Online casinos gained official status in the Netherlands after the legalisation of virtual gaming in the autumn of 2021. This served as an impetus for the development of gambling sites. At the same time, land-based halls have not lost their relevance. Over 2.5 million Dutch people visit them every year, but many players are switching to the online format.
The question remains: what to choose? Online casinos with attractive bonuses and round-the-clock access to games or classic gambling houses with live dealers and unique atmosphere? In the following sections, together with the experts from https://speelautomata.net, we will look at the pros and cons of each format so that you can make the right choice.
Historical Context and Current Situation
The gambling industry in the Netherlands is closely linked to the state monopoly on entertainment. Until 2021, the market was strictly regulated. The only operator authorised to run land-based casinos was the state-owned Holland Casino. It had 14 casinos across the country, including the famous Holland Casino Amsterdam and Holland Casino Rotterdam. These establishments attracted thousands of visitors every year, offering top-notch service and a variety of games.
Since the legalisation of online gambling in October 2021, the gambling industry has undergone changes. The Remote Gambling Act allowed international companies to obtain licences and offer services in the Dutch market.
Impact of Online Casinos on Traditional Establishments
With the advent of online casinos, many people assumed that the popularity of land-based establishments would decline. But in practice, the market has transformed dramatically. The digital format has indeed started to attract new users, but traditional casinos have managed to retain a significant part of the audience.
According to Kansspelautoriteit (KSA), the total turnover of the online market in the Netherlands is around €869 million, which shows the progress of the digital sector. At the same time, Holland Casino revenues remained at €700 million. Land-based casinos have been able to adapt to the changes by offering unique events, major poker tournaments and theme nights that are not available in the virtual environment.
Around 1.7 million Dutch people use online platforms to play. They attract with bonuses, loyalty programmes, and a large range of games. The sector’s turnover is forecast to reach €1.1 billion by the end of 2025.
Land-based casinos have maintained a stable inflow of visitors. Despite growing competition, Holland Casino has more than 1.1 million annual visitors. Loyalty programmes and VIP treatment play an important role.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Online Casinos
Virtual casinos have become a great alternative to traditional casinos. They attract a huge slot library, bonuses and round-the-clock access. But it’s worth realising that accessibility hides risks – from technical problems to lack of live chat.
Advantages of Online Casinos
Gambling platforms are changing the idea of gambling. Anyone can access their favourite slots and lotteries literally in a few clicks.
Convenience and Accessibility
Digital casinos are available at any time of the day and from almost any device – computer, tablet, laptop, smartphone. Users can enjoy online betting without wasting time and money travelling to land-based halls.
Bonuses and Promotions
A competent marketing programme is a strong point of online casinos. They attract newcomers with welcome packages and promotions with draws:
- Freespins;
- Cash;
- Cashback;
- Betting discounts;
- Lottery tickets;
- Birthday gifts.
The offers are frequently updated so that everyone can take advantage of the promotion and get valuable prizes.
Variety of Games
Online casinos have between 1,000 and 15,000 games in their collections, which is 3-20 times more than land-based clubs. Many regularly update their game library, adding exclusive titles and rare entertainment formats.
Anonymity and Security
Websites guarantee players privacy. They can enjoy the games without prying eyes, which is important for newcomers who don’t want to feel insecure. Legitimate online casinos use advanced encryption systems to protect users’ personal data and financial transactions.
Disadvantages of Online Casinos
The digital format is very convenient, but it is not without its disadvantages. Online entertainment hides risks and technical problems that one in five users face.
Dependence on Technology
Online gaming requires access to the internet. Technical failures, delays and hang-ups are fraught with interruption of the session. This is especially true for live games, where even a second delay can affect the outcome of a bet.
Liability Issues
The 24/7 availability of online casinos increases the risk of psychological addiction to entertainment. According to studies, around 5% of players in the Netherlands face gambling addiction.
Cyber Threats
Gaming online is associated with potential cyber threats. Account hacking, data breaches or fraudulent activities are risks to consider. Most licensed casinos use robust security technology, but players should be careful to choose only trusted sites.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Brick-and-Mortar Casinos
Land-based casinos attract with their atmosphere, live interaction and real emotions. But this format has its limitations. Let’s consider what such establishments are good and what their disadvantages are:
| Advantages / disadvantages of offline casinos | Description |
| Atmosphere and social interaction | A real casino is a whole atmosphere. The luxurious halls, the glitter of slot machines, live music and interaction with the croupiers create a unique environment |
| A holistic holiday | A visit to a casino involves not only playing, but also visiting restaurants, bars, concert halls and SPA complexes. This turns the evening into a full-fledged holiday |
| Exclusive tournaments and VIP programmes | Special tournaments and VIP programmes with private rooms, privileges and personal service are available for experienced players |
| Limited availability | Casinos operate on a schedule and require travelling, which is not always convenient. Unlike online gambling, there are time constraints here |
| High cost of attendance | Visits involve extra spending on transport, food, drinks and accommodation. This increases the cost of entertainment as compared to online gaming |
| Smaller selection of games | Due to physical constraints, land-based halls have dozens of times fewer games than websites |
The choice between online casinos and land-based venues depends on personal preferences and priorities. The digital format pleases with convenience and bonuses, while physical halls attract with atmosphere and live interaction. The optimal approach is to try both formats and realise what suits you best.