Online Pokie Mistakes Players Often Make

Online pokies are a favourite pastime for many Kiwis, offering thrilling gameplay and the chance for exciting wins. While these games are largely based on luck and don't demand complex strategies like poker or blackjack, it's a common misconception that they require no attention at all. In reality, even the most straightforward online pokie can lead to frustrating mistakes if players aren't focused.

From the moment you launch a game to the point you hit the spin button, there are several crucial decisions and details that demand your awareness. Overlooking these can not only diminish your enjoyment but also lead to unnecessary losses. To help you navigate the world of online pokies more effectively, let's explore some of the most common errors players make and how you can easily avoid them.

Common Pitfalls for Online Pokie Players in New Zealand

Even seasoned players can fall victim to simple oversights when spinning the reels. Here are some of the most frequent mistakes online pokie enthusiasts make:

• Not understanding the game's specific rules
• Ignoring the crucial ‘Info' or paytable section
• Choosing untrustworthy online casinos or game providers
• Overlooking the game's Return to Player (RTP) percentage

Not Grasping the Game Rules

Jumping into an online pokie without a basic understanding of its mechanics is like trying to play a new board game without reading the instructions. While many pokies share similar structures, significant differences exist. For instance, not all games feature the same payline configurations, bonus round triggers, or special symbol functions.

A player accustomed to a classic 5-reel pokie might be confused by a Megaways title, or someone used to fixed paylines might miss opportunities in a game with adjustable ones. Just as a roulette player wouldn't dive into Mahjong or Pai Gow without learning the ropes, pokie players should take a moment to familiarise themselves with each new game.

Skipping the ‘Info' or Paytable Section

This is perhaps one of the most common and easily avoidable mistakes. Every online pokie comes equipped with an ‘Info' button, often represented by an ‘i' symbol or a question mark. This section is a treasure trove of vital information, clearly explaining:

• The value of each symbol
• How paylines or ‘ways to win' are structured
• The mechanics for triggering bonus features like free spins
• Special symbol functions (Wilds, Scatters, Multipliers)
• The game's RTP (Return to Player)

Taking a few minutes to review this page can prevent confusion and ensure you understand exactly what's happening on the reels.

Overlooking the Return to Player (RTP) Percentage

The RTP is a theoretical percentage that indicates how much of the wagered money a pokie game will return to players over an extended period. While it doesn't guarantee individual wins, it's a crucial indicator of a game's fairness and potential payout rate. Ignoring RTP means you might be playing games with significantly lower payout potential.

As a general rule for online pokies, we recommend choosing games with an RTP of 95% or higher. This information is almost always found within the game's info section or on the casino's website.

Choosing Unreliable Online Casinos or Game Providers

The online gambling landscape in New Zealand is vast, with countless options for playing video slots. A significant mistake is playing at an unlicensed or untrustworthy online casino, or with games from unknown, unverified software providers. This can lead to unfair game outcomes, issues with withdrawals, or compromised personal data.

Always stick to reputable online casinos that hold valid licenses from recognised international authorities (as NZ doesn't license online casinos directly). Similarly, opt for games developed by well-known and audited providers like Push Gaming, Nextgen Gaming, and Elk Studios. These providers are regularly tested for fairness and randomness.

Mistakes That Can Occur When Setting Up Your Game

Once you've chosen a reliable casino and a game you understand, there are still critical decisions to make before your first spin. These setup mistakes can significantly impact your playing experience and bankroll.

Poor Bankroll Management and Incorrect Bet Sizing

One of the most fundamental aspects of responsible gambling is managing your bankroll effectively. A common mistake is setting your bet size too high relative to your total budget. This can lead to your funds depleting rapidly, cutting your session short and potentially leading to chasing losses.

Before you start, determine your total bankroll for the session and then choose a bet size that allows for a reasonable number of spins. For example, if you have $100, betting $5 per spin will give you far fewer chances than betting $0.50. Never stake more than you can comfortably afford to lose.

Misunderstanding Paylines and Ways to Win

While some pokies have fixed paylines, others allow you to adjust the number of active lines. A mistake here could be playing with too few lines, potentially missing out on winning combinations. Conversely, in games with ‘ways to win' mechanics (where adjacent symbols pay regardless of position), players might not fully grasp how many potential winning paths exist.

Games like Megaways slots, for instance, can have hundreds of thousands of ways to win, making traditional payline thinking obsolete. Always check the game's info to understand how wins are formed and if you have control over the number of active lines.

Unaware of Bonus Trigger Mechanics

Bonus rounds, especially free spins, are often the most exciting and potentially lucrative part of an online pokie. However, a common mistake is not knowing what it takes to trigger these features. While many games require three or more Scatter symbols, some have unique requirements, such as collecting special symbols, filling a meter, or landing specific combinations.

Missing out on a bonus because you didn't understand the trigger mechanism can be disappointing. Always consult the paytable to know exactly what symbols or conditions are needed to unlock those coveted bonus rounds.

Confusing Coin Values and Payouts

Some online pokies display winnings in ‘coins' rather than direct cash values. This can be confusing for players who don't understand the coin ratio or how it converts to their local currency (NZD). You might see a win of “500 coins” and assume it's a large sum, only to realise the coin value is very low.

Always check the game's interface for the coin value setting and how it relates to your actual cash bet and payouts. This ensures you have a clear understanding of your wins and losses in real money terms.

While online pokies are designed for entertainment and don't demand the strategic depth of games like blackjack, a little attention and preparation can go a long way. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can enhance your playing experience, manage your bankroll more effectively, and truly enjoy the thrill that online slots offer. Stay focused, play responsibly, and have fun!