How to Play Pokies in Australia

Pokie machines can be a good way to pass the time and earn extra money. Our guide explains everything you need to know about this casino game. By the end of this article, you’ll know how to play pokies on our gambling site, Playamo. 

Understanding Pokies: Basics for Beginners

There are certain terms you need to understand before you learn how to play pokies in Australia. We’ll go over them in this section: 

• Reels

The main element of a slot is its reel, which can appear vertically or horizontally. Classic pokies usually have three, while their modern counterparts feature five, seven, or nine reels. 

You’ll come across different symbols on the reels depending on the game you’re playing. For instance, if you select Egyptian-themed pokies, you can anticipate that the icons will be tied to the game’s subject. You can only win playing pokies when certain symbol combinations appear on the paylines.

• Paylines

Also known as betting lines, paylines are patterns created by symbols on the reels that form a winning combination. Icons form winning combinations in a horizontal or vertical direction.

The pokie machine automatically displays winning paylines and their rewards. The number of bet lines in pokies can be found in the game’s information panel. 

• Rows

A pokies machine features horizontal lines called rows, and a game may have three or more rows. Paylines aren’t usually restricted to a single row. As long as the symbols line up, they can form in different directions.

• Paytable

Another essential element of pokies is the paytable. It shows the various symbols that makeup winning combinations and their payout values. 

Browsing the paytable before you play is always a good idea. It helps clarify the rules of the game and the possible winnings.

• Random Number Generators (RNG)

A pokie may have up to 30 symbols in set positions, but where the reels stop is entirely random. The game uses an RNG that selects a number corresponding to a predetermined symbol arrangement as the reels spin. 

Random Number Generators undergo rigorous testing before they’re used in a game. Additionally, casinos will have independent organisations like eCOGRA assess their pokies to make sure the randomness component is serving players fairly. 

Choosing the Right Pokies Machine

There are thousands of pokies available online right now. Big developers like Microgaming and NetEnt frequently release new slot games every year. However, it might not be easy to choose the best pokies, particularly if you don’t know what to look for. 

Thankfully, we have certain criteria you can use for your search. Here are factors our Playamo casino experts use when reviewing pokies in Australia. 

Variance and RTP Explained

It is imperative that the pokies you select fit both your needs and your budget. Certain slots offer frequent, modest payouts (low volatility). On the other hand, some games pay out large wins less regularly. Plus, their jackpots are usually large (high volatility).

Every pokie is designed to offer an approximate return to player (RTP) percentage over time. RTPs for most games range from 92% to 98%. This indicates that players will receive between 92 and 98 AUD for every 100 AUD they wager. Usually, online AU casinos will provide the payback rate for each of their pokies. Choose games with higher RTP percentages for better profitability. 

Engaging Themes and Features to Consider

Select a game that appeals to you. Playing a pokies based on “Friends” is not a good idea if you detest sitcoms. Likewise, if you’re not a big admirer of superheroes, avoid slots with such themes. 

Each pokie has a special feature that makes it stand out. For instance, you might find games with jackpots and others without. If you like jackpot pokies, go for them. Nevertheless, if you don’t mind playing without this feature, you’re all good. 

How to Start Playing Pokies Online?

Playing pokies as a casino fan in Australia isn’t complicated at all. Here is a breakdown of how to play pokies online.

Signing Up at Online Casinos

Opening a Playamo account is the first thing you need to do. The registration process takes only a few minutes.

As soon as you’re done, you can proceed to fund your account. With our available payment methods, you can deposit money easily and quickly. Choose a pokie from our list and familiarise yourself with the game rules. 

Making Your First Bets

Consider your budget before deciding how many paylines to wager on. To adjust your bet level, use the +/- toggles. Once you’re set, press the spin button to start playing.

The pokies we offer at Playamo have features like autoplay and turbo mode. You can use them to make your gameplay more enjoyable. 

Maximising Your Winnings: Tips and Strategies

Here are some handy pokies machine tips to maximise your winnings when playing at our online casino.

Establish a Budget

When playing pokies, it’s a good idea to keep an eye on your money. Don’t risk more than you can afford to lose. You can start by creating a budget to track your spending better. 

Opt for High RTP Slots

Pokies with a high return-to-player rate offer better advantages than games with low RTP. They boost your chances of winning by minimising your risk. 

Place Several Payline Bets

The more betting lines you wager on, the higher your chances of winning. If your budget permits, you can place the maximum bet when playing pokies. Moreover, you can only activate the jackpot feature in pokies when you stake on all lines.  

Pause Gambling After a Large Win

We encourage Aussie players to end their gambling session after securing a sizable win. Otherwise, there is a chance they may lose it all. 

Try Free Versions

Practice is a great way to learn how to play pokies machine. Thankfully, we at Playamo offer demo versions where you can test a game before playing with real cash. The free mode doesn’t have a limit, so you can play it for as long as you want.

Exploring Bonus Rounds and Free Spins

Bonus features are important and a great tool if you know how to use them. They can help you manage and maximise your bankroll.

Rather than using your money every time, features like free spins allow you to spin the reels without any bet. If you win during this bonus round, you get to keep all the rewards.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them?

Here are some mistakes you should avoid making when playing pokies at Playamo.

Know When to Stop

It’s best to stop when you feel your account balance is getting less as you wager. Although it can be upsetting to lose, it is not worth starting a harmful gambling habit.

Thoughts of “just one more spin” are common. However, the brief rush isn’t worth spending all your money on.

Additionally, if you feel your gambling is getting out of control, there are responsible gambling resources you can utilise. Tools like self-exclusion and betting limits are available at our casino, Playamo.  

Don’t Chase Your Losses

Accepting your losses is ultimately preferable to chasing them. For example, you are playing a game, and the only way to win big is to bet the maximum sum.

When the bonus round comes, you place your stake but fall short. Instead of trying to win back your losses, end your gaming session and move on. After all, gambling is meant to be fun.

Not Understanding the Game Before Playing

Nowadays, many online AU casinos offer free play on pokies. This allows you to try out the games without spending real money.

Generally, you won’t be able to win real money. Still, it’s an amazing opportunity to learn a new game without spending any money. 

We at Playamo provide demo mode on all our games. You can learn how to play pokies machine on our platform for free before investing. 

Legal and Safe Gambling in Australia

The Interactive Gambling Act of 2001 regulates online gambling in Australia at the federal level. It describes Australia’s overall policies regarding online gambling. However, each Australian state and territory has its separate internet gaming regulations.

In Australia, operators of gaming machines and casinos are subject to stringent laws and licensing requirements. Some of these laws deal with how gaming machines are maintained and operated. Choosing a casino site licensed by renowned gambling authorities worldwide like MGA, Curaçao, or ACT Gambling and Racing Commission is always best.