Poker is perhaps the most popular card game in the world, and over the years it has undergone changes that have adapted it to the technological boom of modern society. That has led to the proliferation of online poker rooms, creating a loyal community of players who enjoy the game from the comfort of their homes from their smartphone or computer.
But, how exactly did online poker come about, and how has it evolved since the early days of digitization? Read on to find out.
How long is the history of online poker?
The history of online poker began in the 1990s, ushering in a revolution in the way people play poker. Although poker has been played in various forms for centuries, the ability to compete online completely changed the dynamics of the game. The first online poker platform was established in 1998, when Planet Poker launched its website. This event marked the beginning of a new era in the poker world.
During its early years, online poker-faced significant challenges, such as lack of regulation and players’ distrust in the security of transactions and the fairness of the games. However, as technology improved and stricter regulations were established, online poker began to gain popularity.
Who is Chris Moneymaker and why is he important for poker online?
The year 2003 was a turning point in the online poker history. This was the year that an accountant from Tennessee named Chris Moneymaker won the World Series of Poker (WSOP), the most prestigious poker tournament in the world.
His victory was an extraordinary event because, instead of qualifying through an in-person tournament, Moneymaker had gained his entry into the tournament through an online satellite on PokerStars. His triumph inspired thousands of players to follow his example and play online poker.
Chris Moneymaker’s online poker player history lies in the importance of the fact that his victory proved that anyone could compete with the pros and win. His success story inspired numerous online poker players to pursue their dreams in the game. In addition, his path to victory began with an online qualifier, which further emphasized the impact of online poker on the poker scene.
His online poker player history has got a huge legacy: the well-known “Moneymaker effect”, which has translated into a massive increase in the popularity of online poker. Many players began playing online in hopes of replicating his success. This led to an explosive growth in the number of online poker websites and platforms. The media exposure Moneymaker received also contributed to the online poker boom.
Differences between online poker and conventional poker
Conventional poker, played in physical casinos or at gatherings of friends, has significant differences from online poker. Below, we explore some of the key differences and we explain some of the most important online poker facts you should have already learnt:
Accessibility
Online poker is extremely accessible. Players can participate in games anytime, anywhere, as long as they have an Internet connection and a compatible device. This means there is no need to travel to a physical casino or stick to a fixed schedule to play.
Variety of games
Online poker offers a wide variety of poker variants, from Texas Hold’em and Omaha to Seven Card Stud and more. This allows players to experience different styles and rules of play, which may be less common in land-based casinos.
Anonymity
In online poker, players can maintain a certain degree of anonymity. This can be beneficial for those who wish to avoid public exposure or keep their identity a secret.
Speed of play
Online poker tends to be faster than conventional poker. Hands are developed more quickly, as there is no need to shuffle cards or count chips manually. This allows players to participate in more hands in a shorter period of time.
Safety and fairness
Although there were initial concerns about security and fairness in online poker, technological advances and proper regulation have improved player confidence. Online poker platforms use random number generators and advanced security measures to ensure fair play.
Social interaction
Conventional poker encourages in-person social interaction, with players sitting together at a table, allowing communication and reading opponents’ reactions. In contrast, online poker is played in a virtual environment, which can limit face-to-face interaction. However, many online poker platforms offer chat and real-time interaction features to compensate for this lack of physical presence.
Imagine the unmistakable sound of a roulette ball whirling around the wheel, the subtle chatter of fellow players placing their bets, and the warm, inviting presence of a croupier poised to set the wheel in motion. This immersive tableau is no longer confined to the velvet-draped corners of a bustling casino floor.
If you crave the thrill of a land-based casino but cannot be bothered going out, consider live online roulette at PlayUK, where you can enjoy a great selection of live roulette games supplied by two live casino software giants, NetEnt and Evolution Gaming.
The Benefits of Live Roulette
All games take place in real-time and are hosted by a real live human dealer, so you are guaranteed to get the human touch during every game you play.
Live roulette brings all the excitement and drama of all the casino action right to the comfort of your home.
As live roulette is online, you can join in with a game or two no matter what time of day or wherever you happen to be (as long as you have an internet connection).
It is convenient and highly entertaining to play and well worth setting aside some of your bankroll to try.
How to Play Live Roulette
Firstly, you need to register and log in with an online casino like PlayUK, then make your first deposit and claim your welcome bonus before navigating to the live roulette section.
If you have played roulette at a land-based casino, then live roulette should be easy to understand.
Your screen will show two distinct betting sections, one for the inside and the other for the outside bets.
At the top of the table is the roulette wheel and the dealer (sometimes called the croupier), whose job is to spin the wheel, drop the ball and finally call the winning bet.
The dealer usually uses a physical table and places your bets using real chips whilst spinning the wheel. However, some live roulette games use a computer-generated table where only the dealer and wheel are present.
Commonly, there are two types of live roulette wheels offered online:
American Roulette – The American roulette wheel has 38 pockets and has two zero pockets, the single zero (0) and the double zero (00). The house edge in a game of American roulette is 5.26%
European Roulette – The European roulette wheels have 37 pockets and a single zero (0) pocket. The house edge in a game of European roulette is 2.7%.
