Zynga's Mark Pincus: Online gambling is a 'natural fit' for social games

![][1] In short, don't be surprised to soon see the real consequences of going "all in" on a hand of [Zynga Poker][2]. [Business Insider reports][3] that [Zynga][4] CEO Mark Pincus said today at the Morgan Stanley Technology, Media and Telecom conference that he thinks [online gambling][5] is a "natural fit" for Zynga's games. This echoes sentiments that a [Zynga representative revealed to All Things D][6].

"I think it's a good natural fit," Pincus said, according to Business Insider. "I think, philosophically, the part people haven't noticed yet, real money gaming is the perfect with virtual goods and social games. We're interested, but you should expect to see us do a lot more than what you've seen in offshore casinos."

What Pincus seems to have meant here is that Zynga will do more with its online gambling plans than slots and blackjack. It's unknown whether Zynga intends to incorporate gambling mechanics into its existing popular games, but we wouldn't rule that out. However, at least in the U.S., this all rides on whether the individual states open the gates, thanks to a [recent Department of Justice decision][7].

Zynga is joined by a number of other companies, including recent partner [Slingo][8], in this increased interest in online gambling via social games. While 2012 might not be the year that we can bet away our hard-earned Facebook Credits, it will see every social game maker from Zynga to [EA][9] and everyone in between work toward it.

**Are you excited about or dreading the arrival of online gambling in Facebook games? Which company do you see coming out on top in online gambling on social networks? Sound off in the comments. [Add Comment.][10]**

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[3]: http://www.businessinsider.com/mark-pincus-says-online-gambling-is-a-natural-fit-for-zyngas-games-2012-2
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