Casino Terms

Navigating the world of online casinos can be overwhelming, especially with the array of unique terms and jargon used in the industry. In this article, we break down common casino terminology, from game-specific lingo to general concepts, helping you feel more at ease as you embark on your gaming journey.

Casino Terminology: Overview

Casino Interface / General

Casino Interface / General refers to the overall design, layout, and user experience of an online casino’s platform. This includes the navigation menus, game selection, visual elements, user account management features, and the ease of accessing support services.

Bonuses

Bonuses are promotional offers provided by online casinos to attract and retain players. They can come in various forms, such as welcome bonuses, free spins, no deposit bonuses, and loyalty rewards.

VIP Loyalty Programme

VIP Loyalty programme is a system casinos implement to reward players over time and encourage loyalty.

Games Portfolio

Games portfolio is casino’s selection of games across all categories (slots, tables etc).

Casino game

Casino game refers to any game offered by a casino, either online or in a physical venue, where players can wager money with the chance of winning based on chance or skill. Common types include slots, table games like blackjack and roulette, poker, and specialty games like bingo or keno.

Game Categories

The different genres of games available, such as classic slots, video slots, live casino games, scratch cards, table games, bingo, etc.

Live Casino

The section of an online casino dedicated to games hosted by professional dealers in real-time via live streaming video.

Live Dealer

A professional croupier hosting live games (blackjack, poker, roulette, baccarat, etc), interacting with players and running the game.

Online Slot

Online slot is a digital version of a traditional slot machine, available on online casino platforms.

Progressive Slot / Jackpot Slot

A progressive / jackpot slot is a game with an open-ended prize pool that grows with each player’s bet until a lucky winner scoops the full amount.

Table Games

Roulette, Blackjack, Baccarat, Poker, Craps, and other games traditionally played at a table.

Card Games

Casino games which require cards to be able to play such as Blackjack, Baccarat, Poker, etc.

Video Poker

A version of poker played virtually, based on five-card draw poker. You are not playing against opponents; rather, good hands (over a certain level) count as winning combinations.

Scratch Cards

Virtual versions of the paper-based scratch cards, inviting players to remove hidden sections to reveal prizes. See more info on online scratch cards.

Bingo

Bingo involves players marking off numbers on cards as they are called out, aiming to complete specific patterns for a win.

Lottery

Lottery is a game of chance where players purchase tickets with numbers, and winners are selected through a random draw.

Keno

Keno is a lottery-style game where players select numbers from a set range, typically 1 to 80. After players make their selections, a random draw determines the winning numbers, and players win prizes based on how many of their chosen numbers match the drawn numbers.

Arcade games

Fast-paced, accessible games, usually with simpler rules and easier gameplay.

Virtual Sports

Virtual Sports are computer-generated simulations of real-world sports events, such as football, horse racing, basketball, and more.

Filter / Sort Games

Filter/Sort Games refers to the features on a casino platform that allow players to organize and refine the selection of available games. Filtering options might include categories like game type, provider, theme, or features, while sorting options might order games by popularity, newest releases, or alphabetical order. These tools help players quickly find specific games that match their preferences.

Search Function

The Search Function is a tool on a website or platform that allows users to quickly locate specific content or items, such as games or information, by entering keywords or phrases. In the context of online casinos, the search function helps players find particular games, game providers, or specific features they are interested in.

Play Now / For Real

Play Now / For Real are options provided by online casinos, where “Play Now” typically allows users to start a game immediately, often in a demo or free-play mode. “For Real” or “Play for Real” lets players wager real money, giving them the chance to win actual cash prizes.

Demo Play / For Free

Demo Play / For Free refers to a feature offered by online casinos that allows players to try out games without wagering real money. In this mode, players use virtual credits to experience the game’s mechanics, features, and gameplay.

(i) Game Info

Game Info refers to the detailed information provided about a specific game, typically found within an online casino. This section includes essential details such as the game’s rules, paytable, RTP (Return to Player) percentage, special features, bonus rounds, and any unique mechanics. It helps players understand how the game works and what to expect during gameplay.

Exclusive Games

Games only available at a specific casino or the platform upon which the website is built.