How to Make a Bet in Live Online Roulette Games
Placing a bet on the live roulette table of your choice is easy:
Choose the amount you want to bet, making sure that it is higher than the minimum bet allowed for that table, and click on it
Once you have done this, the live dealer will acknowledge your bet and will place physical chips on a table
Once all bets are placed, the dealer will spin the wheel, and your anticipation will increase as the wheel slows and finally stops.
The dealer then calls out the winning number, and if you are lucky, you’ll receive a payout equal to the odds for that bet.
If you are unlucky that time, your chips are taken, and your bankroll will show a loss.
The Final Say
As you would expect, live online roulette games create an immersive experience, especially because games take place in real time, and you can chat with the dealer and other players at the appropriate times.
Once you have familiarised yourself with the different roulette bets to make and have some knowledge of roulette etiquette, playing liver dealer online roulette can provide tons of casino action from whichever platform you choose.
Remember that good bankroll management is also essential when playing any online casino games because games are so immersive it can be easy for time to slip by. You must know when to walk away or take a break from the roulette table and never chase any losses
Welcome to the dynamic realm of online casinos, where each wager carries the promise of heightened excitement and anticipation. In the pursuit of an enhanced gaming experience, we uncover a subtle yet significant aspect – the impact of thoughtfully chosen snacks. While the notion of “lucky foods” may appear rooted in folklore, a scientific foundation supports the idea that specific foods can subconsciously influence our perception of luck. Edibles linked with positive emotions—think chocolate, berries, and nuts—have the power to trigger the release of endorphins, fostering a sense of well-being that can significantly augment your online gaming experience.
In this article, we will embark on a discerning exploration, delving into a spectrum of gastronomic delights designed to elevate your gameplay. Join us in understanding how the judicious selection of culinary companions can contribute to a more refined and enjoyable gaming atmosphere, where every moment, both in the game and at your table, is savored with sobriety.
Fueling Your Gambling Prowess
The online gambling world is an exhilarating space filled with chance and excitement, drawing players from all corners of the globe to test their luck and pursue fortunes. While the appeal of jackpots and winning streaks is undeniable, achieving success in online gambling goes beyond mere spins of the reels or placing bets. The strategic inclusion of snacks, and the art of pairing delightful treats with your online gambling adventures, can elevate your gameplay and potentially increase your chances of winning. Similar to athletes who carefully design their diets for optimal performance, online gambling enthusiasts can thoughtfully incorporate snacks into their sessions to enjoy similar benefits. The right snacks have the potential to offer sustained energy, enhance concentration, and even uplift mood, collectively contributing to a more enjoyable and potentially successful online gambling experience. Just take a look at one of the iconic moments of the 2006 World of Poker where Jamie Gold, the winner of the main event, was seen eating blueberries while playing. Read more on: https://www.pokernews.com/news/2023/07/2023-wsop-main-event-records-43983.htm
Lucky Food Combos to Elevate Your Gameplay
Enhancing your online gambling experience can go beyond strategy and luck – it can involve thoughtfully curated food pairings that complement your gaming sessions. While there’s no guaranteed formula for success in online gambling, these lucky food pairings add a touch of excitement and a dash of superstition to your gaming sessions, creating a unique and enjoyable atmosphere that might just tip the odds in your favor. Consider these suggestions to elevate your enjoyment and potentially boost your focus and energy levels:
Trail Mix Bliss:
Combine almonds, walnuts, and dark chocolate chips (you can even throw berries in there) for a nutrient-packed trail mix. The combination of healthy fats and antioxidants topped with a touch of sweetness will keep you energized and focused.
Mediterranean Hummus Platter:
Whip up a batch of homemade hummus and serve it with whole-grain pita bread, cucumber slices, cherry tomatoes, and olives. This savory and satisfying platter is perfect for sustained energy during longer gaming sessions.
Fruit Salad Parfait:
Layer Greek yogurt with a variety of fresh fruits like berries and mangoes. Top it off with a drizzle of honey and a sprinkle of granola for a healthy treat that promotes concentration.
Spinach and Feta Stuffed Mushrooms:
Mix chopped spinach, feta cheese, garlic, and breadcrumbs. Stuff the mixture into mushroom caps and bake until golden. These savory bites make for a delightful and flavorful snack.
Caprese Skewers:
Thread cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella balls, and basil leaves onto skewers. Drizzle with balsamic glaze for a classic and light appetizer that won’t weigh you down.
While enjoying nice foods can certainly contribute to a more pleasant online gambling experience, it’s important to recognize that success in gambling is primarily determined by factors such as strategy, luck, and responsible gaming practices. Nice foods can enhance your overall enjoyment by creating a comfortable and enjoyable environment, potentially boosting your mood and focus but at the end of the day, they do not guarantee winnings or influence the outcome of the games themselves.
