Playing pokies can be both exciting and rewarding when you know the right strategies. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced player, these 10 essential tips will help you maximize your pokies experience and make smarter betting decisions.
Table of Contents
1. Understand Return to Player (RTP) Rates
RTP (Return to Player) is one of the most important factors to consider when choosing which pokies to play. RTP represents the percentage of all wagered money that a pokie will pay back to players over time. For example, a pokie with a 96% RTP will return $96 for every $100 wagered over the long term.
What to look for:
Always choose pokies with an RTP of 96% or higher. Popular high RTP pokies include Book of Dead (96.21%), Starburst (96.1%), and Gonzo's Quest (96%). Avoid pokies with RTP below 94% as they offer significantly lower returns.
2. Master Bankroll Management
Effective bankroll management is crucial for long-term success. Never bet more than you can afford to lose, and always set a budget before you start playing.
Pro Tips:
- Set a daily, weekly, or monthly gambling budget and stick to it
- Never chase losses by increasing your bets
- Use the 5% rule: never bet more than 5% of your bankroll on a single spin
- Set win and loss limits before you start playing
- Take breaks regularly to avoid making emotional decisions
3. Take Advantage of Free Spins and Bonuses
Welcome bonuses and free spins can significantly boost your bankroll and extend your playing time. However, it's essential to read and understand the terms and conditions before claiming any bonus.
What to check:
- Wagering requirements (look for 35x or lower)
- Maximum bet limits while using bonus funds
- Game contribution percentages
- Time limits for completing wagering requirements
- Restricted games or payment methods
4. Choose the Right Bet Size
Your bet size should be proportional to your bankroll. Betting too high can deplete your funds quickly, while betting too low might not maximize your winning potential.
Betting strategy: Start with smaller bets to get familiar with the game, then gradually increase if you're winning. Most pokies allow you to adjust your bet per line and the number of paylines. Remember, betting on all paylines increases your chances of winning but also increases your total bet per spin.
5. Learn About Volatility
Pokies come in three volatility levels: low, medium, and high. Understanding volatility helps you choose games that match your playing style and bankroll.
- Low Volatility: Frequent small wins, perfect for longer playing sessions
- Medium Volatility: Balanced wins and losses, suitable for most players
- High Volatility: Less frequent but potentially larger wins, requires larger bankroll
6. Play Maximum Paylines When Possible
Many pokies require you to bet on all paylines to be eligible for the maximum jackpot or bonus features. While this increases your bet per spin, it also maximizes your winning potential.
If your bankroll is limited, consider playing pokies with fewer paylines or adjustable payline options. This allows you to control your bet size while still having a chance to win.
7. Understand Bonus Features
Modern pokies come with various bonus features like free spins, multipliers, expanding wilds, and bonus rounds. Understanding how these features work can significantly improve your gameplay.
Key features to look for:
- Free spins rounds with multipliers
- Wild symbols that substitute for other symbols
- Scatter symbols that trigger bonus features
- Progressive jackpots for life-changing wins
- Gamble features (use with caution)
8. Practice with Free Play Mode
Most online casinos offer free play or demo mode for their pokies. Use this feature to familiarize yourself with the game mechanics, bonus features, and paytable before risking real money.
Free play allows you to:
- Learn the game rules and features
- Test different betting strategies
- Understand the game's volatility
- Determine if you enjoy the game before depositing
9. Know When to Stop
One of the most important pokies tips is knowing when to walk away. Set clear win and loss limits before you start playing, and stick to them regardless of whether you're winning or losing.
Stop signals:
- You've reached your predetermined loss limit
- You've achieved your win goal
- You're feeling frustrated or emotional
- You're playing longer than planned
- You're increasing bets to chase losses
10. Choose Reputable Casinos
Always play at licensed, reputable online casinos that are regulated by recognized authorities. This ensures fair gameplay, secure transactions, and reliable payouts.
What to verify:
- Valid gambling license (Curacao, Malta, UK, etc.)
- SSL encryption for secure transactions
- Positive player reviews and ratings
- Fast and reliable payment methods
- Responsive customer support
- Fair gaming certifications (eCOGRA, iTech Labs)
Conclusion
By following these 10 essential pokies tips, you'll be better equipped to make informed decisions and maximize your playing experience. Remember, pokies are games of chance, and there's no guaranteed way to win. However, understanding RTP, managing your bankroll, choosing the right games, and playing responsibly will help you enjoy pokies while minimizing risks.
Always prioritize responsible gambling, set limits, and never bet more than you can afford to lose. With the right knowledge and approach, pokies can be an entertaining and potentially rewarding form of online gaming.