Online Casino Games

Welcome to my ultimate guide on online casino games, this is your one-stop resource for all things related online casinos in New Zealand. Whether you're an experienced punter or just starting out in the world of gambling, we've got you covered with insights into games, winning strategies and more!

Top Online Casino Games

Join me as we explore the top casino games. Whether you're a seasoned expert or a newcomer, brace yourself for an exciting casino gaming adventure!

Online Pokies

Most Popular!

Online pokies are considered one of the all-time classics in the world of online casinos. 

  • Basics: To play, simply choose your bet amount and spin the reels.
  • Special Features: Keep an eye out for bonus symbols capable of activating thrilling bonus rounds or free spins.
  • Variations: You have the option to select from a broad range of machine themes and variations, ranging from traditional fruit slots to contemporary video games with diverse themes and exciting bonus features.
  • Tips and Strategies: While pokie machines are primarily luck-based, consider setting betting limits, choosing games with higher RTPs.

Roulette

Classic Favourite!

Roulette is one of the all-time classics in the world of casino gaming. 

  • Basics: In the game of roulette, you wager on the eventual landing spot of a ball within a rotating wheel.
  • Special Features: Roulette offers various betting options, from inside bets with higher payouts to outside bets with better odds.
  • Variations: You can choose from different live roulette variations like European or American.
  • Tips and Strategies: While online roulette is largely a game of chance, strategies like the Martingale system have the potential to increase your odds of winning in the long run.

Blackjack

Easy to Play!

Blackjack is a timeless and classic card game that has been around for ages.

  • Basics: In a live blackjack game, your goal is to outscore the dealer by achieving a hand value as close to 21 as you can, without going over it.
  • Special Features: One of the distinctive aspects of blackjack is the opportunity to employ tactics such as "hit," "stand," "double down," or "split."
  • Variations: Explore different variations of blackjack, including Classic Blackjack and Spanish 21.
  • Tips and Strategies: To improve your chances of winning in online blackjack, learn and apply basic strategy charts that guide your decisions based on your hand and the dealer's upcard. 

Live Casino

Like a Real Casino!

Live casino, also known as Live Dealer games, offers an immersive and real-time casino experience.

  • Basics: In Live Casino games, you join a live-streamed session with a professional dealer who conducts the game in real-time.
  • Special Features: One of the standout features of Live Casino is the authentic atmosphere it provides.
  • Variations: Dive into various Live Casino games such as Live Blackjack, Live Roulette, live baccarat and live poker.
  • Tips and Strategies: While luck plays a role in Live Casino games, you can improve your chances by learning the rules, following basic strategies and managing your bets wisely. 

Craps

Dice Excitement!

Craps is a high-energy dice game often associated with the lively atmosphere of casinos.

  • Basics: In craps, players bet on the outcome of the roll of two six-sided dice.
  • Special Features: Craps offers a wide range of betting possibilities, allowing players to tailor their strategy to their preferences.
  • Variations: While the core rules of craps remain the same, you can explore different variations, such as "Street Craps" or "Bank Craps".
  • Tips and Strategies: Craps can be a fast-paced game, so it's essential to understand the bets you're making. Strategies like the "Pass Line" bet are popular for beginners.

Keno

Instant Wins!

Keno is a game of chance that combines elements of bingo and lottery. 

  • Basics: To play Keno, you select a set of numbers from a grid (usually between 1 and 80).
  • Special Features: Keno offers simplicity and speed, making it perfect for players looking for instant results.
  • Variations: While the core rules remain the same, Keno offers variations in the number of spots you can choose and the payout structures.
  • Tips and Strategies: Keno is primarily a game of luck and there's no surefire strategy for winning. 

Baccarat

Timeless Classic!

Baccarat is a classic card game with an air of sophistication, often favoured by players seeking elegance and simplicity in their casino experience.

  • Basics: In Baccarat, the game revolves around two hands, namely the "Player" and the "Banker." You place bets on whether one of these hands will possess a greater combined value or if the outcome will result in a tie. The card values are simple to understand: numbered cards retain their face value, while face cards and tens are valued at zero and aces are counted as one.
  • Special Features: Baccarat is celebrated for its straightforward gameplay and minimal decision-making.
  • Variations: Explore different online baccarat variations, including Mini Baccarat, Chemin de Fer and Punto Banco.
  • Tips and Strategies: Baccarat is primarily a game of chance, but there are strategies like the Martingale system or the Paroli system that players use to manage their bets. 