In any online gambling endeavor, it’s crucial to prioritize responsible and strategic gaming habits, understand the rules of the games you’re playing, and manage your bankroll effectively. Just as you pair luck and good foods while gambling, the real deal when indulging in online gambling (e.g. casinos and slots) is to pair them with trustworthy sites like https://casinobonusca.com/ that provide comprehensive reviews, updated and real-time promos, and essential information about gambling. Nice foods can be a delightful addition to your gaming routine, but they should complement, not replace, essential aspects of responsible and informed gambling.
The Illinois online casino bill that stalled in a House committee in March 2023 may be revived in 2024, hopes state Rep. Edgar Gonzalez Jr. On Oct. 31, he told Bonus he still believes HB2239 can move forward. If the bill is approved, Bonus estimates iGaming will generate $240 million in annual tax income for Illinois.
Gonzalez, D-Chicago, told Bonus today:
I believe the bill will stand as-is. And, hopefully, it can get a committee hearing. Proponents of the legislation have been engaging with legislators to walk through numbers and concerns. I remain optimistic but unsure of the timeline — this bill will probably take some more time to digest.
Unlike many other states, Illinois’ legislative sessions operate on a two-year cycle. So, the 103rd General Assembly lasts from Jan. 11, 2023, to Jan. 5, 2025.
That means the Illinois online casino bill Gonzalez introduced on Feb. 8, 2023, still has a chance to pass during 2024.
The state’s newest online sportsbook operator, Circa Sports, was interested in online casino legalization.
The operator soft-launched its sportsbook app on Sept. 29, then opened its retail book on Oct. 4 at American Place Casino in Waukegan.
Circa Sports’ Operations Director Jeff Benson told Bonus today:
We’ll consider iGaming if legalized.
At the moment, Circa is concentrating on launching its sportsbook in Kentucky. The Bluegrass State launched retail sports betting on Sept. 7 and online sportsbooks on Sept. 28.
Benson said to Bonus today:
Hope to launch in KY in 2-3 months.
Legalizing Online Casino Is ‘Inevitable’
On March 30, Gonzalez told Bonus:
iGaming is inevitable, it’s just a matter of when and how.
Illinois is no stranger to the usual objection in each state considering legalizing online casino gambling. Land-based casino stakeholders have already voiced their concerns about “cannibalization,” which is the belief that iGaming will take revenue away from retail casinos.
That’s likely what Gonzalez meant today when he told Bonus, “Proponents of the legislation have been engaging with legislators to walk through numbers and concerns.”
Meanwhile, many land-based casino operators are already partnered with sportsbooks.
Therefore, they’re seeing retail vs. online revenue firsthand.
In August alone, Illinois sportsbooks brought in nearly $47 million in adjusted gross gaming revenue (GGR). That’s what Marcus Fruchter said on Thursday to the Illinois Gaming Board (IGB). Fruchter is the IGB’s executive director.
Two proposed ballot initiatives filed with the attorney general Friday give California Indian tribes exclusivity for in-person and online California sports betting.
Although no tribe is listed in the filing, individuals involved in the filing had prior business dealings with the Pala Band of Mission Indians. And as previously reported by PlayUSA, Pala Chairman Robert Smith had been in contact with some tribal leaders this month about filing a sports betting initiative.
It is not a widespread tribal effort, and multiple representatives of key California gaming tribes tell PlayUSA that they were not consulted prior to the filing.
Jacob Mejia, VP of Public and External Affairs for the Pechanga Development Corporation and spokesperson for the Coalition for Safe and Responsible Sports Wagering that opposed online sports betting initiative Prop 27 last election cycle, dismissed the filing:
“As far as we are concerned, this is a tribal measure in name only. We are not aware of any tribes having drafted this initiative. It sounds an awful lot like the ballot measure that was crushed by 82% of voters less than a year ago.”
Reeve Collins, co-founder and CEO of Pala Interactive, an online gaming platform created by the tribe and sold to Boyd Gaming in 2022, is listed as the contact for the initiative filings. The filings were signed by Ryan Tyler Walz, whose relationship to Collins is unclear.
One filing provides a full framework for California sports betting under Indian tribes. The other merely amends the state constitution to ensure that the state legislature may not authorize in-person or online sports betting for any person or entity other than an Indian tribe.
The state legislature could then set up the framework for sports betting with Indian tribes, who would enter compacts with the state, at a later date.
Pala Interactive founder sends letter to tribes after filing
Kasey Thompson, another Pala Interactive co-founder, sent tribal leaders a letter following the initiative filing. Thompson lists himself as president and CEO of Eagle 1 Acquisition Company, for which Collins also is involved.
“Our proposal permits only California tribes to control in-person and on-line sports betting in California,” Thompson wrote in the letter, acquired by PlayUSA. “Our proposal enables all California tribes to control their own destiny, and participate in sports betting however and whenever they see fit. Most importantly, our proposal prohibits all offshore and out-of-State operators from controlling sports betting in California.”
Thompson described Eagle One as founded to bring sports betting to California tribes. He pledged that Eagle One would entirely fund the initiative at no cost to tribes. He asked to meet with tribal leaders to discuss the proposal:
“We have met with a number of California tribes, and we would like to meet with you and all other tribes over the next 30 days so that we can ensure that our initiative represents your interests and reflects your input. We do not plan to proceed unless we have the full support of the California tribes.”
