The Complete Guide to Online Pokies
Everything Australian players need to know about online pokies - from understanding RTP and volatility to finding the best games and playing responsibly.
What Are Online Pokies?
Online pokies (also called slots in other countries) are digital versions of the traditional slot machines found in pubs, clubs, and casinos across Australia. They're the most popular form of online gambling, offering simple gameplay and the potential for big wins.
Modern online pokies feature advanced graphics, immersive themes, and exciting bonus features that go far beyond the classic fruit machines. From ancient civilisations to outer space adventures, there's a pokie theme for everyone.
How Online Pokies Work
Random Number Generator
Every spin uses an RNG to determine the outcome. This ensures each spin is completely random and independent of previous results. Licensed casinos have their RNGs regularly audited for fairness.
Reels and Paylines
Most pokies have 5 reels with various numbers of paylines (ways to win). Some modern pokies offer hundreds or even thousands of ways to win through mechanisms like Megaways.
Bet Sizes
Pokies allow flexible betting, typically from a few cents to hundreds of dollars per spin. Higher bets usually unlock all features but also mean faster losses if you're unlucky.
Understanding RTP and Volatility
RTP (Return to Player)
RTP represents the theoretical percentage of all wagered money a pokie will pay back over time. For example, a pokie with 96% RTP will return $96 for every $100 wagered on average over millions of spins.
RTP Guidelines
Remember: RTP is calculated over millions of spins. In the short term, anything can happen.
Volatility (Variance)
Volatility describes how a pokie's wins are distributed. This affects your playing experience more than RTP in the short term.
Low Volatility
Frequent small wins. Good for longer sessions and smaller bankrolls. Less dramatic ups and downs.
Medium Volatility
Balanced mix of small and larger wins. The most common type. Suits most players.
High Volatility
Rare but larger wins. Long dry spells between wins. Requires larger bankroll and patience.
Common Pokie Features
Modern pokies offer a variety of features to enhance gameplay and increase winning potential.
Wild Symbols
Substitute for other symbols to create winning combinations. Some wilds expand, stick, or multiply wins.
Scatter Symbols
Pay regardless of position on the reels. Usually trigger bonus rounds or free spins when enough appear.
Free Spins
Bonus rounds where you spin without wagering. Often include multipliers or special features for bigger wins.
Multipliers
Multiply your wins by a set amount. Can appear during base game or bonus features.
Progressive Jackpots
Jackpots that grow with each spin until won. Can reach millions of dollars on popular pokies.
Cascading Reels
Winning symbols disappear and new ones fall in. Multiple wins possible from a single spin.
Buy Feature
Pay to trigger bonus rounds instantly instead of waiting. Usually costs 50-100x your bet.
Gamble Feature
Risk your winnings for a chance to double (or lose) them. Usually a coin flip or card game.
Top Pokie Providers
These software providers create the most popular and trusted online pokies.
Pragmatic Play
Known for high-volatility pokies with big win potential. Popular titles include Sweet Bonanza, Gates of Olympus, and The Dog House.
NetEnt
Industry pioneer with high-quality graphics. Famous for Starburst, Gonzo's Quest, and Dead or Alive series.
Microgaming
One of the oldest providers with massive game library. Home to Mega Moolah, the record-breaking progressive jackpot.
Big Time Gaming
Inventors of the Megaways mechanic. Known for Bonanza, Extra Chilli, and innovative game mechanics.
Play'n GO
High-quality games with excellent mobile optimisation. Popular for Book of Dead, Reactoonz, and Rich Wilde series.
Tips for Playing Pokies
Check the RTP
Always check the RTP before playing. Higher RTP means better theoretical returns over time. Look for pokies with 96%+ RTP.
Understand Volatility
Choose volatility that matches your bankroll and playing style. High volatility needs patience and bigger bankrolls.
Try Demo Mode First
Most online casinos let you play pokies for free in demo mode. Use this to understand the game before risking real money.
Set Win and Loss Limits
Decide in advance when you'll stop - both if you're winning and losing. Stick to these limits no matter what.
Avoid the Gamble Feature
The gamble feature might seem tempting but it increases the house edge. Taking your wins is usually the smarter choice.
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