Know which form of gambling is for you

Gambling has evolved into different forms. Gambling, primarily, is a form of entertainment.  It is a sport involving money, or whatever is at stake, in a game of chance. Gambling or betting began as early as 2300 B.C.  Gambling artifacts, like dice, had been found in countries like Egypt, China, India and Rome. In a recent poll, 63% of Americans support legalized gambling. Another 22% agree that it must be expanded. From dice to roulettes and to computer mouse, which form of gambling is for you? Here are some choices: 

*Casino games 

These are gambling games usually played inside the casino. A player can win with the right tactic and optimistic mathematical probability. Here are some examples: 

Poker

Poker is the most popular casino game. It is believed to have been originated from the game ‘as nas’, which is a Persian game. It uses a deck of cards for a series of betting rounds.  The player with the best hand wins the pot. Poker is also regarded as a game of strategy and skill. 

Online Casino

These are virtual casinos that are played on the internet. The rules are similar with actual casino games but players can either be a real or computer- generated players. 

Slot machines

A betting machine that uses a coin to rotate a set of reels usually pulled by a lever. You have to get identical patterns to win. 

Roulette 

Roulettes were invented by Blaise Pascal, a French mathematician, in 1842. It is a simple gambling game where in you have to bet on which number a small ball will hit. 

*Gambling with fixed- odds

These are certain types of game where in you have to bet on a specific outcome of a given situation. These include horse racing, baseball, motor racing, jai alai and ice hockey, among others. 

*Sports betting 

Even though illegal in most countries, sports betting have boomed in the gambling industry. Bets are based on a point system of sports, like baseball or football. Common sports bets are: against the spread, against odds and against a combination of spread and odds. 

*Arbitrage betting 

You might often see this on the web tagged as risk- free gambling. The concept is to put a bet on a particular result with varied betting groups. Being an investment procedure, it involves a bigger amount of money compared to normal gambling. 

Be sure to treat gambling as a pastime, and not a source of money. When engaged in one, set a maximum spending limit. Practice gambling in moderation and don’t let it interfere with your set priorities in life.

Gambling Addiction

To people who don’t gamble, or more so to normal gamblers, the thought that they will progress to compulsive gamblers is ridiculous. The start of compulsive gambling may be incited by situations or circumstance. But the conditions are real.

What’s the similarity between pathological gambling and chemical dependency?

The first distinct similarity is the inability to take control or stop the addiction. The denials to the addiction accompanied by severe depression are also similarities. Both diseases are progressive in nature and goes through similar stages. 

The first stage being the “chase”, looking for that high or win. The use of the addiction to numb the pain brought about by problems. The pathological gambler and a drug or alcohol dependent person are preoccupied with nothing else except their addiction. They look for immediate gratification and have very low self-esteem.

Pathological gambling not like chemical addiction is a disease not easily noticeable. There are a lot of indicators that would identify a chemically dependent person. But a gambler can exist normally for long periods of time. The large debt that a gambler can incur requires attention.

Pathological gamblers require crisis counseling at the start of their treatment, mainly because pathological gamblers have a higher suicide rate than persons addicted to drugs or alcohol. 

Is the level of addiction for all types of gambling the same?

Forms of gambling that give immediate gratification are the worst kind. The slot machine and video are prime examples of these. The use of the instant gratification and effective reinforcement, gamblers that play these machines often progress into pathological gamblers more often than gamblers that play other games. 

The time it takes to go from the first bet to a chronic addiction is shortest for this form of gambling. Before it would take many years before a person would be considered “sick” gambling in races, etc.  Nowadays, it is fairly common for a person to be addicted to a slot machine or video poker with two to three years.

Is pathological gambling biological in nature?

Recent findings would indicate that pathological gambling is a dependency quite similar to a chemical dependency. A study by a psychiatrist Alec Roy, M.D. formerly of the NIAAA showed that compulsive gamblers have low levels of norepinephrine compared to normal gamblers. 

The chemical is secreted from the brain when stressed, aroused or excited. A pathological gambler engages in his addiction to raise the levels of norepinephrine.

The findings reinforce the assertion of Dr. Henry Lesieur that pathological gamblers are “thrill seekers” who gamble for the excitement brought about by the game and not the pursuit of money.

Losers! How to Avoid Becoming One

The chances of a person drawing a royal flush is the same regardless of who he is. But why do some people lose so much and why do other people seem so damn lucky. You know the rules and you know the odds, why is it your still losing. Loser?  Probably not, but to make sure check out this list. It won’t guarantee winning but might help you avoid the loser tag.

1. Decide on how much you are willing to lose (and win)

People lose a lot of money gambling due to lack of planning. They gamble way over their head because they don’t know when to stop. The reason being they didn’t plan when to stop. 

2. Don’t borrow other people’s money to gamble

If you can’t afford to lose money, don’t play in the first place. The added pressure of playing someone else’s money is too much. Losing your own money is difficult enough, so if you don’t have some, don’t play.

3. Set the alarm.

If you’ve already decided how much you’re willing to lose, well and good. Now it’s time to set a time limit. You can’t play forever and you shouldn’t., especially if you’re playing in a casino. The games favor the house in all cases, the longer you play the chances of you losing increases. So, set the alarm and then leave when it goes off.

