Year: 2018
Bitcoin Casinos – How Safe Are They?
Some industry watchers believed Bitcoin and online casinos are a match made in heaven; the reason at a closer look is not far-fetched.
You see, the gambling industry has struggled for a long time to get rid of a long history smeared in bad rep and publicity. And players over time have learned to seek out discreet, secure and safe gaming houses to satisfy their itch.
So, it is not surprising that the gaming industry was the first couple of businesses to adopt Bitcoin and its underlying Blockchain technology in their operation.
Now with several casinos running on Blockchain technology players can be safe in the knowledge that their personal information, transaction histories, and banking details are secure, encrypted, and anonymous.
What is a bitcoin casino?
These are new generation online casinos that rely on Blockchain technology and cryptocurrency such as Bitcoin to handle deposits and withdrawal on their platform.
In other words, the player has to fund their account using digital currency and also withdraw their winnings as a cryptocurrency. No need for fiat currencies, no need for financial houses.
This obviously benefits both the operator and gamer. One of such benefits is the elimination of transaction fees.
Now, for online casino operators using traditional payment platforms, they often pay a transaction fee for each transaction conducted on their system; these extra charges are often shifted to the final gamers.
Compare that to the Bitcoin casinos with little to no transaction fees. The operator can offer more enticing mouthwatering perks like improved welcome bonuses, side freebies, and the player doesn’t have to pay any transaction fees too.
Another attractive feature of a bitcoin casino is the opportunity for anonymity. You see, when a player decides to enjoy a game on conventional online casinos, they are often required to fill in personal details like banking information, names, contact addresses, and perhaps other personal identification information.
That’s not the case playing a bitcoin casino; you are only required to provide an email address that way your privacy is protected.
That said it is essential to note that you’re likely to encounter any of these three types of bitcoin casinos online.
One, there’s the full bitcoin casinos – these allow you to play anonymously with Bitcoin as currency only. They don’t have options for other payment methods.
Then, there are the hybrid online casinos – these lists bitcoin as one of the payment options available. You can deposit, play, and withdraw using the digital currency.
Finally, there are the online casinos that accept bitcoin deposits then convert it to fiat currencies to play with. They don’t support Bitcoin withdrawal.
But, how does bitcoin casinos work?
Just like traditional casinos, a bitcoin(BTC) powered casino needs a system to handle and process its transaction; and a medium to accept deposits.
However, instead of the regular fiat currencies – think: dollar, Euro, Yen, pounds, get the idea? The platform uses digital money but in this case, Bitcoin.
Also, most bitcoin casinos, especially for those with a large user base, operate the self-developed software. These programs manage and run the game, even taking on the role of dealers for all-human games.
Are they safe?
Be rest assured, your private information is safe and also your activities are anonymous. However, concerns exist about whether bitcoin casinos are fair or not; this arises from the fact that both the operators and users are anonymous and can hardly be tracked.
To address the challenge of fairness, build trust and show transparency, most of these operators publish how their algorithm works and how the random number generator operates – this way anyone that cares can run a check on the website.
In conclusion
Digital currencies have come to stay, and with the rave for foolproof security measures online, businesses including online casinos will have no choice but to adopt or integrate the technology with their platform.
For players searching for a bit more discretion, Bitcoin casinos offer the best option
If you aren’t fully convinced with Bitcoin as a method you want to use take a look at our other payment options here.
Best Payment Methods at a Low Deposit Casino
A critical concern most online casino players have is whether they can deposit and make withdrawals from their casino accounts effortlessly – and also whether the available payment options are flexible enough to allow them to fund their account regardless of the amount.
For most casinos, however, they offer a variety of banking solutions that ensure every one of their patrons’ needs is met.
But, unfortunately, these payment portals often have hefty transaction fees that limit the amount a player can deposit; this is especially true for gamers wanting to fund their casino account with just the minimum deposit.
To illustrate this, imagine that you want to fund your casino account with the minimum deposit accepted by your platform; let’s say – £5. And to use any of the banking methods available on the gaming website; you’d have to pay a transaction fee of £1.04.
Now, that leaves you with only £3.06, this amount as you can see is not enough to play. So, what do you do?
