Online Casino Score

VIP Slots Casino utilizes the popular, well-performing Vegas Technology casino software. By offering a $777 bonus for new players, they are attracting online gamblers in droves. If the new-signups continue to play, they are eligible for an aggressive VIP program. They are marketing their services to those that enjoy a wide selection of games. Some of their most common selections include:

• Video slots
• Video poker
• Classic slots
• Card games
• Table games
• Specialty offerings

There are six advantages to playing at VIP Slots Casino. These include:

• Secure software
• Flash casinos available
• Strong bonuses
• Good VIP program
• Plenty of tournaments
• Diversity of games

One of the most important areas of online gaming is security. This includes for transactions and to avoid cheating within each game. VIP Slots Casino delivers with some of the most secure software available.

Another nice addition to their software plethora is the availability of Flash-based casinos. Also known as instant play, this allows users to play various games online without the need for a bulky, slow download. The flash-based software is easy to navigate and lightening fast.

Another advantage is the strong bonus and solid VIP program. The bonus is to attract new players and the excellent VIP program is to keep them. Additionally, the casino excels in the number of tournaments offered. This includes freerolls and competitions for almost every game they offer.

In addition to these other wonderful features, the software provides the user with a large diversity of games with the ability to accommodate all players. The full download provides over 100 games. The specialty games previously mentioned include Dazzling Dice, Keno and Bingo Bucks.

Unfortunately there are two primary disadvantages to playing at VIP Slots Casino including:

• Compatible with Windows
• No banking bonuses

Those using Macintosh computers to do your bidding, move along. One of the most significant disadvantages is that the casino software is only compatible with Windows operating systems. Another shortcoming is the lack of banking bonuses that are often found at competing online casinos.

VIP Slots Casino is another popular choice for many online gamblers due to the many advantages and little disadvantages offered to the player. With the backing of Vegas Technology software, it is difficult to compete with this casino. With a few tweaks, this gaming site could become the ideal online casino for all players.

As the gaming industry continues to expand across the United States due to the openings of tribal and non-tribal casinos, the number of slot machines in Nevada is significantly decreasing. Luckily this decline relates to an improvement in the technology of gaming equipment, not a lack of demand.

As of 2010, there are 833,000 active slot machines in the United States. This is an increase of 233,000 machines from 2005, according to the American Gaming Association. Gamblers are currently spending only slightly more on slots when inflation is adjusted. This survey was conducted in well-established gaming states such as Nevada, New Jersey, Iowa and Illinois.

In 1992 Las Vegas, slot players wagered an average of $70 per session. In 2008, slot players bet an average of $80 per session after being adjusted for inflation. Players during this recession are wagering millions of dollars less than during the large growth years.

On June 30^th, 2010, it was announced that there were 168,504 active slots in Nevada. This equals the number found in Nevada in 1997. This apparent decline contradicts the overall growth of the gaming industry.

This trend stems from a consolidation of games into one machine. In 1997, different slots had single wagering games in their system. In 2010, there are multiple games in one machine to add convenience and differentiation for the player. Multiple game machines include games such as:

• Several varieties of poker
• Keno
• Slots

Each machine contains a user-menu to select which game you want to play. This new equipment helps all casinos cut costs drastically by not needing to have as many machines on the gaming floor. This cuts taxes and maintenance costs on unused machines. Large casinos like The Rio, MGM Grand and Circus Circus have eliminated 1,200 slots since 2001.

This is a major advancement for the gaming industry. As gaming technology improves, the selection of games will increase with the number of gaming machines decreasing. The areas where slot games once were could host newer, more profitable games or equipment. Therefore, these machines are not only great for cost savings, also for the generation of profit.

As more casinos across the country add these cost-saving, profit-generating machines to their gaming floor, the decline in gaming may turn-around and begin to see great improvement. All this due to an advancement in gaming equipment technology.

GoCasino is a fairly new offering to the world of online gaming. Licensed and regulated by the Curacao Internet Gaming Association (CIGA), GoCasino is a full-service online casino providing many different games to the player. This is another gaming site that utilizes the powerful software created by Vegas Technology.

