Geo-restrictions can be seen all over the Internet. UK users have gotten used to being blocked from websites located in other countries around the world. And, most of us are aware that streaming services like Netflix offer different content libraries to users according to where in the world they are located. It’s also fairly common practice for gaming companies to enforce geo-restrictions, either because of licensing, because games don’t meet local laws, or in an attempt to ensure lag-free and enjoyable gaming experiences for all players. It isn’t necessarily a bad thing, although it can feel restrictive.
Geo-Restrictions In Online Gaming
Online gaming continues to grow in popularity, from AAA multiplayer titles like Call of Duty and Battlefield to iGaming sites like Samba Slots. While some of these sites and games are open to all players, many have geographic restrictions. Multiplayer games might restrict players to try and ensure good bandwidth in their games, or because they don’t comply with local loot box laws. Online casinos might have restrictions based on local laws, even though they accept cryptocurrency as a payment option.
Pros
It has become commonplace to see geo-restrictions, at least for some players. While it can be disheartening, there are some benefits to the practice.
Geo-Restrictions Enable Licensing
Streaming services, including game streaming services, agree to licensing deals with content providers. These licenses are typically offered by region or to include and exclude specific regions. Without geo-restrictions, services might otherwise be unable to agree to these license deals. You might miss out on one game, but geo-restrictions may also make it possible for you to play other games.
They Help Meet Regulations And Laws
Different countries have different laws regarding everything from loot boxes to payment methods and online gambling, in general. Geo-restrictions not only ensure the sites meet legal requirements but also the players. They could prevent you from falling foul of local laws at home or when traveling.
They Can Prevent Lag And Poor Bandwidth
Most online games have servers located around the world and will try to pit players against other players from similar regions. This helps ensure smooth gameplay and prevent lag. Restricting remote users from accessing those servers can improve the experience for those who can play.
Cons
There are benefits to geo-restrictions in some cases, but for those of us who have been hit with them, it is difficult to see past the cons of this practice.
They Limit Player Access To Some Great Games
The biggest pitfall of geo-restrictions is that they limit players’ access to games they want to play. It can be really frustrating if you’ve read reviews of a game and your online gaming friends are experiencing a title, but you can’t access it because of where you live. Similarly, it can be frustrating if you’re traveling abroad and you can’t access a game that you are normally able to play.
How To Avoid Geo-Restrictions
There are ways to circumvent some geo-restrictions. However, you should always be aware of local laws before doing so. In some countries, it may be illegal to use VPNs, for example, so you need to know the rules before you start.
Use Cryptocurrency
Cryptocurrencies are non-geographic currencies, are readily available on exchanges, and payments are borderless. Currencies like Solana, Bitcoin, and Dogecoin are popular and easy to get hold of. They are also commonly used for online gaming, but you will need an exchange account as well as a wallet to hold your crypto while you’re not spending it.
Use A VPN
Virtual private networks have servers all around the world. When you log on to the Internet, you can choose any of these remote servers, and you will be assigned an IP that looks as though you are accessing the Internet from that region. This means you can choose a server outside your current location and one that enables you to access the site or play the game you want to play. Some VPNs can cause delay or lag, however, so you will need to choose one that is designed for or suitable for online gaming.
Use No-KYC Sites
Banks and financial institutions are forced to gather Know Your Customer (KYC) details, and some online gambling jurisdictions also enforce the same requirements from their players. However, there are no KYC sites that do not require these details and, therefore, you do not need to let the site know what country you are located in. When used with a VPN and cryptocurrency, this can open up a whole new world of online gaming. If you’re playing at a no-KYC casino, ensure it is licensed and offers good security, but there are still plenty of jurisdictions that do offer licenses to no-KYC sites.