4. Time out

Don’t play continuously without a break. The excitement and the adrenalin can probably get you going non-stop but when fatigue sets in, you start making bad decisions and make mistakes. So, rest up and relax. Then go back in.

5. Do other stuff.

Preoccupying yourself with only gambling breaks your inner balance. True, focusing gets good results but focusing only on one thing alone leads to bad things. Doing other things gives you a different perspective on other things that you do, it gives you possible insights that you may miss when focused on one thing only.

6. Don’t gamble when you're stressed or emotional

Not being in the right frame of mind can cost you big on the table. The most obvious thing that you would be lacking is focus. If your mind is preoccupied with other things and the state of your emotions is a mess. Those things lead to poor judgment and critical mistakes. 

Simple plays become more difficult and most things become confusing. The poor emotional state you are in means playing emotionally instead of smartly. 

Raking it in at Video Poker

Fact, of all the hands dealt only 21% are winning hands. The rest, which is 79%, are losers. The difference between a winner and a loser is what he does with 79% of the hands dealt so that it becomes a winner.

To increase the chance of making money at video poker is to understand, embrace and promise loyalty to these video poker tips.

Find a machine that pays 9 for a full house win and six for a flush win. 

If you want to play on a progressive machine that pays 8 for a full house win and 5 for a flush win, be sure that the nickel machine pays a jackpot of $250 or better, the quarter machine pays $2,500 or better or $10,000 on a dollar video poker machine  

To collect on the royal flush bonus for a progressive machine, be sure to bet the maximum number of coins

Play on the machine with the lowest denomination if you are a new player. Wait until you get better before playing on the higher domination video poker.

Use slot card to get credit for playing, if the casino offers one. First ask the point equivalent for each dollar played. Then learn what those earned points are worth. 

Take time to read every hand you get. Remember you’re not playing against another person, it will not intimidate you for playing too slowly. 

Players don't recognize that the jack is the most important card in the deck, not the Ace. A Jack gives you a lot more lucrative hands than an ace. 

The variety of video poker you can play is almost endless, but all have their own payables that need specific strategies. The best way to start learning is to limit your choices to two.

Improve your game by playing on a computer or a portable video poker game. If you train this way, you get to test your skills with zero risk. 

Here are playing tips:

1. Don’t ever hold a kicker with your pair. This reduces your payoff by 5%

2. Don’t draw four cards, if you can get a royal flush drawing three.

3. Always stay on a winning five-card hand except when drawing a royal flush with one card.

4. Never break a flush to draw a straight flush even with one draw.

5. Always break your flush to draw a royal flush.

6. Don’t break your straight to draw for a straight flush.

7. Don’t draw five, if you’re holding Jacks or better.

8. Never leave a ten on a four card draw.

Lady Luck versus Mathematics: The Truth behind Lady Luck

In most cases, people contend that gambling is a game of chance that is why all winning bets are based on lady luck.

Most gamblers would insist that lady luck is the goddess of fate and chances of winning the game. They tend to believe that one stroke of lady luck on a players fate would definitely bring about winning streaks and endless shots of fame and fortune.

However, the concept of lady luck is basically based entirely on the fate of the person and not on the skill of the player depending on the game he or she is about to play.

No wonder why people always utter, “There goes lady luck again” to somebody who consistently wins the game. 

However, the problem lies in the fact that the so-called lady luck is not always consistent from day one until day two or three.

On its entirety, the truth behind lady luck is basically dependent on the stroke of luck that falls upon the person right at that very moment.

On the other hand, mathematicians argue that they can combat lady luck into a more realistic viewpoint by using numbers instead of fate or what their stars tell them.

That is why critics of the “gaming industry” would rather call blackjack, roulettes, and other games in the casinos as part of the gaming industry and not gambling industry because they want to let the people believe that the probabilities of winning is not based on chances or some kind of lady luck but on the mathematical statistics of every move.

The Drawback behind Lady Luck

The problem with people relying on their lady luck to smile at them so as to ward off any bad luck is that the modern game tends to fall back on the superstitious beliefs of most primitive people. 

Most of the losers tend to believe that they can ward off bad luck by using some techniques such as spreading some salts to ward off bad elements that bring bad luck.

Some even contend that the color of the clothes attract lady luck to come and sit with them.

The Conclusion

Consider this; some mathematicians contend that the odds of having or getting a royal flush are 1 in 649,739. This goes to show that if people will solely rely to lady luck, chances are they will definitely lose more than winning.

The bottom line: gambling is not about winning, it is entirely based on losing. The only winner is the casino owner who calls for the so-called “house advantage” and there is no lady luck to the rescue.

Tips on How to Win Texas Hold ‘em Poker

When people speak of poker, there is one name that cuts above the rest of the poker classification—the Texas Hold ‘em poker. This type of poker is considered to be the most popular type being played in the casinos today, whether online or in real casinos. 

Generally, Texas Hold ‘Em Poker starts with a batch of two players situated at the left of the “dealer button.” This dealer buttons refers to the round disc being passed on clockwise on each player. It signifies who will be dealer in the event that the deal was move forward from one player to another.

