The Role of Luck vs Strategy in Roulette
Roulette is one of the most instantly recognizable casino games—it’s that wheel that could be considered ASMR as the ball clinks around before it comes to rest in a wooden slot with an assigned number.
The roulette table shows a grid divided into different numbers, which refer to those on the wheel, which are divided by the aforementioned wooden slots, into which the ball indicating the winning number is slotted in.
Players place bets on the number they think will win by selecting individual numbers or groups, rows, columns, and colors from the table grid, cross their fingers, and wait to see where the ball lands.
But is it all luck? Or is there a strategy involved in roulette? Let’s spin this wheel and see where we land in the debate on the role of luck vs strategy in roulette!
What is Roulette?
Previous versions of the pinwheel-style game had been known for centuries, but it was his invention that defined the modern game, and apart from changes to the numbers, including the addition of the green zero in European roulette, roulette has remained unchanged throughout hundreds of years in casinos.
The game has been played in its current form since the beginning of the 18th century when the French mathematician Blaise Pascal invented roulette.
In addition to the ever-expanding smartphone and device era, the gaming industry began to see the immense potential in online gaming applications, and that is where mobile roulette gaming found its home.
The online format has attracted attention for its innovative graphics, fun game design, and ability to offer customers customized experiences based on their gaming preferences, giving it an edge over other casino games.
Since roulette is such a popular game, it was one of the first games to find its way into online casinos—the rules are super simple and easily accessible to players, making it a fan favorite game among a lot of casino visitors. The game of roulette is also mostly based on luck, meaning players don’t need to learn complex strategies to compete—anyone who sidles up to the table to try their luck can win, regardless of experience.
And while we say roulette is mostly about luck, there are a few strategies players can use to minimize their losses and maximize their chances of winning.
Betting Strategies for Roulette
Betting strategies are designed to compensate for losses and reduce players’ chances of leaving the game with less than they started with. Although many would consider roulette to be purely a game of chance, there are some strategies that players use in an attempt to up their winnings.
And there are different versions of roulette to consider before you begin playing, as well as choosing if you want to play at a roulette app or in a brick-and-mortar establishment.
After that has been decided, there are some gambling experts who say knowing the differences between the European and American versions of roulette is essential if you are more than a casual player and plan to choose or bet on a roulette strategy.
Of course, no betting strategy is guaranteed and you should never, ever bet more than you can afford—always gamble responsibly! Even if your strategy calls for you to bet more money, don’t do it.
While we can’t promise you a big win if you employ these, here are some of the most common strategies when spinning the wheels of roulette:
Martingale Strategy
This is a system that most people have heard of, but it is not always the best for beginners, as you can quickly go into debt if you end up on a losing streak. A simple rule to remember is to always double your bet if you lose and go back to your original bet when you win. So if you start betting $1.30 and lose, next time you bet $2.60.
If you win, you will have a profit of $1.30 and start betting again with the same initial bet of $1.30. The aim of the Martingale strategy is to give you small wins while preventing big losses, but remember to set a limit, and if you lose it, you have to stop playing. A three-losing streak with Martingale betting will put you down $9.10, but with the Paroli system, which we’ll explain below, you’ll only be down $3.90.
Paroli System
This strategy works in reverse to the Martingale and is often a much better choice for beginners—it’s more conservative. With the Paroli system, after a win, you double your bet, but never more than three times. Reset the initial bet after three consecutive wins or after a loss. Another three-win streak with Martingale will set you back $3.90 in loss and profit, but with Paroli, you’ll now be $5.20 richer.
D’Alembert System
If you’re going to place even bets (odd/even, red/black) then this is probably the best strategy for you. Decide on a bet unit and increase it by one unit after a loss and then decrease it by one unit after a win. This will moderate your streak and prevent you from taking huge losses…or making huge wins.
Since you set a bet unit, you can effectively manage your bankroll and double any streaks, but it won’t spin out of control. Let’s say your unit is $6.50; after a loss, you now bet $13.00, and after another loss, you bet $19.50. Then circle back to $13.00 after winning.
Takeaways
The consensus is (drumroll please)…roulette is a game of luck, so there is no foolproof strategy to beat the system or guarantee a win.
But by considering the version of roulette you play, you can decide on a strategy that suits your gambling goals and possibly up your chances of getting lucky.
The three strategies we covered help you bet smart and manage your bankroll—which means you can cut your losses and maybe even walk away with a little extra cash in your pocket!
Super Bowl Hangover: Analyzing the Impact on Future NFL Seasons
For football fans, the aftermath of the Super Bowl is kinda like after you’re finished opening all of the Christmas presents—it was amazing, but then an “oh no, it’s over” feeling sets in. And you start to wonder if anything will ever live up to that feeling again.
In the NFL, this is known as the “Super Bowl Hangover.” No, we aren’t talking about a splitting headache from the after-party celebration—this is all about football, no copious amounts of champers or shots involved.
This moniker describes the challenges and dips in performance faced by teams in the season after their Super Bowl appearance. But wait—not every team succumbs to this trend—look at the Kansas City Chiefs, who defied the odds by winning the Super Bowl two years in a row, beating the Super Bowl hangover curse. But was that a one-off for the champs? Let’s take a look at how Super Bowl outcomes have historically influenced teams’ performances in subsequent seasons, which can give great insights for bettors on long-term betting on games.
What is the Super Bowl Hangover?
The Super Bowl Hangover is a simple way to describe a football team’s struggle to replicate its success in the season after reaching the NFL’s pinnacle of greatness. While the Kansas City Chiefs have shown that back-to-back championships are indeed possible, they are def an exception and not the rule. Almost every other squad, no matter how amazing their Super Bowl performance was, finds it pretty hard to hang on to their elite status.
Reasons Behind the Super Bowl Hangover
A lot of factors contribute to the dreaded Super Bowl Hangover, including:
- High Expectations: After a Super Bowl run, teams face an immense amount of pressure to perform, with heightened expectations from fans and media.
- Challenging Schedules: Super Bowl participants always face a tougher slate of games the following season, including matchups against other top teams.
- Roster Changes: Success in the NFL can lead to salary cap pressures, meaning some star players bounce to another team—lucrative deals are calling.
- Physical Toll: The extended season takes a physical and mental toll on players, which could potentially impact their performance in the following season.
Historical Patterns and Betting Implications
While the Kansas City Chiefs have successfully fought against (and won) the challenges of repeating their Super Bowl victory, history shows us that most teams experienced a decline in their follow-up season. This ongoing trend can provide bettors with valuable insights:
- Proceed with Caution: The temptation to bet on the reigning champions can be strong, but history suggests a super cautious approach, given the rarity of repeat successes.
- Seeing Value: Teams that lose the Super Bowl enter the next season as a probable loss—but don’t automatically bet against them! They made it to the Super Bowl; they could do it again.
- Early Season Performance: Pay attention to early signs of a hangover, such as preseason struggles or big roster changes, when placing bets.
- High Expectations: After a Super Bowl appearance, the bar is set incredibly high for the next season. Teams are no longer underdogs or dark horses; they have clear bullseye targets on their backs.
- Injury and Fatigue: The longer season, including the playoffs, can lead to injuries and fatigue, affecting players’ performance and recovery in the offseason.
