30 August 2023

What Mobile Games Do Different Generations Prefer? Choices Are Different

Technology is popular across every age bracket. This reflects the notion that every generation that emerges has a unique perspective on the global community. From time to time, generations have modified, leading to a more enhanced approach towards the gaming industry.

Gamers progressively span all age groups and socioeconomic classes. Users of all ages like playing mobile games. Starting from traditional board games to current-day VR-gear-enabled games, the gaming market has transformed rapidly. Of course, not all of these people are using identical systems or playing the exact same games.

They differ with generation and technology gap, with each sticking to a particular category. This is relevant to their progressing surroundings and technological expansion. In this article below, we discuss the 4 major generations and their outlook and preference regarding mobile games and their evolution with time.

Millennials: Casino Games

In their early years, they learned to adjust to the changed digital scope after the rise of the internet. 21% of the entire gaming population consists of Millennials. Playing mobile games on a regular basis is common among millennials, especially after the rise of the popularity of Bitcoin casino mobile game offers, which we will talk about more later. This demographic is born between the years 1981-1996. They are also keen on mobile ads presented in return for virtual products.

Also, millennials prefer to play competitive games that are reward-based. Not only that, but they opt for role-playing games as well, such as God of War. Millennials lean toward games with intricate gamification systems. They are interested in both original and rigorous gameplay concepts. As mentioned, online casino games are popular and in demand among this group of people.

    A wide variety of internet-based casino games such as poker, slots, and roulette are highly sought after. These are run on the basis of cryptocurrency or online bank payments.

  Owing to their accessible way to gamble, Millennials choose mobile-friendly online casinos. They can be played from anywhere around the globe with the help of internet access.

     Such casinos offer bonuses, promotions, and big rewards for winning, making them increasingly attractive.

   Furthermore, online casinos are also run through e-wallets. So money management is easy, whichalso makes Millennials gravitate toward slot and poker games.

Gen Z: Action / Strategy Games

The generation is born between the years 1997-2012 and is the youngest of the lot. The interconnectedness of Gen Z is its defining feature. Being exposed to modern technologies from birth explains this. From the time they were conscious, they were firmly rooted in the digital realm.

They dominate the internet, from instant chats to social media. Their phones provide endless knowledge and worldwide trends, even about the gaming industry. They contribute 27% of the total mobile gamers, which is the highest among all others.

This is the portion of the population, that saw virtual reality take over the digital world. PlayStations and Xbox games are all the rage during their time. They are most likely to make in-app purchases. Likewise, they understand the monetization potential of games.

   They prefer playing Strategy games such as Battle Royale, Fortnite, Roblox, Match 3, Candy Crush, Sandbox, etc.

     They opt for social, creative, and competitive games that unite all aspects.

   This category of gamers likes playing games that are action-based. They opt for games that createa sense of social interaction. 

Gen X/Alpha: Massively Multiplayer Online Games (MMO)

Despite stereotypes, members of Generation X have emerged as a powerful demographic in the world of mobile gaming. They were among the first generations to get introduced to cell phones. After that, they have seen a dramatic increase in their interest in playing mobile games.

Born between the years 1965 and 1980, this generation belongs to the time when gaming consoles were a thing. They actively like playing mobile games that are sport-oriented and that pose challenges. They prefer level-based games with chances of progression and represent 18% of the total gaming population.

     Furthermore, they prefer playing games such as FIFA Soccer, Call of Duty Mobile, and various others.

     They opt for games that are played in shorter intervals rather than tournaments.

     Time limitations are a contributing element to Gen X's preference for mobile gaming.

   They gravitate towards MMOs for a variety of reasons. These include a need for stress relief. This is also because of their growing desire for nostalgic activities.

Baby Boomers: Casual / Classic Games

In general, statistics show that Baby Boomers spend considerable hours each week engaged in mobile gaming, which is the second highest after. They contribute 23% of the entire gaming population and are usually born between 1946 and 1964.

Baby Boomers saw the emergence of the Internet. They became intrigued by the possibilities it presented. Most people born during the Baby Boomer generation fall under the generic time-filling mobile game participation category. In their free time, they engage in more relaxed games.

   Puzzle games, card games, Solitaire, Words with Friends, Subway Surfers, and other casual games are right up their alley of preferred mobile games.

     For this generation, playing video games is primarily a means of relieving stress.

To Sum Up

With time and digital transformation, the gaming sector has also evolved. From baby boomers being the first generation to access mobile games, Gen X followed suit with more sport-focused games. The Millennials then took charge with a competitive and gaming systems approach.

They widely participate and earn from online casinos. Gen Z is the newest of them, all prefer social games and invest in the games for monetary gains. We hope this article was of maximum help to you.

