UK’s Best-Rated Online Casino Games for Real Money

Most Popular Game Types Online

Let’s take a look at some of the most popular categories of casino games on the web:

• Slot Games – These games are adaptations of slot machines that you would find earlier at a physical casino. They function the exact same way and are hosted on online websites.
• Table Games – Card games have evolved into the online sphere in an interesting way. You can play all possible card games like Poker, Baccarat, Roulette, Blackjack, Craps, Casino War, Sic Bo, and many more online. They also offer different game options, like private rooms, community games, private single games, live dealer games and computerised dealer games.
• Bingo – Bingo games are well-known as a community game and online sites allow you to play bingo and many iterations of the game with players worldwide.
• Scratchcard – Scratch Cards are a common stress buster for people. Online fair gaming computerised systems replicate the exact feel of scratch cards in real life and bring you an unforgettable experience.
• New-Age Games – These are unique casino games evolved from different game types. Often, they make an entirely different genre of their own.

Important Information About Casino Games

Different casino games have different attributes like volatility . We have covered the different attributes per game types.

• RTP – Return to Player Percentage (RTP) is a factor that determines how many times out of 100 times a player gets back their money on a game. The RTP of any game will tell you how well the game fares. A good RTP is considered to be 97% and above, and the lowest minimum RTP for a game to be certified by a gambling commission is 90%.
• Volatility – The attribute defines how risky a game is. Games with high-volatility generally have high corresponding RTPs too. But, if you find a game that’s highly volatile and has a low RTP, it’s not one we’d recommend you to play.

• RNG– Casino games should use an RNG or some other fair gambling algorithm. It ensures that the game is always fair and leaves your winnings up to your skills and luck. We recommend staying away from games that don’t use such software.

Casino Game Providers

Game developers are the reason casinos can host games online. Online casino games are software-powered and made by dedicated game developers. Some of the most famous game developers in the industry now are Netent, Playtech, Microgaming, Play’N Go, Pragmatic Play, Evolution Gaming, BGaming, and many more. These game suppliers are known to innovate and create new games with new features and deliver them to the market.

Types of Online Casino Games

Casino games come in different types, as we’ve already mentioned before. Today, we’re going to give you a detailed rundown on the different types of casino games.

Slot Games

Online slots are probably the most popular games in the online gambling industry. These games are favoured by a majority of casino players. Online slot games are an iteration of slot machine games available at land-based casinos. These games can usually be found in any one of the following formats:

Classic Slot Games

These games provide players with the quintessential casino experience of spinning the reels on a slot machine and winning rewards by landing the right combinations. A majority of slot games on the market are of this type.

Jackpot Slots

Jackpot slots are not new either. These games offer players a common prize pool like connected slot machines for jackpots would at a traditional casino. The reason such games are better at online casinos is because they offer a larger pool of players from around the world!

Megaways

Megaways has really risen to be a unique slot type and it is mildly different with a set of symbols moving differently than other symbols. Such games increase the possibilities and generally have numerous paylines. Players can easily get great winnings for such games.

Theme Slot Games

Theme slot games are unique. Such games come with a plethora of features like tumbles, free spins, multipliers, special bonus rounds and more. Additionally, several themed slot games are also designed to replicate your favourite movie titles, mythology, books, pop culture, and popular games. You can find such games in several genres, like horror, fantasy, adventure, action, magic, and more. Several themed slot games are a combination of multiple genres too!

Basics of Slot Games

Slot game basics include several small elements. We have already discussed RTP and volatility, but apart from that, there are more elements. They are as follows:

• Paylines – Each slot game comes with a paytable with numerous paylines. These paylines indicate in what order to land symbols to get wins. Paylines in slot games can vary from 10 to over 5000+ depending on the type of slot game, game developer, and other factors.
• Symbols – Each slot game has specific symbols and corresponding payout rates. Each type of symbol will help you win free spins, real money, bonuses, and much more. Every slot game also has a scatter symbol that connects the generic symbols and a bonus symbol that may have a multiplier effect or can trigger a bonus round.
• Reels – Slot machines are infamous for their reels. The reels of symbols form rows and columns that help form paylines. Reels can range from three in number to sometimes seven or more!

Special Slot Game Features

Some special features in slot games are as follows:

• Free Spins Round – The free spins round of a slot game is a unique round that is triggered by landing either the scatter or bonus symbols. This round lets you play for free to win real money!
• Tumble Feature – The tumble feature in slot games causes corresponding symbols to match and get eliminated from the screen until no more combinations are available. It can win you real money or multipliers.
• Multiplier – The multiplier slot feature gives you a winnings multiplier upon landing either the bonus, multiplier, or scatter symbol in a specific slot. Your winnings get multiplied by the multiplier and the total sum is paid out to you!