The Chiefs’ Exception
The Kansas City Chiefs’ back-to-back Super Bowl wins underscore the importance of leadership, consistency, and adaptability. Their success story offers a counter-narrative to the Super Bowl Hangover, showing that while the phenomenon is very real, exceptional teams can overcome it.
Examples and Trends
Analyzing past Super Bowl participants can provide intel into the hangover effect. For instance, few teams manage to return to the Super Bowl the year following their appearance, and even fewer manage to win it back-to-back. The New England Patriots are a notable exception, demonstrating resilience by consistently contending for titles, but they are, like the Kansas City Chiefs, more the exception than the rule.
Betting Strategies
With what we can glean from the Super Bowl Hangover phenomenon, here are some good strategies bettors might consider for the long term:
- Future Bets: Be strategic about future bets related to Super Bowl contenders. Odds at betting apps might be skewed based on past performance rather than realistic prospects.
- Early Season Games: Teams suffering from a hangover might start off the season slow. Think about this when betting on early-season games involving the previous year’s Super Bowl teams.
For NFL teams, plotting a course for the Super Bowl Hangover is about managing expectations, maintaining a strong roster, and focusing on any needed recovery. For bettors, it comes down to recognizing patterns, understanding the dynamics at play, and making knowledgeable decisions rather than relying only on the previous season’s success!
Takeaways
The Super Bowl Hangover really does show a distinct energy in the NFL—it can affect teams’ abilities to keep up their success. But you never know— the Kansas City Chiefs’ achievements demonstrate that with the right mix of talent, strategy, and determination, it’s possible to defy the odds and beat the phenomenon known as the Super Bowl Hangover. It can be done, but it’s not a sure bet.
For bettors, understanding the nuances of the Super Bowl Hangover—while knowing that there are potential for exceptions—can help inform more nuanced, strategic betting decisions over the long term. Remember to bet smart and always gamble responsibly!
How to Trick a Slot Machine to Win: Is it Possible?
Thinking about trying to trick a slot machine? Think again because it can’t be done with the online version.
While it was possible to do in a traditional brick-and-mortar casino, those days are gone with the advent of online gambling. Unless, of course, you are in cahoots with a software developer who designs the slot games or a programmer who can access the exact game you’re playing.
See? It’s pretty much impossible to trick a slot machine to win. But that doesn’t mean it wasn’t done in the past, and in some inventive ways—we do not condone cheating, but you have to give it up for the slick methods used. That’s why we are taking a look back at the ways and lengths some have gone to in order to trick slot machines. Ready for a little gambling history lesson?
Shaved Coins & Coins on a String
One of the most common ways to cheat was using the “shaved and stringed coin trick.” To make a coin fit through the machine, someone would take it and file it down. The player would then insert the coin into the slot machine, pull the lever, and the spinning reels would roll. Since the coin was attached to a string, a player was able to pull the coin out and use it over and over because it was thinner than it should have been–and it was attached to a string.
The Yo-Yo Trick
Before inserting a coin into a slot machine, players would tie a string around it as part of the Yo-Yo slot trick, also known as the stringed coins as we talked about. After inserting the coin, they would just yank it out of the machine by pulling the string, like you would with a yo-yo.
Although this tricky hack was effective for slot machines that took coins in brick-and-mortar casinos, it is impossible to do with modern machines or online slots! Sorry, yo-yo’ers–your luck has run out.
Magnet Trick
When slot machines were mechanical, players might have used the magnet hack. This entailed pulling the lever and using a big magnet to stop the reels from spinning so they could land on a winning combo–in essence, cheating the machine. Another strategy was waiting for a winning combination to pop up, then placing the magnet on the surface of the glass placed in front of the reels, inserting coins, and pulling the lever. The magnet would lock the spinning reels in place, securing more wins.
Trick of the Light
Using light to trick the slot machines’ sensors was one innovative way to dupe the machines. The light was aimed at the machine’s light sensor, which controlled the machine’s operation. The sensor, responsible for tracking payouts, could be manipulated by players to boost the number of times the machine paid out.
The Monkey’s Paw
The “monkey’s paw,” a bendable piece of steel shaped like a paw, was created by Tommy Glenn Carmichael. A slot machine awarded him more money than it should have because of the way it manipulated the device. How did it work? The person would insert the monkey’s paw into the payout opening and raise it toward the payout outflow until they heard a clang. As soon as the reels of the machine hit a winning combination, coins began to pour out in a continuous flow. In this case, the player got a significantly bigger payout than they’d actually won.
Can You Cheat the Modern Codes?
As we said from the start, it is almost impossible to trick modern online slot games. Developers of slot machines make sure they can be audited and monitored without compromising gameplay quality.
In order to ensure that the games are fair and free of cheats, regulatory bodies license the software vendors, and independent testing firms such as Gaming Labs International and eCORGA test the games.
But there have been cases where programmers have tampered with the game code. Take Ronald Dale Harris, an engineer for the Nevada Gaming Commission, who rigged slot machines to increase his own winnings–he’d been cheating slot machines for years by knowing their source codes, and his scam was finally exposed in 1995 after winning $100,000 on a keno game.
Tsk, tsk, Ronald!
Can Slot Machines Cheat Gamers?
No! Slot machines are not designed to trick players–every slot game, whether played online or at a physical casino, has a predetermined payout rate. Once the rate is determined, the slot machine will provide payouts at the chosen rate, as long as it operates as intended.
Casinos stand to lose a lot more money if they cheat you–it would be disastrous for any gaming establishment to lose players and a great deal of money if its slot machines were found to be rigged.
Any gambling establishment would be foolish to allow such an enormous risk for the sake of a small increase in their bottom line!
Online slots are a lucrative industry and casinos prioritize maintaining their profitability by ensuring fair play for all players. If you aren’t sure about the legitimacy of an online gambling site, you can check its reputation by reading reviews and looking at its license to make sure it’s on the up and up.
Final Thoughts
Cheaters never prosper–unless you were Ronald Dale Harris, who won a hundred grand–but then he went to jail for seven years and had to pay back all his ill-gotten winnings, so the point remains. Plus, tricking slot machines in this day and age simply cannot be done. And even if it could be, it’s not worth the risk!
And although theoretically, a casino could be rigged, doing so would be financially foolish–fair games generate enormous revenue for gambling establishments.
The Evolution of Slot Machines | From Classic to Modern Games
Slot machines have come a long way since their early days—which began over 130 years ago. What started as simple, lever-operated games have now become a little more advanced but remain a staple for all kinds of players in the global gambling scene.
Online slots have always been known for their straightforward rules and approachable gameplay, which has certainly helped them stay popular through the years. From those classic one-armed bandits to the latest smartphone games, slot machines have adapted and evolved, but they’ve always kept their distinctive charm.
It’s fascinating to see how they’ve grown and changed while remaining a favorite pastime for gamblers, so we thought it’d be fun (and educational) to trace the evolution of slot machines from the classics to the modern games of today!
Inception: The Very First Slot Machines
The humble slot machine’s journey began in 1891 with the New York company Sittman and Pitt. Their invention, a machine with five drums and 50 cards, required a nickel to play and rapidly gained popularity in bars.
Players operated it by pulling a lever to arrange poker hands on the reels. Then, the machine strategically omitted the ten of spades and jack of hearts, reducing the odds of a royal flush by half.
