There are 7 criteria to help consider when choosing slots. Only by assessing all criteria will you be able to select reliable and exciting slots which guarantee an incredible experience. How we review online casinos is a key step in determining if the games we recommend are of high quality and meet adequate standards.
License and Safety
To begin, check the licensing information from a trusted regulator, like the Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) or the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) or any other respected regulator. If you are in the US, you can check the licensing information from the New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement (DGE) or the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board (PGCB). A license means the game is being overseen for quality assurance, fairness, and your protected information (personal and financial).
Game Provider
Choosing a game provider is a crucial factor. Well-known companies consistently practice quality and fairness. With companies like NetEnt, Microgaming, Playtech, Play'n GO, and others, all of their providers ensure their games have been tested and meet international standards. Lesser-known providers may not follow quality standards. It is necessary for the user to look at the reputation of the brand before deciding on a game.
Return to Player (RTP) Percentage
RTP (Return to Player) is a statistic that is shown as the percentage of bets that a slot machine gives back to players as winnings. It's usually recommended to play slots with an RTP of 95% or higher, because these numbers show the player is being given a better situation to win. Although a better RTP is no guarantee of winning, it will improve the chances of winning over the period of time played.
Game Volatility
The volatility or variance of a slot machine is an important consideration because it dictates how often and how big of wins you can expect to encounter. Slots with high volatility will have smaller winning opportunities with big payouts, while low-volatility slots will have more winning opportunities with smaller payouts. Which one you go with, will be determined by your game style and bankroll.
Bonus Features and Game Opportunities
These days, modern slot machines come with tons of extra features, such as bonus rounds, free spins, multipliers, and other unique opportunities. These features add excitement to the game, but they also have the potential to enhance your total winnings significantly. Consider how interesting and helpful these extra features are to you.
Player Reviews and Ratings
Player reviews can offer helpful information about the quality of the game. Look at comments and ratings to choose slots that have positive reviews. This provides an insight into the quality of the game, and will help you steer clear of games routinely criticized for short-paying or other serious issues that negatively affect players.
Mobile Compatibility and Usability
Mobile-optimized slot machines are becoming more popular. You can access your favorite games more easily, and it improves the overall gaming experience when you can play from wherever you want. Just ensure that the game you choose has a good mobile version that will have good graphics and is easy to navigate.
Conclusion
Finding the right online slot machine may seem challenging, but by looking at these criteria, you can find a game that fits your needs. Check for the license, find a reputable provider, check for RTP, volatility, bonuses, reviews, and mobile compatibility. Doing all this will make sure you can play in a safe and comfortable environment.
Frequently Asked Questions About Online Slot Machines
How can I check if an online slot machine has a license?
A license can be identified on either the homepage of the online casino or on the information section of the game. Reputable US online casinos will typically say which jurisdiction the games are licensed under and will display the logos of regulatory bodies (for example, the New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement (DGE), the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board (PGCB), MGA, UKGC, etc.)
What RTP level is considered good for playing?
It's best if the RTP is 95% or more. This means the machine pays out 95% of all bets (in the long run). A high RTP means better odds for the player, however, don't forget that results from the game are always random.
How do I choose the volatility of a slot to avoid losing too quickly?
If you prefer to play a little safer and have more smaller wins more regularly, play slots with low volatility. If you can wait for larger wins, although less often, play high-volatility slots.
What bonus features are best for beginners?
Free spin slots are ideal for beginners because you can have a longer session for no extra cost. Be on the lookout for multipliers and bonus rounds, as they can raise your winnings without requiring significant wagers. It is recommendable to start with games that do not require significant stakes, as these games will help you understand the mechanics of the slot.