At a time when it appeared no California tribes or commercial operators were interested in filing a sports betting initiative for 2024 following the 2022 election failures, Thompson explained why he believes now is the time for a filing:
“We do not believe that waiting another two years is in the best interests of the California tribes or the people of California. The California tribes and the State itself are leaving significant revenue on the table, and we want to help reverse that situation now. The impact of the recent rulings in the Florida Seminole case have yet to be felt in California but could be significant. The time to submit a sports wagering proposal in California is now.”
Lack of tribal involvement in filing curious
When tribes filed what became Prop 26 in 2019, tribal leaders put their signatures on the proposed initiative.
Although he previously discussed the initiative with tribal leaders, it is noteworthy that Smith did not file the initiative. And tribal sources tell PlayUSA that Smith was invited to Thursday’s California Nations Indian Gaming Association (CNIGA) meeting to discuss the proposal and did not show.
CNIGA Chairman James Siva released a statement:
“The California Nations Indian Gaming Association is deeply disappointed that the sponsors of the two recently filed initiatives did not first reach out to the State’s largest tribal gaming association for consultation and input. Instead, CNIGA and our member tribes were alerted to their existence when they were filed with the Attorney General today.
“Decisions driving the future of tribal governments should be made by tribal governments. While the sponsors of these initiatives may believe they know what is best for tribes, we encourage them to engage with Indian Country and ask, rather than dictate.”
Other tribal representatives reached by PlayUSA described the filers as commercial interests that lack established relationships with California Indian tribes, outside of Pala. And they didn’t take kindly to Thompson’s letter, calling it “patronizing.”
Details of California sports betting initiative
Titled the Sports Wagering Regulation and Tribal Gaming Protection Act, the fully formed initiative seems similar to the framework introduced last election cycle by tribes led by the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians.
Details include:
Tribes enter compacts with the state and contract with sportsbook operators as vendors.
Requires all California sports betting sites and mobile apps to be branded exclusively under the tribe’s federally recognized name.
Requires in-person registration for online sports betting accounts.
Only permits sports wagering by people 21 and older. This is relevant because some California Indian tribes allow gambling at 18 and older in their casinos.
Permits sports wagering only on professional, college, or amateur sports or athletic events. Excludes high school and lower-level school sports or athletic events.
Provides new sources of revenue to tribes and California communities to help address
homelessness and mental health throughout California by the establishment of the California Homelessness and Mental Health Fund.
Suggests a model form sports wagering compact in which sport wagering tribes contribute 10% of adjusted sports wagering gross revenue into the California Homelessness and Mental Health Fund and 15% to revenue sharing with limited and non-gaming tribes.
Caps management service providers partnering with tribes to operate online sports betting to 40% of net revenues. It also limits such partnership agreements to seven years.
Petitioners won’t have much time to qualify for ballot
This is late for a California initiative filing, making qualifying difficult for the November 2024 election.
To have the full 180 days to collect signatures for a random count, the secretary of state recommends submitting an initiative by Aug. 22. After filing the initiative with the attorney general, the petitioner must wait 65 days to circulate the petition for signatures.
So the petitioners wouldn’t be able to begin collecting signatures until January, giving them about four months to collect the 874,641 valid signatures required to make the ballot.
The secretary of state recommends petitioners submit signatures to counties for verification by April 23. But there can be a one-to-two-week leeway.
Initiatives must be qualified by the secretary of state by June 27, 2024, at least 131 days prior to the Nov. 5 election.
Online casinos have gained immense popularity in recent years, offering a thrilling and convenient way to enjoy the excitement of gambling from the comfort of your own home. Big Dollar Casino is one of the leading online casinos, known for its extensive game selection and fantastic promotions. In this article, we’ll explore the top 10 online casino games to try at Big Dollar Casino, each offering a unique gaming experience that could lead to some big wins. So, let’s dive in and discover the best games this casino has to offer.
1. Slot Games
Slot games are the bread and butter of online casinos, and Big Dollar Casino has an impressive collection of them. From classic three-reel slots to modern video slots with stunning graphics and innovative features, you’ll find a wide variety to choose from. Some popular slot games at Big Dollar Casino include “Tales of Time Travel,” “The Cash King,” and “The Prize is Right.” These games are not only visually appealing but also offer the chance to win big with exciting bonus rounds and free spins.
2. Blackjack
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3. Roulette
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4. Video Poker
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6. Craps
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7. Keno
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8. Scratch Cards
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9. Caribbean Stud Poker
Caribbean Stud Poker is a popular poker variant where you play against the dealer rather than other players. It’s a game of strategy and luck, and Big Dollar Casino offers an excellent version of it. The goal is to beat the dealer’s hand, and if you have a strong hand, you can win big with the progressive jackpot.