Initially, winnings were claimed at the bar, often in the form of drinks or cigars, as the machine didn’t dispense prizes or make any of the fun noises we associate with someone hitting a jackpot on a slot machine in a brick-and-mortar casino. And they didn’t win money, but at least they won some booze or a smoke!
The Liberty Bell: 1894
In 1894, the slot machine world saw a major leap forward with Charles August Fey, an American inventor of Bavarian origin. He created the first slot machine in the modern sense, leading to his development of a subsequent model, the 4-11-44, and later the Card Bell in 1898–the first three-reel slot machine offering automatic cash payouts.
His 1899 creation, the Liberty Bell, marked a historic moment, bringing slot machines into the limelight. Following these, several machines came onto the gambling scene, some offering fruit-flavored chewing gum as prizes (still no real money won). Today, icons like cherries and melons on slot machines trace back to these early versions, with the BAR symbol originating from the Bell-Fruit Gum Company’s logo. How cool is that?
Herbert Mills, a manufacturer from Chicago, produced the Operator Bell in 1907, inspired by the Liberty Bell. By 1908, this machine was a fixture in numerous establishments like tobacconists and saloons.
Money Honey: 1964
A big breakthrough in slot machines happened in 1964 with the Bally Manufacturing Co. introducing Money Honey, the first fully electromechanical slot machine. Despite its electrical operation, a lever was still used to spin the wheels, which gave a sense of familiarity and comfort to avid slot players. This machine could dispense up to 500 coins, thanks to its innovative hopper, marking a new era in slot machine technology.
Video Slots: 1976
In 1976, another milestone was made with the introduction of the first video slot by Fortune Coin, developed in Kearny Mesa, California. It was first placed in the Las Vegas Hilton Hotel; it received state-wide approval after a few modifications. This ushered in the era of electric slot machines across Las Vegas, the American Mecca of gambling.
Progressive Jackpots: 1986
The concept of progressive jackpots emerged in 1986, with Megabucks by International Game Technology (IGT) at the head of the pack. These jackpots increased with each play until won, with the first payout in 1987 amounting to almost $5 million. Holy cannoli, slot prizes have come a long way since the days of winning booze and gum!
Video Slots: 1996
The year 1996 was pivotal in the slot world: WMS Industries Inc. released “Reel ‘Em,” which was the very first video slot with a second-screen bonus round. This invention was a huge contribution to slot machines’ growth, making them a major part of casino revenues and giving them central floor space.
The Move to Online Casinos: 1990 to Now
The 1990s marked the start of online casinos, which were met with a lot of skepticism and a lot of regulatory concerns. Among the pioneers of the online casino era were Cryptologic and Microgaming, who, together, launched the first major online casino. Their first slot game was Cash Splash from Microgaming, and since then, the development of slot games has surged, driven not just by tech advancements but by players’ desires to play the slots online.
The mobile gaming era began in 2005 with Pub Fruity, the first Java casino game, followed by the release of the iPhone and the App Store in 2007 and 2008. This enabled the direct marketing of games to consumers and the emergence of optimized mobile slot games.
In 2010, slots incorporated metagames, offering players a variety of challenges and monetary prizes—bonuses like the Red Tiger Daily Jackpot in 2016 and Pragmatic daily drops in 2020 added an entirely new dimension to slot gaming!
2016 also saw the introduction of the Megaways engine by Big Time Gaming, revolutionizing the industry with its random reel modifier and offering thousands of ways to win.
The onset of online and mobile casinos has boomed, and while doing so, it’s attracted an entirely new generation of younger players to slots. It’s no longer for “blue hairs” in a traditional casino—everyone is playing them due to the convenience of having them at your fingertips!
And as we see competition among video slot providers intensify, developers are continuously innovating to engage even more players, incorporating fun features like tournaments and dynamic, big-money jackpots.
Final Thoughts
It’s actually pretty amazing to think about how much slot machines have changed over time, and they’re not stopping anytime soon! With our phones getting smarter and internet speeds getting faster, there’s so much to look forward to in slot gaming. You could soon be playing slots in virtual reality or on your smartwatch!
It’s not just a game anymore; it’s an experience that keeps getting better and better. The slot world is buzzing with innovations, and we can’t wait to see what comes next!
Unveiling the Secrets of Casino RTP and RNG | Your Guide to Fair Play
If you ever come across abbreviations for terms that apply to online casino games and feel like a boomer trying to decipher a text thread filled with acronyms you don’t get, don’t feel dumb—or alone.
Just like OMG and IMO, casino-speak has its own shorthand—like RTP and RNG. It’s easy for us to tell you what they stand for–return to player and random number generator. But unless you know what their roles are in relation to casino games, we wouldn’t be much help, would we? Nope.
That’s why we are going to decode the role of RTP and its relationship with RNG with a complete explainer of what these terms mean and how they each operate.
Our guide is designed to eliminate any uncertainties, offering a comprehensive and simple explanation of these terms, their importance, and the impact they have on your play at online casinos.
We are going to look behind the casino curtain to unveil the secrets of casino RTP and RNG with a guide to fair play. Ready? Lets gooooo!
What is RTP and How Does it Work with RNG in Online Gaming
Today, it’s normal to see acronyms pop up in our daily text chats and online conversations. But as we said earlier, sometimes we may not truly get what they mean.
Think online gambling apps are the exception to this trend? Think again—two of the frequently used acronyms in this domain are RTP and RNG.
RTP and RNG have a pretty big role in online casino slot games. Since modern slot games are designed with super sophisticated software with lots of fun features, online casinos have to manage them productively and soundly.
For instance, they need to make sure that their digital games replicate the experience of playing physical slot machines in traditional brick-and-mortar venues like Las Vegas and Atlantic City. To accurately appreciate online slots and their functionalities, it’s consequential to first make sense of the inner machinations of RTP and RNG.
What is RTP?
RTP, which stands for Return to Player, is essentially about understanding the odds of a slot game. It calculates the average return a player gets from their bets on a particular slot game.
Expressed in percentages, RTP indicates the likelihood of winning in a slot machine or any other online casino slot game with a house edge. Generally, these percentages range between 90%, 95, and 98%.
The RTP percentage is determined from millions of spins, considering not just a single player’s experience but that of all players at the casino or globally online. As an example, an online casino slot game with a 95% RTP will give back $95 for every $100 wagered.
However, this doesn’t mean it will pay out exactly $95 for every $100 it takes in. If that were the case, the game would become too predictable.
We, and most gambling experts, recommend focusing on online casino slot games with an RTP of 95% or higher for better odds–a higher chance of winning money and a lower chance of losing it.
Benefits of RTP
Utilizing RTP as a metric can be advantageous, mainly because it helps you set a target when choosing an online slot game. For instance, a slot game with a high Return to Player percentage will include features like wilds, scatters, free spins, and multipliers to make the gameplay more fun and help get to the stated Return to Player percentage.
What is RNG?
The brain of an online slot machine is known as the random number generator or RNG. It produces a sequence of numbers or symbols that can only be anticipated by chance, not by strategizing or attempting to decode the game. This randomness ensures no pattern—and we mean none—can be manipulated so players can cheat. The RNG makes sure that the reels spin unpredictably—without RNG technology, slot games would remain mechanical duds, totally incompatible with online play.