The betting starts on the first part of the game where the money is placed into the pot before dealing the cards. Normally, the first blind is the one that places half of the required minimum stake. The first blind refers to the player situated at the left of the dealer. The second blind, on the other hand, is the one responsible in placing the full minimum required bet.

Since the very object of the game is to win whatever is in the pot, it is best to know some rules or strategies so as to get an edge over the other players. Here’s how:

1. The table.

When a player is playing Texas hold ‘em poker, the best thing that he or she should consider is selecting the table. This is because players, regardless of their skills in playing the game, will be constrained to give their best shots if the table is too assertive, too rigid or too loose, or if it consists of players that are more skillful.

The bottom line: Even if the essence of winning the game is directly affected by the skills of the player, it is still best to play on a table that has few raisers but many callers. 

The logic behind this concept is based on the fact that the more raisers there are in a table, the lesser the chances of winning the game.

2. When a player is in the early position, it is best to raise with K-K, A-K, and A-As, then, with A-Qs, Q-Q, J-J, A-K, T-T, have a call and then fold everything else.

3. For players who already have a remarkable hand starters, especially when he or she has a high pair, say JJ or even higher, it is best not to hesitate raising it before the flop.

Indeed, playing Texas hold ‘em poker requires skills also. It is not all based on gambling. This just goes to show that games like this requires both luck and skill to win the pot.

Beat that Slot Machine

Slot machines are very popular in the casinos. Everybody seems to be drawn by the look and the feel of playing it by spinning the wheel. The thrill of playing a slot machine keeps anyone coming back either they win or not. Here are a few reminders to make your game worthwhile and at the same time increase your chances on hitting the jackpot!

Make sure that you know what machine you are playing. This may sound stupid but there are a lot of players that have missed knowing that they were not able to play the exact amount of coins for the most favorable payment there is.

Be sure to go for the highest reimbursement there is. This is a gamble. There are chances that the fates are on your side. Go ahead, play and win!

Always play the maximum coins. Normally, jackpots are paid on the maximum coins played. This way, not only do you get the chance of hitting the jackpot but also you get a high payback.

Remember to see the payback percentage whether in a casino or online. Some are even offering as high as 90% or more.

Keep in mind how much you are willing to gamble. It is always wise to plan how much you are going to spend. With the thrill of playing and hopes of hitting the jackpot, your money could be gone in seconds.

There are machines that require inexpensive games. These are the single pay line machines. This way, you could still play and have the chance on hitting the jackpot but doesn’t risk of losing all your money.

Try playing on two or three-coin slot machines. This way you could maximize the playing time of your money.

If you have a small budget for playing the slots, avoid playing the progressive slots online. Their payouts are much lower than the regular slot machine does. Plus, they could max out your budget in a few playing minutes.

You hit on jackpot at the first spin. It is likely for you to hope on playing for another round. But as it is, this is a game of chance. You are not sure if you would be hitting on the jackpot the second time or the third, etc. If you win, take the money and quit, don’t fall into giving back the money to the machine.

The rules on beating the slot machine simply works the same way as spinning a regular wheel that has to stop and produce a matching pattern of numbers or pictures in some case. So go ahead, have fun, spin the wheel and hit the jackpot!

Why Senior Gambling Exists?

In the United States, gambling is a prevalent activity. In 2002 alone, surveys show that almost 65% of the American population is hooked up with gambling.

In fact, there are professional analyzers that insist on their findings that there are more people who spend more money in gambling than they would do with the other nonsense items such video games, theme parks, and movie tickets, even if all of these things are combined all together.

Since then, there have been numerous reports about how gambling is penetrated in the society. There are still studies that lack evidence and conclusions about senior gambling.

These should pose an alarming case. This can be attributed to the recent survey done on almost 7,000 seniors, wherein, bingo had ranked as the second most-played gambling game by seniors.

Moreover, the number of senior people who are into gambling have increased from 20% in 1974 to 50% in 1988. These figures can be very alarming in spite of the long gap between 1974 and 1988. Also, this only goes to show that senior gambling is gradually but steadily growing in number.

Because most of the seniors have already gotten their “nest eggs,” they have more tendencies to get involved in gambling because of their money. 

So, for people who want to know why senior gambling is so rampant these days, here’s a list of some facts that could be of great help.

1. Senior gambling is prevalent because of the fact that they do not have anything to do and that gambling is the only activity they find lucrative and at the same time gratifying.

2. Lack of attention and deteriorating opportunities made available for their social interaction, older people are more vulnerable to gambling these days. They find gambling as one way of escaping the hard realities of life that they could not bear. In turn, they gamble a lot so as to forget life’s problems.

3. Another reason why a lot of senior people are so much into gambling is that they have money, usually from their nest eggs or retirement funds. The more money they have, the more chances of gambling more.

4. In reality, senior gambling does not delve more on winning but more on the entertainment and satisfaction that they get whenever senior people gamble.

5. More privileges are available for senior gamblers, thus, seniors find it more convenient and more pleasurable to play gambling.

Secrets To Win Any Gambling

Gambling can be a lot of fun. But it isn’t when you are always on the losing end. If you can not afford to lose your money, never mind gambling. But you can make serious money in betting. Well, you can even be rich. 