Up Your Hand or Source a Low Deposit Casino
Well, the option open to you is to either increase your betting fund – that is assuming you’re not on a tight budget and is flushed with cash. Or, research low deposit casinos that allow you to fund your casino account with minimum funding with no or smallest possible transaction fee.
The second option seems more plausible. Thankfully, there are banking solutions that are integrated with low deposit casinos.
Now, there are a number of reasons you would want to play at low-stakes online casinos; however, the chief among them would be the chance to play a variety of games with a small wager.
Another reason could be so you can extend your gameplay time; spend more time enjoying the game while also having reserve bankroll and a chance of hitting it big instead of going big and losing all at once.
So, what are the best banking methods to use at a low deposit casino?
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- NETELLER
This e-payment solution was created specifically for the online casino playing the market. Its growing popularity over the years, ease of use, and the hassle-free quick transaction – both for deposits and withdrawals – makes it a preferred channel by most online casino operators.
In addition, the payment method is recognized in over 30 countries, has an enticing bonus reward for using it, and a superb support team on hand to help with your concerns.
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- PayPal
PayPal is undoubtedly the undisputed leader when it comes to online casino payment methods. Widely accepted all over the world with millions of users scattered across 190 countries and regions it offers a safe, secure, fast, and instant way to deposit and make withdrawals.
To use PayPal as your preferred banking option, you need an account with them; then link up your bank details or credit card.
So, when you want to play on your favourite casino, all you have to do is transfer money to your PayPal account then use the money to play.
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- Skrill
If you are interested in a fast payout then, you may want to consider using Skrill. Previously known as Moneybookers, this e-wallet is just as popular as PayPal and has one of the instant payment features in the market – your deposit appears almost immediately in your account.
Also, you can easily deposit as low as £1 which makes it an excellent banking option for low deposit casinos.
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- Prepaid Cards
These are the ideal alternative for players without credit cards or uncomfortable filling out their credit details online. There are several cards available including Ukash, PaySafe Card, and EntroPay.
Each of these cards processes transactions almost immediately while also providing anonymity for players that would want to keep their online activities secret.
A Brief Introduction To The History Of Roulette – French or Chinese Origin?
Here at Minimum Deposit Casinos, we’re big fans of Roulette. This popular game has its roots in 18th Century France, but the exact origins of the game are shrouded in mystery. Many people believe roulette has its origins on a Chinese board game that involved arranging 37 animal figurines into a magic square with numbers equalling 666. Discovered by Dominican Monks, it was then modified into a circle and a special slot for the number zero and brought to Europe. There are those who say that the Chinese origins is just a rumour, even though the numbers on a roulette wheel do add up to 666.
The design and gameplay are clearly influenced by two similar games popular in 17 Century France, “Roly Poly” and “Even-Odd” which involved spinning a wheel and betting on the outcome of the spin. But the most widely accepted version is that a French Mathematician and Physicist, Blaise Pascal, created a perpetual motion machine, a device that moves continuously without using energy to power it. In his genius attempt to solve the mysteries of the universe, he accidentally created the prototype for the modern roulette wheel.
Roulette – The Different Types of Bets
There are very few games in the casino that are as intimidating to a beginner as the game of Roulette. At first glance the Roulette table seems confusing, but in reality it is a simple game to understand. The trick to mastering Roulette is to learn how to bet properly.
There are two forms of roulette, the European wheel and the American wheel. The difference between them is the order of the numbers and one additional pocket with the double green zero on the American version.
Understanding the house edge
It is said that “the house always wins” but this is not strictly true as the payouts in roulette don’t accurately reflect the real odds. For example, if you win on red or black your payout is 1:1 which suggests the odds are 50%., but the green zero on the wheel means the odds are just over 48%.
Know the equipment
– There are 36 numbers and a 0. A croupier sends a ball spinning as the wheel spins and the ball eventually lands on one of the numbers. Players place their bets on the table correlating to the possible slots the ball can fall into.
Know the different “inside” bets
– Roulette is a game of anticipation, you must guess where the ball will fall. The main part of the roulette table layout is made of numbers from zero to 36 and the rest are divisions for betting on groups of numbers: They can be odd or even, red or black, 1-18 or 19-36, columns and dozens. Inside bets are bets placed on the numbers themselves and outside bets are placed elsewhere.