10. Texas Hold’em Poker
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11. Live Casino Games
If you’re craving the authentic casino experience without leaving your home, Big Dollar Casino offers an impressive selection of live dealer games. These include Live Blackjack, Live Roulette, Live Baccarat, and more. In these games, you can interact with real dealers through a live video stream while enjoying the thrill of real-time gaming. Live casino games offer a level of immersion that’s hard to beat and provide an excellent opportunity to socialize with other players.
12. Progressive Jackpot Games
For those chasing the dream of a life-changing win, progressive jackpot games are a must-try. Big Dollar Casino features a range of progressive slots and other casino games, where the jackpot continues to grow until a lucky player hits the winning combination. Some popular progressive jackpot slots include “Mega Moolah” and “Major Millions.” These games offer the chance to win millions in a single spin, making them a thrilling option for ambitious players.
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14. Responsible Gaming
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Conclusion
Big Dollar Casino offers an extensive array of online casino games to cater to every player’s preferences. Whether you’re a fan of slots, table games, live dealer games, or progressive jackpots, this casino has it all. Plus, with a user-friendly mobile platform and a commitment to responsible gaming, Big Dollar Casino strives to create a safe and enjoyable environment for all players. So, don’t hesitate to visit Big Dollar Casino today and explore these fantastic gaming options. You might just find your new favorite game and have a chance at winning big. Enjoy your gaming adventure, and always remember to gamble responsibly for a satisfying and enjoyable experience. Good luck!
If you’re new to online slots and you don’t know your wilds from your win multipliers and your scatters from your stacked symbols, take some to browse our A-Z slots glossary. This article lists all the common terms you’ll encounter the next time you play slots online.
Hopefully, you should have a better handle on how online slots work after reading this glossary. Our goal is to help you become the next slots slayer right here at LiveRoulette!
A
All Ways: Otherwise known as ‘win both ways’ these slots can have hundreds of available paylines which can pay from left-to-right or right-to-left, maximising your winning potential.
Autoplay: If you want to play a multiple number of spins without having to press ‘Spin’ each time, set your gameplay to autoplay a pre-selected number of spins.
B
Bonus Games: Most online slots have at least one bonus game, which is often triggered by scatters or wild symbols. These bonus games can range from free spins rounds to bonus wheels and “pick-me” features.
Branded Slot: A branded slot is one that’s themed around a specific franchise, such as a Hollywood movie or hit television series, featuring exclusive visual and audio content.
C
Cascading Reels: Symbols involved in winning combinations are removed from the reels, leaving gaps to be replaced by new slot symbols that drop in from the top. This gives you a chance to win multiple combinations on a single spin.
Classic Slot: A ‘classic’ slot is one which nods to old-school fruit machines, featuring the classic fruity symbols, bells, lucky sevens and BARS, amongst others.
Cold Game: More common on casino floors than online slots, when a slot game is said to be ‘cold’ it means it does not pay out as frequently.
Coins: The funds you add to your chosen slot are displayed in a coin value, based on the minimum bet size per spin.
E
Expanding Wilds: An expanding wild is a special type of wild symbol (see ‘Wild’ for full description). Whenever the expanding wild feature is active, a wild symbol will expand to fill an entire reel to bring greater winning potential.
F
Fixed Jackpot: Online slots with a fixed jackpot have a fixed maximum prize, usually triggered by landing five of a specific symbol on a payline, or sometimes triggered at random.
Free Spins: It’s possible to unlock extra free spins by landing certain win combinations, such as three scatter symbols on a payline. A free spin is quite literally a free spin of the reels.
Fruit Machine: The British name for a classic slot machine. Fruit machines are the classic three-reel, three-payline slots featuring fruit symbols, lucky sevens, bells and BARs.
G
Gamble Feature: Within some slot games it is possible to gamble the winnings from your spin. You may be asked to pick a card suit or colour, or to guess high or low on the outcome of a card displayed on screen. You could double, triple or even quadruple your money depending on the game, but it’s also possible to lose all your winnings.
H
High Volatility: A slot deemed to have high volatility means that it is programmed to give out less frequent prizes and jackpots. However, most high volatility slots tend to offer bigger prizes when they do pay out.
Hit-And-Run: This term is used to describe slot players that play on single payline slots using maximum coins for a few spins and move on to the next slot if they don’t win.
Hit Frequency: How often a slot pays out on average. For example, a game with a hit frequency of five is expected to yield a winning payline approximately every five spins.
Hot Game: The opposite of a ‘Cold game’, hot slots are those that are said to be paying out regularly and in large sums.
J
Jackpot: The jackpot of an online slot is the coveted top prize, and can be fixed, progressive or linked across a network of slots.
L
Linked Progressive Jackpots: On occasion, there are multiple slot games whose progressive jackpots are linked together, often branded slots based on the same franchise. It doesn’t matter which one you play, you will be playing for the same progressive jackpot.
Loose Slot: A ‘loose’ slot is one that is considered to have low volatility, paying out more regularly than a ‘tight’ or high volatility slot.
Low Volatility: Low volatility slots tend to have higher hit frequencies and are often great slots for beginners. The trade-off is that low volatility slots may have smaller prizes on offer.
M
Maximum Bet: The maximum bet is the largest stake you can place per spin on your chosen slot game, based on the number of active paylines and the maximum coin denomination available.
