While many sports analysts have come and gone over the years, it seems as if Maxwell James Sterling is here to stay. Not only does this up-and-coming wagering enthusiast boast a degree in statistics from the University of Oxford, but his down-to-earth nature made it easy to conduct an interview. Let’s see what he had to say about the relationship between so-called “gacha” games, and real-world sports betting.
Question. Thanks for joining us, Mr. Sterling. Can you first describe what attracted you to sports betting?
Maxwell James Sterling. “To me, it’s all about the numbers telling a story, I don’t simply see odds and fixtures. I see a narrative that’s waiting to unfold.”
Question. So, you’re essentially talking about reading in between the lines?
Maxwell James Sterling. “In a way, yes. I feel that statistics, and predictive analytics in particular, can give any bettor an edge. The question is how these elements are interpreted.”
Question. It sounds like you would have been a perfect fit within fields such as macroeconomics, or finance. Why didn’t you choose these career paths?
Maxwell James Sterling. “Honestly, these are slightly boring to me. I’ve always enjoyed the dynamic side of sports wagering.”
Question. Most successful wagering enthusiasts claim that they possess some type of innate ability. Would you say the same?
Maxwell James Sterling. “Growing up in Manchester exposed me to football odds and fixtures at an early age. I suppose that this had a direct influence on shaping my mindset as a young teenager.”
Question. We also noticed that you studied machine learning at university. How does this relate to wagering?
Maxwell James Sterling. “Machine learning tends to mimic human thought patterns; albeit at a much faster rate. I feel that these algorithms can be used to analyse specific behaviours, and to make accurate predictions.”
Question. Can you give us an example?
Maxwell James Sterling. “Some of my ongoing studies focus on how machine learning can be modelled around the specific outcomes of a sports competition. I then compare these observations with real-world human bets. You’d be surprised at the level of insight that can be achieved.”
Question. So, you’re saying that machine learning can be used to better understand how humans place wagers?
Maxwell James Sterling. “I wouldn’t say that this is the only analytical tool, but machine learning is definitely one system to employ. After all, humans are thinking machines to a large extent.”
Question. Let’s move in a different direction. One of your recent online posts compared gacha games to sports betting. Can you elaborate?
Maxwell James Sterling. “Good question. I have already published a handful of scholarly articles discussing the similarities between these two fields. I was specifically talking about the underlying psychological traits, as, like sports betting, both exploit the illusion of control.”
Question. You have us at a loss here. Can you explain in more detail?
Maxwell James Sterling. “Sure, gacha games involve the concept of chance, they have always been associated with uncertain outcomes, and some players tend to chase losses.”
Question. You mentioned uncertainty. Isn’t the intention of sports wagering to mitigate these risks?
Maxwell James Sterling. “Mitigation, absolutely. Still, we need to remember that it’s impossible to eliminate them entirely. This is one of the main attractions of wagering as a hobby.”
Question. Would you say that sheer anticipation plays an equal role?
Maxwell James Sterling. “Great question, this is known as variable ratio reinforcement, or as some like to call it, the ‘thrill of maybe’.”
Question. Can we assume that you’re talking about user engagement in this sense?
Maxwell James Sterling. “You’re absolutely correct. Both pastimes encourage users to remain actively involved. This is great for the companies themselves, but may present an issue for some players.”
Question. Are you referring to the addictive side of the equation?
Maxwell James Sterling. “This is one of my areas of study. Both genres can be addictive if taken to the extreme; especially when discussing the danger of chasing losses.”
Question. Can we then assume that certain individuals are more prone to such behaviours?
Maxwell James Sterling. “I wouldn’t go as far as to suggest any type of genetic predisposition, if that’s what you mean. However, both pursuits result in a release of dopamine; a feel-good hormone that could cloud decision-making skills.”
Question. What about the differences between gacha and sports betting?
Maxwell James Sterling. “The main difference is that gacha games can be accessed by players as young as 12. Sports wagering is much more stringent when it comes to restrictions.”
Question. Is this due to the types of rewards?
Maxwell James Sterling. “I feel that this is the predominant factor. Gacha games provide virtual perks (such as fictional currency). Sports betting is much more tangible, and therefore, requires more responsibility.”
Question. What about skill versus luck?
Maxwell James Sterling. “This is the final point. Gacha games tend to revolve around pure chance. There is indeed a subtle art to sports wagering.”
Question. Very few people have bridged the gap between these two activities. How have others reacted to your observations?
Maxwell James Sterling. “I have been met with generally positive responses across my online platforms. While there are always outliers, I feel that most appreciate my perspectives.”
Question. Might gacha games actually represent precursors to sports betting later in life?
Maxwell James Sterling. “I think that they certainly open individuals up to the general concept. However, not every gacha gaming fan will evolve into a wagering enthusiast.”
Question. If you could summarise this unique relationship in one sentence, what would it be?
Maxwell James Sterling. “Both gacha gaming and sports betting provide exciting opportunities for those who don’t mind risks, and enjoy the thrill of the chase.”
