The New Gambler’s Guide to Playing Casino Games

Perhaps you’re making the big transition from gambling at a local casino to virtual online games. Maybe you’re new to this world altogether. In any case, there is a lot to learn about online gambling, like different rules and strategies, but for now, we’re going to help you get started by identifying a few things which you will be immediately faced with. By following this easy new player’s guide to gambling, you will be one step ahead. First, here’s a quick lesson on the history of online gaming.

Internet gambling began in the early ‘90s. Yes, right around the same time you had to choose between browsing the web and using your telephone. During this time, the only type of online wagering you could find was sports betting. In 1994, the first real online casinos started to open. Ene of these was The Gaming Club. Since then, thousands of casinos have opened their virtual doors to gaming aficionados around the globe, thereby becoming a multi-billion dollar industry.

Now onto the New Player's Guide

Choose 'Download' or 'No Download' Site

There are two types of online casinos: download and no download. The main advantage of a no download casino is that once you have an account, you can begin playing. It also relieves any concerns of adding software to your computer. However, with downloadable games, the software can be more reliable, especially if your internet signal goes in and out. In addition, the graphics may be much better because the software is bigger. Whichever you choose, as long as you’re gambling at a reputable casino, you will not have to worry about security, software or payment issues.

How to Set Up an Account

Before beginning your game play, you have to register an account. The site that you choose will likely present you with 2 options; one being a Free Money account and the other being a Real Money account. The former will be playing for fun money, aka, fake or play money. The latter is for those of you who are ready to play for real cash. Choose your account and fill in the requested details. Avoid giving false information because doing so can not only cause problems with payouts, but also immediate closure of your account.

Remember, if you begin with a fun money account, you can convert it to a real money account in a few minutes.

How Welcome Bonuses Work

Established casinos may offer new players a welcome bonus. There are 2 different types. The first is FREE money. You’ll get $10 or $15 without any deposit. This is a great way to get a feel for the site at no risk to you. Alternatively, some of the sites will offer a 100% deposit up to a set dollar amount that you deposit. This can maximize your gambling money and although it does not necessarily mean you’ll win, you will no doubt get some extra game time in.

Note: Every casino applies their welcome bonuses differently; be sure to read associated terms and conditions.

Withdrawing Your Winnings

In the online world of casinos, you cannot physically walk up to someone to collect your winnings. Rather, you must head over to the casinos banking section and select the ‘Withdrawal’ option. Here you can enter in your withdrawal details and the amount that you would like to take out. The withdrawal methods will vary; some casinos will offer Western Union Moneybookers, Neteller, PayPal or other similar services. Some casinos will also offer bank transfers. Generally payouts take between 1 and 3 days.

Please remember that before you can collect your winnings, the casino will ask you to verify your identity. This is a security precaution that protects you and the casino. Lastly, be sure to confirm any fees associated with withdrawing your funds.

How to Navigate a Casino Lobby

Once you’ve registered, you’ll enter the casino lobby. It’s not like the sparkling Vegas lobbies full of glitz and glamour, but they can still be visually stimulating and have everything you need to get going. In the lobby, you’ll discover updates about the site, new game releases, top progressive jackpots and current bonus offerings. You’ll also find clickable links to your account, the customer service center and a promotions page. Some casinos will offer a ‘Players Club’ which is a paid for feature similar to a VIP package. You may also find an ‘Options’ page which will allow you to change game sounds, background noises, screen size, etc.

During the course of your visit, you will be logged into the casino software via a secure, encrypted connection. This means that all data is 100% safe.

Which Games to Choose

After you’ve become familiar with the casino lobby, you can begin navigating through a wide selection of great casino games. If you’re in the mood for a few rounds of slots, select the slot option within the menu. Here you will be presented with all slot games offered. These may include traditional, video or progressive slots. Once you have chosen your game, you will be taken directly to it where you can begin having fun.

Playing for Real Money or Play Money

Before you begin playing for real money, you may want to try out some of the games offered in the sites “Guest” or “Practice” play mode. This is an area that allows you to play for free. You won’t win any real money. Instead, you’ll accumulate play money, and more importantly, an understanding of the game, its controls and skill level required to play (and hopefully win).

Read the Terms and Conditions

Most of us do not read the ‘Terms and Conditions’. We click ‘Agree’ and go on our way. Usually this has no ill effect; however with online casinos, it will be of benefit to take 5 or 10 minutes and read through the terms and conditions given to you.

These will often describe what is and is not allowed. For example, opening multiple accounts is usually not tolerated and can have negative consequences. You’ll also find a detailed breakdown of fee’s or the withdraw process.

Nine out of 10 complaints associated with online casinos could have been completely avoided if the terms and conditions have been read.

Don't Forget to Have Fun

Online gambling is all about the experience. It’s a time to relax, chat with other members and have fun.

Are You Ready to Play?

There is a lot more to learn, but by now, you should have a good understanding of how to get started playing online games. Check out some of our top recommendations below and join the fun. You now know how easy it is to be a part of the action.