For players from Canada, and around the world, there has never been a better time to enjoy online casino games as there are more betting sites than ever. This fierce competition is the crucible in which incredibly generous bonuses have been created, another boon for players. However, this is something of a double-edged sword, especially for newcomers to the scene, as the extensive possibilities can make it difficult determining just where to play. Not only that, it can also be a challenge telling which sites are best avoided. But there are things the experts look for when comparing online casinos.
Security and Licensing
Top of the list has to be ensuring that a site is a safe place to play. This covers both competence (putting together robust safeguards to protect player information) and intent (not being a nefarious site). Making games of chance fair requires that they have a true RNG (random number generator), which, as it sounds, randomizes the results. Confidence in this requires faith in both the online casino itself and the software developer who contributed the game. While not essential, many of the best betting platforms online have an affiliation with an independent third party testing organization, such as TST or eCOGRA. The existence of such a relationship is a reassuring sign for those thinking of signing up, as it is a strong indication of a trustworthy approach to gaming.
Site security and ensuring data is protected by powerful encryption is also a must-have for an online casino. This is critical because online casino gaming involves transferring funds to and from the betting site in question, as well as sharing personal information, so any breach in security would be concerning at best, and have alarming consequences at worst. Thankfully, most online casinos do have robust security in place, as any loss of reputation due to a serious breach would be very costly indeed.
Licensing is one of the most important aspects to consider when weighing up whether to join an online casino. Luckily, it’s also very easy to check. The foot of every page should have this information clearly presented. Any licensing is better than none though some are more equal than others. Domestically, the Kahnawake Gaming Commission has long been held in high regard by Canadian casino gamers, with some international regulators, such as the Malta Gaming Authority, also enjoying a strong reputation. The lack of any licensing arrangement is a cause for significant concern and should be considered a reason to shun a casino.
Great Games from Top Developers
The most obvious thing to consider when thinking of registering at a new online casino is the suite of gaming options presented. After all, the whole point of an online casino is to have fun with games. Platforms can vary from having a single software developer contributing the games (which can still make for an extensive range if it’s a big gun like NetEnt or Microgaming) to a multi-developer approach which might see literally thousands of options for players to explore. Beyond raw numbers, another benefit of the multi-developer approach is that it naturally increases the variety in everything from art styles to gameplay mechanics, offering a diverse array rather than just cranking up the numbers.
These days, slots are the number one category in the casino. Beyond the aforementioned Microgaming and NetEnt there are dozens of great developers, from the prolific Play’N Go to the small but high quality Thunderkick. Because the number of slots are often hundreds and sometimes thousands, online casinos should have a slick means of navigation. For most sites, this entails a straightforward search bar, for players who know the games they seek, and assorted categories. Some also enable filtering based on developer. Jackpot slots are an almost ubiquitous category, where players can find top progressive slots that offer lottery-sized prizes. It is wise to check the navigation before signing up whether that’s doing so personally or leaving the donkey work to an independent casino portal as tedious navigation can be an ongoing annoyance (and casinos are meant to be places of relaxation and fun).
Table games remain popular, both in a regular form (single player versus a game’s RNG) and the more recent style of live dealer tables. By combining livestreaming technology with a real dealer and real table, players can enjoy more of the real casino atmosphere without losing any of the convenience of playing from home. While most (but not all) online betting sites now provide a live casino section some can be bare bones, while the best have dozens if not hundreds of tables dedicated to blackjack and roulette, with more for baccarat, poker, and game show diversions.
Customer Support Channels
Most of the time casino gaming is simply a matter of having fun and letting luck run its course (or making smart moves in blackjack or poker to improve one’s chances). However, sometimes things can go awry. Technology has made the world swifter and more convenient than ever, but also opened up the potential for frustration when gremlins strike. This is especially the case for online casinos, which involve both money and relaxation. Therefore, having a strong system of customer support is critical.
Some online casinos have not only 24/7 access to the customer service team but also multiple channels so players can pick the one they prefer, whether that’s telephone, live chat, or e-mail. Some also provide assistance via social media, such as X (formerly Twitter). If there’s a lack of channels this can prove an added annoyance when there’s a problem in need of resolution. Many casino sites have a FAQs section that can answer common queries, and some have full-blown help centres that present an extensive array of information which can save the need for contacting customer service if there’s a problem.
Beyond the ease of access, another factor that third party review websites consider when rating online casinos and their customer support is the attitude and ability of the staff. Being prompt, polite, and capable of solving problems (or explaining why there’s a delay if this cannot happen quickly) can make all the difference to the customer experience.
Casino Reputation
The approach taken by customer service is one of the leading factors in the reputation an online casino has earned itself over the years. While more ephemeral than other areas (such as licensing and available games) the reputation of a betting site should not be overlooked when pondering where to play. Technical problems can strike anywhere, even the best sites, but if it’s a chore to resolve even basic difficulties that makes the whole experience ten times worse. An online casino with a reputation for being unhelpful just rubs salt in the wound and should be avoided. A key thing to remember is that there is no shortage of online casinos, so it is well worth browsing around for the best site(s) rather than making do with second best.
Slower withdrawal times can be another annoyance, and some sites have earned themselves the reputation of being laggards when it comes to processing withdrawals. When considering that some banking methods can take up to 5 working days (for cards), slowness by the casino can make it a matter of a week or more before profits turn into cash in the bank. And while all casinos reserve the right to terminate player accounts, a site that does this in response to reasonable requests for problems to be resolved is one that should be shunned.
Generous Promos or Misleading Bonuses
One of the biggest weapons in the casino arsenal when it comes to differentiating themselves from rivals in the battle to attract new players is the welcome bonus. These can be very generous but sometimes not all is as it appears. Players, or reviewing websites, should delve into the terms and conditions to see what wagering requirement is attached to introductory promotions, particularly match deposit deals. These are commonly offered to new players, normally at 100% up to a certain threshold (often a few hundred dollars) which effectively doubles an initial bankroll. However, because bonus cash and associated profits can only be withdrawn once the wagering requirement has been satisfied a high WR can radically diminish the value of a promotion. The wagering requirement is the total sum that must be wagered prior to said withdrawal, and a good standard is 30x the value of a bonus. If the requirement is double this or even higher it takes a lot more time to satisfy and reduces the chances of finishing ahead. The withdrawal cap (a ceiling on potential winnings) should also be checked to ensure this is not too low.
Free spins are often thrown in with the welcome bonus and are a nice little extra. These types of promotions may also be offered on a recurring basis for existing players (sometimes on a weekly basis). Even as a new player, this should be kept in mind as it offers ongoing value and can be a reason to stay around for the long term.
From bonuses to games, security to customer service, there are lots of ways seemingly similar casinos differ wildly, and it’s wise to consider carefully before signing up.