Significance and Benefits of RNG
The Random Number Generator (RNG) forms the foundation of online gambling, including most slot games. It enables operators and game developers to establish and prove fair, transparent play in the games they offer to customers. In the simplest terms, it’s a system that assesses and certifies the authenticity of online gambling platforms to their users.
Game developers rely heavily on RNGs, ensuring that their products are transparent and impartial. Their main goal is to demonstrate the neutrality of the game, showing that it doesn’t favor either the house or the player.
RNG essentially operates as an algorithm within the game; stored within the game files on a remote gaming server, it’s either managed by a third party or the game provider themselves. Once in place, the RNG cannot be manipulated. And it’s not just used for determining jackpot winners but also for developing the content of the games.
Types of RNG
There are two primary types of RNG:
The “True Random Number Generator” (TRNG) is a mechanical device or hardware that employs physical methods to generate randomness, and the “Pseudo-Random Number Generator” (PseudoRNG) uses an algorithm or formula to perform mathematical operations on a starting value to create a random number.
Unlike TRNG, which often relies on environmental factors for unpredictability, PseudoRNG relies on a mathematical approach.
Differences and Similarities between RTP and RNG
It’s important to recognize that RNG and RTP are not the same!
While often confused for each other, RNG and RTP represent distinct concepts. As we stated, RNG is a mechanism that generates endless sequences of random numbers. Return-to-Player (RTP), on the other hand, refers to the percentage of bets returned to players as winnings.
But make no mistake, winning is never a given; RTP merely indicates the likelihood of payout for each game.
These two mechanisms work in conjunction, yet they affect different aspects of online gaming. The RNG ensures the integrity of the casino and the security of its players, whereas RTP measures the effectiveness of this system from the operator’s perspective.
Why RTP & RNG Indicate Fair Play
We’re pretty sure you already know this, but just in case you don’t, casino games are totally based on chance and luck. There is never any certainty of winning or losing, which just adds to the thrill and excitement for those who love to play. While some shady or less-than-reputable online casinos are out there, most online casinos adhere to the strict principles of fair play.
Online slot casino games use the RNG to ensure randomness in every single outcome—when you hit that spin button, the algorithm generates a random number, guaranteeing unpredictability in the game’s result. These casinos also conduct regular tests to verify the integrity of their systems.
In the last few years, online gambling establishments have been incorporating blockchain technology into their platforms, adding to the security and reliability of the online casino.
Takeaways
Now that you are thoroughly schooled on the meaning of these casino acronyms, you won’t make the mistake of thinking RTP means “rip to pieces,” or RNG stands for “really not going.”
Not you—you know that RTP and RNG are separate yet connected components in online gaming! The RNG, aka the Random Number Generation algorithm, ensures fairness and transparency in online casino games.
And the RTP, or Return-to-Player, shows the proportion of the total amount wagered on a slot that is returned to players as winnings. Go forth with this knowledge and spin those slots!
The Psychology Behind Blackjack | Why It’s More Than Just a Game
Blackjack is hands down one of the most popular casino games out there. But it’s more than just an entertaining game of cards; it’s actually a psychological puzzle. Have you ever watched people play blackjack? It’s nerve-wracking to see, let alone play.
We want to find out exactly what the psychology behind blackjack is, how it impacts the players, and why this casino fav is more than just a game!
The Thrill of Taking Risks for Big Rewards
Human beings like taking risks, especially in places like casinos where there is a chance to win and win big. Studies show that the possibility of winning big money often makes people ignore the actual risks they’re taking, and blackjack combines skill and luck, so it really plays into this attraction toward risk-taking.
Psychology Today says, “One of the main reasons that blackjack attracts regular gamblers is that it is a game that the skillful player can expect a profit in the long run. It is the only game that casinos offer where the chances of winning favor the gambler.
A gambler’s playing strategy is dictated by how they can influence the outcome simply by taking or avoiding extra cards. Research into the psychological strategies of blackjack playing has shown that gamblers fall into one of three main types.
Firstly, there is the ultra-conservative ‘never bust’ approach, where the gambler sticks on any hand that could go bust on the next card (i.e., any hand of 12 and over). Since the dealer must draw until they reach 16, this approach will certainly pay off some of the time.
A second popular strategy is ‘mimic the dealer,’ where gamblers sit on 17 or more but draw to 16 or less. The psychology here is that if it’s good for the dealer, it must be good for the gambler. However, very few regular players will follow either of these simplistic strategies.
“Most gamblers adopt optimum ‘basic’ strategies in which the decision to hit or stand depends on the ‘up-card’ held by the dealer. The player knows that as the game progresses, the number of cards left in the shoe is limited. If a player keeps count of the ratio of 10 value cards to non-10 value cards, they can place minimum bets when the deck is favorable to the gambler and maximum bets when the ratio is favorable. The smaller the ratio, the richer the deck is with ten-value cards and the greater the advantage to the gambler. This well-known card-counting method was first laid out over 40 years ago by the mathematician Ed Thorp in his classic 1966 book ‘Beat The Dealer.’
“Some people have said that the book stands in relation to gambling as Einstein’s theory of relativity does to physics—it changed perception of reality! More elaborate counting methods are available based on awarding points to low, medium and high cards and by keeping a running count of unseen cards. Over the years, many people have used elaborate systems in order to keep count.”
The Emotional Rollercoaster
Blackjack takes players on an emotional rollercoaster–when you win, you get a dopamine rush, reinforcing the behavior. But when you lose, you can fall into loss aversion, where you try to chase your losses to recover from the low of losing. And that never ends well, folks.
Feeling Like You’re in Control
In blackjack, players make a lot of decisions, such as whether to hit, stand, double down, etc. This makes them feel like they have more control over the outcome than they actually do. Studies show that people often overestimate how much influence they have in chance situations.
Skill vs Luck
Blackjack mixes skill and chance. While strategies can better your odds, the randomness of dealing cards often outweighs skill, making players overconfident.
Cognitive Biases and Blackjack
Confirmation bias matters in blackjack—players tend to remember wins more than losses, warping their idea of success, and this selective memory can make them feel luckier and more skilled when the opposite is true.
The Gambler’s Fallacy
The gambler’s fallacy is common in blackjack, too. Players might think past events, like losing streaks, influence what happens next. So they expect it is time for a win, that it is somehow owed to them, even though that is never how it works in games of chance like blackjack.
Table Talk
Playing with others adds a social component to blackjack as well, which means there is peer pressure, and fitting in with the yelling crowd around you can lead to riskier choices than playing solo.
The House Edge and Social Proof
Despite the house edge, blackjack draws in players partly thanks to social proof, and seeing others win makes people think they could, too, so they keep on playing.
Coping and Emotions
Responsible blackjack players often cope well emotionally, as handling losses matters for avoiding problem gambling, staying confident, and having fun while playing the game.
Superstitions
A bunch of gamblers come up with superstitions and rituals to handle the randomness and uncertainty of blackjack and other casino games–this gives them a sense of control and a way to cope with anxiety about the outcomes.
Blackjack and Problem Gambling
Blackjack is also addicting for some–the speed of play and the illusion you can master can get people chasing losses and gambling too much. Knowing the signs that your gambling is problematic is key.
