Online Casino Gambling

Online gambling has grown to become a fiercely competitive industry.  This is evident when examining some of the top online casino software providers and their respective portfolios.  Take Microgaming for example.  This company offers more than 400 games, giving players the beauty of variety.  Rival Gaming on the other hand, only has about 60 games in its portfolio.  Does the number of games a casino offers really matter?  Does it mean that one software provider is better than the other? Although it all depends on who you ask, this article will strive to provide the answers.

Veterans vs. Newcomers

When trying to determine why one casino has considerably more games than their competition, one must understand that some online casino software providers have been in the business much longer than others.  For instance, Microgaming has been around for more than a decade now whereas Rival Gaming got its start just a few years ago.  This alone is a significant factor that accounts for the vast difference in the number of games a given casino has to offer.  The second reason is associated with the rate of releases.  Over the years, Microgaming has been committed to introducing three to four new titles every month, while Rival Gaming adds new games on a more sporadic schedule.

The Aspect of Variety

When you create an account with an online casino powered by Microgaming software, you will have your shot at well over 400 games.  More than likely, you will not have the time or desire to play all 400.  Some players prefer slots, some love scratch cards and others live for the thrill of table games.  For this reason, they are more likely to stick with the games that fall into those categories.  Hence, the power of Microgaming casinos does not lie in the 400 games, but the variety they offer to the player.  Everyone is different and has their own preference, factors that allow the software provider and its licensees to cater to the masses.  So while a company such as Rival Gaming cannot match Microgaming’s variety, one like Cryptoplogic, which offers a diverse portfolio of about 200 games, can.

Out with the Old, in with the New

The rate at which new casino games are added is another important factor on the market.  While certain games such as blackjack and poker will probably maintain their popularity for an eternity, other games will become dull over time once people grow tired of playing them.  For example, online slots without the additional bonus game on the separate screen are considered old news among many players.  While some players still prefer the old school version, that percentage is dwindling quickly.  For this reason, software providers that keep the market fresh with new titles are more likely to attract more players and maintain their interest.

Conclusion

The battle continues to wage on, but direct competition in the online gambling space is actually on the decline.  Today, operators are focused on strengthening their bottom line through niche markets.  A perfect example is Rival Gaming and its exclusive i-Slots.  As more players emerge online, they will likely discover their niche and find that the number of games a casino offers isn’t as important as it once seemed.

Today’s casino software is loaded with features that benefit the gambling operator and player alike.  One feature that can definitely work to the player’s advantage is the “Help” function.   Let’s have a closer look at this feature to see out it operates in some of the most popular software platforms.

Microgaming

When playing on Microgaming online casino software, you can usually access the Help feature by clicking on the “?” in the top left corner of the screen.  Once inside, you will find that the Help section is complimented by variety of menus on different topics.  The main menu gives you details about the game you are playing, symbols, bonus rounds, and payouts.  It also provides complete game rules, which makes it a valuable feature to new players.  Other information provided are general details regarding slots and the Expert mode functions found in Microgaming casino games.  You can also find contact information should you need to speak with the casino staff for any reason.  The Microgaming Help feature provides a wealth of comprehensive information that adds a nice touch of user-friendliness to game play.

Playtech

When playing at a casino powered by Playtech software, you can find the Help tab under the menu button at the bottom of the screen.  When clicking on the Help tab, you will be redirected to a different interface that acts as a Help Center.  Here you will find detailed sections that show you how to set paylines and place wagers, explanations on shortcut keys and the various functions they perform, information about special symbols on the reels, bonus games and much more.  Players who are uncertain of how the bonus games work tend to find the Help feature in Playtech software very useful.

Vegas Technology

When playing on Vegas Technology casino software, the Help function can be accessed by clicking the “Help” button on the game screen.  The Help section has a number of menus, providing information on how to play the game, in addition to details on coins, paylines and spins.  Under the rules section, you can find out how the software determines winning combinations as well as information about special symbols on the reels.  There are also individual sections that explain the bonus games and payouts, which make understanding them easy by reproducing the graphical table from the actual game.  The unique aspect of the Help feature in Vegas Technology software is that it allows players to print out the sections so they do not have to interrupt their game looking back and forth.

Conclusion

User-friendliness and simplicity are important factors when it comes to online gambling software.  Without these two elements, playing your favorite games wouldn’t be very fun.  The Help feature represents the effort of software makers to cater to players by creating a straightforward, user-friendly environment.  If you are completely new to a certain game, or just a need a refresher, the Help section comes through in the clutch with the answers you need.  Because it is so useful, almost all online casino software providers incorporate a Help feature in their gaming platform.