Online roulette has grown in popularity year after year. There is so much that you can learn about the game just by clicking on the question mark in the bottom left corner of your desktop, tablet or mobile phone. The help section is always full of very interesting and useful information. Live Roulette is also growing in popularity as you can chat with the croupiers and watch the live action unfold in stunning HD. With so many great ways to play this classic casino game online, we are sure you will enjoy it immensely. Place you bets!
Everything You Need to Know About Casino Bonuses
When it comes to online casino bonuses, there’s a lot to take into consideration.
Let’s take the 5 Euro minimum deposit as an example. That’s more or less the lowest amount you should expect to deposit and still enjoy a decent variety of payment options and bonuses at an online casino.
Bonuses with Just 5 or 10 Euros
Some minimum deposit casinos will offer you fantastic deals, for instance:
• A 100% match bonus when you deposit 5 Euros
• Deposit 5 and get 20 Euros to boost your bankroll
• Deposit 10 Euros and play with 50 Euros
• Deposit 10 Euros and get 40 Euros to play with
When you do deposit 5 Euros at an online casino, you may find the amount isn’t always enough to trigger an online casino bonus. Different sites do have different limits, even though they do allow smaller amounts to be deposited. That’s why it is important to check out the terms of the bonuses before taking advantage of them.
Bonuses Explained
Online casino bonuses can be a tricky field to navigate. Whether it’s a 100% match, free spins, a sign-up bonus or any other type of “free” money, there comes a point where you’re going to have to release some money from the bonus account into your real money player account.
This is where things can get complicated. To “unlock” the bonus amount, you need to wager, and often, you need to wager more than what the bonus is worth. It’ll all be stated in the bonuses terms and conditions, but it’s not always as easy to understand.
It should be noted that you don’t have to take out a bonus to play at an online casino, but if you do want to, make sure you know what is required before you play.
Calculating the Cost of a Bonus
When it comes to understanding how much a bonus will cost you, you need to consider the wagering or playthrough requirement and the game contributing percentage.
The Wagering Requirement
This refers to the number of times your deposit and bonus amount must be wagered before you can withdraw the bonus money. It usually varies from one online casino to the next and will vary according to the game you play too.
Game Contributing Percentage
This refers to the amount each game counts towards your overall wagering requirement. For example, money wagered on slots usually counts more towards your wagering requirements than money wagered in poker. It’s very similar to a multiplier. For instance, if the wagering on any one game counts just 50%, you effectively have to wager twice as much.
When it comes to online slots, the contributing percentage is almost always 100%, which means wagering requirements remain at a basic level.
Finally, be aware the many bonuses have a time limit and if you fail to use them within that period, they expire.
Verdict
Online casino bonuses are certainly a complicated part of online gaming fun. Make sure you read the t’s and c’s and remember that no bonus is obligatory. If the bonus doesn’t suit you and your gaming, don’t use it!
How to Pick Online Casino Websites in the UK
When it comes to wagering on games, the UK has some strict laws, so it’s important to know how to choose UK online casino websites that will provide the best bonuses and games for your online gameplay.
One thing to realise is that you should stick to playing at those casinos that have a UK Gambling Commission license to ensure to adhere to the robust gaming regulations and laws. Obviously, you must be 18 years or older to play at an online casino for real money. Licensed UK online operators require you to prove your age before you can open a casino account.
Find The Best Online Casino Websites
When it comes to playing casino games online, you’re going to win and lose. But, finding the right websites mean finding those operators that offer great extras to UK players.
When you first register with a UK online casino operator, you may receive a new player welcome bonus that is designed to boost the value of your first deposit with exciting bonus credits and, sometimes, free spins for slots.
What’s more, you can go on to claim an assortment of ongoing bonuses as a loyal player. That means the site will give you plenty of opportunities to boost your bankroll with promotional offers and enticing deals.
Another way to enjoy rewards for your gaming activity is by becoming a member of the online casino’s loyalty programme. As you wager real money, so you earn points which you can eventually change for credits as a member of a loyalty or VIP programme. For a full list of our comprehensive casino reviews click here
Different Games and Platforms
There are a number of different ways you can get stuck into playing the massive variety of online casino games on offer to UK citizens. What’s more, there are different platforms on which to play, including PC, smartphone and tablet.