Video Poker

Skillful Play!

Video poker in New Zealand is a well-known casino game that is basically the strategy of poker with the simplicity of slot machines all-in-one, creating an engaging and rewarding gaming experience.

  • Basics: In Video Poker, you receive a five-card hand and the idea is that you need to create the best hand as possible.
  • Special Features: Video Poker machines often feature bonuses like "Double or Nothing" rounds, where you can double your winnings by selecting a higher card than the dealer's face-up card.
  • Variations: Dive into various Video Poker variations, including Jacks or Better, Deuces Wild and Joker Poker.
  • Tips and Strategies: Video Poker requires a combination of skill and luck. Learning the optimal strategy for the specific variant you're playing can significantly improve your chances of winning. 

Real Money vs Playing for free

Playing for free means enjoying the best casino games without wagering real money.

How to play for Free

You can play for free directly at the casinos offering demo versions of their games. 

Play for Real Money

Playing for real money involves placing bets with actual currency, giving you the chance to win real cash prizes. It adds an element of excitement and potential rewards to your gaming experience.

How to play for Real Money

To engage in real-money gameplay, you must first register at a trusted online casino, fund your account by making a deposit and then select your preferred games to wager on.

Playing for free allows you to enjoy games without risking your money, making it an excellent choice for practice or casual gaming. But in saying that, using real money offers the thrill of potential winnings and can lead to exciting cash rewards.

Playing on Mobile vs Desktop

Online casinos offer players the flexibility to choose between playing on their mobile devices or desktop computers, catering to individual preferences and lifestyles. Every choice comes with its own advantages and disadvantages. Understanding these differences can help you decide which platform suits your gaming needs best.

Playing on Mobile:

Pros:

  • Convenience: Mobile gaming allows you to play anytime, anywhere, as long as you have an internet connection and a compatible device.
  • Accessibility: Mobile apps or mobile-optimised websites provide easy access to a wide range of types of casino games with just a couple of finger-taps on your screen.
  • Touchscreen Experience: I find touchscreen controls more intuitive and engaging for certain games, such as interactive card games.
  • Exclusive Mobile Games: I’ve noticed that some casinos offer games exclusively designed for mobile platforms.

Cons:

  • Screen Size: Smaller screens may not be ideal for certain complex games or for players who prefer a larger viewing area.
  • Battery Usage: Extended gaming sessions can drain your mobile device's battery quickly, in my experience.
  • Limited Game Library: While mobile casinos offer a wide selection of games, there may still be some titles available only on desktop platforms.

Playing on Desktop:

Pros:

  • Large Screen: Desktop computers offer a larger screen size and I think this provides a more detailed gaming experience.
  • Performance: Desktops typically have more processing power, ensuring smoother gameplay for graphics-intensive games.
  • Multitasking: You can easily switch between the best casino games and other desktop applications for added convenience.
  • Full Game Library: Most online casinos offer their complete game library on desktop platforms, including titles not available on mobile.
     

Cons:

  • Less Portability: Desktop gaming restricts you to a fixed location, limiting your ability to play on the go.
  • Initial Setup: You'll need a computer and a stable internet connection, which may not be as readily available as a mobile device.

How to play like a Professional: Tips and Strategies

At Casino.com, we're committed to helping you elevate your gaming skills to a professional level. Whether you're a seasoned player or just starting your casino journey, our tips and strategies are designed to enhance your overall gameplay, no matter the game you choose to enjoy.

  • Bankroll Management: Set a budget for your gaming activities and stick to it.
  • Learn the Rules: Familiarise yourself with the rules of the games you play.
  • Practice for Free: Many online casinos offer free play options. Use these opportunities to practice and refine your skills without risking real money.
  • Master Strategy: If the game involves strategy, such as blackjack or poker, study and practice optimal strategies to improve your chances of winning.
  • Choose the Right Casino: Play at reputable casinos where fairness and security are guaranteed. 

Top Casino Software Providers

Behind every captivating online casino game lies the creative genius of software providers who craft these virtual experiences. 

  • Microgaming: Founded in 1994, is a true pioneer in the online casino software industry. They claim the title of creating the world's first online casino software.
  • NetEnt: Established in 1996, they have gained a reputation for delivering cutting-edge, visually stunning online casino games.
  • Playtech: Founded in 1999, Playtech has become a global leader in online casino software.
  • Evolution Gaming: Evolution Gaming, established in 2006, is synonymous with live dealer casino games.
  • IGT (International Game Technology): They're known for their extensive collection of pokie machines and classic online casino games, maintaining a strong presence both online and offline.
  • Betsoft: Betsoft, founded in 2006, has earned acclaim for its 3D cinematic games that offer immersive storytelling and engaging gameplay. 

