A guide to basic online casino terms explained

The world of online casinos is fascinating, but it can also be overwhelming for newcomers. With a wide variety of games, bonuses, strategies, and specific terminology, understanding the key concepts is crucial for enjoying a better experience and making informed decisions. In this guide, we will explain the most important terms found on any casino platform, from different types of games and bonuses to regulations and payment methods. Whether you’re a beginner player or a casino operator seeking more knowledge, here you’ll find clear and practical information to confidently navigate the online gaming sector.

Key concepts in the world of online casinos

To make the most of your online casino experience, it’s essential to understand the terms and mechanics that govern gaming platforms. From different types of games to bonuses and payment methods, each concept impacts players’ decisions and strategies. Below, we explain the essential terms you should know.

1. Types of casino games

Online casino games offer a wide range of options, each with its own rules and strategies.

Κουλοχέρηδες

Slots are the most popular games in online casinos. They work through a system of spinning reels with different symbols. Key concepts include:
  • Volatility: Indicates the frequency and size of payouts. High volatility slots offer larger prizes, but less frequently.
  • RTP (Return to Player): The theoretical percentage returned to the player. An RTP of 96% means that, on average, for every 100 credits wagered, 96 are returned over time.
  • Progressive jackpots: Accumulating prizes that can reach millions.

Ρουλέτα

This classic casino game has several variations, each with different rules and odds:
  • American roulette: Has a double zero (00), increasing the house edge.
  • European roulette: Features a single zero (0), reducing the house edge and increasing player odds.
  • French roulette: Similar to European roulette but with special rules like “La Partage,” which returns half the bet if the ball lands on zero.

Κοντό ρόπαλο δεμένο με λουρί

The goal of blackjack is to reach 21 points or get as close as possible without exceeding it. Some key rules are:
  • Basic strategy: A guide indicating when to hit, stand, double down, or split based on the dealer’s card.
  • Card counting: An advanced technique used to track played cards and calculate probabilities.

Poker

Poker is one of the most strategic casino games. Its most popular variations include:
  • Texas Hold’em: The most played version, with two personal cards and five community cards.
  • Omaha: Similar to Texas Hold’em, but with four personal cards.
  • Caribbean Poker: Played against the house instead of other players.

2. Bonuses and promotions

Bonuses and promotions are incentives online casinos offer to attract and retain players.

Welcome bonus

One of the most attractive promotions for new players. It can come in various forms:

  • Deposit bonus: The casino doubles or multiplies the player’s first deposit.
  • No deposit bonus: Free funds are given to try the casino without making an initial deposit.

Free spins

Allow players to spin slots without spending their balance. These spins may be part of promotions or included in welcome bonuses.

Wagering requirements

Bonuses usually come with conditions before winnings can be withdrawn. A wagering requirement of x30 means that you must bet 30 times the bonus value before being able to withdraw the money.

Loyalty and VIP programs

Casinos reward frequent players with exclusive rewards, which may include:
  • Personalized bonuses
  • VIP support
  • Cashback on losses

3. Betting terms

Understanding betting terms helps manage your bankroll better and choose the best strategies. For those operating through betting software, these terms are crucial.

Minimum and maximum bets

Each game has set betting limits. Players should choose bets that match their budget and strategy.

Betting limits

Some games have high limits, ideal for high rollers, while others are designed for smaller bets, perfect for beginners.

Cashback

Some casinos offer a percentage of losses returned as playable balance or real money.

4. Payment methods and withdrawals

Online casinos offer multiple options for making deposits and withdrawals quickly and securely.

Digital currencies

The use of cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Litecoin is on the rise due to their speed, privacy, and low fees.

Deposits and withdrawals

The most common methods include:

  • Credit/debit cards (Visa, Mastercard)
  • E-wallets (PayPal, Skrill, Neteller)
  • Bank transfers
    Each method has different processing times and fees.

Transaction security

It’s essential to play at casinos with SSL encryption and regulated payment methods to ensure the safety of funds.

