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The pokie machine, or slot machine, as it is known in other parts of the world, has always been a popular option at land-based casinos and seems to have carried that popularity online as well. Online casinos typically feature hundreds of online pokies to suit all players, including classic 3-reel versions, modern 5-reel versions, 3D pokies and progressive jackpots for those looking to win big. At online-casino-new-zealand.info, we will take a closer look at these types of casino games.
The popularity of online pokies is obvious – they are easy to play, incredibly entertaining and offer plenty of chances to win big. What’s more, it is perfect for players of any budget, from low rollers to high stakes players and anyone in between. The aim of the game is simple – spin the reels and if you land three matching symbols, you win.
More modern video pokie machines offer a more immersive and interactive experience, but the premise of the game remains the same. Video pokie machines, like the ones that dominate at online casinos, feature better graphics and sound effects, incredibly realistic and engaging themes, and exciting and rewarding features that enhance your gaming experience.
With the advancement of modern technology, online gaming has become big business, with many casino operators and software providers offering brand new titles on a regular basis. As such, pokie players are spoilt for choice. On the other hand, wading through a long list of online pokies can be daunting, especially for novice players. With online pokie machines making up the majority of game lobbies in most cases, let’s take a closer look at this popular type of game and what makes them so appealing.
Types of Online Pokies
While it is a common belief that all online pokies are all similar, there are various categories into which these games can be put into. While the basic premise of the game remains the same, there are choices in terms of variety when playing online pokies NZ. Let’s take a look at some of the different and most popular types of pokie machines at online casinos.
3-Reel – These sorts of pokies are considered as classic video pokies inspired by traditional slot machines. As the name makes clear, these games feature only three reels, which means that less paylines along with a basic setup and gameplay structure. It is great for people looking for a more old school gaming experience and 3-reel pokies typically feature all the classic pokie symbols, including lemons, cherries, bells, 777s, watermelons and more. What’s more, the graphics and sound effects are also more basic than its video pokie counterparts. That said, 3-reel pokies are still popular options at online casinos and are recommended for those looking for traditional gaming in a more modern environment.
5-Reel – 5-Reel pokies are the common and usual types of pokie machines found at casino sites. Again, They come with five reels and usually three rows and multiple paylines, which can range between 5 to 243 or 1024 paylines per game. Most 5-reel pokies are entertaining and rewarding, offering good betting options, intriguing themes, lucrative bonus features and excellent graphics and sound effects, providing a more immersive gaming experience.
7-Reel – Though not as common as 5-reel or even 3-reel pokies, 7-reel versions do exist and offer as many reels and more paylines as opposed to other pokies. Due to this, you can expect more value in terms of payouts along with some extra action. As mentioned before, these are not hosted at online casinos, but they’re still an exciting option should you come across them to boost your gameplay.
Progressive Jackpots – These casino games are pokies with a big jackpot associated with them. They are very popular among players and often prominently featured at online casinos. The jackpot prize value is often linked to several progressive jackpot games, which means the pot grows at an impressively fast rate and players have multiple opportunities to hit the jackpot. The jackpot is also triggered at random, so any player has the chance of winning big. Some of the most famous progressive jackpots include Mega Moolah and Major Millions, two games that have created multiple millionaires over the years.
How to Play Online Pokies and Rules of the Game
One of the best, most attractive things about online pokies is how easy they are to play. Online pokies are perfect for new and experienced players alike, requires no skill and is open to players of all budgets. All you need to know is the basics and you’re good to go. Most online pokies even accept free players, providing the chance to get a true feel for the game before betting real money.
Online pokies are ridiculously easy and typically requires players to set their betting options and press spin once ready. At this point, luck takes over and if you land three matching symbols on the reels, you win. Here’s a quick rundown of playing online pokies in three simple steps:
- Paylines – Choose the number of paylines you’d like to play and the amount of your bet per spin.
- Press spin – When you’re ready, press Spin and the reels will start moving. When they stop, you will get paid based on the symbols lined up on your paylines.
- Win – To win, you must land at least three matching symbols on a payline. Thanks to multiple paylines on video pokie machines, landing a win is easier than ever before as symbols can line up diagonally and horizontally to award a win.
What Software to Look out for
When playing online slots, players are always spoilt for choice. This is because software providers are constantly introducing brand-new games to the market and online casinos are always updating its game selection. Due to the popularity of online pokies, new games are always being developed to appeal to a demanding market. While many software providers have jumped on board the online pokie train, there are a few leading names in the industry, many of which have been around since the early days of igaming.
Names like Microgaming and NetEnt come to mind, but there is actually a host of established providers worth checking out, as well as some up-and-coming studios. Software providers like Thunderkick and Betsoft have been creating excellent online pokies for some time now and are known for producing some of the most exciting and lively titles around. Betsoft, in particular, is renowned for its 3D pokies – games that have even better graphics and themes that truly takes your gaming to the next level.
Other leading software providers include Real Time Gaming, IGT, Playtech and Play n Go, while newcomers include NextGen, Yggdrasil, NYX, QuickSpin, Aristocrat, Bally, iSoftbet and much more.
