In 1995 the first slot machines started to appear on the Internet. Today there are an estimated 500 different games available online with a large proportion of these being video slots. There are however some differences between the games you will find online compared to those you will find in Las Vegas.
If you are considering having a spin online then this section should give you all of the information you need to make an informed choice.
Differences Between Online and Land-Based Games
Apart from IGT who own WagerWorks, none of the other major game manufacturers have moved into the online world. This means that you will not find the same slots you play in land-based casinos. Having said that, we have found that there are a lot of games that are similar to the land-based favorites. So while you won't find Jackpot Party, Blazing 7's or Queen of the Nile you will find games have the same features and layouts.
IGT has really taken the lead among the land-based manufacturers with their online software company WagerWorks but there is one thing that makes their games available only to a few lucky online players - unfortunately no players from the United States can play. So far they have released Cleopatra, Wheel of Fortune and Monopoly. Hopefully in the near future we US players will be able to enjoy their games online. Until then there are other options.
How Do Online Slots Work?
Recommended Online Casinos
In general you have to download free software to begin playing. You can then choose to play for free or for real money.
The free account option is a great way to get a large range of slots to play on your computer without spending any money. Some online casinos have over 200 slots!
The games work in exactly the same way as games you would find in any land-based casino - it is simply the delivery of the spin results that change.
When you hit spin in a casino the information goes straight to the computer inside the machine which then goes to the RNG and back to the reels to show the result.
Online, the spin message goes through the Internet to the casinos gaming server which then goes to the RNG and sends back the result to your computer. This all happens quite quickly although if you have a slow Internet connection there can be a delay.
Below is our hand picked list of the best online casinos to play video slots at. All have been online for at least five years and all have a good reputation among players. Each uses a different software provider.
» Platinum Play (Microgaming) Part of the Fortune Lounge Group, Platinum Play has over 180 different slot games to play - get a $1500 bonus as a new player.
» Super Slots (Vegas Technology) Features very popular monthly slot machine tournaments. New players can collect a bonus up to a total of $1000 free.
» Virgin Casino (Wagerworks) Play IGT slots such as Cleopatra, Monopoly, Wheel of Fortune and more. Unfortunately no players from the USA allowed.
» Club World (RTG) The most highly regarded RTG powered casino. The Reel Series of video slots are very much like games from Aristocrat.
Getting Started Playing Online
To play online for free or real money you will need to first get the software on to your computer. All casinos offer a free download and many also offer a no download flash based version. Either way once you have the software set up you need to register an account. At this point you can choose to play for free and try out the games or play for real money.
On your first deposit at most online casinos you can claim a welcome bonus. These offers vary from casino to casino but you should be looking for at least a 100% match bonus. Be sure to read the terms and conditions for the bonus to see how much you need to wager before you can withdraw your money. Some casinos such as Platinum Play give you the chance to play for real money without even making a purchase.
Top 7 Online Casino Bonuses
Indicates that the casino accepts players from the USA
» Platinum Play - Get $1500 worth or Free Play plus a 100% bonus
» Super Slots - Get a 100% Bonus when you join and check out the free tournaments
Online gambling is not legal in all jurisdictions. It is your responsibility to check with your local authorities before placing any bets online. You must also be of legal age in your state / country to participate in any form of casino gambling. Use of this information in violation of any federal, state or local laws is prohibited.
In 1995 the first slot machines started to appear on the Internet. Today there are an estimated 500 different games available online with a large proportion of these being video slots. There are however some differences between the games you will find online compared to those you will find in Las Vegas.
(Vegas Technology)