Slot machines are one of the most popular games at the casinos. Slot machines are something anyone at any skill level can play. While there is very little learning curved involved in slots, applying a few techniques will help you up your winnings, extend your play time, and have more fun on your casino trip.

5 Tips for Playing Slot Machines

1. Use your reward card. Most casinos offer some type of reward card. These cards are used by the casino to track how much you are spending. The amount you spend, win, and time you spend playing are converted in to bonus prizes given out by the casino. These prizes can vary from comps at the casino’s buffet to free playing time at a slot machine. Some casinos even offer incentive bonuses for new joiners and extra prizes on one’s birthday. In short, it pays to use your reward card. Always pop the card in the slot machine before you start playing.

2. Play the maximum bet on a progressive slot machine. If you were to hit the jackpot on a progressive slot machine and you were not betting the maximum your payout would be much lower then what lured you to the slot in the first place. If you are going to play a progressive slot, it is important that you bet the maximum allowed. If you can not afford to bet the maximum, play a slot machine that doesn’t pay on progressive.

3. Divide your bankroll. Most people go in to a casino with a set amount they plan to spend. Before you start playing, give your bankroll a limit. For example, if you plan to spend $500 and want to play at least five slot machines, only spend $100 at each slot. This way your entire bank roll does not go to one slot machine. Also, if you are on a gambling vacation and plan to spend more then one day at the casino, divide your bank roll in to days. This will ensure you do not run out of playing money on the first day.

4. Do not play your winnings. An easy trick to make sure you walk out of a casino with some cash in hand is to save your winnings. Any time you get ahead on a slot machine, cash out and keep your winnings separate. You can continue you to play on your bankroll up to your limits, and this way you still walk out with some cash.

5. Start out low and work up to maximum bets. While it does not pay to bet low on a progressive machine, betting lower on a standard slot will help you build up a bankroll and make your money last longer. People get excited when they walk in to a casino, and that excitement may cause them to blow their whole bank roll on large bets right at the start. Start off with a smaller amount until you build up a bankroll and your money will last longer.

Slot machines are a fun way to spend time at the casino. Larger casinos will have dozen machines with different styles and games. Using a little technique will help you up your winnings and have a better time at the slots.

In tough economic times, people want to save money every way they can, and several people have started to take advantage of coupons. You can find coupons for almost anything, including your grocery, a car wash, a purchase at a major retailer, and even a casino. Casinos offer coupons for all sorts of benefits from free food to free money to play with. Best of all, these coupons are free and not that difficult to get your hands on.

What are Casino Coupons?

Casino coupons differ from comps. Comps are handed out at random by casino employees such as the pit boss or dealer and that player must use the comp almost immediately. Casino coupons offer more leeway. A coupon is printed on a piece of paper and can be redeemed by anyone as long as it is still valid.

What are the Types of Casino Coupons?

The most common casino coupons are free meals at the casino’s buffet or restaurants, or free drinks at the casino bar. If the casino has a hotel, they may have coupons for discounted or even free stay. If the casino is a resort and includes spas or golf courses, players can enjoy coupons for those areas as well. The most popular casino coupons however include free play. These coupons can come in two forms. Standard free play coupons work the same as cash; players redeem the coupon at the cashier’s desk for a voucher and can use it anywhere in the casino. The second form of coupon increases a player’s bet. The player can place a bet at a poker table in conjunction with their coupon to double their bet.

Where do I Find Casino Coupons?

There are several places to find a casino coupon. The easiest way is to book a stay at the casino’s hotel through a travel agency. Casinos often give entire coupon books away to patrons staying at their hotel. You can also find individual coupons for casinos printed in the back of tourism brochures and gambling magazines. You can also ask a casino employee about their coupons. Several casinos are happy to pass them out to patrons who ask for them. There are also a number of casino coupons for online casinos. Performing an internet search, or joining a number of mailing lists for your favorite casino are sure ways to access the many available coupons.

Casino coupons are a great way to save a few dollars or get some extra rewards at a casino. Before heading to the casino, do your research to see if you can find any of these coupons. Once you get there, remember that it does not hurt to ask- you may be surprised at what you get.

A 52-year old gambler who reportedly gambled over five million dollars a day, and lost a grand total of $127 million dollars in one year, has taken civil action against a popular Las Vegas casino. According to the gambler, Terrance Watanabe, the casino is to blame for his incredible loss, and he wants his money back.