Places that offer gambling do try to push responsible gambling so people don’t lose control. Understanding blackjack’s mental side can help all players have fun but not go overboard–if you think you have a problem, they offer resources and tools to help with gambling addiction.
Takeaways
The most important thing to remember here is that blackjack involves more than just cards; there’s a complex psychology behind it. Looking at things like risk-taking and people’s biases can improve the experience and lead to more winning, but also healthier approaches overall.
It doesn’t matter if you are a newbie or a seasoned blackjack player–knowing and understanding these factors gives you a deeper view of blackjack beyond just knowing when to hit or stand.
If you are looking to start playing online, you can check out our list of the best blackjack apps.
The Impact of Technology on Online Slots | VR, AR, and Beyond
Have you ever wondered about the journey of the humble slot machine, that once bulky arcade-like device that’s been altered into high-tech gambling action you can play on your computer or smartphone? We have! That’s why we are exploring the world of online slots, where cutting-edge technology, like VR (virtual reality) and AR (augmented reality), has turned each spin into not only a chance to win money but also a more immersive experience for players.
You do remember those old-timey big slot machines with the levers, right? They sit side by side, in rows upon rows, in areas of casinos and there is always someone pulling that lever. And while they still very much exist in real-life casinos, they have been, for the most part, cast aside in favor of their newer, sleeker, and much more convenient digital counterparts. Just like their glitzy brick-and-mortar relatives, online slots are full of interesting themes and more chances to win–and you aren’t just spinning fruits anymore.
The entire gambling industry, along with online slots, has undergone a massive overhaul due to the latest advancements in technology. In the world of gambling, we have come a long way from the days of basic fruit machines. Today, we find ourselves in an interesting era where cutting-edge technologies like virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and other advancements are transforming the experience of spinning the reels. How? Let’s find out!
Understanding Slots: The Basics
Let’s start by gaining a clear understanding of what online slots are before getting into the world of tech advancements where they are concerned. Yes, we know most of you know what they are and how they work, but we may have some new players who aren’t quite sure!
Online slots are just digital versions of those old-timey slot machines. The game involves spinning reels that display different symbols, and players can win prizes by getting certain combinations. But online slots have an expanded selection of themes, paylines, and bonus features compared to their mechanical counterparts, making them more diverse and entertaining.
Virtual Reality (VR) and the Immersive Experience
Imagine yourself strapping on a VR headset and being transported (virtually, of course) to a casino experience that rivals the authenticity of any Viva Las Vegas establishment–it’s possible now that VR technology is revolutionizing the world of online slots.
VR allows you to wander around a virtual casino, interact with fellow players, and experience the real-life sensation of sitting at a realistic slot machine. Playing the game this way is much more than just a simple activity–it’s an opportunity to lose yourself in a completely different world.
Augmented Reality (AR): A Blend of Real and Virtual
Augmented reality offers an alternative perspective, bringing the game into your world and allowing you to experience it in a whole new way. You just aim your phone at your living room table, and suddenly, a slot machine materializes right before your eyes!
AR slots seamlessly integrate digital elements with your actual surroundings, providing a one-of-a-kind and fun gaming experience.
Advanced Graphics and Sound: More Than Just a Game
The latest online slots offer an absorbing experience that goes beyond simply spinning those reels–the games have leveled up visually, thanks to their high-definition graphics and 3D animations.
Paired with immersive surround sound audio, these online slots provide a gaming experience that surpasses sitting at any conventional slot machine.
Mobile Slots in the Palm of Your Hand
Smartphones have reshaped the world of online slots, taking them to whole new heights. Now, players can enjoy their favorite games no matter where they are or when they want to play. Mobile technology has made high-quality gaming more accessible than ever before, allowing players to indulge in slots with just a few taps.
AI and Machine Learning: Smart Gaming
The advancements keep coming for improving slot games–say hello to Artificial Intelligence (AI) and machine learning! Games are enhanced by AI, creating a more engaging and personalized experience for players. AI technology enables the creation of games that are specifically designed to cater to player preferences and provide smarter bonus rounds as well!
Blockchain and Cryptocurrency: Secure and Anonymous
Blockchain technology and cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin are gaining popularity in the online slot world. The system ensures that transactions are secure, transparent, and anonymous, which helps establish trust and protect player privacy.
The Future of Slots
The future of online slots holds immense potential for technological advancements. You don’t just have to dream of a future where slot games become fully interactive, complete with compelling storylines that allow you to make choices that directly influence the outcome–it will happen.
And just think of it: You can have a real casino experience right in the privacy of your own living room with holographic slots–how cool is that?
And as for wearable technology? Well, this will boost your gaming experience via haptic feedback. There’s also a potential for the integration of social media to strengthen the sense of community in slots. At the same time, cloud gaming has the capacity to make high-end slots available on various devices. The future looks super bright for not just online slots but for the entire online gambling industry and the players who indulge.
Final Thoughts
The integration of technology with online slots is not only redefining the way we play but also completely revamping the overall experience–in a good way! VR and AR are at the forefront of a lot of tech innovation, and the combo of that with leaps and bounds of progress in graphics, mobile tech, AI, and blockchain all add up to something special coming down the pike. In the continually evolving world of online slots, it is obvious that the future holds many more exciting experiences for players to enjoy!
Virtual Reality Casinos | The Next Big Thing in Online Gambling?
Virtual reality casinos and poker sites are popping up more and more these days. As we enter the Metaverse age, gambling companies are leading the way with crazy new innovations that could totally change how we play our favorite games. From VR slots and roulette to poker and blackjack, if you love virtual gaming, things are just kicking off!
This immersive technological marvel could actually reshape the entire landscape of online gambling, offering an experience that’s as close as one can get to a physical casino without gamblers ever having to step outside of their front doors.
As we look at everything that’s potentially coming down the pike with virtual reality casinos, we need to acknowledge the impact, the benefits, any possible challenges or negatives, and the future to see if it really is the next big thing in online gambling!
The Growth of VR Across Sectors
For a lot of people, virtual reality represents the next generation of gaming and entertainment, and in fact, many believe that in the next few decades, most of what we do every day will happen in the metaverse. Whether that pans out or is a more distant dream remains to be seen, but one thing we already know for sure is that VR can be game-changing for online gaming!
According to The Insight Partners, the VR industry will make over $58 billion by 2024–as the tech gets better and better and more companies try to incorporate virtual reality into their products, some experts think this number could top $441 billion by 2030. Also, with 171 million people currently using VR already, virtual worlds are definitely not imaginary anymore, according to eMarketer research.
Gamers, not the gambling kind, really set the entire virtual reality thing in motion. Not ones to be left in the dust, online casinos hopped onto the VR trend, too! Microgaming was the first big software company to jump into VR, making a roulette game for players. At a gaming conference in 2016, their VR Roulette used the Oculus Rift and hand motion controllers to send players into a VR space, and that sparked more innovations that made VR casino and poker games a reality for players.
And then NetEnt made a VR version of their popular Gonzo’s Quest slot game—around the same time NetEnt showed that regular 2D casino games could become fully immersive 3D worlds, other gaming firms were testing what VR could do as well. Since the social VR gaming and dating scene is booming now, companies, big and small, from startups to major gaming companies, are starting to create and beta test their own versions of VR games.