MegawaysTM: This is a popular slot game engine is designed to expand the number of rows played per reel, giving you up hundreds of thousands of potential ways to win.
Mobile Slot: Mobile slots are those optimised for responsive gameplay across desktop, smartphone and tablet devices, utilising the latest HTML5 technology.
Multi-Line: This term is used to describe online slots with more than a single payline.
Multiplier: A multiplier could be a specific symbol which can multiply your winnings by a predetermined figure. Multipliers can also be found in free spins rounds, when the more consecutive wins you land, the bigger the multiplier grows.
N
Near miss: Players that narrowly miss out on a winning combination on a payline describe this as a near miss.
Nudge: Inspired by classic fruit machine gameplay, some slots have a ‘nudge’ functionality included, allowing players to hit the nudge button to move a reel up or down one space to form a winning payline.
O
One-Armed Bandit: The first slot machines produced in land-based casinos, which required players to pull a lever to spin the reels.
P
Payline: A payline is the line that symbols need to align with to trigger a payout.
Pay Table: The pay table for any slots online is designed to fully explain the rules and payout sizes of each game. It outlines the low and high-value symbols to look out for on the reels.
Penny Slot: A penny slot game is one which requires players to pay as little as €0.01 per spin.
Pick-Me Bonus: A type of slot bonus screen whereby players must select on-screen options to reveal instant prizes.
Progressive Jackpot: A progressive jackpot is a rolling jackpot that continues to increase in value until it is won. A percentage of each player’s stake per spin is contributed to the progressive jackpot, so the more players play, the higher the pot.
R
Random Number Generator: All state-of-the-art online slots are powered by a random number generator (RNG), which is a tamper-proof algorithm designed to randomise the outcome of every spin.
Reels: These are the columns within which the symbols spin to create potential winning combinations.
Return To player (RTP): The RTP percentage gives slot players an indicator of how much they can expect to return from their spins. If a slot has an RTP of 97%, for every €100 you stake, you can expect to receive €97 back on average.
S
Scatter Symbol: The scatter symbol is often used to trigger bonus rounds, and is usually the only symbol on the reels that the wild does not substitute for.
Stacked Symbols: Whenever the same symbols appear on top of one another on the reels, they are considered stacked.
Stacked Wilds: Whenever the wild symbol appears on top of one another on the reels, they are considered stacked.
T
Total Bet: The size of the total bet in an online slot is the total number of coins staked across all paylines.
V
Variance: The variance of a slot is the payout rate of a specific game. Slots with high variance are programmed to pay out less frequently than low variance slots. Variance can be used interchangeably with volatility.
Video Slot: A video slot game is designed to be displayed on desktop, smartphone or tablet screens using virtual reels instead of mechanical reels.
Volatility: Highly volatile slots are those that pay out less frequently, but with typically larger payouts when they do. Low volatility slots are those that pay out smaller prizes over a greater hit frequency.
W
Wild: A wild symbol is one of the most lucrative symbols in a slot game. Wilds can usually substitute any other base game symbol to improve winning combinations, except scatters. The same way that a joker works in a game of cards.
Win Both Ways: Slots with win both ways functionality can pay out on paylines running right-to-left as well as left-to-right.
Z
Zig-zag: Some slot paylines are designed to go up and down the reels or diagonally. These are known as zig-zag paylines.
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Many poker players consider loyalty programs to be the most important factor when choosing an online poker room, as they can have a significant impact on their bottom line. In this blog post, we will explore:
The Advantages of Online Poker Loyalty Programs
Why They Matter
The Top Poker Sites Offering Loyalty Programs
Factors to Consider
How to Maximize Benefits
Future Trends
Why Online Poker Loyalty Programs Are Important
The most common form of loyalty program is rakeback, which gives back a percentage of the rake that the player pays during their time at a poker site. Given how substantial the rake can be at lower stakes, finding a good rakeback program could be the difference between being a winning or losing player.
However, some sites have recognized that this system tends to favor high-volume players, leading to tight, break-even players dominating tables and creating a less enjoyable gaming environment.
To address this issue, they have introduced a new rewards system that encourages players to complete specific challenges for rewards. This approach incentivizes players to accomplish tasks rather than solely focus on generating rake, resulting in a more welcoming environment for recreational players.
Benefits of Online Poker Loyalty Programs
Online poker loyalty programs provide a number of obvious benefits to the player and are a great incentive to log on and play each day. By playing your favorite games and accumulating loyalty points, you can receive a significant boost to your bankroll every week/month. For high-volume players, getting even 20% rakeback offers a significant boost to a player’s weekly win rate; if you rake $1000 a week, you’re getting $200 just from the loyalty program. Depending on the stakes you play, this can represent a significant number of buy-ins that you would otherwise be missing out on.
As well as the significant boost to your bankroll, being part of a loyalty program allows you to take advantage of cool perks such as MTT tickets, access to freerolls, and much more.
