Poker's mammoth popularity resurgence has been well-documented. In 1998, "Rounders" is released and introduces the world to Mike McD and Teddy KGB. In 2002, ESPN introduces the "hole cam" during their World Series of Poker broadcast, giving amateurs watching at home a sneak peak of the best of the best. One year later, Chris Moneymaker lives every amateur's dream, winning the World Series after preparing for the tournament by playing exclusively online.
And an industry is born. Gambling would never be
the same again...
Fast forward to today, 2008. Online gambling has
become a multi-billion dollar industry worldwide and the
race is on for gaming sites to enter new markets and
reach into new pockets. As the pop-up ads begin to make
their way to a desktop near you, it's a good time to
ask: What are the best online casinos?
But wait...let's ask a different question. The internet is evolving faster than you can say "royal flush". New casinos pop up daily. You need to make a smart choice to protect your interests and your money. How can you intelligently identify and select the best online casinos?
Qualities of the Best Online Casinos
There are a few important factors you should be aware of. Let's tackle them one by one.
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Gaming software: What company built the site's gaming software? Is it a reputable (i.e., honest) company? If it's Playtech, for example, you're in good hands. You should always do a Google search however to read the software reviews before potentially throwing your money into a deep, dark hole.
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Sign-up bonus: The best online casinos offer free money upon opening your account. Did I mention that the money is free? Compare various sites to see which one will offer the most.
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Trial period: Can you play on a free trial basis before joining? The best online casinos will let you try. If they don't care about you before you're a customer, why would they care about you once you are?
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Licensing: Where is the casino licensed? If it's not UK/Isle of Man, Gibraltar, Australia, Kanawhake, Antigua, Netherlands Antilles, Costa Rica (Breakaway and Sci Fi Casino),or Norfolk Island, keep looking. The best online casinos are typically registered off-shore.
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Payout percentage: See sign-up bonus. We're here to win money, people.
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Customer service: We all have memories of bad customer service. In the event that you need help, it's worth choosing a site with quick turn-around times. Call and email before opening your account as a test. Were they friendly? Speedy?
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Payout: How easily can you get your money? If it takes the casino more than 72 hours to pay you, something's fishy.
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And Lastly, check our Casino Blacklist before you join!
While no single factor listed here should be considered on its own, considering them all will help lead you to the best online casinos . Good Luck!