5. Regulations and security

Security and regulation in online gambling are crucial for a fair and transparent experience.

Casino licenses

Licenses ensure that a casino operates legally. Some of the most recognized regulatory bodies are:

  • Malta Gaming Authority (MGA)
  • UK Gambling Commission
  • Curacao eGaming

Playing at licensed casinos reduces the risk of fraud and unfair practices.

Responsible gambling

Casinos offer tools to control gambling, such as:
  • Self-exclusion: Blocks access to the casino for a set period.
  • Deposit and bet limits: Allows restricting the amount of money spent.

Random Number Generator (RNG)

The RNG is software that guarantees randomness and fairness in casino games, preventing manipulations.

Sports betting and its relation to online casinos

Having sports betting APIs has become an essential part of many online casinos. The combination of gambling games with sports event betting allows players to enjoy a more comprehensive experience without switching platforms. Here, we explore the key concepts of this integration.

Pre-match vs. live betting

  • Pre-match betting: Placed before the sports event begins. Players can analyze statistics and conditions before betting.
  • Live betting: Placed during the event, with odds changing in real-time as the match progresses.

Odds and probabilities

  • Decimal odds: Common in Europe and Latin America. Example: An odds of 2.50 means a 10 bet would return 25.
  • Fractional odds: Common in the UK. Example: 5/2 means for every 2 wagered, you win 5 more.
  • American odds: Displayed as positive or negative values. Example: +200 means you win 200 for every 100 wagered, while -150 means you need to bet 150 to win 100.

Types of bets

  • Single bet: Placed on one event.
  • Combination bet: Groups several selections into a single ticket; all must win to earn a payout.
  • Handicap bet: Gives an advantage or disadvantage to a team to balance the market.

Integration of sports betting in online casinos

  • Greater variety of entertainment: Allows users to switch between casino games and sports betting.
  • Combined bonuses: Some casinos offer promotions that include both gambling games and sports event betting.
  • Unified platforms: A single account can manage balance and winnings for both types of betting.
The growing integration of sports betting and online casinos reflects the industry’s evolution, offering increasingly attractive experiences for players.

The future of online casinos: Crypto casinos and blockchain technology

The evolution of online casinos is marked by technological innovation, and one of the most significant changes in the industry is the integration of cryptocurrencies and blockchain technology. Crypto casinos offer greater transparency, security, and anonymity to players, transforming the way bets and payments are made within these platforms.

Transparency in games

Blockchain technology ensures that transactions and game results are fully verifiable. Some advantages include:
  • Immutable ledger: All transactions and results are recorded on a blockchain, preventing alterations or fraud.
  • Greater trust: Players can verify the fairness of games through Provably Fair algorithms, ensuring that results are random and not manipulated.
  • Ανωνυμία: Unlike traditional casinos, many crypto casinos allow deposits and withdrawals without sharing sensitive personal information.

Cryptocurrencies and their impact on online casinos

The use of Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other cryptocurrencies has revolutionized payment methods in online casinos. Some of their advantages include:
  • Instant deposits and withdrawals: Cryptocurrency transactions don’t rely on banking intermediaries, making payments faster.
  • Lower transaction fees: Unlike payments through credit cards or e-wallets, cryptocurrency transactions usually have lower fees.
  • Global accessibility: Crypto casinos remove payment barriers in countries where traditional methods may be restricted.

Our casino software solution: Betting Software (BSW)

Our platform is designed to meet the needs of operators of all sizes, offering:

  • Advanced online casino and sports betting platforms with intuitive, high-performance interfaces.
  • Integration with leading industry providers to offer a wide variety of casino games and betting markets.
  • Advanced features like session control, transaction security, and player behavior analytics.

At BSW, we integrate tools to manage crypto casinos with total flexibility. Some of our solutions include:

  • Compatibility with multiple cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, and stablecoins.
  • Customization of rules, bets, and limits based on operator needs.
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At Betting Software (BSW), we offer online casino software solutions designed to maximize profitability and enhance user experience. Contact us today and discover how we can help you boost your online casino!