Many loyalty programs use a tiered system, increasing the rewards the higher the player climbs. This incentivizes players to log in and play daily, knowing that the more they play, the better their rewards become. This enhances the overall online poker experience, turning grinding into a journey toward achieving higher goals.
Top Online Poker Loyalty Programs
If you want to take advantage of the best online poker loyalty programs on the market, you’re in the right place. We’ve done the hard work for you and researched each poker site to find out who’s offering the best loyalty programs. So, to start getting rewarded for your dedication to the game, check out our list below.
Site 1: Ignition Poker
When playing at Ignition Poker, you can earn Ignition Miles, which can be redeemed for bonuses. These bonuses include free spins, poker tournament tickets, and reload bonuses. Players earn 15 Ignition Miles per $1 of rake in cash games, 15 Ignition Miles per $1 of tournament fees, and 1.5 Ignition Miles per $1 of buy-in at Jackpot Sit & Gos.
At the lowest status level, this equates to a 0.6% rakeback per dollar raked, which is relatively low compared to other loyalty programs. The more Ignition Miles you accumulate, the higher your status, and the more valuable your Ignition Miles become.
For instance, at the lowest status level, 2,500 Ignition Miles are worth $1 in bonuses, but at the highest status level, it only takes 1,000 Ignition Miles to receive $1 in bonuses.
As an added bonus, Ignition Poker offers all Chrome-level players access to $2,500 poker freeroll tournaments each week, and all Platinum-level players are eligible to receive exclusive birthday bonuses!
What We Think
During my time on the site, I found that while the loyalty program was a nice gesture, it didn’t significantly enhance my overall experience. Due to the notably low rakeback, I never felt compelled to grind more to reach targets or earn rewards. If I received rewards while playing, that was great, but it felt more like an incidental bonus than something worth actively pursuing.
I appreciate the access to freeroll tournaments upon reaching a certain level, as they provide an extra income source through the rakeback program, even if luck is a factor. The birthday exclusive is a nice touch, but only the most dedicated grinders are likely to log in on their birthday to claim their reward.
Site 2: 888poker
888poker offers three different ways to earn rewards in their loyalty program: players can earn points by playing poker, betting on sports, or playing in their online casino. Once you’ve earned enough points to reach the next level, you’ll be rewarded with Gold Coins, which can then be redeemed for exciting prizes such as tournament tickets, casino free play, or cash deposits.
When playing poker, players receive 100 points for every $1 in tournament fees paid and 50 points for every $1 paid in cash game rake. While this may seem unfair to cash game players, it’s important to note that accumulating rake is typically easier in cash games, especially when multitabling.
As you progress through the ranks, you’ll encounter challenges that provide bonus points upon completion, facilitating your ascent through the levels and unlocking more Gold Coins. With 2,000 levels to climb and thousands of gold coins up for grabs, even dedicated grinders will have plenty to strive for.
Players above Level 20, 40, 60, and 80 gain access to exclusive freerolls with substantial cash prizes every week.
What We Think
The system of earning gold coins through points and redeeming them for prizes may seem somewhat complex, but during my time on the site, I found the 888poker Club to be a motivating factor. The numerous levels made it easy for me to consistently advance, and I was eager to keep playing to unlock the next reward.
Having challenges that award points for completion is an excellent feature. I appreciated the variety of challenges, which encouraged me to explore different poker formats. The offered prizes are genuinely worthwhile and make you feel like you’re working toward something meaningful.
The four different freerolls at levels 20, 40, 60, and 80 are a valuable addition and shouldn’t be underestimated. While the Level 20 freeroll has a $640 prize pool, the Level 80 offers $10,000, making it important not to miss out if you play on 888poker.
Site 3: GG Poker
Online poker giant GG Poker offers two versions of its loyalty program, providing flexibility to choose the one that suits your preferences. The default program is the Fish Buffet, where players earn Fish Points by playing their favorite games at a rate of 100 FP for every $1 in rake. When a player accumulates enough Fish Points to reach a new rank, they receive a prize wheel spin, with cash bonuses ranging from 10% to 50% rakeback based on their level.
Upon reaching a new level, players have a specific time limit to climb higher ranks, with the time allocated increasing as they advance. Failing to reach the next level in time results in receiving 10% rakeback based on accumulated Fish Points and moving back down to the previous rank.
Alternatively, players can opt for the Platinum Fish program, offering a consistent 20% rakeback each week based on Fish Points earned. Over a year, accumulating enough Fish Points can lead to unlocking 60% rakeback per week.
What We Think
In my opinion, this loyalty program is an excellent example of how it should work. You grind all week and receive a cash reward at the end—no convoluted point systems or prize redemption. While such programs are rare today, GGPoker stands out with its Fish Buffet/Platinum Fish program.
The option to choose between a guaranteed weekly payout and the possibility of higher rakeback through a prize wheel is a clever way to cater to both serious grinders and recreational players. It allows serious grinders to calculate their weekly rakeback while letting recreational players enjoy some gambling excitement.
Having tried both programs, I found myself favoring the Platinum Fish program because I prefer knowing precisely how much rakeback I’m earning each week. The transparency provided by GGPoker regarding a player’s potential earnings from the loyalty program is commendable and sets a great example for other poker rooms.
