What is an online casino?
Online casinos are online gambling sites that allow you to play a variety of gambling and casino games over the internet, using a computer or mobile device. They originated in the mid-1990s, when the wider adoption of the internet and technological developments paved the way for the emergence of digital services. Advances in mobile device technology have also increased the popularity of online casinos, making them more accessible to players anywhere, anytime.
Online casinos are distinguished by the following features:
- A diverse range of games: you can find hundreds, even thousands of games at online casinos, from Hacksaw Gaming, Nolimit City, Push Gaming and Pragmatic Play.
- Mobile-friendly: Modern online casinos are designed to work seamlessly on mobile devices.
- A wide range of bonuses: online casinos attract players with a variety of bonuses such as deposit bonuses, free spins and free play money.
- Secure gaming environment: online casinos use SSL encryption technology to ensure a safe gaming experience.
- Fast and versatile money transfer: online casinos offer several money transfer methods such as e-wallets and instant transfers, with providers such as Trustly, Zimpler, Euteller and Brite enabling fast money transfers.
Games are at the heart of online casinos
The wide and varied range of games available at online casinos is one of the main reasons for their popularity. Online casinos offer players a wide range of different types of games from a variety of game categories. This includes popular slots, classic table games, lively live casino games and, depending on the casino, other forms of gaming such as poker and betting. When comparing online casinos, it's a good idea to pay particular attention to their game selection and game manufacturers. Reliable online casinos that cater to Finnish players almost always offer Finnish players' favourite games from well-known and respected game developers, which guarantees a high-quality and enjoyable gaming experience.
Mobile gambling is modern
The use of mobile devices for online casino gambling has grown considerably in popularity, and this trend is clearly visible in the increasing number of players choosing their phone as their preferred gambling tool at online casinos. As a result, the importance of mobile support, i.e. the ability of an online casino to function properly on a mobile device, has taken centre stage. Mobile support includes the functionality of the online casino, easy navigation and a smooth gaming experience on a mobile device, and these are key to providing a pleasant and seamless gaming experience.
The ability of online casinos to adapt to mobile devices is therefore an important factor in their popularity and player satisfaction.
Bonuses give you the most value for money
Online casinos compete fiercely for customers, and one of the most popular ways to attract new players and reward existing customers is to offer a range of bonuses. These can include big deposit bonuses, free play money and free spins. These bonuses add to the appeal of the gaming experience and can provide players with significant financial benefits. However, it is important that players carefully read the terms and conditions of bonuses before they start playing, as these benefits are often subject to certain requirements or restrictions.
Online casinos can be classified into different categories according to the features they offer:
- Registration vs. no registration: some casinos require you to register and create an account to play, while others allow you to play without registration.
- EU licence vs. no EU licence: casino licences are an important indicator of security and reliability. Casinos with an EU licence follow strict rules and regulations, which increases player protection.
Traditional online casino and casino without registration
One key difference between the various online casinos is the registration requirement. In other words, online casinos can be divided into traditional casinos, where the player has to register and create an account, and so-called Pay N Play casinos, where it is possible to play without a separate registration process. This distinction is typically clearly stated in online casino marketing and comparisons, and is also often mentioned on the homepages of online casinos. Registration-free instant casinos offer a quick and easy way to start playing, while traditional casinos may offer a wider range of features and bonuses for registered users.
A licence brings security and peace of mind
Online casinos registered and licensed in the EU or EEA offer a number of significant benefits. Such licences are issued by the Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) and the Estonian Gaming Authority (EMTA), for example, which are known for their strict quality and security standards. These standards are set to ensure the highest level of player privacy and security.
Online casinos licensed outside the EU may follow looser standards and policies, which may affect their reliability and security. Such differences can be important, particularly in terms of problem resolution and player protection. It is therefore important for Finnish players to pay attention to the online casino's licence when choosing a place to play, as it gives a good indication of the safety and reliability of the casino and how the taxation of winnings is handled.