When Did Online Gambling Start & Who Invented It?

The world of online gambling offers a thrilling mix of chance and technology, but have you ever wondered where it all began? It is a fascinating journey that takes us back to the early days of the Internet. 

Uncovering the origins of online casinos is like piecing together a puzzle that shows how far we have come. From the very first virtual dice rolls to the vast online casinos we know today, there is a story worth exploring. 

In this blog post, we are going to delve into the beginning of online gambling, finding out who paved the way for this digital entertainment phenomenon. Stay with us as we unravel the timeline and the key figures who had the vision to make gambling accessible at the touch of a button. 

When Did Online Gambling Start?

Online gambling began its journey in the mid-1990s. This was a time when the Internet had just started to become a part of everyday life. In 1994, the Caribbean nation of Antigua and Barbuda passed a law allowing companies to offer gambling services over the Internet. This was a significant step that laid the groundwork for online casinos. 

The first online casino went live in 1996, making it possible for people to play casino games without leaving their homes. This marked a new era where gambling was not just confined to physical locations like bookmakers/betting shops and casinos. Players could now enjoy games like roulette and blackjack from the comfort of their own homes. 

At this point, the software needed to support games was still quite basic. But, as technology advanced, so did the variety and quality of online gambling experiences. That early online venture opened the doors to a world of virtual gaming. 

The late 1990s and early 2000s saw rapid growth in the industry, with new online casinos launching and more players exploring this fresh way of gambling. It was a time of exciting change as the foundation for today’s bustling online casino world was firmly established. 

What Was The First Online Casino?

The world’s first online casino was InterCasino, which launched in 1996. Based in Antigua and Barbuda, InterCasino paved the way for others to follow. It offered a selection of games like video poker and blackjack, allowing players to experience the thrill of a casino game from their own homes. 

At the time, InterCasino was a revolutionary idea. Users only needed a computer and an internet connection to start playing, which was quite a novelty back then. This new form of entertainment connected people with games in a way that was never possible before. 

The software behind InterCasino was created by a company known as Cryptologic. They were instrumental in shaping the online gambling scene by developing secure systems for handling transactions and ensuring fair play. This emphasis on security and reliability helped build trust among players. 

InterCasino’s success showed the potential for online casinos, leading to a significant increase in competition as more operators entered the scene. Today, the online gambling landscape is vast and varied, but it all started with the pioneering steps taken by InterCasino in the mid-1990s. 

Who Invented Online Gambling?

The invention of online gambling was not the work of just one person. Instead, it was a collaborative effort involving several key players. In the mid-1990s, a company called Microgaming emerged as a pioneer. They were one of the first to create functional software for online casinos, which was crucial for turning the concept into reality. 

Microgaming was instrumental in providing the platform needed for online gambling to take off. Around the same time, Cryptologic developed secure online transaction systems. Their work ensured that players could trust the safety of their deposits and withdrawals, a critical factor in gaining user confidence. 

Another significant factor was the Free Trade and Processing Act passed by Antigua and Barbuda in 1994. This legislation allowed companies to set up online casinos, providing a legal framework for the industry to grow. 

Together, these developments and innovations allowed online gambling to become a viable and trusted form of entertainment. It was not the brainchild of one inventor but rather the result of various companies and legal steps coming together to shape the future of gambling. 

Play Casino Games Online at 666 Casino

Whether you are new to online casinos or an experienced player, 666 Casino provides a great place to play your favourite casino games online. We have a wide range of popular choices, including slots, blackjack, and roulette, all designed to give you a top-notch gaming experience. 

Our user-friendly interface makes it easy to navigate through the vast array of games, allowing you to find what you enjoy most quickly. Whether you fancy a quick spin or are up for a longer gaming session, you can easily do so at your own pace. Just remember to always play within your means. 

Speaking of which, 666 Casino places a strong emphasis on responsible gambling. We provide tools and resources to help you manage your play, ensuring that you can enjoy your gaming in a safe environment. Not to mention, our incredible customer support team are always happy to assist with any queries or questions you may have. 

Security is a priority, so you can play with peace of mind knowing that your personal information and transactions are protected. Our secure payment options are designed to make deposits and withdrawals convenient and trustworthy. 

If this sounds like what you have been looking for, or you are curious about the full collection of online slots and casino games we have available, consider joining us at 666 Casino, where entertainment and security go hand in hand to provide a first-rate online casino experience. Always play responsibly and only bet money you are comfortable losing. 

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**The information provided in this blog is intended for educational purposes and should not be construed as betting advice or a guarantee of success. Always gamble responsibly.