Contrary to the usual belief that you gamble solely on pure chance and luck, adding in a little mathematics and some proven game strategies will not hurt. In fact, it can guarantee you a good pay out. 

Here are some secrets to win any kind of gambling. 

*Know the right type of gambling for you.

There are hundreds of gambling games that you can try for yourself. Casinos, sports betting, or even arbitrage betting. If you pick one, master it. 

*Learn about the game.

Read related materials of the game such as basic rules and tips. As the old cliché goes, knowledge is power. You can have the edge by investing on good books or download tips and secrets on the web. 

*Set a minimum bet in every game. 

After a win, bet only half of the pot you put in the previous round. When you lose, go back to your least bet.  This is often regarded as progressive betting. Use it rather than straight betting. 

*Always check the odds.

Choose a betting game that has 3 percent or less casino advantage. Among others, popular games are poker, black jack and craps.

*Watch the trend

Be attentive to your winning and losing trend. Get the probability and ratio of your winnings and losing. If you think that you are on the brink of losing, then don’t bet. 

*Stick to a strategy. 

Pick a strategy that works best for you. There is no such thing as the greatest strategy but there are proven ones. Collate all known gaming strategies and select the one that is effective and works for you.  

*Don’t be overly greedy 

Being greedy might give you a couple of dollars more but being overly greedy might cause you to lose them all. 

*Be optimistic

Muster some confidence that you will win those dollars. This attitude would keep you betting until you get some good pay. But never expect to win all the time, which barely happens. You lose some, you win some. 

Keep in mind that winning doesn’t mean you have to win a bet every time. What matters most are your total net profit earnings. 

Trade secrets of online casino winners

The online casino business is so vast that it can probably outgrow the popularity of traditional casinos. With the onset of cyber casinos, interaction of players from around the world can be possible. As any gambling games, online casino can have rule breakers who can manipulate the game to their advantage. But you win and bring home large amounts of money fairly. Intrigued by trade secrets of online casino winners? Here are some of the known strategies and tips. 

Winning in roulette

*Bet on only one color and stay with it during the whole duration of the game. 

*Once you loose, double up or increase your next bet. 

*In the occasion that you win, stick with the number you originally bet on. 

Online Poker 

*You can download a strategy card for a complete poker system online. Some of them might need your credit card number though. 

*Sacrifice your straight or flush cards to convert them to at least one Royal. You might want to trade an ace with two high cards into a four- of –a- kind card. There is a bigger probability that you are going to get the latter. 

Slots Machine 

*Try to keep track of the average number of spins. When doing so, bet on the lowest available bet. 

*Jot down the number of spins with a greater payoff. If your winnings are ten times your bet, stop and count the number of spins that would get you the same amount again. 

*Increase your bet on the average number of spins that you have the greatest payoff. This system will make the slot machine to pay a larger pay out when you increase your bet. 

Black Jack 

*Just like poker, there is a strategy card you can refer to beat your playmates. 

*Use only one value chip. In case you lost in one round, add another chip to your bet. On every win, decrease your bet by 2 chips. If you win a bet twice in a row, go back on betting one chip.  Doing so, you bet more on the winning hands than you do for the losing hand.  This is the way to a big payoff. 

There are websites that offer downloadable versions of online casinos without betting with real money. This way you can put to practice some of essential tips provided above. You can buy a book or surf on some websites that offers online casino winning secrets too. Do some research and you will have a bigger chance on winning. 

ROULETTE TIPS TO WIN

Roulette is a game played by one to seven individuals.  Bets are placed by positioning chips on a certain number that they would want to win.  These chips are only for roulette and can not be used for any other game.  Each player have a different color of chips, in order for the dealer to recognize who the chip belongs to, making it easier for him to do the payouts later.  With this, a rule is set that hands are to be kept out of the table as soon as all the betting is done. The dealer then, spins the wheel.

Bets in roulette are of two types, the inside and the outside betting.

A point to remember is that roulette is not a game of prediction and possibility.  All numbers that are on the roulette wheel lands unplanned, or at random.

If you are losing, do acknowledge the fact that you are not simply lucky "today".  Don't keep playing hoping that you could gain back your losses.  You may end up losing too much.  Stop, because there are still better days to come.

As in any other casino game, before the game, consider following these suggestions:

*Keep in mind that you are in the casino to enjoy yourself, to be entertained.

*If playing online, read carefully the rules as well as the terms and condition of the casino site.

*When playing online, be sure to check the authenticity of the site.

*Always allocate a certain amount for the game, for the day.  Strictly stick to the limit.

While you are playing the game, keep in mind these guidelines:

*As with any game, a general rule is to gamble only the money that you could afford to lose.  Never use the money allotted for paying other bills such as rental, utility bills, etc.  You'll need professional help if you do gamble this way.

*practice makes perfect.  Before playing for real money, take the time to acquaint yourself first with the game.  "Feel" the game.

*Don't gamble with so much money in just one spin.  You may lose all in an instant.

*In roulette, what counts are your overall winnings.  If you are having a bad day, stop.  You can go back and try your luck again another day.

*Stay away from alcoholic beverages.  Alcohol can greatly affect you decisions in playing the game.  Have a clear mind when playing.