As you can see, this VR gaming bus is picking up speed—and developers are showing no signs of easing up on the gas or pumping the brakes. According to one Technavio report, the worldwide VR betting market could balloon to $1.7 billion by 2025 (wow), but what does that growth actually mean?
For one, it means that instead of just VR slots and roulette, players could see and experience full virtual reality casinos where you can check out and play all kinds of games—the options are pretty much endless.
What’s Happening Now with VR Casinos
Before thinking about what’s next for VR social gambling dens and poker spots, let’s check where things stand as of this moment. While people are still in the middle of the whole gambling shakeup, r.e. transitioning from traditional brick-and-mortar casinos to online gambling apps, there are some pretty cool choices already available if you want a little taste of the future of gaming!
Pokerstars VR
PokerStars VR, which is also known as Vegas Infinite, is like a free amusement park for poker and other online casino games. Here, you can play versions of roulette, blackjack, and poker (you can even throw stuff at the other players!) and explore super fun environments. There’s even a virtual DJ to get the party going.
Social Club VR
Some VR spots can feel or look awkward, but this is one of the more realistic. Nicknamed” Casino Night,” players walk into a fancy casino venue that has virtual reality blackjack, roulette, and poker tables. Even though it seems kinda serious, they add some silly elements too, like buying drinks or getting into sword fights (yes, sword fights) with the other gamblers!
Bullet Roulette
Bullet Roulette isn’t your typical roulette setup, no sir. There is no table–just guns. It’s like a super intense Russian roulette game but set in virtual reality. And since it feels so real, it can be straight-up terrifying, and you can win big jackpots, too!
JackpotVR
JackpotVR is supposed to be one of the most realistic VR casino things out there right now, and although the graphics aren’t amazing, it does feel pretty real. You can saunter around this place like a real casino—slots are on the walls everywhere you look, and there are some tabletop games to play. You’ll hear people cheering their wins, chips moving around, and jackpot bells and whistles sounding off as you wander around.
Blackjack Billy VR
This game lets you play first-person—players just put on a VR headset and start the game, and you can play Blackjack for free with Billy, the VR dealer running things in this social casino setup.
The Future of VR Casinos
Real and social virtual reality casinos (and lottery ones, too) will probably get even bigger and more sophisticated in the next five years. The hardware that lets you get into games is getting better with every passing moment, and people are starting to realize parts of our lives are destined to be virtual, like it or not. In fact, with augmented reality (AR) able to project realistic images onto the things around us, it feels like anything could happen.
Enhanced Player Experience
One of the biggest attractions of VR casinos is the heightened level of player engagement. The immersive nature of these platforms lets players feel like they’re in the middle of the action, offering a much more engaging and realistic gaming experience. This is really appealing to the younger demographic, which has grown up with immersive video games and is accustomed to high levels of online interactivity.
Social Interaction in a Virtual World
Another significant benefit of VR casinos is the enhancement of social interaction—most online casinos lack the communal aspect of physical casinos, but VR technology addresses this by allowing players to interact with dealers and fellow gamblers in a virtual environment. This creates a sense of community and makes the gaming experience more fun and realistic.
Different Games and Experiences
Do you know what VR can also bring to the table? An extensive range of casino games. There are the classics, like blackjack and poker, and then there are the more modern games, like virtual slots and live dealer games in a realistic virtual setting. Moreover, VR technology can be combined with other advancements, like 3D sound and haptic feedback, to deliver a totally immersive sensory experience to gamblers.
Potential Challenges
Despite the immense potential that VR casinos could bring about, they also face a few drawbacks. The cost of VR equipment, since it’s not cheap, could be a big barrier, limiting accessibility for a lot of potential players.
Additionally, there are certain tech requirements to enter the VR world, like the necessity for powerful hardware and high-speed, stable internet connections.
And believe it or not, there are physical health concerns when it comes to VR use, like nausea (you can compare it to seasickness) or headaches associated with prolonged VR use. Lastly, the online gambling industry is subject to various regulations, which may need adaptation to accommodate any VR casinos.
Final Thoughts
Looking into our crystal ball, it seems like the possibilities for VR casinos are promising and vast. As technology continues to leapfrog ahead, virtual reality gambling experiences could be poised to become even more lifelike. With innovations like haptic feedback suits, better controllers, and eye-tracking technology, this only means that the realism of these virtual environments will become hyper-realistic. Not to mention that VR gambling presents opportunities for interactive, multiplayer experiences and opens up new revenue streams for online casinos that go the VR route through in-app purchases for virtual items.
Virtual reality could be on the precipice of revolutionizing the online gambling industry—its potential impact on digital gambling, including more player engagement, social interaction, and a much bigger choice of games, transports us to a future where the lines between the physical and digital gaming worlds are increasingly blurred. While there are most definitely a few challenges to address and overcome, the possibilities are endless, and this technology is here to stay.
How to Spot and Avoid Online Casino Scams
Online casino fraud can involve anything from manipulating the house edge to stealing personal information. Yes, it sounds super scary, but if you understand how these scams operate, they won’t be able to pull the wool over your eyes! To keep yourself safe and sound while indulging in your favorite online casino games, you just need to be armed with the knowledge of what to look out for. That’s where we come in handy: to tell you how to spot and avoid online casino scams!
Safe Online Casinos
There aren’t many things that are better than being able to win real money through a fun activity that can be done from anywhere—you can play real money casino games from the comfort of your bed or sofa, during your commute, while waiting for a dentist appointment, or even while on hold trying to get in touch with your insurance company (that can take a while!). The possibilities are legit endless, which is why online casino games are growing in popularity worldwide every year.
The rapid expansion of these games is unmatched, and more and more countries are starting to see the online casino industry’s surging economic benefits. But this boom means there needs to be extra online security. Since there has been an explosion of new online casino sites, and the variety they offer players is amazing, it also means that there are some unscrupulous operators out there who simply fleece players of their money through nefarious tricks and scams.
With that being said, most online casinos are legit, but these are the most important casino tips to consider before choosing which online casino to frequent!
Red Flags That Scream ‘Scam’
The following are the red flags to look out for, as well as some warning signs to help you avoid losing your hard-earned money. These signs are almost impossible to spot if you don’t know what to look for and are specifically aimed at beginners who might be tempted by attractive offers that are just money hustles in disguise—wolves in sheep’s clothing. Remember that most online casino scams can (and do) look like legit casino websites.
You Cannot Find The Return To Player (RTP) Or It Is Very Low
Casino scams are not always associated with payments and fraud—one of the most common scams is manipulating the games so that the house always wins.
The return to player (RTP) is the proportion of wagers that will be paid out to players after a specific length of time. If the house edge is 10% and the RTP is 90%, for example, the RTP is 10% minus the house edge. You can easily tell a trustworthy online casino by looking at their RTP. In addition, the site’s footer or another part of the page will have info about the appropriate gambling enforcement agency that issued its authorization.
Avoid all online gambling establishments with an RTP below 80% or those that don’t display an RTP at all. BTW, an RTP of 94% to 98% is considered average.
Slow Download Process
Picture this: you’ve just completed an incredible run, and you’re waiting for the money to show up in your account. The wait lasts days, weeks, and even months. Even though you went through the lengthy process of verifying your account and confirming your withdrawal, the casino seems unwilling to pay.