How Terrance Watanabe Got Here

Terrance Watanabe made a fortune running an import company that sold party favors started by his father. Around 2000, Watanabe started frequenting Las Vegas casinos, particularly ones owned by Harris, aimed at spending that fortune. Watanabe didn’t start out small, after all the man had a fortune to spend, but Harris employees say his gambling didn’t become a problem until almost five years later.

In 2005, Watanabe had developed a heavy drinking problem. He was also visiting the casinos more frequently. Some reports say he was gambling on five million or more a day.

Two years later, in 2007, Harris casino employees took a keen interest in Watanabe. Steve Wynn personally reviewed the gambler’s history and spoke to him about what Wynn considered to be a serious gambling addiction. Watanabe was eventually banned from the casino.

Las Vegas’ Big Loser

Between 2000 and 2007 Terrance Watanabe lost a good deal of money. In fact, his losses added up to 5.6% of Harris total revenue in one year. That year marked the longest loosing streak in Las Vegas history. Watanabe lost a total of $127 million dollars in the Caesars Palace and Rio casinos.

Unfortunately, most of those losses were on credit given by Harris; a credit that Watanabe didn’t repay. In April of 2007 he was charged with four counts of intent to steal when he failed to repay Harris a $14 million dollar debt. He faces up to 28 years in prison if he is convicted of the charges.

Terrance Watanabe Sues Las Vegas

In lieu of just repaying Harris, Watanabe elected to file a civil suit instead. According to him, employees of the casino alternated between feeding him pain medication and alcohol in an attempt to keep him gambling.

Pierce O’Donnell, Watanabe’s lawyer, told reporters that Harris “preyed” on Watanabe’s drinking and gambling addiction, and that the failed to follow protocol. (In Las Vegas, a casino is supposed to ask anyone who has had too much to drink to stop gambling.) However, he admits claims that Watanabe knew he had a problem when he lost the $127 million.

The civil suit has caused the Nevada gaming commission to open an investigation in to Harris’ treatment policies.

The results of the civil case may not be in for months. In the meantime, Watanabe’s debt is on hold and he is still banned from the casino.

Real Time Gaming is one of the leading providers of internet casino software and a major player in the world of online slots.  In this article, we will take a look at three of its most popular slots game to see why they have become such a big hit among online players.

Aztec’s Treasure

Real Time Gaming’s most popular attraction, Aztec’s Treasure is a slots game that revolves around the theme of ancient civilizations.  The reels have vibrant colors and symbols that feature the likes of the Aztec King, Warrior, and ancient artifacts that accentuate the theme of the game.  This slots game offers broad betting range, allowing you to be from $0.01 to a $100.  The maximum payout on scatters is 500while the payouts on fixed jackpots for five predetermined symbol combinations on an enabled payline range between 5,000 and 100.  When playing free spin rounds, payouts are tripled.  While Aztec’s Treasure is an online game of high volatility, which means it pays out larger sums less frequently, the fact that there is no bonus game to play on a separate screen helps to balances thing out.

Enchanted Garden

Enchanted Garden carries a mystical theme of charm reflected by the suitable symbols and overall ambiance of the game.  Just like Aztec’s Treasure, this one offers a broad betting range, allowing you to wager from $0.01 to $100.  The wild symbol pays out double and appears on four reels, demonstrating relatively high volatility.  However, the maximum payout for scatters is 200, which can be considered moderate compared to Aztec’s Treasure.  The payouts on fixed jackpots for five predetermined symbol combinations range between 2,500 to 100.  Although this indicates low volatility, the aspect of double payouts increases it.  Enchanted Garden offers more volatility with triple payouts in free spins rounds, but evens things out with the absence of an additional bonus game on a second screen.

Paydirt

Paydirt revolves around a gold mining theme.  This online slots game offers superb animation and graphics, particularly in the bonus games.  Similar to the games above, Paydirt has a broad betting range, allowing you to bet from $0.01 to $125.  The maximum payout on scatters is 200, which can be considered moderate compared to other games.  Payouts on fixed jackpots for five predetermined symbol combinations on an enabled payline range between 10,000 and 100.  Unlike Aztec’s Treasure, Paydirt offers a free spins bonus game on a second screen.  Free spins have normal payouts but can be triggered.  The good thing about this slots game is the high volatility, which is the direct result of the bonus rounds and additional winning possibilities.  This makes Paydirt an ideal choice for players who want to win big at online slots.

Conclusion

These are just a few of many online slots games in Real Time Gaming’s extensive portfolio.  Aside from being exciting and fun to play, they also give you a fair chance at winning a nice some of cash.  Therefore, you may want to keep these games in mind when setting out to hit the virtual slots.