When you want to play casino games on your PC, you can download a casino’s software to enjoy access to the full menu of casino games, including slots and table games. You’ll also be able to do your casino banking, contact customer support and everything else you need to do.
Online slots are always a favourite with UK players. Today’s slots and video poker machines have been designed to return the highest of payout percentages, and there is usually information on the paytables of each casino game or within the help files on the casino’s website that you can use to familiarise yourself with the games.
But, if you prefer to play table and card games instead of online slot machines or video poker, then take note that the games that offer the best winning opportunities are the ones with the lowest possible house edges, so be sure to play the games that offer the maximum chances of winning. Alternatively, try some games out for free to get the hang of them before you wager real money.
Overall, pick a reputable, licensed site and have fun!
Roundup of the Latest Online Slots
Do you love the thrill of the spinning the reels? The sensational graphics, exciting themes and entertaining soundtracks? Then it must be time to check out the latest online slots.
The Newest QuickSpin Online Slots
Playtech is a Swedish owned slots specialist. Recently, the developers revamped their popular slot title, Hidden Valley, to bring you more immersive gameplay. Now, the game boasts improved HTML5 technology that delivers sensational imagery at a mere 60 frames per second.
The 40-payline, 5-reel slot offers a variety of treasures during your session, including free spins and multiplier wilds.
New Titles from Microgaming
Microgaming is synonymous with sensational slot titles, and their latest releases are no let down. One stand-out title released in August is Rainbrew, developed by Just for the Win. This is a 5-reel slot that offers you 243 exciting ways to win, which is upped to 1,125 ways thanks to the amazing Sidewinder feature.
Yggdrasil Also Has News
Gaming developer, Yggdrasil, has recently secured an agreement to supply its popular slots to UK-based casino operator, Genting UK. The site will offer players the full portfolio of games from Yggdrasil, including the popular and highly successful Vikings series. The casino operator will further benefit from Yggdrasil’s suite of in-game promotion tools that provide a range of exciting in-game tournaments, cash races and a host of gamification features to increase player engagement and retention.
A Boost from Booming Games
Booming Games, a Malta-based developer, presents you with all the glitz and glamour of Vegas with its latest slot title, Las Vegas VIP. The game is a 30 line, 5.x3 slot with Random Credit Awards, Scatter Wins, free spins and the chance to win a whopping 10,000 euros.
This is a highly engaging game that even allows you to gamble your Random Credit Awards, giving you even more chances to increase the award.
New Offerings from Wazdan
Finally, Malta-licensed online casino operator, Rabbit Entertainment, has expanded its Lapalingo offering by adding a variety of games from game developers, Wazdan. Now, players at Lapalingo can enjoy more than 110 slots from Wazdan, including the latest releases like Fruit Mania Deluxe, Great Book of Magic Deluxe, Magic Stars 3 and Magic of the Ring Deluxe.
Wazdan seems to be quickly making a name for themselves in the online casino space, delivering some exciting slot titles along with impressive technology that’s attractive to players and operators alike.
We’ve heard it’s been a booming year at Wazdan as the developers continue to build on the significant progress they have already made in the iGaming sector.
Which Slots Will You Be Playing?
From no deposit spins to free play mode, progressive prize pools and the opportunity to win some amazing cash, all that’s left to do is figure out which games you’ll be spending your time on.
Can’t decide? Try them all! Remember to always play responsibly and never bet more than you can comfortably afford to lose. If Lady Luck just isn’t sitting next to you, it may be time to take a break.
The Best Xbox Casino Games of 2018
If you enjoy playing online casino games and playing your beloved Xbox, there’s good news: you can do both! Here is our pick of the 2018 Xbox casino games you need to be playing.
3 Xbox Casino Games to Play Right Now
Texas Hold ‘em Environment
If you love playing poker, especially Texas Hold ‘em, this is the Xbox game you’ve got to check out. This offers a whole different environment in which to play, along with adding different facets to the game. The basics of the poker variant are the same, but you get a new way to play, too.
This version is a 3D card game with exceptional graphics. It looks sensational on the Xbox and there are a variety of different environment packs to pick from. This one is a little different from the usual types of online casino games in that it is focused mostly on gameplay. It’s perfect if you want to get stuck into the action without hesitation.
