Getting started with Online Gambling
To download or not
In most cases, the online casino will offer a choice of either downloading their playing software or using a Java-Based version for which you need to have Flash installed. The advantage of a no-download game is that you can play it on most computers and operating systems. The disadvantage is that you will need to download graphics and sounds every time you play, and that this game version may have reduced functionality. Usually you will try the game in this version before deciding to download the full version, for which you will need 5-15 megabytes of memory. Downloaded games are considered more stable and secure.
The attraction of bonuses
Since there are so many online casinos that offer virtually the same thing, the bonus system is used to try to show differences. Typically an online casino will attract new players by offering a Welcome or Sign-Up Bonus, around $25 or so in free playing money for joining up. The casino may also increase your bankroll when you first deposit money i.e. 25% extra on the money you pay in, up to a certain limit (so your $100 would give you $125 to gamble with). There will be other bonuses for additional deposits and for conditions like introducing other players. Note that you will need to wager (risk) several times your deposit before being able to collect this free money.
Ways of paying in money
One of the most popular ways of paying money to an online casino is by using secure virtual wallet services such as Click2Pay, NETeller, Money Bookers and UKash. You open an account with one of these services and deposit money there. They then instantly transfer your money to casinos, as well as accepting winnings from them on your behalf. Another method is using Switch, Solo and Delta Debit cards, although there may be restrictions on how much in winnings can be returned to the card. Outside the USA, you can use credit cards like Visa and Mastercard. Other deposit methods are to use wire transfers, bank cheques or direct transfers. Most online casinos will offer a bonus incentive for using one of these payment methods.
Range of online games
Online casinos outdo each other in offering a wide variety of table games: Poker, Blackjack, Baccarat, Roulette and more. They also have many types of Video Poker 10-15 varieties, some of them offering multi-hand games. Slots are a big money-spinner with casinos and youll find a rich selection of games. Progressive slots can offer huge prizes. They work by linking many slot machines linked together in a network. The jackpot is created by taking a percentage of all the money played into the machine. It keeps growing until somebody hits the winning symbols for the top prize. Most games are easy to learn, and online casinos offer many playing guides and tutorials for beginners.
A word about safety
While most online casinos make great efforts to be honest, reputable and fair, its a good idea to check them out first. One way is to check around which are the main names that keep coming up, perhaps by visiting an independent site such as the e-Commerce and Online Gaming Regulation and Assurance association (eCOGRA). Its role is to protect players by addressing the need for fair gaming and responsible operator conduct. The link is http://www.ecogra.org/approved.aspx
Online casino gambling is easy to play, is always available to you and gives you more chances to win than at land-based casinos. Who knows, you may even win enough to travel to Monte Carlo or Las Vegas.
