It has been estimated that a third of Australian adults and just over a fifth of Australian adolescents play social gambling games each year. Simulated gambling game Heart of Vegas (© Product Madness) 1 Nonetheless, the availability of simulated gambling on smartphones and tablets is concerning because it facilitates a deep integration of gambling or gambling-like activities into everyday life. Desktops and laptops are where most of the revenue is generated. It is suggested that more 'serious' or involved players prefer desktop or laptop computers. Simulated gambling can take place on many different platforms, from Facebook to smartphones and tablets, gaming consoles, websites and even interactive televisions. 1,2,3,4,5 (For a full discussion of the different game see 'Types of simulated gambling games', below.) There are also games that, while they do not appear to have a gambling theme, can include elements that are commonly associated with gambling. However mini gambling games may also be included within a bigger non-gambling game. The most popular forms of simulated gambling are poker, 'pokies', lotteries and casino-style games such as blackjack.

Simulated gambling games imitate many of the core characteristics of gambling - such as the look, sound and actions - but do not provide an opportunity to win or lose real money. This is an abridged version of an Australian Gambling Research Centre Discussion Paper Is it gambling or a game? by Marissa Dickins and Anna Thomas What are simulated gambling games?

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