Getting started with online casino games can be overwhelming with the sheer number of options to choose from. Between slots, table games, live dealers and more, how do you know which game at VegasNow or any other platform is right for you? Rather than leaving it up to chance, follow this winning formula to narrow down the field and pick online casino games tailored to your style and budget.
Step 1: Decide Between Slots, Table Games, Live Casinos and Specialty Games
Online casinos typically categorize games into a few major buckets:
- Slots – The most popular option, with thousands of entertaining video slot themes featuring bonuses, progressive jackpots and more. Generally have a low barrier to entry.
- Table Games – Casino staples like blackjack, roulette and baccarat with different rulesets and betting options. Require some skill and strategy.
- Live Casinos – Table games with real human dealers streamed in real-time. Combine the convenience of online play with the energy of a real casino.
- Specialty Games – Lottery-style games like keno and bingo that offer big jackpots. Also includes unique games like virtual sports.
Consider which category aligns best with your interests by taking some free games for a test drive in practice mode. Do you prefer simple entertainment? Strategy? Big jackpots? Human interaction? Identifying your priorities will help narrow your options.
Step 2: Understand Variance and Volatility
An important but rarely discussed concept is variance – how much a game’s payouts vary over time. Some general guidelines:
- Low variance – Small and frequent payouts. Lower risk but results take longer. Example: Blackjack
- Medium variance – Moderate payout size and frequency. Example: Video poker
- High variance – Infrequent large payouts mixed with frequent small ones. Results vary wildly. Example: Slots
High variance games can pay life-changing sums, but bankroll management is crucial as you may have long dry spells. Low variance games offer steadier short-term results.
Terms like “volatility” and “hit frequency” also describe these characteristics. Consider if you want stability, don’t mind risk, or hope to score a huge jackpot.
Step 3: Compare Return to Player (RTP) and House Edge
Return to Player (RTP) indicates how much a game pays back to players over time. On average:
- 90-95% RTP – Most slots
- 95-99% – Some blackjack, video poker and other skill-based games
- 75-90% – Keno, virtual sports
House edge is the flip side – how much the casino profits. Games with skill elements like blackjack and video poker often have better RTP and lower house edges.
Study the stats to find games offering better odds. Just know that variance means short-term results will still fluctuate.
Step 4: Factor in Bonuses and Promotions
Many online casinos run promotions like:
- Welcome packages – Bonus funds or free spins when you join
- Reload bonuses – Bonuses when you deposit more money
- Cashback – Refund a % of losses each week
- Slot tournaments – Compete on certain slots for prize pools
Make sure to understand bonus terms like wagering requirements, game restrictions and expiration dates. If played right, promotions can stretch your entertainment budget.
Step 5: Try Games for Free First
Virtually every online casino offers a free play mode to test games without betting real cash. Take every game for a spin in practice mode to get a feel for:
- Entertainment value – Is the theme and gameplay fun for you?
- Features – Do you like the bonuses, number of paylines, betting options?
- Volatility – How often does it pay out? Do you hit big wins?
- User interface – Is the game easy to understand and control?
Getting some hands-on experience will confirm if a game matches your needs before playing for real stakes.
Start Small and Have Fun
Rather than jumping straight to high-stakes action, take an incremental approach:
- Set a conservative gambling budget
- Start playing games you like in practice mode
- Switch to real money at low stakes
- Only increase bets as you get more comfortable
- Always gamble responsibly within your means
The online casino environment provides all the excitement of traditional gambling from the comfort of home. By taking a strategic approach, novice and casual players can navigate the myriad options to find games perfectly suited to their budget and entertainment needs.