When it comes to gambling online, whether it's an intense pastime or a casual hobby, choosing between the hundreds of online casinos available online today could be a daunting task. In the end, each online player has their own individual character, preferences, and favorite games. Casinos online are as unique as players on the internet. Here are the essentials to take into consideration when looking for an online casino that can meet your gambling needs and then some.

It's All About the Games

Online casinos are a place I love to play. I also love winning. In the first place, however I play for the chance to win. That means that you're likely to leave playing a game that you don't like. Poker isn't a possibility at all casinos if the interface is poor.

Because online casinos only feature games with wagers It's easy to believe that your choices are limited, however, this is far from the reality. Numerous companies boast of exploring the boundaries and introducing new and exciting games that raise the bar in terms of graphics, sound and the ability to play. It's an excellent idea to get an idea of which online casinos carry games that you're keen to play. Companies such as Rival and Cryptologic are just two of the many top software providers for online casinos who push the boundaries with every game they put out.

It is important to note that each software developer has their distinctive style. Rival, as I mentioned above, is a great gaming company but it is more geared to the younger generation of players playing online casinos. They are more focused on games and graphics that appeal to gamers who are video than any other online casino. Where as Cryptologic has a knack for taking classic games and making them fresh and exciting again.

Banking Features

Naturally, when you play online want to make sure they are able to access their funds as swiftly and easily as is possible. Online casinos typically offer easy deposits that permit the deposit of funds into a bank account and use it within the casino. But there are casinos that do not operate the same way. RTG and Playtech use their own software strategies to manage money and Cryptologic utilizes "Ecash."

Seek out peer reviews

An online casino will explain all they can to make you want to play their games online. They are not wrong. They want to make profits. It is ideal for them to sell their online casino as being the biggest and the best. You can find out more about an online casino by looking for reviews by customers on gambling review websites.

Online gamblers are passionate about the casinos that they enjoy, and may be a bit venomous towards people they don't like. Before spending a dime, it behooves you to look over reviews and learn from the experience of other players. Many sites offer third-party reviews of online casinos. free play is best not to gamble at a casino, even if you'll be playing at it.

Beware of Sign Up Rewards

Sign-up bonuses to me are the candy that someone who is a fraudster will use to lure children into a van. They do not mention the casino's game play or customer support. I'll use another metaphor. They are like an advertisement incentive for a car dealership to entice customers. Bottom line, there's always a chance to be caught. This could lead to you being kidnapped, or getting the "switcharoo", pulled on you. In the end, you'll pay way too much for the car.

Online casinos are no different. Sign up bonuses often offer huge amounts of money in exchange for free. That's what the sign up bonus states at first glance. What they don't inform you of is that if you want that money to pay off the balance, you'll need to pay an even more extravagant amount of wagers until you meet your minimum that lets you cash out...if you've won any money, that is.

Is it a Mac or a computer?

While every online casino is compatible with PC, this isn't the case with Macintosh users. But, the casino owners aren't in denial and have developed platforms that work with both PC and the rising amount of Mac players. If you're on an Mac, your choice is fairly restricted. Casinos online are accessible to all who have computers.

ECOGRA Certified Casinos

There are a variety of third-party watchdogs who monitor online casinos in order to guarantee fair game play. eCogra, which stands for eCommerce Online Gaming Regulation and Assurance, is the most trusted. It's impossible to ensure that each online casino is fair every time. But, knowing that a casino is certified by eCogra is the most reliable way to know that play is as fair as it could be.


There are other names out there, but none can be as trusted and respected as eCogra. Although others might do the job just as well or better, eCogra's reputation is without doubt the best. In theory, anyone can establish a watchdog organization and establish an official seal. By going with an eCogra certified casino, you are assured that they stake their reputation on the assumption that the gaming experience you experience will be fair.

Know the Law

Even though it shouldn't be however, online gambling is banned in many countries, the United States included. Where it is permitted and highly controlled, it is regulated. Thus, whether gambling online is permitted in your state or not, it is important to know the law prior to investing. Being able to access an online casino does not necessarily mean it is legal in your area. It is difficult for governments to regulate the internet and often the player is the person at risk. Because most casinos take deposits, in the event that funds are stolen, the casino will have all your funds. So before making a deposit check out online gambling laws specific to where you live for a safe gaming.