RTP (Return to Player) in Online Casinos

RTP, or Return to Player, is a critical concept in the world of online casino gaming, in my view. It represents the percentage of wagered money that a particular casino game is designed to pay back to players over time. It's essentially the opposite of the house edge, which is the advantage the casino has over players.

Understanding RTP is relatively straightforward I think. It is expressed as a percentage and typically ranges from 95% to 99% or more. For example, if a game has an RTP of 96%, it means that, on average, for every $100 wagered on that game, players can expect to receive $96 back in winnings over the long run.

When a game has a high payout ratio, it means that it has a higher RTP. In other words, a game with a 98% RTP is considered to have a high payout ratio because it returns a larger portion of the bets to players over time compared to a game with a lower RTP.

Why RTP is Important:

Understanding the RTP of top casino games is crucial for several reasons:

  • Informed Decision-Making: Having knowledge of the RTP enables me to make informed choices when selecting which games to engage in.
  • Risk Assessment: RTP helps me assess the risk associated with a particular game.
  • Bankroll Management: I can use RTP information to plan my bankroll more effectively.
  • Game Selection: Players can focus on games that align with their preferences. 

Using RTP to Your Benefit:

To make the most of RTP information:

  • Choose Games Wisely: I think that you should opt for games with higher RTPs to increase your chances of winning over time.
  • Budget Management: I suggest that you plan your budget according to the RTP and volatility of the games you intend to play.
  • Variety: Explore various games with different Return to Player (RTP) percentages to discover the perfect equilibrium between risk and reward that aligns with your gaming preferences.

Casino Glossary

Before diving into the exciting world of online casino games, it's essential to familiarise yourself with some key terms that will enhance your gaming experience and understanding. Let's explore some essential casino game terms:

  • Bankroll: Your gambling funds represent the money you've allocated exclusively for betting purposes.
  • Bonus Symbol: A bonus symbol is a special icon in a pokie game that triggers bonus features or free spins when it appears on the reels.
  • Free Spins: Free spins are complimentary rounds in a pokie game that you can activate through various means, such as landing bonus symbols.
  • High-Roller: A high-roller is a player who wagers large sums of money in online casino games.
  • Line Bet: In pokie games, the line bet is the amount wagered on each pay line.
  • Payout: The payout is basically the monetary sum a player receives upon winning a casino game.
  • Pay Table: The pay table is a chart that displays the payouts for different winning combinations in a casino game.
  • Reels: Reels are the rotating columns in pokie machines that display various symbols
  • House Edge: The house edge represents the casino's built-in advantage in a game, typically expressed as a percentage.
  • Progressive Jackpot: A progressive jackpot is an ever-expanding prize pool found in specific top casino games, such as pokie machines or poker.

FAQs

Casinos employ random number generators (RNGs) to uphold fairness and unpredictability in their games. Usually, online casinos hold licenses and undergo routine examinations by independent organisations to uphold fairness and transparency.

The legal gambling age varies by country but it’s typically 18 or 21 years old.

While casino games are primarily based on luck, you can enhance your odds by understanding the rules, employing strategies (if applicable), managing your bankroll wisely and playing games with higher RTPs (Return to Player percentages).

Land-based casinos offer a physical gambling experience, while online casinos provide virtual gaming accessible from anywhere with an internet connection. Online casinos often offer a broader game selection, bonuses and convenience, while land-based casinos provide a more immersive atmosphere.

To guarantee the security and authenticity of an online casino, seek out a valid gambling games license issued by a trusted authority like the UK Gambling Commission or Malta Gaming Authority. Furthermore, verify the presence of SSL encryption to safeguard your personal and financial data.

Online Casino Games Myths

Here, I'll debunk some of the most common online casino game myths.

Myth 1: The House Always Wins/Results are Fixed

Though casinos do have a natural advantage referred to as the house edge, it should be noted that players can still achieve victories. Online casinos utilize Random Number Generators (RNGs) to guarantee that game results are entirely random and devoid of any manipulation.

Myth 2: Online Card Counting is Easier Online

Online card counting is actually not easier than doing it in a physical casino. In fact, online casinos employ multiple decks and shuffle them frequently, making card counting virtually impossible.