This is a super common type of online scam— they will payout in the beginning, but payments slowly become more complicated and take longer to appear in your account, and the site will say it has to do with a conflict with the terms you accepted when you signed up.
Reading reviews and learning about other people’s experiences is an excellent way to steer clear of this. Look for sites that have multiple options and that use PayPal; this guarantees that you’re given enough options! The fact that a company can pass PayPal’s rigorous verification process is usually a good sign that it’s legit.
Request for Personal Data
Shady casinos will not have the proper security measures in place to protect your info, so make sure to only play at reputable online casinos that have the “https” prefix in their URLs, and do not ever provide personal information such as SSNs, IDs, or your bank details.
If any online casino, whether it is legit or shady, asks for any of your personal info that could compromise your identity, do not offer up those details under any circumstances!
Identity theft is a widespread online scam that shouldn’t be taken lightly. It is imperative for gaming companies to prioritize the security of their players and implement effective protective measures.
Bad or No Customer Support/Service
Of course, shady casinos would rather you couldn’t get in touch with them to ask about the status of the money you have invested or won duh. Reputable online casinos will have lots of ways to get in touch with customer service, including 24/7, 365 days a year customer support options—this includes being able to call, email, or chat with them directly throughout the day and the night.
If you can’t find ways to get in touch with an online casino, or if you have trouble accessing any of the contact options they advertise, this can be a serious red flag.
And if any negative reviews complain about the site’s customer service, we recommend that you don’t spend your money there.
Incredible Bonuses That Don’t Add Up
Countless gambling establishments offer incentives for new players to join, but be super skeptical of deals that seem too good to be true–they probably are! All bonuses that demand an initial payment before you can get your hands on the money before getting the bonus are scams: full-stop.
These kinds of online scams are sophisticated and well thought out—it appears like you’ll get your bonus in the end, but the process is often deliberately lengthy and unduly complicated, and as a result, most people get frustrated and give up halfway through, which means losing their initial deposit.
Check out the sites that have special offers and bonuses that do not require a deposit. The best online casinos will have enough extra incentives to attract players and will not have to rely on any fraudulent deposit schemes to pull in players.
What to Do/How to Report Online Fraud
Among the huge number of legit casinos, there are also a startling amount of fraudulent ones. The info above will help you spot the red flags that indicate a scammy site, but if you are new to playing and realize too late that you have been scammed, then you should take the necessary steps to call them out and report them!
Unfortunately, this won’t help you get your money back, but it will help other players avoid falling prey to them too. Here’s what to do if you’ve been scammed.
- Report the casino: It is imperative that you report the fraudulent site to the relevant authorities as soon as possible. You can do this through your country’s casino regulator. The more complaints received, the more likely an investigation will be. This is the most likely way for a scam casino to have its operator’s license revoked.
- Expose them to others: Obviously, you don’t want other people to go through the same harmful experience as you, so it’s important that you expose these casinos to other players. If you have friends who play in online casinos, you should tell them about the site that cheated you. Connect with people on popular gambling forums and write about your experiences there. More than likely, other people will speak up after having the same experience as you. The next person who comes across these posts will probably skip the casino you were talking about.
When you are thinking about reporting a shady online casino site, you need to compile all the info you have about being scammed out of your money because these organizations will only disclose complaints about fraud that have been fully investigated and proven. In other words, have receipts!
Common Complaints About Scam Casino Sites
If you’re wondering how to get your money back after being scammed online, then we’ve got bad news for you—it ain’t gonna happen.
Unfortunately, scam companies are rather skilled at their “jobs,” so even if the website gets on a blacklist as a result of your report, don’t count on seeing your cash again. But rest assured that you can save a lot of other players from falling victim to the same shady scams and schemes.
These are some of the most common casino scams!
Payout Problems
If you are lucky enough to get lucky (sorry) with whatever your favorite casino game is, you should expect a timely payout. This process should only take a few hours, so if you find yourself waiting for a few days, it could mean your money isn’t coming.
Long payment processes and non-payment are the most common complaints about fraudulent companies. Customer service is basically non-existent in these types of scams, so players rightly get suspicious and worried when they are ignored, and many end up contacting the authorities in an attempt to blacklist the fraudulent casino.
Selection Problems
If you deposit your money into a casino, of course, you’ll want to be able to withdraw that money as well! A super common scam in an online casino is not being able to withdraw your deposit–or your winnings.
Shady or scam online casinos will frustrate customers with complicated withdrawal processes or include hidden terms and conditions preventing withdrawals. Make sure you always read the terms and conditions carefully and pay special attention to their withdrawal and payout policies. If you don’t understand what the heck you are reading, look into the online casino on review platforms or avoid them altogether.
Rigging Games
One of the easiest ways for scam sites to cheat players is to rig the games so that the house always wins—and although this is a saying and can be true, in this instance, players never win. This can happen with any casino game, from slots to roulette to table games, and scam casinos usually have a low RTP on their games, indicating a far larger house edge than usual. Be sure you clearly see the RTP for each game. If it’s below 80%, that’s a major red flag, and you should not invest any of your money on that particular site!
Spyware and Ransomware
There are plenty of computer coders and hackers all over the world, and unfortunately, not all of them are using their skills for good—it’s the opposite in the case of scam online casinos.
Spyware and ransomware are among the most common forms of gambling scams, and their danger has risen dramatically (like bonkers numbers) over the last decade.
Spyware does exactly what you would expect it to do: Spy on your computer and steal personal info. This means your identity can be stolen, your bank account hacked, etc. A lot of people have become victims of extortion and blackmail from this type of cyber attack.
Then there’s the ransomware: This freezes your computer with unbreakable encryption. The only thing you’ll see is a little message from the scammers telling you how much money you have to pay, where you have to pay it, and how you have to pay. Once you pay the required amount, they promise a password to unlock the computer. Think of it like they have kidnapped your computer and everything that is on it.
But they don’t stop there—they just keep upping the ante and asking for more once you have paid the initial amount.
Ransomware is a serious threat, having paralyzed entire government systems in the past. There are several ways to try to avoid this type of scam—the first is by avoiding downloading casino apps and just playing games in your browser. If you want to download the app, make sure you download it from Apple or Google Play Stores or other verified download sites.
Identity Theft
“Financial identity theft affected 47% of Americans in 2020,” says the Aite Group.
According to a report published, identity theft cases resulted in losses of $502.5 billion in 2019 and increased by 42% to $712.4 billion in 2020. Yikes!
Although only a small percentage of this amount will go through casino scammers, it still happens. Casinos that steal identities simply exist to extract as much data as possible from the people they cheat. They could use this personal info for themselves or sell it to criminals on the black market who are looking for someone else’s information to carry out their illegal activities.
This is a harder scam to spot because it can look super legit, and one of the most common ways to get your information is to block your account and ask you to upload your identity documents.
And although this is something that legit casinos have the right to do, it’s vital that you make sure that any casino that asks you to do this has all the criteria we discuss in the following section before uploading any personal information!
How to Choose a Legit Online Casino
Of course, you are wondering if it’s safe to play at an online casino! Who wouldn’t be? As a beginner, you need to know the basics of online security and how to choose a trustworthy casino. Here are some things you should look at before you start playing real money online games.
