Things to look for when online gaming
The term “online gaming” has taken on a big new meaning in 2022. Many might consider the words to refer to playing games like Call of Duty or Fortnite with friends over an internet connection. However, new laws are putting online casinos and sports betting at the forefront of the gambling industry. Online gambling could just as easily be playing slots at the computer or wagering on the big game with a smartphone app. Here’s what you need to know about online gaming in this new landscape.
Online Gambling/Sports Betting
Online gambling is what you’d expect: the digital version of casino games like slots, blackjack, and poker. These games can be played on websites or phone apps. Slots are popular on phones, many different types and graphics available. Websites tend to be more popular for table games like poker, with some even featuring live video so you can see the human dealer put out the cards.
Online gambling is taking off due to its convenience. Now, anyone over 18 can play without having to travel to a casino. Since it’s so easy to access nowadays, millions of people who have never been to a casino or only went to Las Vegas once can enjoy gambling as a regular hobby. Another enticing aspect has been promo codes. Many online casinos offer sign-up bonuses for new users. These often come in the form of free plays or extra money in your account when you make your first deposit. Online casinos also are known for their rewards programs–by accruing points with bets, you can get free concert tickets, clothing, and casino plays. If you’re interested in online casinos, be sure to pick one with a nice welcome package.
Of course, online gambling is only legal for those over 18 who have valid ID. Some online casinos will let you play low-stakes games for free using credits that have no cash value. But if you plan to play seriously, you’ll have to transfer money into your digital wallet to play the buy-ins. Casinos will usually accept card, check, and digital services like PayPal.
Sports betting is a big part of online gambling, and is turning into its own industry. States that legalized online sports betting have posted millions in revenue on a monthly basis. Like with online casino games, this success comes from offering betting to people who usually can’t participate. One example is the sports betting market in Maryland. The state already does well for itself with tourism to its beautiful harbor and attractions, but sports betting is adding a whole new business to Maryland. Maryland sports betting is raking in the bucks because it lets passionate Maryland sports followers bet even if they don’t live near the big city casinos.
Finally, fantasy sports is another part of gambling that thrives with online gaming. Fantasy leagues are now tied to sports betting apps, allowing enthusiasts to put money down on the success of their team. This offers another exciting way to play and maybe profit.
Online Video Games
Online video games are more appropriate for the under 18 crowd, and take place on PlayStation 5, Xbox, Nintendo, and PC. Many online games are multiplayer and competitive in nature, pitting players against one another in a battle for survival using colorful characters. Others are cooperative, with Minecraft being a popular example.
Online shooters like Call of Duty and Halo are aimed at teens, and parents should avoid letting little ones play due to the language often used in the game chat. No extra money should be spent outside of purchasing the game except for an online membership for Xbox, PlayStation, and Nintendo. Some games do tempt users to spend more money to get limited edition items or costumes for their avatars. For that reason, parents should not let their gaming machine memorize their credit card information. There have been several news stories about children exploiting cards on record to purchase thousands of dollars of in-game items. The better option is to enable parental controls on the console and have children ask parents to make purchases.
