Australian Pokies are very similar to US slot machines. Indeed the word “Pokie” is Aussies slang for slot machine, though also encompasses quiz machines, and fixed odds betting terminals as well. Online Pokies are basically the online equivalent of land-based slot machines. Of course the fact that they are online means that they can be played from anywhere with an internet connection and a PC that has enough processing power to handle them. Occasionally you will need to download “Plug-ins” (free software packages necessary to be able to play the slots, e.g. Flash, Active X or Java”. Once you have this set up you are ready to start playing on the gaming site of your choice. Remember to choose a site that is licensed in a good jurisdiction and will pay out in a speedy and efficient manner.
Most sites will allow you to pay for free or for real. In either event, you are likely to have to open an account with the gaming operator. Make sure you enter all your details correctly so that, should you win and have to provide ID, everything will stack up. Anti-fraud laws are very strict in online gaming largely due to international money-laundering legislation so don’t be tempted to enter in a silly address, thinking, “I will change it if it comes to it!”.
When it comes to funding your account, there are many ways you can do it. You can use a credit or debit card or e-wallets such as neteller. Some sites will even allow you to credit using vouchers available from your local newsagent, or even through your mobile phone. Most gaming sites require you to pre-fund your account; i.e. deposit the money first and then play. In order to encourage you to do this, they offer deposit incentives, called deposit bonuses. In most instances, operators offer a special incentive to first time players called a first-time deposit bonus. Be sure to check the bonus terms and conditions before you deposit, as some of the bonuses are very hard to redeem.