Legit Licenses
One of the primary factors to consider when selecting a virtual casino is to make sure the facility has a gambling license. This should be easy to find on their website—if it isn’t, stop right there—this is a huge red flag.
It is important to show not only the license itself but also where the license came from, as some countries or states are stricter than others. Australia, The UK, Gibraltar, Costa Rica, Canada, and Antigua are examples of countries with strong licensing laws. If the website you are visiting is authorized in a nation other than the one in which it states it is headquartered, you should consider it to be highly suspicious.
Customer Support
As we went over earlier, shady online casinos don’t want you to contact them. If you want to make sure that the company you choose is legit, check out their customer service options.
It’s always a good idea to try the different options offered at different times—don’t be afraid to email, call, and chat with the customer service team and verify the company at odd hours, like at 2 a.m.
Check Out the Online Reviews
One of the absolute best things about the internet and social media is that they have provided a place where people to share their issues and experiences with businesses.
Before settling on a casino, do your research thoroughly and be sure to go through and read online gambling reviews to see how the company has treated others.
Research the Software
It is super important to find out what software the casino website is using, so make sure you know the name of the software, or at least Google it to make sure it’s a reputable software provider!
Check Blacklist
It is always a good idea to go through our casino blacklist to make sure the casino is not on there. If so, it’s best to back out of that browser window and never go back—they’re blacklisted for a reason.
Takeaways
We don’t want to scare you—for the most part, online casinos are legit and are a great time! But we would be remiss if we didn’t warn you that there are a number of scam online casinos out there that only exist to bilk people out of their money.
But now that you are armed with the knowledge and some tips about how to suss them out, you’ll be able to spot them—and warn others to stay away, too.
Review of the Fliff Sports Betting App: Is It Legit?
What in the fluff is Fliff?? We have been around the sports betting scene for a minute, and we haven’t heard much about the Fliff app. Maybe that’s because it’s a newish (2020) platform, or maybe it’s due to it being in a murky purgatory between a sports betting app and a social platform.
But Fliff has our attention now, and since we are wondering what the deal is, we bet you are too, so let’s find out all about it in our Fliff review—like what exactly is it, and, more importantly, is it legit? Let’s fluffing go!
What’s Fliff Anyway?
According to its home page, Fliff says,
“Sports fandom is social, but sports gaming is transactional. Fliff turns sports predictions into a social, free-to-play game.
“Sweat the game, not the losses. We’ve unpacked sports betting into play-for-fun social gaming. Fliff is sports predictions built on social competition with promotional games and loyalty rewards to elevate the experience. A slam dunk for all types of sports fans!”
Sounds pretty cool, but that’s a little vague—let’s unpack what that marketing-speak really spells out in terms of sports betting.
So, Fliff is a social sports betting app. But it’s not your typical betting platform like FanDuel or DraftKings. It takes a different approach by mixing the excitement of sports betting with a social component. The idea is to make betting on your favorite sports a fun, collective experience without the worry of losing your shirt. Fun, yes. But is it actually a legitimate betting platform?
Is Fliff Legit?
The short answer is yes, but we can’t just leave it at that. Fliff exists and operates in a sort of gray area of the betting world, which might raise a few eyebrows and suspicions. Fliff has built its platform on the foundation of being a social, rather than gambling-only, app. This difference is super important to understand in terms of its legality and legitimacy.
Here’s how they do it: Sweepstakes are permitted in numerous states because they offer at least one method of participation that is free. For instance, with Fliff, you can acquire Fliff Cash (which has no monetary value) for free when you buy Fliff Coins. Moreover, you have the option to send a mail request to their main office in Philadelphia for $5 in Fliff Cash at no charge.
Sweepstakes are permitted in numerous states because they offer at least one method of participation that is free. For instance, with Fliff, you can acquire Fliff Cash (which has no monetary value) for free when you buy Fliff Coins. Moreover, you have the option to send a mail request to their main office in Philadelphia for $5 in Fliff Cash at no charge.
This element of free entry means that sweepstakes-based games and betting are not classified as gambling. As a result, these social or sweepstakes gaming platforms are not required to secure a license from each state like traditional betting apps are.
Where Can You Use Fliff?
Fliff operates legally across most of the U.S. (except in Washington, for some reason), including areas where online gambling is still off the table. This loophole comes from Fliff’s adherence to sweepstakes laws instead of conventional online gambling regulations, positioning it as a kind of fantasy sports sweepstakes platform.
How Does Fliff Make Money?
If Fliff lets users bet without the risk of losing real money, how do they keep the lights on in the joint? Well, the platform operates on a model that offers free-to-play options, along with chances to buy in-app currency. This currency can be used to participate in certain types of bets or to unlock special features. Essentially, the company’s revenue comes from these purchases, not from any user losses.
Understanding How Fliff Works
Fliff works by giving users two types of currency: coins and cash.
- Coins are used for free-to-play bets, and while you can’t exchange them for real money, they’re great for those looking to enjoy the fun of betting without any financial risk.
- Cash, on the other hand, can be used for bets that could possibly return real money—but don’t get your hopes up about retiring on any winnings, which we’ll explain later. It’s definitely an uncommon approach; we’ll just leave it at that.
Cashing Out: Show Me the Money!
So, can you actually cash out real money from Fliff? Yes, you can, but there are a few important caveats. The cash you can withdraw comes from winnings earned through bets placed with Fliff cash, not in-app coins.
But it’s possible to win real cash prizes through the Fliff social sportsbook. The foundation of a sweepstakes gaming site is the offer of free opportunities to win actual money. In this case, you can get more Fliff Cash for free either by purchasing Fliff Coin bundles or through mail-in requests. To redeem cash prizes, you must accumulate at least $50 in Fliff Cash.
Can You Make Real Money on Fliff?
You can, but it’s not going to change your life—Fliff is more about the fun and social aspects of betting rather than turning a profit. The opportunity to win real money is there, but it’s balanced with the platform’s social gaming aspect.
Fliff Coins are intended only for play and lack any real monetary value, but wagers made with Fliff Cash have the potential to be converted into actual cash or gift cards.
When your balance of Fliff Cash reaches $50, it becomes possible to exchange it for real money or gift cards. Should you choose the cash option, you can withdraw your earnings through either a bank transfer or Skrill.
Hunting for a Fliff Promo Code
Who doesn’t love a good promo code? Fliff gets this and offers promo codes to new users or as part of special promotions. These codes can give you extra Fliff cash to bet with or other perks. As of this review, you can get a 100% match up to $100 using the promo code PROPS (you must be 21 years old to claim this offer).
Fliff and Sports Betting: Yay or Nay?
Sports betting is a huge draw for so many people, and Fliff taps into this by offering a solid range of sports to bet on. From football to basketball, if you have a team or sport you follow, this app most likely has you covered. The social aspect boosts the experience, allowing you to celebrate the wins and commiserate over your losses with friends or social acquaintances you’ve connected with through the app.
Final Take
Fliff is definitely a different kind of platform and has carved out its niche in the betting app market by focusing on the social, fun aspects of sports betting. It’s legit, legal in most states, and offers a novel blend of risk-free and real money (but not a lot of money) betting options.
Whether you’re in it for the camaraderie or the chance to win a little extra cash, Fliff offers a fun platform that’s definitely worth checking out! Just remember, like any form of betting, it’s important always to gamble responsibly and within your means.