Online gaming is a huge phenomenon that has gone from an idea in a university computer lab to a fully-fledged global craze. While the 1980s inspired the arcade culture that made competing over video games a popular trend, the arrival of the internet and the ubiquity of smartphones made gaming more accessible than ever before.
Some of the most popular games of the previous centuries were translated into digital form, from chess and backgammon to casino games such as those found at 777. Players could have their pick of their favourite games without having to leave their houses, and the appeal of casino games such as slots, roulette, blackjack, and poker was just as enticing online.
For those that want to find their way in the world of gaming without falling foul of any sharp practice or disreputable sites, there are a few simple rules to follow:
Check that the site’s legitimate
The rise in gaming has been such an international phenomenon that some countries have struggled to keep up with the pace of technological change. To keep up, a number of countries have had to introduce new legislation with many expanding the reach of existing gambling regulatory bodies and all reputable online casinos will be registered with one of them.
In the UK, the Gambling Commission oversees online casinos as well as brick-and-mortar ones, and there are other international licensing authorities that can license gaming operations, such as the internationally renowned Malta Gaming Authority. Online casinos do not have to be registered in the country where they are based, but they should be licensed by an official organisation and display the details on their site.
Check that the site’s secure
Whenever you are moving money around, you want to be sure that your details are protected from scammers and identity thieves. Most casino sites will show which security system they offer and link to the details of how they keep your data safe.
Any concerned players should always check before inputting their details and particularly any payment information, and legitimate sites should show details of how they protect players’ information.
Find the best promotions
Brick and mortar casinos were known for offering players free
food, drinks, and sometimes even accommodation and online
casinos offer a range of discounts and special offers as well.
These
can include:
Some of these are offered to every player, some are conditional, and many casinos offer seasonal bonuses as well. It’s important to check the terms and conditions to make sure that you qualify for any offer that you want to take advantage of, but freebies can be a great way to test out new games and learn which ones you enjoy the most.
The variety of games
While some people have a firm favourite game that they play every time, most people like to try out a variety of games and this is easiest on a site that has plenty of choices. With so many games to choose from, from fast-paced games such as slots to more involved ones such as poker, players can find the perfect game for them.
If you can find a site that has all your favourite games in one place, it is much more convenient than switching from site to site and it makes it easier to keep track of what you are spending.
Choose a site that’s easy to use
Whatever your preferences when it comes to games, it’s important to play on a site that’s easy to use. Whether you are using free spins on the slots or trying to cash out your winnings, it’s important to choose a site with clear navigation that makes it easy to deposit and withdraw money.
An accessible interface is crucial for keeping track of your gaming as well so that you can see which games you have played, the bets you have placed, and details of your wins. Most online casinos have live help to answer any questions and customer service operators ready to ensure that their players have everything they need.
Online gaming is a fun way to be in with a chance to win big, but it’s important to make sure that you find the right site to play on. Choose a site that is licensed and regulated, with secure payment systems so that you can be sure any problems you encounter will be thoroughly investigated.