The vintage casino aesthetic is both incredibly timeless and glamorous. Even the picture of neon signs luring players into various establishments paints a pretty clear picture of what to expect. The golden age of places where casinos are more prevalent, like Las Vegas, continues to shape the modern world in so many ways, from fashion to film, and even video games.
Sophistication, excitement, a slight sense of betrayal, and a touch of community likely come to mind when thinking about the vintage casino aesthetic. Yes, there are the velvet ropes, expensive Armani tuxedos, and an unreal number of flutes on silver platters dancing around the game floor. Even the high ceilings and golden moulding that frame intricate ceiling designs present a sense of ease in the fast-paced environment. However, in the background, there is always the notion that players can lose everything they’ve put on the line in a single moment.
Unless people are frequently visiting high-end casinos that offer this ambiance, in today’s culture, we see the vintage casino aesthetic most often in film and video games. Fallout: New Vegas is a great modern-day example of the aesthetic, focusing primarily on timeless drama and high-street fashion that also bleeds into an underground political drama. Even the dialogue between non-player characters mimicked the transatlantic vocal style that seems to be typical of that aesthetic.
Modern architecture and interior design in the nightlife spaces also owe much of their luxurious ideals to the world of casinos. Looking around at bars and lounges, there are many that take on designs stylized to seem vintage. Some of these styles include mirrored finishes and red plush seating alongside wide spaces. This choice in design really speaks to those who value escapism, nostalgia, and most importantly, a lifestyle that is just a bit out of reach.
Another example of the vintage casino aesthetic in the digital space is Casino Kings, an online casino in the UK. Combining modern gameplay with sleek designs helps invoke memories of a different, but not forgotten, time. Games will typically feature digital reels adorned in gold trims and even sounds that mimic the clinking of coins and the pulling of the slot lever. Players will even notice the regal and royal iconography spread throughout the site.
The concept of fondly remembered moments is a big reason why people who frequent casinos come back to them time and time again. When paired with the nostalgia and glamour of days gone by, players can feel luxurious without ever having to leave the casino floor. In fact, there are music videos, commercials, and pop-up installations that revolve around tapping into this sense of nostalgia for an even more immersive and in-touch experience. Even if players are just scrolling on a screen or pressing buttons in a casino, these small details ensure replayability and fun.
It’s always been known that history repeats itself, and the red and gold trim of vintage casinos is here to stay. The aesthetic is strangely adaptable and a reminder that impressive statements will always find their way back into modern culture.