Image Credit

24 August 2023

Gambling Superstitions Around the World: From Lucky Charms to Rituals

Every gambler, whether seasoned or amateur, carries a set of beliefs when approaching their chosen game. It’s a fascinating blend of hopes, rituals, and certain items carried or worn. Though many might dismiss them as mere old wives’ tales, for gamblers, they are deeply symbolic and integral to their gaming experience. 

From ancient civilizations to modern day betting houses, superstitions have journeyed through time and space, often intertwining with cultural narratives and evolving along the way.

From the roll of dice to the shuffle of cards, gambling has always been shrouded in mystery and allure. Throughout history, it’s not just the excitement of winning that’s captivated players, but also the deeply rooted superstitions that come with the territory. It’s the belief that certain actions, objects, or rituals can influence the outcome of a game of chance.

The Cultural Mosaic of Gambling Beliefs

Around the globe, distinct cultural identities have been formed over centuries, each with its rituals, traditions, and, undoubtedly, superstitions. When these practices collide with the world of gambling, they create a rich tapestry of beliefs that reflect hopes, dreams, and the ageold quest for fortune. Each cultural group brings to the table its unique set of gambling superstitions, influenced by folklore, history, and often, spirituality.

The Crossroads of Faith and Fortuity

Superstitions are closely intertwined with cultural and historical backgrounds. From the bustling casinos of Las Vegas to the traditional gambling houses of Asia, every place has its own set of beliefs that intertwine fate, fortune, and faith.

The Chinese Luck Quotient

7 Chinese gambling superstitions to know | Leylaj

China, with its ancient civilization and rich tapestry of traditions, offers a captivating insight into how deeply cultural beliefs can influence practices. Gambling in China is not just about placing bets; it’s steeped in rituals and superstitions, deeply rooted in the language, history, and customs of this vast nation.

The Enigma of Numbers

In Chinese culture, numbers play an essential role in gambling superstitions. The number ‘8’ is considered particularly lucky because it sounds like ‘wealth’ in Chinese. Conversely, the number ‘4’ is avoided as it resembles the word for ‘death’.

The European Touch

Europe, with its myriad of countries and cultures, is a treasure trove of diverse beliefs and practices. When it comes to gambling, every nation has its unique set of superstitions. From the mystical lands of Ireland to the romantic corners of France, every gambler has a story to tell, often accompanied by a cherished charm or a peculiar ritual.

The Charmed Objects

European gamblers have a penchant for lucky charms. From horseshoes to fourleaf clovers, they believe these objects bring fortune. In countries like Italy, there’s a belief that wearing one’s underwear inside out while gambling attracts luck.

North American Beliefs

The vast expanse of North America, from its bustling cities to its serene landscapes, is home to a melting pot of cultures. With such diversity comes a unique blend of beliefs, especially when it comes to the world of gambling. Here, modernity meets tradition, and the ageold gambling superstitions find a place amidst the neon lights and digital screens.

The Rituals Before the Bet

Talk to the casino fans who play Ontario Online Slots for Real Money and you reveal a world where gambling superstitions span cultures. Many North Americans have rituals like blowing on dice before rolling or tapping the screen of a slot machine for added luck.

The African Gambling Traditions

Africa, often referred to as the cradle of civilization, is a land of diverse tribes, languages, and traditions. With such a rich cultural heritage, it’s no surprise that the continent is teeming with unique gambling rituals and beliefs. Every bet, every dice roll, every card game tells a story, deeply rooted in tribal legends and ancestral wisdom.

Invoking the Ancestors

African gamblers often believe in invoking the spirits of their ancestors before placing a bet. This ritual, grounded in respect and reverence, is believed to guide the gambler to success.

Latin America’s Passionate Play

Making the November Nine – WSOP 2014

Latin America, with its fiery spirit and vibrant cultures, has always been a land of passion and color. When it comes to gambling, this passion translates into a range of beliefs and rituals that are as diverse as the continent itself. From the bustling streets of Brazil to the serene landscapes of Argentina, every gambler carries a piece of their cultural identity with them.

The Dance of Fortune

It’s not uncommon in certain Latin American cultures for gamblers to perform a dance or chant before delving into a game. They believe that this energetic display can sway the spirits to favor them.

The Oceanic Connection

The Oceanic region, encompassing countries like Australia, New Zealand, and the Pacific Islands, is a realm where nature’s marvels intertwine with ageold traditions. Here, the vast oceans, starry skies, and indigenous cultures play a vital role in shaping gambling beliefs, making every game a dance between man, nature, and destiny.

Nature’s Role in Luck

In countries like Australia and New Zealand, some believe that the phases of the moon can influence gambling outcomes. A full moon, in particular, is considered a time of heightened luck.

