VIP and loyalty programmes have become central for both online gambling and traditional gaming platforms. From loyalty and sign-up rewards on iGaming websites to exclusive in-game benefits in a video game, VIP programs aim to incentivize continued play and engagement from users. Many VIP programmes enhance the gaming experience for users, offering additional benefits they may not have had prior access to; however, there can be some potential drawbacks that players should consider as well.
What Are VIP Programmes?
VIP programmes are designed to drive loyalty amongst users and encourage retention and continued engagement. They are usually loyalty-based reward systems, which users will pay for or earn through continued gameplay. In traditional gaming, this may look like battle passes, membership tiers, or exclusive in-game content. These are usually available for high-spending players or users who engage in significantly longer gameplay.
In online gambling, VIP programs can vary from platform to platform. VIP programmes may look like cashback incentives, personalized customer service, increased betting limits, or exclusive event invitations. Many online gambling platforms will also offer special incentives for signing up. For example, the Discord welcome bonus offers new players a generous welcome bonus for signing up, as well as offering a weekly cashback for loyal members on their net losses. VIP programs typically involve multiple tiers, with players unlocking additional benefits as they advance, based on factors such as spending, gameplay hours, or referrals.
Tiers will be based on a variety of factors depending on the platform. For example, this could be accumulated spending, gameplay hours, referrals, and other engagement metrics. Many of these perks are alluring for players and can often be a deciding factor when choosing a platform or game. However, there are also concerns within the gaming community about spending habits, fairness, and risks around compulsive gaming.
Pros Of VIP Programs
Better Gaming Experience
VIP programs can enhance the gaming experience by offering players exclusive content, special features, and unique rewards. An example of this is the Fortnite Crew Pass, which is a paid VIP subscription. For a monthly fee, players will get access to extra battle passes as well as V-bucks to help enhance their gameplay. Platforms may also offer early access to in-game content or even cosmetic items to add value to their experience. In online gambling, VIP customers may get access to better odds, lower wagering requirements, and personalized promotions.
Increased Value For Committed Players
Players get additional value from their gaming time through VIP programs, especially those who spend significant time and money. This can sometimes reduce the overall costs involved in gaming as well. This could be through bonuses and cashback. For example, Big Time has just announced its new VIP program, which is designed to reward its most dedicated players. Users can receive special bonuses for gameplay. Online gambling platforms may offer VIP users free bets, reduced rake, or enhanced deposit bonuses.
Personalised customer support
Many VIP programs, especially those associated with iGaming, will offer dedicated and personalized customer support. Helping users to alleviate problems quicker, faster response times, and sometimes even one-to-one account management. VIP members will receive priority treatment and a seamless gaming experience with quickly resolving issues.
Exclusive Events and Competitions
VIP members may get access to exclusive events, tournaments, or private competitions that other players cannot access. For example, in traditional gaming, this could be closed beta tests or private multiplayer lobbies. In iGaming, this could be VIP poker tournaments or high-roller events.
Cons of VIP Programs
Encourages Extra Spending
A major concern surrounding VIP programs is that they entice players into spending more money to maintain or advance their status. This can lead to unhealthy spending habits, especially with online gambling. Spending more money than you have, maxing out your credit cards, or not checking your account balances regularly can all be considered unhealthy spending habits. It’s important when taking advantage of VIP programs that these are within your budget, and that you are getting back value for your gaming spend.
Potential for Game and Gambling Addiction
Taking advantage of loyalty programmes can encourage excessive gameplay, which can lead to both gaming and gambling addiction. By incentivising continuous play, users will be more inclined to spend more time on their screens. In online gambling, players may feel pressured to chase losses or spend beyond their means to maintain their VIP status. This can cause both emotional and financial stress.
Unfair Advantage for VIP players
VIP programs, especially in traditional gaming, can also give an advantage to high-spending players. “Play-to-win” models, which benefit players who spend more and give them a competitive edge, can often leave non-VIP players frustrated. Players who cannot access VIP programs may feel at a disadvantage because of financial constraints. This creates both an imbalance in gameplay and a disconnected gaming community.
Lack of Transparency
Many VIP programs lack proper transparency for players with no clear terms and conditions. This can make it difficult for players to fully understand the benefits and limitations. There could be hidden clauses, wagering requirements, or expiration dates on rewards that players may not be fully aware of at the beginning. A great way to overcome this is to do your research around VIP programs and what they offer, looking for expert insight or for those who have already tried and tested. For example, you can read about the first impressions of the Anthem VIP program online before signing up yourself.
Across both iGaming and traditional gaming, there are a range of benefits that come with VIP programs. From welcome bonuses and cashback incentives to extra battle passe, there is certainly added value in VIP programs. However, with every benefit, there is also a limitation. Players must be aware of hidden terms and conditions, controlling unhealthy spending habits, and monitoring how much screen time they engage in.