In-house Production

A game created by the casino operator’s own developers.

Money Transfers and Currencies

Currencies

Currencies are systems of money used as a medium of exchange within a particular country or economic region. Currencies can take various forms, including coins, banknotes, and digital forms. Examples include the U.S. Dollar (USD), Euro (EUR), British Pound (GBP), and Japanese Yen (JPY).

Financial Transaction

Financial transactions refer to any exchange or transfer of money between parties, typically involving the movement of funds from one account to another. These transactions can include a wide range of activities such as deposits, withdrawals, transfers, payments, and purchases.

Deposit Money

In the context of online casinos, depositing involves transferring funds from a player’s personal bank account, credit card, e-wallet, or other payment method into their casino account.

Withdraw Money

In the context of online casinos, withdrawing typically involves moving winnings or remaining balance from the player’s casino account to their chosen payment method, which could be a bank account, debit card, e-wallet, or other financial service.

Payment Method

In the context of online casinos and other online platforms, payment methods are the options provided to users for depositing and withdrawing funds. Common payment methods include debit cards, bank transfers, e-wallets (such as PayPal, Skrill, and Neteller), prepaid cards, and cryptocurrencies.

Debit Cards

Debit Cards are common payment methods that allow users to make purchases or transactions. Debit cards draw directly from a user’s bank account balance.

 

 

E-Wallets

A virtual wallet used to make deposits and withdrawals from online casinos; common options include PayPal, Skrill and Neteller.

Pay by Phone / SMS

A popular, convenient payment method requiring no bank account, the online casino charges your phone bill, which you pay when settling the bill (usually the end of the month).

Prepaid Vouchers

Players can find 16-digit vouchers at certain shops, which can be used to transfer funds into (but not out of) your casino account; the most common is PaysafeCard, ranging from £10 to £200.

Bank / Wire Transfer

Bank/Wire Transfer is a payment method involving the direct transfer of funds from one bank account to another. This method is commonly used for secure, large transactions and often involves longer processing times compared to other payment options.

Cheques

Cheques are a traditional payment method involving a written order directing a bank to pay a specific amount of money from the writer’s account to the recipient.

Deposit Limits

Deposit limits refer to restrictions set on the maximum or minimum amount of money a player can deposit into their account within a specified time frame, such as daily, weekly, or monthly. These limits are often implemented by online casinos or financial institutions to promote responsible gambling and help players manage their spending.

 

Software Developers

 

Game Provider

Game provider or game vendor is the company that creates the games you play in the casino.

Complete / Full Range of Games

Refers to a developer’s overall roster of games, which may be available at one or more casinos.

Business Focus

The key activities and objectives of a software brand, such as producing slots, bingo, table games or sports betting tools.

Platform

The software powering an online casino, which usually dictates the games, features, payment options, bonuses and more available. Learn more about casino platforms.

Technology

The type of software a software developer uses for its games, affecting its performance and compatibility with devices (such as HTML5, Flash, Java, mobile casino or app etc.).

Theme

A slot theme refers to the central concept or subject around which a slot machine game is designed. This includes the game’s visuals, symbols, music, and overall aesthetic, which work together to create an immersive experience for players.

Company Info and Licenses

Casino Licence

A casino’s licences determine which countries it can operate in, and under what jurisdictions they are accountable.

Registered Address

The address through which an online casino’s operator has registered its business, which may or may not be within a country they target.

UK Gambling Commission (UKGC)

The UK Gambling Commission is responsible for regulating all gambling performed in Great Britain, as well as supervising the country’s gaming laws, across all online casinos; iGaming websites licensed by the UK Gambling Commission must adhere to certain rules to ensure fair play.

Malta Gaming Authority (MGA)

The MGA is responsible for regulating all gambling in the European State of Malta and it is one of the most sought licenses in the industry.

Curacao eGaming

Curacao is one of the longest established online gambling licence providers in the world. The Dutch Caribbean island has been issuing licences to the gambling industry since 1996 and continues to do so today as Curacao eGaming.