Some common slot games include:

🚩 Red Flags of Slot Games

Every game type in our list will have red flags. For slot games, the red flags indicating a bad slot game are as follows:

• High volatility with a low RTP
• RTP below 95%
• No fair gaming software or random number generator (RNG) is used.
• Older slot game with lower number of paylines

Hence, we strongly recommend you not to indulge in such games as they can often do more harm than good to your bank balance.

Who Are Slot Games for?

If you’re someone who likes sitting back relaxing over a weekend – slot games are for you. These games have the most basic UI and are super easy to use. Players can sit back alone or in a group to enjoy such games easily. Additionally, the cool themes and auto-play features in such games make the experience sweeter.

Card, Dice, and Table Games

Card games are very popular. They represent the oldest form of gambling in all their might. That’s why, after slot games, card games have a huge fan base.

Online card and table games have become increasingly popular in recent years, with a wide range of options available to players. These games offer a convenient way to enjoy classic casino games like blackjack, poker, and baccarat from the comfort of your own home.

One of the biggest advantages of online card and table games is the ability to play at any time and from anywhere. You can log in to your favourite online casino and start playing right away, without having to worry about dress codes, travel, or other logistical challenges.

In addition, online card and table games often offer a wider range of betting options than their brick-and-mortar counterparts. This means that players of all skill levels and bankrolls can find a game that suits their needs. Overall, online card and table games can be a great way to enjoy some of the excitement and strategy of casino gaming without having to leave your home.

Types of Table Games

There are several types of card and table games that players can play. If you’re a card game lover, then you would be well aware of the types. However, if you’re not, here’s a quick list of the same.

Poker

Online poker is a card game where players bet on the value of their hand. There are many variations, but most involve dealing multiple cards and rounds of betting. Players can fold, call, raise, or bluff to try to win the pot. The player with the best hand at the end of the final betting round wins.

Some common iterations of online poker games are:

• Four card Poker
• Three Card Poker
• Texas hold’em
• Pai Gow Poker

Baccarat

Baccarat online is a card game where players bet on either the banker’s hand, the player’s hand, or a tie. The goal is to have a hand value closest to 9. Cards 2-9 are worth their face value, while face cards and 10s are worth 0 and aces are worth 1. The dealer deals two cards to the banker and player, and additional cards are drawn depending on the initial hands.’

Some common iterations of online baccarat games are:

• Baccarat Chemin de Fer
• Speed Baccarat
• Live Baccarat

Blackjack

Online blackjack is a card game where players try to beat the dealer’s hand without getting over 21. Cards 2-10 are worth their face value, face cards are worth 10, and aces can be worth 1 or 11. Players can hit to get more cards or stand to keep their current hand. The dealer must hit until they have at least 17.

Some common iterations of online blackjack games are:

• European Blackjack
• Blackjack VIP A
• Blackjack Ruby

Roulette

Roulette online is a game of chance where players bet on where a small ball will land on a spinning wheel. The wheel is divided into numbered pockets, and players can bet on specific numbers, groups of numbers, or colours. Once all bets are placed, the ball is released, and the winning number/colour is determined when the ball comes to a stop.

Some common iterations of online Roulette games are:

• European Roulette
• Mini Roulette
• American Roulette

Sic Bo

Sic bo is a dice game where players bet on the outcome of three dice. There are many betting options, including specific numbers, total values, and combinations of dice. After bets are placed, the dice are rolled and the winning bets are paid out based on the odds of each bet.

Dragon Tiger

Dragon Tiger is a card game where players bet on which card, Dragon or Tiger, will have the highest value. Cards 2-10 are worth their face value, face cards are worth 10, and aces are worth 1. The dealer deals one card to the Dragon position and one card to the Tiger position, and the highest card wins.

Craps

Online craps is a dice game where players bet on the outcome of a roll or series of rolls. The first roll is called the come-out roll, and players can bet on the pass line or don’t pass the line. After the come-out roll, players can place additional bets on specific numbers or combinations of numbers. The goal is to roll the desired numbers before rolling a 7.

Teen Patti

Teen Patti is a popular Indian card game where players bet on the value of their hand. It is played with a deck of 52 cards and can be played with 3-6 players. Players can bet or choose to see other players’ cards before betting again. The player with the best hand at the end of the game wins.

🚩 Red Flags of Card Games

While online card games are quite engaging, there are a few red flags to watch for. These are as follows:

• Impeccable high house margins exceeding 20% in bonus rounds
• No air gaming software used
• Lack of dealer transparency and communication in game rooms
• Lobbies with obscure player names
• Low credibility casinos

Who Are Card and Table Games for?