*Play when odds at a table are only zero.

Here are betting strategies to help you a winner at roulette:

*"Martingdale" is a betting strategy that is the most used by players.  This works in such a way that a player begins with a fixed bet, which is doubled when a player loses.  The doubling of the money continues until such time that one wins a hand.  With this, one automatically gain all loses.  One thus begins again, with a fixed bet.

*"reverse Martingdale" is a betting strategy which is basically has the same concept as the "Martingdale" betting technique but is a reversal of such strategy.

*"Progressive Betting".  This is applied in such a way that a player begins with a fixed initial bet, and every time one wins the bet, he increases the present bet by that initial amount.  Whereas each time a player loses, the bet will be, betting the current amount but the initial fixed bet is taken away.  This works well since as long as a player is winning continuously, the bet is also raising in such a pattern.  If a player is losing, the bet will be also in a descending pattern.

"D'Alembert" Raising ones bet according to a fixed amount when losing and lowering the bet when winning.

"Reverse D'Alembert"  works the same as D'Alembert type of betting, but a reversed method.

Roulette is an enjoyable game.  One can easily have a lot of fun with it.  And that is what one should aspire.  To have fun at casinos.  Nothing more, nothing less.

ROLLING THE DICE.........CRAPS STRATEGIES

Games at casinos are of two kinds.  The game of skill which is one counts on the acquired skill of a player.  Such games include blackjack, baccarat and poker.  Games such as roulettes, slot machines and craps are games that rely on the player's luck, which are called games of chance. 

The game of crap is played with a dice.  As all players know, each dice has six sides with number one through six accordingly.  Crap uses two dice.  With it, two (1, 1) the smallest number that can be rolled, and twelve will be the biggest number (6, 6).  Seven being the most common number that is rolled, establishes and determines the odds.

Here are reasons why players often lose the game.  Understanding this, one can have a better game:

*More often then not, these gamblers rely on their luck.  

*Usually these players already have losing in "mind".  

*Often, players have very little understanding of the game.

Here are different strategies that one can count on in playing craps:

*Betting the Pass Line.  When one wins, this pays an even winning. Place your bet on the Pass Line area.  If the result of the rolled dice is seven or eleven, you win.  While if two, three or twelve, you lose.  If the results are other than these numbers, you continue dicing until you roll a seven, you win.  If it comes out before a point, you lose.

*Betting the Don't Pass Bar.  This is the exact opposite of betting the Pass Line bar.  You win when the result of the come out roll is two or three.  You lose if the result is seven or eleven.  If the result is the number twelve, it is declared a push.  You keep on rolling the dice until such time a point seven is rolled.  You win id before the point, seven comes out.

*Come out bet.  This type of a bet can only be done after a come out roll resulting in the following numbers - 4, 5,6,8,9, or 10.  Similar to the Pass Line bet, if the result of the next roll is the number two, three or twelve, you lose.  While if the resulting next roll is seven or eleven, you are a winner.

The bottom line in any game is to always play wisely.  Think with your head and never rely on your luck when betting.  Look at the statistics; they will increase your chances of winning, as they will show you the betting probabilities.  Having a solid game plan, the discipline to execute them, as well as effective and precise money management will increase your winning chances.

Tips on How to Gamble Responsibly

Aside from becoming one financial roadblock, when one gets addicted to gambling, the preoccupation may just cause him his family and his whole social life. Who wants to be entangled into such problems like those, right? 

Gambling is supposed to be fun, not something that will ruin your life. Here are some tips on responsible gambling:

1. Plan to Lose.

This is not being pessimistic. Keep tabs on your losses and give yourself a loss limit. And stick to it strictly. Aside from the loss limit, setting a time limit will also make you one smart gambler.

2. Don't ask for help.

This easily translates to never asking for some borrowed money to continue gambling. If you have determined a quite manageable loss limit, you will never have to borrow money to gamble. 

3. Have a break.

Frequent breaks while playing online will not only make you relax, it will also give you time to just rethink how much you have been losing then subsequently quit it.

4. Don't just gamble, mingle.

Incorporate other less wallet pinching activities such as chatting with a new acquaintance or some old friend who also happen to visit the casino. Don't feel guilty when you don't get to gamble the whole night through. Practicing your social graces is also one good way to spend the night. Who knows you might just have let one investment deal pass just because you were too hooked up rolling the dice.

5. Don't play when depressed and stressed.

Just like shopping and eating, it's never a good way to make use of gambling as an outlet to belch out your woes or any trouble. Gambling when you are feeling low will not solve you problem. It might even blow it up to some mammoth proportion you never intended it to be. 

6. Say no to ruining your budget just because of gambling.

Stay only with the budget you allocated for entertainment. Money for everyday expenses should never be touched if it's only your craving to roll the dice that you are trying to quench.

7. Don't go chasing your losses.

Acceptance is one mature way to deal with any problem. This does not exclude losing when gambling. It won't be smart to chase your losses since it might make you lose even more. 

If all else fails to remind you that gambling should not be taken lightly, remember that casinos are not built as charity houses to give out money. They are making a business out of the gamblers' losses.

Is Offline gambling A Dinosaur?