Middle Eastern Insights

The Middle East, often referred to as the crossroads of the world, is a region steeped in history, faith, and tradition. The desert sands have witnessed the rise and fall of great empires, and with them, a myriad of beliefs. When it comes to gambling, the Middle East offers a blend of ancient rituals and modern practices, reflecting its rich tapestry of cultures.

The Sands of Chance

Middle Eastern gamblers often resort to ageold traditions when seeking favor in games of chance. Using certain spices or incense during games, for instance, is believed to ward off bad luck.

The Global Gambit

In today’s interconnected world, cultures often intersect and influence each other. As such, global gambling superstitions emerge, borrowing elements from various traditions, yet forming a unique set of beliefs. This global perspective is a testament to humanity’s shared hopes, dreams, and desires when courting Lady Luck.

The Collective Faith in Fate

While gambling superstitions differ across cultures, they all underscore a universal human need to believe in something beyond the realm of logic. It’s this collective faith, in luck or fate, that adds an extra layer of excitement to the world of gambling.

In wrapping up, gambling is not just about odds and strategies. It’s a world steeped in history, culture, and ageold beliefs. Whether these superstitions actually tilt the odds in one’s favor remains a debate, but one thing’s certain: they undeniably add color and intrigue to the game.

15 August 2023

Whence Come Angels?

Angels are found in many religions around the world. Their purpose varies from one tradition to another, but these transcendental beings usually act as messenger from God. Whether you believe in them or not, these contemporary images of angels (as seen mostly through the Christian tradition) provoke a variety of emotions. Give some thought for the loneliness of angels! When we see them, are we simply looking in a mirror to our own hopes and dreams or is there even more to it? And whence come angels?

Chainsmoker


It is hard to give up smoking, especially if you have been doing it and enjoying it all your adult life. However, sometimes life can be a little cruel and here an inveterate chain smoker finds herself in sheltered accommodation for the elderly – where smoking is forbidden.  Add to that a caretaker who is more than keep to stop people indulging in their tobacco vices and you have something akin to a geriatric covert operation which, you know, is never going to go well!

Chainsmoker was created Ulf Lundgren of Lost Liner Productions back in 2001 but it only saw the light of day in terms of the internet a few years ago.  I have to say that although it is over a twenty years old the digital techniques used here still stand up very well indeed. Yet the most important elements of animation – character and plot – ensure that it would still be more than watchable however it was made.

Hum


A solitary dish washing robot living out his life in the back room of a restaurant is enlightened to the world that exists beyond his four walls, with the help of a small friend he breaks free of confinement to pursue his dream of exploration. Hum was created for the junior year advanced production class in 2015 by a group of students at Chapman’s Dodge College of Film and Media Arts. The film was created over one semester (February 2015 – May 2015) with a budget of $2000. 

Arrival: A Short and Very Sweet Coming Out Film


It’s 2023 and so, surely, no one needs to fear coming out as LGBTQ anymore?

If that’s the case then no one told the Chechen authorities who seem, currently, to be paving the way towards a new dark-age for those who do not identify as hetero.

Rare was the person, ever, who was able to spring blithely and fully-formed from the metaphorical closet but in many countries it is still almost impossible to do so without some form of repudiation, denunciation or reprobation.

So this short film, for me, was something of a breath of fresh air. Arrival tells the story of a young man who has a close bond with his mother.  Yet when he moves to the big city and not only discovers himself but also the love of his life, he is unable to share this amazing happening with his mother.  To see how this is resolved you will have to watch this beautifully made animated short film, written, directed and animated by Alex Myung.
Even today, in the most liberal of societies with the most liberal of parents, people still struggle to share their true nature with their loved ones leading to a ripple effect which makes everyone unhappy.  You could see this short two ways: first it is super-contemporary and very political. It is, after all, societal structure and its dictat that to be ‘normal’ is to fit in which makes so many young LGBTQ people unhappy and as such this is a plea for change and for enlightenment.

At the same time this is also (and predominantly) a very, very sweet story about the relationship between a mother and son and how, ultimately, their bond overcomes the obstacles that the social order puts in its way.

The Photography of Jack Délano - the Man who Colored the Forties

Above: A young worker at the C & NW RR 40th Street shops, Chicago, Illinois, 1942.

"I was interested in people not only as images, but also as human beings. In stories that they would tell me or interviews I had with them. It seemed to be it was an important part of what I was trying to communicate." 

    - Jack Délano, Far From Main Street

Above: Taken in September 1941, this is the backstage area of the girlie show at the Vermont State Fair.

Many people will admit to having eclectic tastes but a significantly smaller number would be able to raise their hands and profess to having eclectic talents too.  Not so Jack Délano whose pictures of ordinary American life in the 1940s made him world famous as a photographer.  He was, however, also a trained musician, a composer, an illustrator and latterly a film and documentary maker. Here, we shall focus on his photography but as we examine his work in this field we hope to also include detail of his other areas of artistic interests.


