We’ve all heard how online casino games are booming in popularity. Incredibly the online gaming world is now the world’s biggest entertainment industry.
Even the classic table games like roulette and blackjack are more popular than ever before thanks to the internet.
The spread of smartphones and apps have made casino games like these so accessible. Players can gamble on the go, whenever they feel like a game, wherever they are.
From the top-rated links at BonusFinder Canada to streaming a live game from Macau, improved internet has allowed millions more people to access games right across the world.
Online casinos now offer thousands of games and incentives to join them.
The global online gambling market has soared. It is valued at over $80 billion and it’s still growing fast.
But in all this boom and excitement, it’s sometimes hard to know where to start. If you are a newcomer what are the best games to play?
The best online casino games for beginners
Online Slots
Slots are now more popular than ever. You can now find thousands of themed slot games online, from classic fruit machine symbols to modern video slots based on movies, TV shows or pop culture.
Today’s slots include bonus rounds, free spins and interactive elements that make playing much more exciting and engrossing than ever before.
They require no strategy or skills, so they are very accessible to beginners. At the same time they are VERY exciting.
The top progressive jackpot slots can pay out life-changing sums.
TIPS:
- New players should understand the difference in ‘volatility’ of today’s slot games. Which matches your mood best: low volatility pays small, frequent wins – while high volatility can have big wins but less frequently.
- Start with games with a higher RTP (return to play) percentage rating, ideally at least 95%. This is a measure of how much the game pays back to players.
- Always control your bankroll. Some slots have minimum bet requirements that can eat up your funds quickly.
Blackjack
Blackjack is a fun, fast-paced game which combines complete chance with some basic strategy. It’s a chance to begin with simple tactics and reduce the house edge.
Play carefully and the house edge in blackjack can fall as low as 0.5% – one of the best odds for players in any casino game.
TIPS:
- New players should learn a basic blackjack strategy. This simply suggests the best action on each hand, based on your cards and the visible dealer’s card.
- At first ignore blackjack side bets like Perfect Pairs or Insurance – these have a higher house edge.
- Again, keep tight control of your bankroll as it’s easy to get caught up in the blackjack action.
Poker (Texas Hold’em)
Poker is an enthralling game of skill, psychology and strategy. Players compete against each other rather than the house.
Skilled players can consistently make profits and the game is more of a social experience than most.
TIPS:
- Beginners should start by learning the hand rankings. Play at free games or low-stakes tables to get comfortable and avoid big losses while learning.
- It’s important to study strategy, watch experienced players – and practice.
- Avoid playing emotionally. If you make poor decisions due to frustration it can lead to significant losses.
Roulette
The classic table game with a ball tossed into a spinning wheel is popular because players can actually see the concept of betting on numbers, colors (red/black) or sections of the wheel.
The shiny spinning wheel adds excitement, especially when the ball bounces close to your chosen section. Choose between high-risk bets (single numbers) and much safer bets (red/black or odd/even).
TIPS:
- New players should note European Roulette has a lower house edge (2.7%) compared to American Roulette (5.26%), which has an extra “00” pocket.
- Avoid roulette betting systems like Martingale (doubling your bet after a loss. It can lead to serious losses.
- Start with small outside bets for better odds and a safer experience while learning.
Baccarat
This is less well known game but makes a good starting place. Baccarat is a straightforward game with simple rules where you bet on either the Player or Banker hand to win, or a Tie.
Baccarat’s house edge is low for the main bets: Banker (1.06%) and Player (1.24%).
TIPS:
- Beginners should avoid the risky Tie Bet which has a much higher house edge (around 14.4%).
- On average the Banker bet wins slightly more frequently than the Player bet, so it’s a safer option.
- Understand third-card draw rules. They’re automated online but it helps to know why they’re drawn.
Enjoy being an online casino newcomer
Whatever your choice of game, consider playing free versions first to get comfortable with the rules without risking real money.
But amid all the new experiences and trying to getit right don’t forget the one important factor: you’re there to have fun!