Prominence Poker
This is one high-class online poker game jampacked with fun on your Xbox. The game is free to play, and the casino action is superb. The game takes you to various locations for clandestine games of poker complete with a table filled with characters. There is also an online multilayer variant available, so you can get your friends in on the game.
As you play, you can win game credits which help you to unlock a variety of other options. There are also in-game purchases, but you can just stick with the free version if you prefer. This one promises hours of entertainment regardless of whether you play for free or for real money.
Pure Hold ‘em
This is another 3D Xbox casino game that takes you right onto the casino floor for a dance with Lady Lucky. Well, not literally, but you can get your friends in on the action, or around the table, to see who does have luck on their side.
Hold ‘em in any form is a pretty great online casino game if you love cards. You can place your chips on the table and play as little or as much as you want to. You can even play solo – there are plenty of options.
The basics are simple enough to get the hang of, too, so you don’t need to spend hours learning the rules. But, if you want to climb your way up the leader board, spend time perfecting your play and getting to know the different strategies. As soon as you’re ready, why not up the ante by playing at a mobile or online casino for some big wins?
These three games are great options for fans of Xbox who are looking to add a little casino action into their gameplay. Try them out and if you want to head to the casino when you’re ready, sign up with one and start playing from the comfort of home!
The Best Movie Themed Online Slot Games in 2018
These days, online slot games continue to be just as popular as their land-based counterparts. Since gaming developers constantly work with popular movie and TV culture, you can bet that there is an array of slots out there based on your favourite movies, and this year has seen some stellar titles already released.
Here’s a look at the top movie themed online slots of 2018… so far.
Online Slot Games You Have to Try
- The Dark Knight Rises
If you’re an avid comic book lover, and a Batman fan at that, you have got to check out Microgaming’s Dark Knight Rises slot. From superb illustrations to fun sounds and all your favourite characters, this is a game that will keep you entertained for hours.
The five-reel slot provides 243 paylines complete with a Wild symbol, giving you even more ways to win. There are also an assortment of multipliers and Free Games for maximum gameplay pleasure.
- Jurassic Park
The slot game takes place on a magnificent island with the greenery serving as your backdrop. During your spins, you’ll meet a multitude of famous faces, different dinosaurs and other exciting characters, all in their 3D glory, complete with sensational music and immersive gameplay. This offer from Microgaming means players can look forward to a selection of excellent bonuses and payouts.
- The Mummy
The Mummy was a popular motion picture, and the perfect theme for an online video slot that brings players hours of pleasure, complete with the movie’s favourite characters. There are also scarabs, a range of relics and firearms, all adding to the atmosphere of the game. Players can look forward to seeing the top stars from the movie, including The Rock, Brendan Fraser and Rachel Weisz, not to mention playing for some serious wins.
We have to make mention of the Lost City Adventure Bonus, a random reward that begins with a short clip from the film. This Bonus Feature allows you to look into six cartons on screen. Each of the containers uncovers a monetary prize. You can keep choosing cases until you find the Collect image. Each time the bonus round is activated, you can look forward to opening another element in the game.
- Star Trek: Red Alert
If you love space adventure and the opportunity to win big, this is the slot for you. Star Trek has followers around the globe and its already motivated an array of slot titles. Red Alert is a 5-reel, 25-payline slot that boasts images of the original cast and the stunning Star Trek logo serves as the Wild Card. Hit the “Turn” catch and you’ll get to see more of your favourite characters which can spin into an array of winning combinations.
With such great titles to choose from, and more bound to be on the way, 2018 is stacking up to be a red carpet year for the online slot industry.
Understand these Online Casino Regulations Before Diving Head First Into Gameplay
Thanks to the age of the internet, the opportunities for fun and windfalls have moved online. But, there are still rules and online casino regulations that differ from one country to the next. Here’s a look at how things work across Europe.
Online Casino Regulations in the UK
With Brexit just around the corner, the United Kingdom remains subject to EU laws for a short period of time. Even so, the casino gaming culture and regulations that surround it are well established.
With many sites offering top casino games, slots and casual gaming to British citizens, it should be noted that most of the sites are internationally renowned, operating from other parts of the continent. This means the operators can benefit from favourable tax rates and host of regulator advantages.
