The iGaming Debate: Friend or Foe to Brick-and-Mortar Casinos?
As the 2025 legislative season heats up, the debate over iGaming’s impact on traditional casinos is reaching new heights. Heavyweights like MGM Resorts and Caesars Entertainment are championing online expansion, arguing that digital casinos complement physical operations. However, regional casino operators remain fiercely opposed, fearing job losses and diminished revenues.
Opponents Push Back: Jobs and Revenue at Stake
A recent study from The Innovation Group suggests that brick-and-mortar casinos see a 16% drop in revenue after iGaming is introduced. This has fueled the efforts of the National Association Against iGaming (NAAiG), which warns of potential job losses exceeding 10,000 in states like Illinois and New York should they legalize online casinos.
The Supporters’ View: A Complementary Revenue Stream
Despite opposition, many industry leaders argue that iGaming actually supports overall growth. Advocates believe that regulated online gaming channels existing demand into safer, tax-generating avenues rather than leaving consumers to unregulated offshore sites.
The iGaming Expansion Controversy
The clash between iGaming and brick-and-mortar casinos is a crucial issue for 2025. While digital gaming presents lucrative opportunities, traditional operators fear disruption. States considering legalization must weigh economic benefits against potential employment losses.
Personal Insight
The debate surrounding iGaming is complex, and while both sides present valid arguments, the reality is that technology is pushing the industry forward. Rather than resisting change, brick-and-mortar casinos should consider hybrid models that blend physical and online gaming experiences to capture a broader audience.