The Games

GoCasino offers over 100 casino games; all of which can be played in practice mode or live against other patrons. Games can be access through a downloadable application with a preview option of each game prior to the download.

The Bonuses

There are many different sign-up bonuses offered with the most prominent being the “Massive Multi-Deposit Welcome Bonus.” This allows new players to the casino to deposit up to 20 times with a maximum matching bonus of $20,000. Also, there are surprise weekly bonuses awarded at the discretion of the casino. To qualify, you must be engaged in a game.

Registration for Live Games

There are a few methods for registering to play in real money games. Major credit cards can be used to fund the account, which is usually the most convenient and fastest way. Another option is the Solid Debit Card as well as Neteller and Click2Pay which are only available outside of North America.

Tournaments

GoCasino also provides various types of tournaments throughout the month. These mainly consist of video poker and slots. There are both free entry and paid entry options. Different variations of tournaments occur almost every day.

Advantages

There are a few advantages that GoCasino offers over other online gaming sites. First, all players are eligible for comp points which can be used for tournament buy-ins and various other prizes. Also the welcome bonus is one of the best in the industry. Furthermore, there are always plenty of tournaments to choose from each day. Finally, the interface is extremely user-friendly and aesthetically pleasing.

Disadvantages

There are only two primary disadvantages. First, the funding options are limited. If you live in North America, you can only use a credit card. Second, there are not many progressive gaming options as found at many other casinos.

Despite the few disadvantages, there are plenty of advantages that make this a top-notch casino. Its popularity is primarily attributed to its tournaments and welcome bonus. As they expand and make modifications based on consumer needs, GoCasino will surely add additional banking options and progressive games to further attract new players.

Millionaire Online Casino maintains a brand image of elegance and VIP treatment to its players. The software provides cutting edge technology mixed with an extensive selection of casino games. Backing up its name, Millionaire Online Casino features high limit tables to attract those with large bankrolls but also plenty of low limit and free games for all classes of players.

There are a several notable advantages to playing at Millionaire Online Casino. These include:

• The signup bonus
• Accepts U.S. players
• Regular software updates
• Excellent customer support
• Extensive game offerings

As always, the bonus is what initially attracts a player to an online casino. Millionaire Online Casino features an excellent tiered bonus of $5000 on your first three deposits. This is a 100 percent matching bonus. Also, players are eligible to receive further bonuses when making future deposits.

With so many casinos not allowing players from the United States, it can be difficult to find those casinos that do. Luckily, Millionaire Online Casino accepts U.S. players. Additionally, there are little issues with depositing via credit card which is attractive to U.S.-based players.

Another advantage is that the casino regularly updates their software to provide new games to their players. In general, the casino adds a few new games each month, mostly in the slots category. Additionally, the customer support is unmatched in the industry. They are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Finally, Millionaire Online Casino features over 100 games; many of which are 3-reel and progressive slots and video slots. There are also several table games and video poker variants.

On the other hand, there are only a few disadvantages including:

• No multi-player casino games
• Only English
• Average graphics and sound

One of the biggest drawbacks of Millionaire Online Casino is the lack of multi-player casino games. Every game is single-player including table games. Also, customer support and software packages are only available in English. Finally, the graphics and sound are nothing impressive, average at best.

Millionaire Online Casino is a great place to play slots and video slots. Those looking to play slots or in slot tournaments will be in their prime setting. Also, the benefits greatly outweigh the limitations. However if you are looking for a place to play something other than slots, this may not be the casino for you.

Grand Vegas Casino is yet another online gaming entity that accepts players from the United States. Grand Vegas is powered by Vegas Technology software and is brought to you by the developers of GoCasino, Online Vegas Casino and Crazy Slots Casinos. The Casino is regulated in Curacao, a reputable gaming country.