Card and table games are for you if you like to wreck your brain and play against other players. These games give players a competitive rush and are well-known for being half-skill-based and half-luck based (apart from roulette). Hence, if you’re someone who loves the same, card games are your go-to.

New-Age Casino Games

New-age games are games that are not adherent to any casino game style. These games pack unique features and are quickly developing to become the new big favourite of the gambling industry.

Crux of New-Age Games

New age casino games use fair gaming software and random number generators to provide players with an equal, safe, and pleasant gambling experience.

One example of such a game is Aviator. In the game, a plane flies across a chart with an increasing multiplier. Whatever your bet amount is, it’s multiplied once you cash out of the round. However, players can lose their bet amount if they don’t cash out on time.

New-Age Games Features

• Games are easy to play
• Suited all kinds of devices including mobiles, tablets, PCs, and laptops
• Built to run on Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android, etc.
• Well designed UI features
• Low network requirements
• Engaging gameplay
• Community gaming experience without competition

🚩 Red Flags of New-Age Games

Such games have a common red flag, that is the absence of an RNG or fair gaming software to select the multiplier amount.

Who Are New-Age Games for?

If you’re someone who likes relaxing and taking a chance on your gut, these games are perfect. However, we recommend players to be careful and practise safe gambling when playing such games online. Such games are addictive and one should exercise caution when on a losing streak.

Casual Casino Games

Casual casino games include certain games like bingo, scratch cards, etc. Such games are generally stress relievers alongside the free games that online casinos offer.

Bingo

Bingo is a game of chance that can be played with multiple players. Each player purchases a bingo card with a grid of numbers. The game begins with a caller who calls out numbers at random. Players mark off the corresponding numbers on their card as they are called out. The first player to mark off a full line or pattern on their card shouts “Bingo!” and is declared the winner. The game can be played with different patterns or variations, and multiple winners can share a prize if the game rules allow it.

Demand for online bingo sites in the UK is on the increase, and so is the offer – there are more and more quality platforms for fans of this game.

Scratch Cards

Scratch cards land you instant wins. These lottery games require players to scratch off a section of the card. If you reveal 3 or more of the same reward cards, then you can win. The game typically involves purchasing a scratch card with a specific theme or design. Players scratch off the designated area to see if they have won a prize. The prizes can range from small amounts of money to large jackpots. Scratch cards are a popular game due to their simplicity and the excitement of potentially winning a prize instantly.

Keno

Keno is similar to scratch cards and is simple to play. Players choose a set of numbers from a range of digits, generally between 1 and 80. The more numbers a player chooses, the higher the potential payout. Once you’ve chosen their numbers, the game randomly selects a number combination for the win. The player wins based on how many of the chosen numbers match the numbers called out. Keno has gained popularity at both land-based and online casinos due to its simplicity and potential for large payouts.

Lottery

Online lottery games at casinos typically involve purchasing a ticket with a set of numbers. The game then randomly selects a set of winning numbers. If the player’s chosen numbers match the winning numbers, they win a prize. Some online lottery games may offer multiple tiers of prizes depending on how many numbers match. Online lottery games can offer large jackpots and are easy to play, making them a popular choice for players looking for a chance to win big with minimal effort.

Real Money vs Free Casino Games

• Demo versions of popular slots: Many online casinos offer demo versions of popular slots for players to try out before playing for real money. These demo versions allow players to test out the game and its features without risking any money.
• Table games with virtual chips: Some online casinos offer free versions of table games like blackjack, roulette, and baccarat, where players can use virtual chips to play. These games allow players to practise their strategy and skills before playing for real money.
• Bingo and keno: Bingo and keno are popular games that can be played for free at some online casinos. These games are easy to play and offer the chance to win small prizes.
• Video poker: Some online casinos offer free versions of video poker games. These games are based on traditional poker, but with simplified rules and gameplay.
• Social casino games: Some online casinos offer social casino games where players can compete against friends or other players for fun. These games often include slots, table games, and other casino favourites.
• Lottery-style games: Many online casinos offer free versions of lottery-style games like scratch cards and instant win games. These games offer the chance to win small prizes with little risk involved.

