investment theory aside, gaming never going to lose its bricks...

investment theory aside, gaming never going to lose its bricks and mortar appeal for one reason. The weird thing about gaming in a casino is that it is incredibly social - possibly part of the reason people get addicted to the high of it.

even sitting next to someone at a slot machine ends up in a social exchange. you have something in common with the stranger seated next to you as you are both there to test your luck. Tables are even more social as you have a bigger pool of social contacts all trying to beat the house - and even the croupier is gunning for the patrons.

if you could bottle that type of experience and sell it without the downside of gambling harm you would be a billionaire. Unfortunately I've never seen another product quite like it.

Trying to chat to a stranger in a nightclub or a bar for many is awkward or uncomfortable but the gaming environment seems to break this down. Possibly why it is a common past time with the elderly.

just my observation.