There are a few advantages of playing at Grand Vegas Casino including:

• Weekly bonuses
• Well-rounded offering of casino games
• Accepts United States players
• Low wagering

The initial sign-up bonus for new players is 100% of their first deposit up to $555 with a minimum deposit of $25. Grand Vegas Casino offers reload bonuses every Tuesday and Friday with the option of a deposit bonus or cash back. Also, players can choose a prepaid gift card bonus.

Grand Vegas Casino also offers over 100 games categorized into four groups; Slot games, Table games, Video Poker games and Specialty games. The Slot games category is the largest and provides seven reel, five reel and three reel games in addition to progressive jackpots. Popular games like baccarat, blackjack, craps, roulette, poker and video poker are offered in addition to specialty games.

Another nice feature is the acceptance of players from the United States. This opens up a whole new market for Grand Vegas Casino while providing an additional gaming experience for U.S. players. Additionally, Grand Vegas Casino offers lower wagers for those new to the game or the online gaming experience.

Finally, the software and graphics are visually-rich and appealing to all players. The navigation around the site is easy due to the availability of the most important functions directly in the lobby. This adds to the ease of use of the site.

On the other hand, there are a few disadvantages to playing at Grand Vegas Casino. First, the VIP Club is by invitation only. Other online casinos allow all players to enter their VIP Club to accumulate points. Another limitation is that bets can only be made in U.S. dollars. Therefore those overseas will have to use a currency calculator prior to making a deposit or withdrawal.

Due to being in a large network of casinos, Grand Vegas has a lot to offer with minimal limitations. With excellent promotions and a signup bonus, a variety of games with progressive jackpots, low wagering amounts and excellent software and graphics, Grand Vegas Casino will become an industry leader in the near future.

In the past, riverboat gaming was the only place to gamble outside of Las Vegas and Atlantic City. Cruise ships would leave various ports across the United States and begin gaming once they were at least three miles offshore. For those that lived a great distance from either of the two gambling hubs, they enjoyed these trips. This has changed drastically with regulation of riverboat gaming and the addition of Indian-run casinos.

Riverboat gaming has been around since at least the 19^th century. Since this time, the industry has been in decline. This is primarily due to the construction of railroads and other advanced forms of transportation as well as the Civil War. Trains were superior to riverboats by speed and reliability. The Civil War interrupted most riverboat transportation and thus the industry.

Toward the end of the 20^th century, new methods of revenue were needed. Therefore laws were passed to allow riverboat gaming as a source of revenue for many states. In many cases, the boat is stationed on a body of water and never leaves the dock. States proposed this idea to the voters confirming that gambling is only legal on riverboats in the state. The limitations included a time restriction of only two to three hours and physical controls.

More recently, the time limitation has been lifted because of competing states and Indian tribes. The competition for customers between states also has resulted in a considerable raise in the gambling limits set during the 1980’s and 1990’s.

The first modern riverboat became legal in Iowa in 1989 followed by Illinois shortly after. Next came Missouri, Indiana, Louisiana and Mississippi. States generally allow traditional casino table games to be played. A new twist on riverboat gaming is an overnight or weekend cruise past the three mile marker which consists of gambling, nightlife and dining.

Due to the returning popularity of this type of gaming, on-board casinos are growing large and becoming more elaborate. There are even themed gambling cruises such as, Caesar’s-at-Sea which is similar to Caesar’s Palace in Las Vegas. There are other companies that offer gambling cruises such as:

• Carnival
• Holland America
• Princess

On-board gaming allows uses to relax, enjoy their cruise and do a little gambling while on board. The dealers are more patient and more willing to help beginners learn new games. Riverboat gambling is exploding in popularity and will see a continued increase in the future.

Although there are no rule changes, Caribbean Stud is known as Cyberstud at all Microgaming online casinos. When selecting an online casino to participate in different games, experienced players tend to compare house edges. As a result those gaming providers with lower edges are selected. House edge is the percent wagered by the player that the casino expects as a return over the long run.

The Microgaming Calculation

As with all casinos, Microgaming maintains a specific calculation for its house edge in Cyberstud. The calculation assumes the player is placing bets based on textbook game play. There are three specific sets of outcomes with this calculation.