Payment Methods for Online Casino Games

Online casino games can be played using several different types of reliable payment methods. Some of the most common and accessible options are as follows:

• Debit Cards: Many online casinos accept debit cards like MasterCard, Visa, and Maestro for deposits and withdrawals. These transactions are usually processed quickly and securely. It’s important to know that online casinos in the UK are not allowed to accept credit cards.
• E-wallets like Skrill, Neteller, Ecopayz, etc. are a popular payment method at online casinos. They offer a secure and easy way to deposit and withdraw funds, and transactions are usually processed quickly.
• Prepaid Cards: Paysafecard and other such cards, allow players to deposit funds without the need for a bank account or credit card. These cards can be purchased at retail locations and used for online transactions.
• Apple Pay is a mobile payment option that allows players to make deposits using their Apple device. This payment method is fast, secure, and convenient.
• Cryptocurrency: Many online casinos now accept cryptocurrencies like Ethereum, Bitcoin, USDT, Tether, and Bitcoin Cash for deposits and withdrawals. Transactions are anonymous, fast, and secure.
• Bank Transfer: Bank transfers are a traditional payment method that allows players to transfer funds directly from their bank account to your casino account online. While this method is secure, it can take longer to process than other payment options.
• PayPal is a widely used e-wallet offering a secure and convenient way to deposit and withdraw funds at online casinos. Transactions are usually processed quickly.
• Pay by Phone Bill is a mobile payment option that allows players to make deposits using their mobile phone bill. This payment method is easy and convenient, but often has lower deposit limits compared to other payment options.

Essentials of Credibility and Safe Gambling

There are several elements and factors every UK player should be aware of, including the licencing and security of casino sites. Additionally, we strongly encourage you to follow safe gambling practices too.

Licences and Licensing Commissions

A casino licence is a legal document that permits a casino to operate in a specific jurisdiction. Gambling licences are issued by regulatory bodies in various jurisdictions worldwide. Some of the most notable authorities that provide gambling licences include the United Kingdom Gambling Commission, Malta Gaming Authority, Alderney Gambling Control Commission, Gibraltar Regulatory Authority, and Curacao eGaming. These authorities ensure that licensed casinos operate fairly and transparently, and protect the interests of players and the industry as a whole.

Security at Good Casinos

Good online casino security is essential for protecting players’ personal and financial information. The best online casinos use state-of-the-art encryption technology to ensure that all data transmitted between the player and the casino is fully secure. They also implement strict verification processes to ensure that only legitimate players have access to the casino, and regularly audit their security measures to identify and address any vulnerabilities. Additionally, reputable casinos will display their licensing and certification prominently on their website, providing further assurance to players of their trustworthiness.

Safe and Responsible Gambling

Responsible and safe gambling practices are important to protect players from the potential negative consequences of gambling. Online casinos promote responsible gambling through various measures such as setting deposit limits, self-exclusion options, and providing resources for players to get help with problem gambling.

Additionally, they are required to implement age verification and anti-fraud measures to ensure that only eligible and legitimate players can access the casino. Casinos also prioritise player safety by providing secure payment methods, data protection, and using random number generators to ensure fair gameplay.

Manage Your Bankroll Carefully

When engaging in online gambling, set and adhere to a specific budget for how much money you can afford to lose without affecting your daily life. Establish limits on the amount you wager in each session, decide on the duration of your gambling sessions, and resist the temptation to chase losses by spending more than you’ve allocated.

Another way to effectively manage your bankroll is to adjust your bet sizes based on your total bankroll to extend your playtime and reduce the possibility of depleting your funds too quickly. Responsible bankroll management helps maintain gambling as a form of entertainment, ensuring that it does not lead to problematic gambling behavior or financial distress.

Are You Ready to Enter the Online Gambling Universe?

Casino games are brilliant and offer a vibrant and dynamic world to delve deep into. We hope that our article helped you learn about the absolute basics of online casino gambling! You can refer to other articles on our website to know more about sportsbooks and casinos specifically. Or you can check out the different casino reviews that we’ve got. Dive into the beautiful world of online casino games and enjoy yourself with your friends, peers, and family!

Make Responsible Gambling a Priority

Responsible gambling is a practice that encourages individuals to participate in betting and gaming activities in a way that is safe and mindful of their wellbeing and financial limits. If online casinos and individuals prioritise responsible gambling, it fosters a safer and more enjoyable gaming environment for everyone involved. Here at CasinoSherlock, we are big advocates of responsible gambling and always highlight its importance.

A responsible gambler adheres to the following:

• Sets and sticks to a strict budget.
• Doesn’t chase losses.
• Keeps track of the time and money spent on gambling.
• Refrains from gambling when feeling upset, angry, or depressed.
• Don’t let gambling interfere with their daily responsibilities.
• Takes breaks to avoid getting too caught up in the game.

🚫 Please note that in the UK, only individuals aged 18 and over are legally permitted to engage in gambling activities.

If gambling stops being fun, or if you or someone you know has a gambling problem, it’s important to seek help. Reach out to organisations like GamCare or GambleAware that offer support and resources to promote healthy gambling habits, call the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133 or go to www.gamstop.co.uk to be excluded from all UK-regulated gambling websites.