While offering additional rewards such as tournament tickets or Spin & Gold tickets would be a nice touch, it’s challenging to find faults with this loyalty program.
Site 4: LoyaltyStars
All the previously mentioned sites reward you solely for playing on their platforms, but the LoyaltyStars program recognizes that the online poker experience extends beyond the virtual felt. Dedicated players spend hours off the tables analyzing hands, discussing strategy, and studying the game. Shouldn’t they be rewarded for their dedication outside of gameplay? LoyaltyStars provides a space for like-minded poker players and online gamblers to come together, share ideas, and earn rewards.
Users accumulate Stars for engaging with the community and participating on the platform in various ways. Whether you’re a forum poster who enjoys in-depth discussions, an online poker enthusiast sharing your insights on poker rooms, or simply a player depositing and playing, there are avenues for earning Stars. The more Stars you collect, the higher you ascend through the tiers, unlocking a new world of perks and rewards, including enhanced bonus offers at your favorite online poker rooms.
Exciting developments are on the horizon for LoyaltyStars, including the debut of a live-streaming service and innovative features to enhance your online casino experience. Be sure to sign up for the early access program to receive a 500-star welcome bonus!
What We Think
Having grown accustomed to viewing study time as an unprofitable yet essential aspect of the game, it’s refreshing to encounter a company that actively rewards players for improving their skills and engaging with the community. During my time on the site, I was captivated by the LoyaltyStars community. It consisted of knowledgeable users with expertise in various areas of iGaming and online poker, creating a friendly and welcoming atmosphere even for newcomers.
The diversity of ways to earn Stars was another major advantage. This inclusivity means that everyone can contribute in their unique way. I was pleasantly surprised by the quality of the rewards received, which exceeded expectations for a program primarily focused on posting content.
If you seek a place to enhance your poker skills alongside like-minded individuals while reaping rewards for your contributions, LoyaltyStars is the ideal destination.
Factors to Consider When Choosing an Online Poker Site for Loyalty
As demonstrated, there are several excellent choices for online poker loyalty programs. However, choosing the right one for you can be challenging due to the abundance of options. To assist you in making an informed decision, we’ve compiled a list of factors to consider when selecting an online poker loyalty program.
Transparency and Fairness – Ensure that the site is fair and transparent regarding the rewards you can expect. Read the terms and conditions of the loyalty program to check for clauses that could allow the site to renege on its promises.
Value of Rewards – Assess the overall value of the rewards offered. Understand the types of rewards available—cashback bonuses, tournament tickets, or other perks. Consider the real-world value of each program.
Compatibility with Playing Volume – Determine how the program aligns with your playing schedule. Calculate the rewards you are likely to receive based on your game preferences, average playing time, and estimated rake contributions.
Other Bonuses and Promotions – Take into account additional bonuses and promotions offered by the site. A loyalty program is not the only factor to consider; exceptional bonuses can significantly impact your overall value.
How to Maximize Benefits
After selecting a loyalty program and creating your casino account, it’s crucial to maximize the benefits offered. A great loyalty program is only as valuable as the effort you put into it. Here’s how to make the most of your chosen program:
Understand the Program – Familiarize yourself with the program’s mechanics. Determine if it’s based on a straightforward rakeback system, if you need to hit specific rake targets, or if challenges are involved. Knowing this information helps you tailor your gameplay for maximum rewards.
Tiered Systems – Many programs have tiered structures that increase the value of rewards as you climb. Pay attention to tier requirements and consider pushing for higher tiers to unlock extra rewards. Be aware of tier reset conditions, whether weekly or on a different schedule.
Adjust Your Gameplay – If your loyalty program is straightforward, increase your playing volume by adding more tables, extending your sessions, or participating in more hands. If rewards are game-type specific, focus on games that yield more reward points.
Don’t Neglect Your Poker Game – While it’s essential to maximize your loyalty program benefits, remember not to compromise your poker game quality. Maintaining a strong win rate should be your priority.
Future Trends in Online Poker Loyalty Programs
The online poker landscape is continually evolving, and poker rooms will continue to innovate to attract new players. What can we expect from future online poker loyalty programs?
Personalization – With advancements in AI and data analytics, poker sites are likely to create customized loyalty programs tailored to each player’s profile. Rewards will align with a player’s preferred game types, ensuring a more satisfying experience.
Gamification – More gamification elements are expected, as they effectively encourage repeat visits to poker sites. While poker should naturally attract players, incorporating engaging loyalty programs can further enhance player retention.
Collaborations – Collaboration between online poker rooms and established online gaming platforms may become more common. This could lead to poker being recognized as a legitimate eSport, potentially attracting a new generation of players.
My Conclusion
Online poker loyalty programs offer a valuable way to reward consistent players. They provide substantial benefits to players and can determine whether you’re a winning or losing player. Several high-quality loyalty programs are available, but it’s essential to choose one that aligns with your preferences and playing style. Armed with this information, you should feel confident in your quest to find the perfect online poker loyalty program!
