The Sports Betting Series: Part 4 – Sensory Overload

This episode examines how gambling and sports betting companies keep us betting, despite the odds being against us. One of their primary weapons is that they have a better scientific understanding of our brains and senses than we do. They barrage our senses with sights, sounds, and smells, all of which almost imperceptibly encourage us to stay. Of course, the longer we stay, the more we bet.

This has been true for decades, from the casino to the racetrack. However, with the advent of modern technology, these tricks have progressed from the slot machines onto our smartphones. The best user experience designers turn our screens into a labyrinth of eye-catching and alluring activities, but still with real money at stake.

Home alone, staring at such well-designed interfaces without distraction, is dangerous. But simply being aware of this goes a long way in avoiding any trickery. So, this episode is very much worth your time!