However, sites that cater to UK players must be licensed by the Gambling Commission.
Spain
Spain has 17 regions, each of which is autonomous. This means that casino operators that want to offer their services must get licenses from each region, even if the operator is purely based online.
In 2011, the Spanish government introduced the Gaming Act which ensured the same rules that applied to land-based casinos were consistent and enforceable online, too. The bill failed to factor in unlicensed operators based in other countries, though, so there are a couple of loopholes.
The Nordic Countries
The availability of internet in countries such as Finland, Sweden and Norway are greater than just about anywhere else in the world. Yet, the expansion of the online casino industry in this part of the world has been greatly disadvantaged by state-controlled monopolies.
However, we are starting to see all that change, especially with the new legislation set to be implemented in Sweden.
Germany
The latest casino gaming bill introduced in Germany actually doesn’t distinguish between real world and online casinos, leaving a gaping grey area around the industry.
German online players can play on sites operated in other countries but legally, operators may not host sites in Germany. In turn, this means Germans don’t have legal protection if they do choose to play online.
It’s an odd scenario which is why people tend to choose to play according to the reputation of the online operator’s country of origin. Countries like the UK, where online gaming is legal and regulated, along with Malta and Gibraltar, give German players greater peace of mind.
France
Like many of the Nordic states, there are government-imposed restrictions on casino gaming in France. One act introduced in 2010 outlawed casino games like roulette and online slots.
While authorities cite that chance-based games are addictive and not acceptable, there is legal support for the skill-based games such as blackjack and poker.
We are increasingly seeing calls to improve access to online gaming services and use regulations to manage operators directly. There’s no doubt that as more online casino regulations come into play in Europe, the state of play will be altered. For now, though, players must remember to take a close look at the laws impacting their own country before they open a new player account with a site.
Overview of the Best NetEnt Slots You Just Have to Try
NetEnt is a leading online gaming developer, most well known for its innovative slot games. NetEnt slots are always created with players in mind, making them some of the most engaging and entertaining games around.
The slots provide everything you need, from 3D slots to TV or movie themed titles to keep you glued to your screen. NetEnt can be relied upon to create slots with colourful graphics and games that can be played across several platforms, including mobile casinos and Instant Play. They also come with crisp sound and sleek animation that captivate players time and again.
Best of all, the company releases new slot games nearly every month.
So, what are some of their most popular titles?
NetEnt Slots You’ve Got to Play
1. Fruit Spin
If you love traditional slots, try your luck at Fruit Spin. The 5-reel, 40-payline slot features free spins and Lucky Wheels, making for an entertaining game and plenty of chances to win big. You’ll trigger the Lucky Wheel when part of a 3×3 scatter appears bumps the reels. You’ll also get instant cash and maybe even free spins if luck is on your side.
2. Archangels: Salvation
This is an incredible mobile slot complete with 6 reels and 100 paylines. The tagline is “good takes on evil,” so players can look forward to a visually engaging battle between good and evil. You get to choose sides, too! The game offers wild bonus features and free spins.
The most rewarding symbols are the angels and demons, giving you up to 150 coins for 5 symbols on a payline.
3. Gonzo’s Quest
If quests are more your style, you’re sure to love looking for lost reassures in the City of Gold. The Avalanche Reels can reward you with some serious cash. The game has 5 reels and 20 paylines and there is a Free Falls bonus where you may be rewarded with up to 10 free spins.
4. Starburst
By far one of the most unique offerings from NetEnt, Starburst is an arcade-style game where the goal is to get Starburst Wilds symbols. The slot features 5 reels and 10 paylines complete with vibrant graphics and fun music. If the Wild Symbols appear on either of the 3 middle reels, it will trigger the bonus feature and expand your reel, while the remaining reels will go into a spin.
5. Jack and the Beanstalk
This fairytale-themed online slot has all the magic and delight of the beloved tale. The 5-reel and 20 payline game feature a Walking Wild symbol which will plunge you into an enthralling experience. It will also give you free spins!
These are just 5 of NetEnt’s greatest offerings. They have hundreds of titles in their portfolio and you can find NetEnt slots both at online and mobile casinos. Keep playing – you may just be 2018’s, next big winner!