The First Outcome

Based on computer simulation, it has been determined that a player will fold 47.77% of the time and raise 52.23%. Therefore if the ante is $1, the player will raise to $2 52.23% of all competitions. Therefore the average wager is $2.04. The first effect of this calculation is the player folding which occurs 47.77% of hands resulting in a loss of the $1 ante. This indicates an expected return on investment of -$0.4777.

The Second Outcome

The second result scrutinizes a raise by the player to $2 without reaching the payout chart. Within this set are an additional three possible outcomes. First, the dealer doesn’t qualify for the hand which is a probability of 22.74% resulting in a gain of $1 and an expected return of $0.2274. Second, the dealer wins which is a probability of 13.68% resulting in a loss of the $1 ante bet and a return of -$0.4104.

Finally, the player ties the dealer which is a probability of 0.0016% with a return of $0 since it’s a push. The overall return for the second outcome is -$0.1830. This is a poor return for simply tying.

The Third Outcome

The final set of outcomes is the player raising and winning. As a result the ante is paid even money and the raise is based on the Microgaming pay out chart. The best possible payout is 999 to 1 on a royal flush which equates to $1,998 plus the ante for a total of $1,999. The probability is 0.000084% resulting in an expected return of $0.0017.

The lowest outcome is based on a pair or less which pays even money. Therefore the ante of $1 pays $1 and the raise of $2 pays $2 for a total win of $3 with an 11.76% probability of winning and an expected return of $0.3527 totaling $0.6107 for the set.

The total expected return of all three outcomes is -$0.4477-$0.1830+$0.6107 totaling -$0.0500 resulting in a house of 2.45%. This is less than many other games including European Roulette therefore making Cyberstud a viable option for many online gaming patrons.

It’s difficult to pinpoint the exact time and location a card game was invented. Although there are varying theories, some general ideas are commonly agreed upon based on written accounts in various texts. Blackjack is one of many games with a murky past.

In the Beginning…

It’s commonly agreed upon that Blackjack was invented sometime in 17^th century France under the name Vingt et Un or 21. The name Blackjack originated from the black suit of spades of ace and jack. The game has evolved since Vingt et Un as there are some minor differences. In Vingt et Un, the player bets after each round and the dealer is permitted to double down. The objective of both games is to have a total equaling 21.

Migration to North America

Following the French Revolution, Blackjack migrated to the United States due to the lack of gambling laws. France had many gaming laws during that time period. This made it easy for players to hop on a ship and gamble. During the 19^th century, betting games like Blackjack were completely outlawed in the United States as a method of decreasing crime.

Blackjack Prohibition

During this time, Blackjack was played in secret underground clubs away from the watchful eye of the law. Throughout the 1920’s, the punishment and enforcement of the gaming laws become more stringent. In 1931 Las Vegas opened its legal casinos with droves of gamblers flocking to the city.

Development of Strategy

As this game progressed, numerous individuals studied the game to further develop strategies and tips. In 1953 Roger Baldwin and several associates began to test different theories and tactics. Three years later they published a strategy manual based on their findings to help limit the house edge.

Although this manual helped many players, they lacked the technology to further investigate. Building on these strategies, Edward Thorp developed an improved statistical model (now known as the card counting theory) which was published in 1962. This proved to be the most defining moment in Blackjack history and made the New York Times best seller list.

Casinos dispelled players from their property if found to be utilizing this theory. It also resulted in many changes including the method of shuffling. Luckily for the casino operators, the book was difficult to read due to the mathematics and statistical theories that the common player isn’t aware of.

The most profitable strategy gurus were Ken Ulston and the MIT Blackjack Group. Ulston took over $300,000 from Nevada casinos by placing a mini-computer in his shoe to calculate various odds. The MIT Blackjack Group won several million dollars in the 1990’s and were later banned from Las Vegas in 1997. Blackjack has a long and rocky history with players using questionable strategies like card counting.

