Before playing, to give yourself an edge, it's good to understand how online casino games work. Here is some helpful information.
Return to Player (RTP)
Return to Player is a percentage that shows how much a game pays back to players over the long term. For example, a slot with 96% RTP is expected to return €96 for every €100 wagered. Just remember this is an average, not a guarantee.
RTP varies by game type:
- Online slots - Usually 94%–97%, though some reach 98–99%.
- Table games - Generally higher, Blackjack and Video Poker are the best online casino games to win money as the RTP can exceed 99% while European Roulette sits around 97.3%.
Higher RTP generally means better long-term value for players, so Irish players looking for frequent returns should look to high-RTP games like blackjack, video poker, and certain well-designed slots.
House Edge
House edge is the advantage the house gives itself over the player. It's a built-in mathematical advantage the casino has over every game. Here are some online casino tips
Examples:
- European Roulette: House edge = 2.70% (single zero).
- American Roulette: House edge = 5.26% (double zero).
- Blackjack: As low as 0.5%–1% when players use basic strategy.
The higher the house edge, the more it's going to cost you in the long run. Understanding house edge and other online casino tips helps players put themselves in the best position to win.
Volatility/Variance
Volatility (or variance) refers to how frequently and how big a game's payout is.
- Low volatility: Frequent small wins, ideal for casual play and smaller bankrolls.
- Medium volatility: Balanced mix of win sizes and frequency.
- High volatility: Larger but less frequent wins, suited for players chasing big paydays.
Irish players should find a volatility setting that suits what they are looking for from their gaming experience.
- Fun and longer playtime: choose low or medium-volatility games like blackjack.
- Big-win potential: high-volatility slots or jackpot games.
RNG vs Live Dealer Games
RNG games - Whether it's online casino games for real money or free versions, RNG games use computer algorithms to ensure every spin, card, or outcome is random and fair. They’re fast-paced, available 24/7, and offer a huge variety of themes and formats.
Pros - Instant results, wide selection, low stakes, autoplay features.
Cons - less social and less authentic than live tables.
Live dealer games - These are games that have real dealers from a studio or brick-and-mortar casino that give players that authentic feel. They combine online convenience with the feel of in-person play.
Pros - Realistic atmosphere, social element, extra transparent.
Cons - Slower pace, higher minimum bets, requires a stable internet connection.
Both formats are popular with Irish players; RNG games for fast-paced entertainment and variety, and live tables for immersive and authentic gameplay just like a real-life casino.