Over the past twenty plus years internet technology has developed and attracted millions. It has transformed the way people live. The way people consume products or services has changed drastically. People want instant information and service and by extension, people demand instant cash.

In cyberspace a gambler can have easy access to online gaming. Online gaming plays like a real casino but instead of interacting with a dealer at a table you use a web-based software instead.

What’s missing online?

Apparently the lack of atmosphere or ambience when gambling on the Net was cited in a study as one of the most important aspects of offline gambling that is missing online. The online games on the internet try to imitate the real deal by featuring graphics and text animation. Even including verbal interaction. 

With every mouse click, the program gives a corresponding sound like coins in a slot machine. The software-dealer starts talking if there are no action or commands given. Despite all of this though, the atmosphere of a casino hasn’t been recreated. 

The adrenalin rush in a real casino cannot be recreated online either. Playing at home, an online gambler is playing alone and no amount of tinkering in the program can create an atmosphere. The lack of atmosphere prevents a person from gambling with friends. 

The live casino has been associated with a socializing ambience and a lot of gamblers feel an attachment to the environment. 

Hey Big Brother!

The main reason people give for not shopping in the internet is a perceived risk in security. That perception is much higher for online gambling. Although most sites give an information link to the existing security technology, still the perception remains. 

Most people experience great discomfort in using a credit card on online gambling. Not only the perceived security issues that gamblers feel uncomfortable with, it is also the lack of any kind of control on the outcome. 

Online people cannot move from one table to another and make crucial decisions. The reality of losing money on the internet is distorted, most people cannot feel that they are losing money. Simply because of the idea that you’re just sitting at home, how can they lose so much money.

All the light shows and sound effects an online casino can muster, it cannot substitute for the action happening inside the halls of a casino. People feel more in control when playing inside a casino, whether it’s strategizing or managing his money. The thrill of having a crowd and the joy of companionship is also a very important plus. Dinosaurs? Maybe, but they are still giants and very much alive.

POKER TIPS........TO WIN!

Poker is a very popular card game, where players with either fully or partially hidden cards bet into a central "pot."  To the player having the best card combination, the accumulated bet in the pot is then handed over.  

Before the dealing of the cards, one or more players, depending on the rule, is required to place an initial bet unto the pot. After which, the cards are dealt, face down.  Thus the beginning of the game.

Strategy should be developed so that one will learn who plays fair or who the sharper player is.  By defining them, one can easily deal with them.  Carefully study each players move so you will prevent loss in your cards.

Poker is a game of strategy.  Even with bad set of cards, a good poker player still has a high chance of winning.  Here are some tips:

*Hand strength.  Any hand that is less than a pair should be folded at the earliest opportunity that comes.  Don't wait that other cards will remedy the situation, because they will not.

*Display a poker face.  This makes the other players wary of your cards.  Your expression will let your opponents know how good or how bad are your cards.  A point to remember, never project any clue to them, if you will, then make certain that if you do have bad cards, pretend you have otherwise.

Do bear in mind that bluffing will not work if you are a poor player.  Meaning players who over estimate the force of their hand.  Also, if a player bluffs repeatedly or regularly, expert players will eventually sense their style and would now know if they are bluffing or not.

*Never be afraid to fold.  One threatening aspect in poker is placing your bet.  As to how much or how little one should bet, feel the game.  As you go along, you will then be knowledgeable and know when to bet and when to fold.  A rule to keep in mind is, don't expect later cards will improve your situation if you have nothing in your hand.  Be free to fold as frequently as needed. 

*Control.  Bet wisely.  This means betting with your head.  Bet only within your means.  You can not gain fortunes in poker, so stay within your limits.

*No alcohol.  As alcohol makes one bolder and daring, it is wise to avoid it at poker time.  You might find yourself betting more in not so good cards.  Avoid alcohol especially when the stakes are high.

It is important for one to devote a lot of time for the development of your own strategy.  The more you play the game, the longer that you are exposed to it, you could then have your own secrets to winning the game.

Beat your Online Poker Opponent

Playing and winning online poker is a science. It is both a skill and an art of mastering things that most players take for granted.

If you are signing up for an online poker game, keep in mind never to choose the “any game at this limit” option. By choosing this, you are also hindering your capacity to take control of your position on every sign up list. There are options that give you the privilege of having the top position by winning and giving up the place by quitting and at the same time you could still rejoin and have you name at the bottom of the list.

Always look for a card room that fits your style. This way you always get the upper hand. If luck strikes in and you get on a bad round, look around the page for another table.

Playing two games at the same time seems a nice idea. It seems that by doing this, you could double your money in one playing hour. This could be true for some players, but remember, it happens for a few and not for everybody. Besides, playing two games at a time would definitely lay down your small blind more and you sure are most likely to tilt. Keep yourself focused on one game. This way you could have the upper hand especially if you’re playing a major, drawn-out pot. Playing one game at a time also helps you play straightforwardly with only one opponent to concentrate on.

There is online software that has proved to be marvelous. However, there are minor glitches that you need to stay away from. This is the “in-turn” button. This button allows the player to act on hand before your actual turn and allows him to go back trying on other moves. But there may be instances that the internet connection may not be at their best. There may be a time that while clicking the “check in-turn button,” the action may already be on you. What will happen is that the “call” button might be popping out on your screen in the place where you are supposed to click the “check” button.