Formerly OddsOn, Vegas Technology is an online gaming software development company based out of Toronto, Ontario. Vegas Technology was established in 1998 with the mission of providing a plethora of online casino games in a secure and fun environment. The company currently offers more than 90 games including:

• 3 reel virtual slot machines
• Video slots
• Progressive games
• Wide-variety of table games

Since UIGEA is no longer in existence and with acquisition of Golden Casino and the release of Online Vegas and Go Casino, Vegas Technology has become the most renowned online casino still accepting players from the United States. Since the U.S. market is so saturated with players, they’re able to cater to them and their preferences.

Vegas Technology boasts both downloadable and online quick play versions of their casino. Overall the software can be easily navigated to find your favorite games instantly. The downloadable version is transferred quickly due to the 7MB average game size amongst the various games. The quick play version transfers rapidly across the web due to the 1MB average game size.

Vegas Technology knows a thing or two about online tournaments being that they established online gaming tournament competitions from day one. They offer small buy-ins with the ability to enter multi-player tournaments for a pot of $5,000 per competition. These contests are offered regularly in all casino games including blackjack and slots. The slots tournaments draw quite a crowd.

Additionally, Vegas Technology provides free roll and guaranteed tournaments meaning that even if the prize pool doesn’t reach the amount posted, they’ll still pay out the prize pool to the winner. There are ten primary casinos that use Vegas Technology software including Go Casino, Online Vegas, VIP Slots Casino, Millionaire Casino, Crazy Slots, English Harbour, Silver Dollar, Golden Casino, Slots Galore and Caribbean Gold.

In addition to all these great features, Vegas Technology software offers seven progressive games and tickers including:

• Red White and Win
• Treasure Trail
• Pay Dirt
• Mega Money Mine
• Progressive Blackjack
• Win Place or Show
• Caribbean Stud Poker

Vegas Technology has created an empire with new games being added daily to their already enormous list. Many online casinos are satisfied with their software due to speed, reliability, experience and support. Also with the option to download or compete online, playing flexibility is endless. As they continue to produce high quality casino gaming software, new games and innovative ideas will help them rise to the top of the industry.

Believe it or not online casinos have been developed for over three decades. However, only in the past ten years have they become popular and mainstream. Online gaming has a short but rich history of processes that have built upon one another with the output being the results we see today.

In the Beginning

During the mid 1970’s gaming software was making its presence on land-based casinos. Around this time, computer software-based slot machines began replacing electromechanical slots. Concurrently software for blackjack strategy was also being developed by professional card counters. This was one of three primary building blocks.

Now that the software had been developed, casinos needed a method of connecting different computers together and running the gaming applications from a stored location. Unfortunately it wasn’t until the availability of the Internet in the early 1990’s that this could idea could become a reality.

The final factor contributing to the creation of online gaming was the regulatory aspect. This came to fruition in 1994 when Antigua and Barbuda enacted The Free Trade and Processing Zone Act that allowed gambling licenses. This was the first online gambling jurisdiction. These two countries continue to be a well-respected and popular jurisdiction.

Microgaming

Since all three aspects of online gaming were implemented, Microgaming stepped in to string them together. The company recognized it had all pieces except one; an internet security company that could protect financial transactions across the Internet in a safe manner. Microgaming hired Cryptologic to ensure secure transactions. Cryptologic developed an eCash system for these transfers and also developed the first casino, Intercasino, in 1996.

Since this initial development, the industry has been booming. It’s estimated there are over 2,300 online gaming sites that include casinos, poker rooms and sports books. The online gambling industry has combined revenue of over $15 billion annually.

Although graphics have improved, more games have been added, focus has changed and larger bonuses offered, the games remain the same. Online gaming has come a long way from the initial software development to server storage and gambling regulations. It’s gone from lawless to heavily regulated or even illegal in many countries like the United States. Many online gambling businesses are listed as public companies on various stock exchanges.

As internet gaming continues to grow and newer, more improved technology is implemented, the revenue will skyrocket. Many online casinos are continuing to profit even during this tough economic struggle. In the end, the history of online gaming has built a strong foundation so it’s here to stay and prosper.