Alternative Math: A Visit to Post-Truth America


An experienced maths teacher runs in to more than a little trouble when she tries to correct a student who has failed his recent math test.  What should have been a quiet moment of teaching and learning turns in to a traumatic week-long hell on earth for the teacher: She may have a trick or two up her sleeve but what chance does she have against Tommy, his parents, the principal, the school board and the media?

All satire exaggerates and Alternative Math has hyperbole in spades.  The premise is ridiculous but it resonates because it has its roots well and firmly dug in to the truth – whatever that may be in 2023.  We may have breathed a sigh of relief decades ago when 1884 became 1985 and there was little sign of Orwell’s dystopian vision coming to life.  Yet a few decades later, Alternative Math highlights, through comedy, the insidious nature of what truth means today.  George would have recognized the scenario all too well.

What makes it a little depressing is the fact that as a teacher this resonates a little too familiarly with me. The exaggeration in the film aside I have colleagues who have been through a form of what happens in this short albeit without the ending we have here (and it is worth the nine minutes of this short just to get to that point, believe me!).  It may be close to home but I am happy it's here.

Alternative Math is brought to you by Dallas-based Ideaman Studios and was written by Malcolm Morrison and David Maddox, with the latter doing the directing honors.  Well, that is if you believe the end credits are truthful, of course…

Canned


If you are a regular reader of Kuriositas then you know that we like two things (among others) – street art and animation.  Imagine our delight then when we came across Canned which combines both beautifully.  A young artist gets more than he bargained for when he creates his own latterday Venus – as do the police!

Made by students Ivan Joy, Nathaniel Hatton and Tanya Zaman at Ringling College, this is great fun – and has an ending that will make you go “aaah”.

The Remarkable Kindertransport Monuments of Frank Meisler

Frank Meisler (above) died in March 2018 at the age of 92. An internationally renowned architect and sculptor he enriched the world with his buildings and his works of art. Yet had others had their way his life would have been savagely curtailed in his teens.  Meisler never forgot how he escaped death, those who made the journey with him and those who made it possible. He left behind a remarkable legacy so that we might remember too.

Image Credit Wikimedia
In August 1939 Frank Meisler was a frightened 13 year old boy.  As a Jew he was no longer safe in his home town, the Free City of Danzig (now Gdańsk in Poland), a German enclave which had embraced Nazism.  There had been anti-Jewish riots and the city’s Great Synagogue had been taken over and demolished.  Desperate, his parents requested his evacuation from the city by the Kindertrasport (German, Children’s Transport) an organised rescue that took place just before the outbreak of the Second World War.  Frank Meisler escaped to the UK.  Seventy years later in 2009 he would return to his birthplace with his memorial dedicated to the children of the Kindertransport and those who had made their salvation possible.

Write Four Things, List Four Things – Making GCSE English Language Paper 1 Question 1 in to a Competition

Ah, the much neglected Paper 1 Question 1 of GCSE English Language (AQA).  Neglected?  Perhaps overlooked is a better word.  We can make the assumption that it will look after itself: that it is only worth four marks anyway.  However, having had some students, albeit a handful, fall one mark (out of 160) short of a grade 4 in June 2018 I’m not going to take anything for granted in the future. The angst that goes with one mark short is indescribable and makes me want to find the nearest rabbit hole and to plunge head-first in to it. So Question 1 will not be overlooked again..

I wanted to create a fairly straightforward (i.e. easy) way to make this question the centre of attention but – keeping in mind the time I have to deliver the curriculum in an FE college – I felt the need to add some other skills in to the mix too – primarily writing for an audience.

The Light of Life


Life is transparent, warm and swirls randomly like a soft light. And it constantly changes...

Life illuminates itself and then it begins to illuminates a new life.

A sprouted mass of innumerable lights become a flow before long, and then become the part of the life-throb of ages.

That ties life, this moment now.

The Century Old Color Photographs of Prokudin-Gorsky

In 1909 a remarkable project was initiated by Russian photographer Sergey Mikhaylovich Prokudin-Gorsky. His mission was to record – in full and vibrant color – the vast and diverse Russian Empire. Here, with his story, is a selection of his amazing century old full color pictures.

Just over one hundred years ago a Russian photographer, began a remarkable project. With the blessing – and funding – of the Tsar, Nicholas II, he embarked on an extraordinary journey to capture the essence of Russia in full color photographs. Many of these pictures look as if they could have been taken yesterday, with only the costumes worn by the people captured in their moment of time betraying the age of the work. The first shows two men crossing a small river.