In poker, the only sure way of winning is by showing down the best hand. This is true not only for casinos but for online as well. However, there a number of reasonable ways a smart player could increase his chances of winning. The sure way of acquiring winning poker skills is by checking out how players deal with their games and keeping in mind the right moves.

ONLINE GAMBLING SCAMS...HOW TO AVOID THEM

As the online gaming business flourishes on the internet today, so do online gambling scams.  These scams are rampant.

There many online casinos that are not "real".  They look like casinos, offering games and prizes.  Often many fall victim to such traps.  People trust too much and are usually misled by such disguises.  

Certain casino sites are a scam in itself.  These sites offer pretty much the same as the authentic sites.  Once you have deposited your money, you might be surprised that they have rules that prevent you from withdrawing your funds.  It is always better to read and understand the rules before registering.

Bonus scams targets players that have been banned or moved to other casino sites.  This is the simplest and most effective of all scams.  Casinos are in need of continuous flow of fund deposits from gamblers.  Thus, bonuses attract players in.  They do this by sending emails to prospects, stating that they are entitled to certain bonuses once they deposit money to their existing accounts.  

After a deposit has been made, casinos will state that a player is not qualified to receive a bonus.  Yet players still continue to play their deposits.  This is what casinos are expecting to happen and they have achieved their goal.

If you do suspect that you are a victim of such a scam, do the following:

*As soon as possible, stop making deposits.

*If you can cash out, do it immediately.

*Contact the site's customer care if your cash out attempt failed.

*They should respond within forty eight hours to your inquiry.  If not, contact them again.

*If credit or debit cards were used to deposit funds, contact the establishment to inform them that you might have been a victim of internet fraud.  So they could take all the necessary precautions.  And as needed, cancel your credit card.

*If you have used Neteller take out all funds left in that account.

*If ten days have passed and still no contact was made by the casino site, contact them again.  State your demand firmly.

*The Online Players association can be of help in mediating to settle disputes between parties. Ask their assistance.

*Wait and hope that all will be settled. 

*Report to certain web portals the incident.  So this won't happen to other players.

Here is a list of some blacklisted casino sites:

1LuckyGambler.com 

DiamondCoastCasino.com 

100kcasino.com 

ExcelsiorCasino.com 2

000-casino.com

GalaxyCasino.com

Casino-Titanic.com 

 aaaacasino.com 

games4money.com 

AceInTheHoleCasino.com 

GoldKeyCasino.com 

WinForReal.com

HighRollerCasino.com

 Americas-OnlineCasino.com

 i-Casino.com 

BlackBananaCasino.com 

Java-Casino.com 

BlackWidowCasino.com 

Ladydream.com 

BubbasCasino.com

 BugsyOnline.com 

MagicOasis.com 

CasinoBar.com 

NYCcasino.com 

CasinoClub.com

PlanetRockCasino.com 

VegasOddsCasino.com 

CasinoExtreme.com 

RealBet.com 

CasinoHeat.com

CasinoKingTut.com

CasinoLuxor.com

CasinoOfTheKings.com

MonteCasino.com 

CasinoOnAir.com

AcesKasino.com 

Thevirtualcasino.com 

ClubVIPCasino.com 

CrystalCasino.com 

One would be surprised to see such a long list.  Keep in mind, there are as many "fake" casinos as there are "real" ones.  Always check the site carefully.  Better be sure than sorry.

To Gamble Online or Not to Gamble Online - That is the Question

Compared to a real casino experience, here are some of the considerable pros and cons of online gambling:

Pros of Online Gambling

1. Hot Offers

As a competitive business, online gambling can give so much to persuade gamblers. They could offer bonuses for new customers to sign up, i.e., additional 10-50% of their initial deposit to their bankroll, random deposit of money in customer accounts, and giving away vacations for particular levels of total money bet.

2. Better Rules

According to experienced online gamblers, online gambling has better rules compared to physical casinos.

3. Cozy Gambling

Of course, the online world makes online gambling another convenient way to have fun in the comfort of home. 

4. Less Annoyances.

Troubles with drunken people, smokers, thieves. With online gambling these real casino troubles are avoided.

5. No Tipping Obligation.

Unlike playing in a real casino, you don't have to be obligated to tip the waiters and dealers.

Cons of Online Gambling

1. Patience is a Virtue 

Cashing out can be a bit tedious with online gambling compared to real casino gambling. One may be prompted to wait for about 2-4 weeks for cashing out. With this in mind, the use of debit card is advised since with it, it is a lot faster to make your credit appear.

2. Customer Service Boo-Boos

Depending on where you play, you don't have that face to face confrontation power with the online gambling site. Some sites may offer toll-free calls and e-mail correspondence. But these are prone to delays compared to just talking to the casino manager or something to that effect. 

3. Online gambling casino calls the shots.

With online gambling, the player may have to deal with the casino's word as the final word when any dispute surfaces.

4. Credit/Debit Card Overuse

Your ability to balance your credit or debit card statement might fail with online gambling because of the temptation to play at a lot of places.

