
While online pokies are predominantly games of chance, there are strategies that Australian players can employ to improve their overall gaming experience and potentially increase their chances of winning. By understanding game mechanics, managing your bankroll effectively, and making smart choices, you can get more out of every spin. In this article, we’ll discuss the top 5 strategies for playing online pokies, helping you maximize your enjoyment and get the most value for your money.
1. Choose Pokies with a High RTP (Return to Player)
One of the best strategies for increasing your chances of winning is to select pokies with a high Return to Player (RTP) percentage. The RTP represents the percentage of all wagered money that a pokie will pay back to players over time. The higher the RTP, the better your chances of winning in the long run.
Why It Matters:
- A pokie with a high RTP (95% or above) will give you a better return on your bets over time compared to a game with a lower RTP.
- High RTP pokies may not guarantee big wins every time, but they will provide more consistent payouts, giving you longer playtime and better chances to hit winning combinations.
How to Find RTP Information:
- You can usually find the RTP percentage in the game’s rules or info section.
- Many online casinos display RTP information alongside each game, making it easier to choose high-paying pokies.
Tip: Some of the most popular high-RTP pokies include Blood Suckers (98% RTP), Jackpot 6000 (98.8% RTP), and Gonzo’s Quest (96% RTP). Opt for these games to boost your winning potential.
2. Understand Volatility and Choose According to Your Playstyle
Pokies come with different levels of volatility (or variance), which determines how often the game pays out and the size of the wins. Understanding volatility is essential in choosing the right pokie for your playing style and bankroll.
- Low Volatility: These pokies pay out smaller amounts more frequently, making them ideal for players who prefer steady wins and longer gameplay sessions. Low-volatility games are perfect if you want to extend your playtime without risking too much.
- High Volatility: High-volatility pokies offer larger payouts, but wins are less frequent. These games are better suited for players willing to take bigger risks in the hopes of scoring a massive jackpot. High-volatility pokies tend to have exciting bonus features and higher potential rewards.
Tip: If you have a smaller bankroll, choose low-volatility pokies to keep your balance steady. If you’re chasing big wins and have more money to wager, high-volatility games like Book of Dead or Buffalo Blitz are ideal.
3. Take Advantage of Free Spins and Bonuses
Online casinos frequently offer free spins and bonuses as part of their promotions, and these can be a great way to increase your bankroll and give you extra spins without risking your own money. By taking full advantage of these offers, you can improve your chances of winning without additional risk.
Types of Bonuses:
- Welcome Bonuses: Most online casinos offer a welcome bonus that includes free spins or a matched deposit. These bonuses give you more playing money, which can extend your gaming session and increase your chances of winning.
- No Deposit Bonuses: Some casinos offer no deposit bonuses that allow you to play pokies for real money without making a deposit. While these bonuses are typically smaller, they provide a risk-free opportunity to win.
- Free Spins: Many promotions offer free spins on specific pokies. These allow you to spin the reels for free while keeping any winnings you accumulate.
Tip: Always read the terms and conditions associated with bonuses, particularly the wagering requirements. This will ensure you understand how many times you need to play through the bonus amount before you can withdraw your winnings.
4. Manage Your Bankroll Effectively
Bankroll management is one of the most important strategies for any gambling activity, and it’s particularly crucial when playing online pokies. Proper bankroll management ensures that you can enjoy longer gaming sessions without running out of money too quickly, giving you more chances to land a big win.
Bankroll Management Tips:
- Set a Budget: Before you start playing, decide how much money you’re willing to spend, and stick to that budget. Never gamble more than you can afford to lose.
- Bet Sizes: Adjust your bet sizes based on your bankroll. If you have a smaller budget, it’s better to place smaller bets so you can enjoy more spins. If you have a larger bankroll, you can afford to bet more on each spin for the chance of bigger payouts.
- Take Breaks: Regularly taking breaks during your gaming session can help you avoid making impulsive decisions. It also gives you time to reflect on your strategy and adjust your gameplay accordingly.
Tip: Set win and loss limits to help manage your bankroll. Decide on an amount you’re willing to lose and stop playing if you hit that limit. Similarly, set a winning limit and walk away when you’ve reached it, ensuring that you don’t gamble away your profits.
5. Play Progressive Jackpot Pokies for Big Wins
If you’re chasing a life-changing win, progressive jackpot pokies are the way to go. These pokies feature jackpots that increase every time a player makes a bet, with the potential for payouts that can reach millions of dollars. While progressive jackpot pokies are high-risk, the potential rewards are massive.
Popular Progressive Jackpot Games:
- Mega Moolah: One of the most famous progressive pokies, Mega Moolah has paid out millions to lucky players around the world. The game features four jackpot tiers, with the Mega Jackpot regularly reaching seven figures.
- Major Millions: Another popular progressive pokie, Major Millions offers a huge jackpot that grows with every spin, giving players the chance to win life-changing sums.
- Hall of Gods: This Norse mythology-themed game offers three progressive jackpots and frequent bonus features that can lead to big wins.
Tip: When playing progressive jackpot pokies, it’s important to bet the maximum amount if possible, as many games only allow you to qualify for the jackpot with maximum bets.
Conclusion
While pokies are games of chance, implementing smart strategies can help you get more out of your gaming experience and increase your chances of winning. By choosing high-RTP games, understanding volatility, managing your bankroll, and taking advantage of bonuses, you’ll be well-equipped to enjoy online pokies while maximizing your chances of hitting a big win.
Remember, responsible gambling is key—set limits, stick to your budget, and, most importantly, have fun!