Online Pokie Bonuses
Because of all the competition, online casino sites look for methods to keep existing players and attract new ones to the site. As such, online pokies no deposit casinos are extremely popular. These types of casino bonuses are structured in such a way to reward you, regardless whether you’re a new or existing player. As such, you are given an incentive, typically in the form of free cash or free spins, to prolong your play at the online casino. Online pokie bonuses are rather popular and one of the standard forms of bonuses at online casinos these days. They are typically part of a welcome bonus deal as well as ongoing casino promotions and special offers.
When it comes to welcome bonuses, players must often make a deposit to earn a cash or free spins bonus on a specified pokie machine. In other cases, the bonus wagering requirements can only be met by playing online pokies. If you are an existing player, there will also be some opportunities to partake in online pokie bonuses at an online casino. All you have to do is simply keep your eyes peeled for the latest offers. Online casinos mainly target pokie players and make serious efforts to attract these players and keep them around.
Playing for Online Pokies Real Money versus Free Games
As online pokies New Zealand are great to play for leisure purposes and to learn the game, nothing quite compares to the excitement of gambling for real money. With that in mind, there are pros when you play free pokies and real money. We reckon that players try both options for a truly rewarding gaming experience.
Play free online pokies NZ – Playing for free, or in demo mode, allows you to test drive new titles without risking any of your money. You can also play in anonymous mode so to speak, without having to furnish any personal details. You can gain access to numerous casino games, including online pokies and table games, although you will not be able to play live dealer games and progressive jackpot games. Free pokies play is also ideal for testing a game before making a real-money wager. What’s more is that no downloads or registrations are needed.
Play for real money – This sort of playing means you have a shot at playing to win real cash. Since there are real money wages involved, you have a chance to win it back or more from the casino. This anticipation adds to the quality of your gaming experience. If you are choosing to play for real money, you will also have the opportunity to opt in for casino bonuses, which is not available to players for play for free. What’s more is that you can also earn loyalty rewards and join a VIP program. In addition to this, you have a chance to play progressive jackpot pokies or even teen pokies!
Online Pokies on Mobile
Mobile gaming is big business nowadays and many online casinos and software developers are on the forefront of innovation to suit this ever-growing market. As a result, most online pokies are now mobile-compatible, allowing you to reap all the benefits and gameplay while on the go. As a mobile player, you can access a solid range of pokies on the move, whether you’re playing on an Android, iOS or Windows device. Several mobile casino platforms are also downloadable if that is your preference, although a majority can be accessed in an instant from your native mobile browser for added convenience. Most online pokies are on mobile, including all sorts of pokies such as the classics, progressives and more. You can get the same PC experience on a smaller screen as the games are completely optimised for smooth and seamless gaming.
Tips on How to Play Online Pokies
Many online pokies have the potential to pay out huge rewards, while others have smaller but more regular payouts. Online pokies are games of chance, so no skills are required to play. That also means that no real strategy can be implemented to guarantee wins. That said, there are some helpful tips you can include in your gameplay to improve your chances of winning and get the most out of your gaming experience.
Find pokies with more frequent payouts – While it may be tempting to play games with high jackpots, these usually don’t payout often. Instead, opt for pokies that offer smaller rewards but payout more frequently. While the actual winnings may not be as big, frequent payouts mean this can quickly add up and help you manage your bankroll better.
Manage your bankroll – Which leads us to the next point – managing your bankroll. If you’re playing for real money, it’s important to manage your bankroll to prevent excessive loss. Before you start playing for real money, decide what you can afford to lose and stop once you’ve reached your limit. Any professional gambler will tell you to never bet more than you can afford to lose.
Consider bonus rounds – Games with bonus rounds mean it is not only more exciting but improves your chances of winning. In most cases, you won’t be hitting the jackpot, so bonus rounds provide more chances to unlock different rewards available during gameplay.
Play at safe and reputable sites – Before you even begin to start thinking about bankrolls and playing for real money, you need to find a safe and secure online casino. This is the most important step in your igaming journey. Check out our list of recommended sites.
Take advantage of casino bonuses – Online casinos typically offer a wealth of bonuses and promotions to help you boost your bankroll. Look for online casinos that offer a nice selection of bonuses and take advantage wherever you can. Just remember to read the bonus terms and conditions before you start.
Play for free first – Almost every online casino will feature free versions of its online pokies NZ. Use this opportunity to practice any new games before betting for real money.
Try your hand at progressive jackpots – Once you have developed a confidence playing online pokies, and a bankroll to match, try your hand at progressive jackpots for the chance to really win big. These games are designed to trigger randomly, so anybody has a chance to walk away as a winner.
Our Expert Conclusion
Online pokies New Zealand remain one of the most popular casino games, both online and off. The reasons for this are simple – they’re fun, simple and very rewarding. They are so readily available at online casinos and new games are regularly released by software developers. Players tend to love these games simply because they are based on luck and no skill is required. This also means new players can have a great time while experienced gamers can enjoy plenty of lucrative rewards and jackpots. The different features, gaming options and designs make pokies ideal if you’re looking for a fun, rewarding and immersive experience from your computer or mobile device. If you prefer to keep things casual, you will always find free versions of the games for a no-pressure, risk-free gaming experience. Overall, online pokies will continue to reign supreme as the leading casino game and players will always be spoilt for choice when playing free or online pokies real money at online casinos. If you’re feeling confused about where to start, check out our list of top online pokies NZ. We also list a wide variety of software providers, giving you a good starting point.