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What Are Online Pokies?
Online pokies, also called online slots, are the digital version of slot machines (pokies) found in casinos and pubs. They use random number generators (RNGs) to ensure every spin is fair and random.
The word “pokie” comes from “poker machine,” an early gambling machine in Australia and New Zealand. Over time, it became a general term for slot machines, regardless of their connection to poker.
In other countries, these games are also called video pokies, fruit machines, or one-armed bandits.
Fast Facts for Players
- The word “pokies” comes from “poker machines” in Australia and New Zealand and now refers to all slot machines, including online pokies.
- Popular versions include classic pokies, video pokies, megaways pokies, mobile pokies, and progressive jackpot pokies.
- Pick a game, set a bet, spin the reels, activate bonuses, and withdraw winnings.
- Choose high RTP pokies, manage your budget, and use pokies with free spins and bonuses to extend gameplay.
- Online pokies are allowed in countries like the UK and Canada, but laws vary in Australia and the US.
- Show Full Guide
A Brief History of Pokies
The history of pokies goes back to the early 1900s when mechanical slot machines became popular in Australia, even though they were illegal. Later, poker machines were introduced in clubs and pubs, and people started calling all slot machines “pokies.”
In the 1950s, an Australian company called Aristocrat developed the first legal gaming machines. By the 1970s and 1980s, video pokie machines replaced traditional mechanical slots with electronic versions.
When the Internet became popular in the 1990s, real money online pokies appeared, allowing players to enjoy slot games on their computers. Later, mobile gaming made it possible to play pokies on smartphones and tablets.
Today, online pokies have high-quality graphics, bonus features, and progressive jackpots, making them one of the most popular types of gambling games worldwide.
Talk Like a Pokies Pro: Must-Know Terms
- RTP (Return to Player): RTP is the percentage of money a pokie game gives back to players over time. A higher RTP means you have better chances of winning.
- Volatility: This shows how often and how much a pokie pays out. Low volatility pokies give small but frequent wins, while high-volatility pokies offer bigger prizes but not as often.
- Scatter symbols: These special symbols start bonus rounds, like pokies with free spins, even if they don’t land on a payline.
- Progressive jackpot pokies: These games have a jackpot that grows every time someone plays. The prize keeps increasing until one player wins the whole amount.
Knowing these terms lets you choose the best online pokies strategy and improve your gaming experience.
How to Play Online Pokies: Spin, Win, Repeat
If you want to know how to play online pokies, it’s easy to get started.
Follow these steps:
Choose a pokie: Pick a game based on its features. High RTP pokies give better chances of winning over time, while themed pokies add fun to the experience.
Set your bet: Adjust the amount you want to bet and choose the number of paylines if possible. Some pokies have fixed paylines.
Spin the reels: Press the “spin” button and wait for the symbols to land. You win if the right symbols match on the paylines.
Hit bonuses: Many pokies offer special features like pokies with free spins, bonus rounds, or multipliers that can boost your winnings.
Cash out: If you win, you can keep playing or withdraw your money using the casino’s payment options.
Types of Online Pokies
Each type has its own appeal. Some players prefer classic pokies for simplicity, while others enjoy a video pokie for its detailed animations or megaways pokies for more chances to win. With mobile pokies, you can play on the go without losing quality.
4 Smart Tips for Online Pokies Players
To improve your online pokies strategy, follow these useful tips:
- Set a budget and avoid autoplay: Decide how much money you can afford to spend and stick to it. Avoid using autoplay, as it can make you lose track of your balance.
- Grab online pokies no deposit bonus and other offers: Look for promotions that offer free spins or bonus money without requiring a deposit to extend your gameplay.
- Focus on high RTP pokies for better payouts: Choose games with a high return to player percentage to increase your chances of winning over time.
- Avoid progressive jackpots if you prefer frequent wins: These can be huge, but they are harder to win. If you want more regular payouts, stick to standard pokies.
How to Claim Free Spins on Pokies
Choose the best online pokies sites offering free spins: Look for reliable casinos that have free spin promotions.
Sign up and verify your account: Register and complete any required identity verification to activate your account.
Claim the online pokies no deposit bonus if available: Some sites give free spins without needing a deposit – take advantage of these offers.
Start playing free online pokies or real-money pokies: Use your free spins on selected games to try and win prizes.
Wager winnings per the site’s requirements: Check the casino’s rules, as you may need to meet wagering requirements before withdrawing any winnings.
By following these steps, you can enjoy online pokies and increase your chances of winning.
Are Online Pokies Legal?
The rules for real money online pokies change depending on the country or region. Some places fully regulate online gambling, while others have restrictions or bans.
Here is a quick overview:
Legal in land-based casinos, but online gambling is restricted. Some offshore casinos accept Australian players.
Fully legal and regulated by the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC).
Laws vary by state – online pokies are legal in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Michigan, but restricted in many other states.
Legal under provincial regulations. For example, Ontario has a licensed iGaming market.
Online gambling is allowed but regulated differently in each country. Most require a local license.
Pokies Wins & Busts
Online pokies come with advantages and disadvantages:
Wins
- High RTP pokies offer better long-term payout potential
- Pokies with free spins provide extra chances to play without an extra cost
- Players can access pokies gambling anytime, anywhere with mobile gaming
Busts
- No skill or strategy influences outcomes
- The odds of winning progressive jackpot pokies are much lower than standard pokies
- While online pokies strategy can help with bankroll management, it doesn’t guarantee wins
The Bottom Line
So, in case you’re wondering what a pokie means, the term comes from “poker machines” in Australia and New Zealand but now refers to all slot games, including online slots.
Online pokies are a popular and easy way to enjoy casino games on computers and mobile devices. While winning is based on luck, knowing about RTP, volatility, and game features can improve your experience.
Play responsibly and try different pokies for more fun.
