared experiences, but streaming offers a way to bridge that gap.
Through streaming, players not only follow their favourite streamers, but also engage in live chats with both the streamer and fellow players during a session. This real-time interaction builds a sense of community around both the streamer and the online casino. As players feel part of this community, they return more frequently, contributing to higher retention rates and extended session times.
Taking Streaming to the Next Level
Platforms like Livespins enhance this social experience even further. Livespins allows players to bet alongside the streamer in real time, creating a unique shared betting experience while still allowing each player to set their own stakes and spins. This collective gameplay strengthens the communal aspect of the experience.
Our data shows a Livespins player remains engaged for a significantly increased session time compared to standard slot games, with average session times lasting 43min by player. This is because the Livespins experience offers much more than just solitary play—it immerses players in the gameplay as they watch streamers “unbox” games, chase bonus features, and interact with others through chat, reactions, emojis, and gifs. This added layer of engagement keeps players involved for longer periods, helping online casinos retain their audience.
Strategies for Streaming Retention
Streaming for retention looks different from streaming for acquisition. While high-profile streamers might be used to draw new players, retaining them requires streamers with deep knowledge of online slots and gameplay mechanics. These streamers can effectively engage players by exploring bonus features and sharing insights into how games work—essentially acting as guides for viewers as they “unbox” new games.
However, streamers must also entertain. Retaining players requires a balance of expertise and showmanship, which is why choosing streamers who are personable, relatable, and engaging is key. At the same time, it’s crucial to provide exciting content, like highly volatile games with dynamic bonus features, that keeps players interested and coming back for more.
Consistency is also important. To build a community around streaming, casinos should consider using the same streamers, adhering to regular streaming schedules, and fostering interactivity among players. When done right, this leads to increased session durations, player loyalty, and ultimately, higher lifetime value (LTV).
The Importance of Retention in a Competitive Market
While much attention is placed on player acquisition, the long-term success of an online casino depends heavily on its ability to retain those players. Without effective retention strategies, the investment in acquiring new players is often wasted. Streaming offers a powerful way to differentiate your brand, delivering the social experiences that players desire and creating a sense of community that drives loyalty.
By focusing on streaming as a tool for community-building, online casinos can foster player loyalty and ensure their players have little reason to go elsewhere.