5. Inaccurate transaction documentations.

Transactions don't usually have the name of the casino you played at but instead only the merchant bank is identified. 

With this information, weigh the differences as to  whether you prefer to do online gambling or not.  As long as you don't get too hooked up on it and you're enjoying yourself, go ahead get a feel of the online world of gambling.

ONLINE GAMBLING GUIDE ...TO A BETTER GAME

When gambling online, select the casino site carefully to avoid being scammed.  Review the site wisely.  Don't just give your credit card number to the first site you find in the net.  Take the time to ask yourself these questions:

*Is the site authentic? Look if it is government licensed.  If not, go locate another site.

*Does the site have a twenty four hour toll free customer service support?  If not, look for other sites.

*For slot machines and pokers, what is their smallest denomination?  Look for a variety in denominations. They should have nickels, quarters, dollar as well as five dollar machines.

*How many versions of video poker do they offer?  They should have at least three, because this will be your basis that the site has money for the software, therefore it can afford to pay you your winnings. 

*Does the casino site have a place to record and keep track of purchases and cash out?

*What about customer care? Test them.  By sending them an email with a question, you can assess their customer service.  

*Does this site have a good reputation? What software does it use?  Know how to collect your winnings.  They should have detailed information about this. 

*How many days will it take for you to claim your winnings?  Certain sites require you to send them email stating your request.  Others give payouts only once a month, and others every two weeks.

*What are the rules about bonuses?

When gambling online, here are a few pointers that should be of help:

*Do your homework.  Play only at authentic sites.

*Allot a budget for a day's game.  Never go beyond that budget.

*Gamble only with money that you can afford to lose.  Don't gamble the money allocated for your home rental.  You'll be needing help if you play this way.

*Never mix alcohol and gambling.  They simply don't work together.  

*Your data is to be protected at all times.  When signing up, note that the casino should have a secure and data encrypted link.  Identity theft is rampant on the internet.

*Spend ample time reading to familiarize yourself with the game.

*Play by statistics.  Know the odds of the game.  Study it by numbers.  Hunches have no part in gambling.

*Just stick to the game.  Never mind the gimmicks.  Side bets, insurance and the "crapless craps" are offered in order to lure you to spend more so that the casino will make more money.

*Know when to call it quits.  If you are already winning, stop.  Don't try to win more, you may end up a big loser.  If you are already losing more than your allocated daily budget, stop.  There is always another day.

*Expect that you can lose the game.  Casinos are in the business because they set the rules in such a way that the house's win is important.  Generally, they have the edge over you.

A fact is that ninety eight percent of casino gambling is designed for recreation.  Therefore, play to enjoy.  To be entertained, you spend money.  If it gets to a point where it is no longer fun to you, where you play beyond your means, then stop now, or else, you may not be able to stop later.

ONLINE CASINO TRIVIA....Great bonuses!

What is online gambling?

Exceptional and wide choice of games

Allowing the gambler to train

Exercise and refine one's skill

Any game, at any time and anywhere

This is online gambling.

Considered as the fastest growing section on the internet, it offers online gaming such as poker, black jack, slots and a lot more.  With its availability, a player can enjoy his games right in his home.

Though very overwhelming at first try, one gets to be at ease and enjoy the game in no time.  For winners, casino offers bonuses that players look forward to.  Trivia questions are one such bonuses or incentives given to the lucky player.

Bonuses are offered by almost all casinos online.  This too, enables the player to try gaming without a large initial investment.  This attracts people to play at certain sites, and hopefully keep on playing.  Trivias are offered as incentives.

There are rules in bonuses or incentives.  Try to familiarize yourself:

*The maximum amount that a player may win which comes with a free account is limited.

*For payouts on the amount won by a player that include free accounts will take a while to be cleared.  Screening and checking of the individual's records is done meticulously.

*Free account may be withdrawn only through certain methods of payment.

*Before requesting payout, it is a must that free accounts be open for certain number of days beforehand.

Here are sites with corresponding bonuses:

River Nile Casino - $15 FREE + additional casino bonus

Lucky Emperor Casino - $10 FREE + additional casino bonus

Virtual City Casino - $10 FREE + additional bonus

Jackpot City Casino - $25 FREE + additional bonus

Aceshigh Casino - $15 FREE + additional casino bonus

Club Player Casino - $16 FREE + additional casino bonus

Crazy Vegas Casino - $10 FREE + additional bonus

Casino Kingdom - $16 FREE + additional bonus

Aztec Riches Casino - $10 FREE + additional casino bonus

Usually, one goes though this process:

*Choosing a safe and licensed casino with good payouts and offer bonuses is the right start for the amateur gambler.

*Then one has to download the free software to start the online gambling process.

*After which, the gambler sets an account, providing all details where they can send one their winnings.  So it is important that one should carefully type in all data as correctly as possible.

*Then, one now can try the different games his chosen site has to offer.

*After lots of practice, and if one now is ready to play for real money, then go ahead.  This requires payment though credit card, Western Union, Stormpay or NETeller.  So choose your options well.

*It is then time to claim your bonus.  Try out all the available games.

*Then, you can now claim your winnings! Check out your casino site for details on how to claim it.

*Enjoy !