The Gibraltar Gambling Commission (GGC)

Gibraltar has been offering highly regulated gambling licences to online casinos and sportsbooks since 1998 and is now a world leader in gambling regulation. The GGC is responsible for issuing licences and ensuring that gaming providers adhere to their stringent rules and regulations.

Customer Service

FAQ section

A FAQ Section (Frequently Asked Questions) is a dedicated part of a website or document where common questions and their corresponding answers are compiled. This section is designed to address typical inquiries or concerns that users might have about a product, service, or topic.

Live Chat

Live Chat Support is a real-time communication feature on casino websites that allows players to interact directly with customer service representatives. This service is typically available through a chat window or button on the website, enabling users to ask questions, seek assistance, or resolve issues instantly.

Email

Email Support is a customer service channel where users can send inquiries, requests, or issues via email to a company’s support team. This form of support allows customers to communicate their concerns in detail, attach relevant documents or screenshots, and receive responses at their convenience

Phone

Phone Support is a customer service option where individuals can call a specific phone number to speak directly with a representative from a company or service provider.

Free Phone Number

Phone Support is a customer service option where users can call a designated phone number to speak directly with a representative. This form of support provides immediate, real-time assistance, allowing customers to describe their issues or questions verbally and receive prompt feedback or solutions.

Call Back Function

The callback function is a service feature that allows customers to request a phone call from the support team at a convenient time. Instead of waiting on hold or trying to reach support during busy periods, players can provide their contact details and preferred callback time. The casino’s customer service team will then call the customer back to assist with their inquiries or issues.

Opening Hours

Opening hours are the working hours of customer support.

Games

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Reels

Reels are the vertical columns that spin in a slot machine. Each reel displays symbols, and when they stop, the combination of symbols determines the player’s win. Most slots have three to five reels, with each spin’s outcome determined by a random number generator.

Rows

Rows are horizontal lines on a slot machine that, along with reels, display symbols. Typically, rows work in combination with reels to form winning symbol combinations.

Symbols

Symbols in a slot machine are the images on the reels that determine winning combinations. Common types include standard symbols, Wilds, which can substitute for others to create wins, and Scatters, which often trigger bonuses or free spins. They add to the game’s theme and gameplay variety.

Sound

Sound effects or music included within a game, such as background tunes, sound cues denoting a win or loss, snippets of speech etc.

Coin Value

The worth of each coin used in a game, such as 1p, 5p etc.

Game Settings

In casino terminology, game settings allow players to customise a game, such as altering the coin value, the bet level, sound effects etc.

Spins

A spin refers to the action of starting the reels on a slot machine or video slot game. The outcome of the spin determines if the player wins or loses based on the symbol combinations displayed. Spins are the basic unit of gameplay in slot machines.

 

Interface

Interface refers to the way online casino is designed and structured, which impacts navigation, ease of use, and convenience.

Game Theme

A slot theme refers to the central concept or subject around which a slot machine game is designed. This includes the game’s visuals, symbols, music, and overall aesthetic, which work together to create an immersive experience for players.

Base game

Base game is the primary gameplay mode in a video slot, where players spin the reels to form winning combinations

Bonus Game

A bonus game is a special feature that offers players additional opportunities to win prizes beyond the standard base game. These games are usually triggered by specific symbols, such as Scatters or Bonus symbols, and can vary widely in format and gameplay.

Minimum / Maximum Bet

The Minimum/ Maximum bet is the least and most amount of money you can wager on a game

Bet Level

Bet Levels in slot games refer to the adjustable amount a player can wager per payline. Essentially, the bet level determines the size of the bet for each spin, in combination with the coin value set by the player.

Multipliers

Multipliers in slot games are special features that increase the winnings from a spin or bonus round by a specified factor.

Return To Player (RTP) Value

RTP, or Return to Player, is a percentage that indicates the average amount of money a slot game returns to players over time, based on the total amount wagered.

Volatility

Volatility, also known as variance, refers to the risk level and payout pattern of a slot game. It indicates how often and how much a slot game is likely to pay out.

Hit Frequency

Hit frequency is the rate at which a game will create a winning combination.

Winnings

The money players win playing games, which may be subject to wagering requirements before withdrawing.