Why Reviews Matter: From Pokies To Casinos And Everything In Between

It is human nature to care about other people's opinions. Most people are hesitant when making decisions and look for advice and input to double-check on choices made. Often, what we are seeking is confirmation bias. By this, we mean that we are looking for an opinion that affirms a course of action that we have already decided upon or an opinion that we already hold. We often do not even realise that this is the sort of opinion we are looking for and may get offended if someone suggests that maybe our thinking is a bit muddled.

However, less controversially, we nearly always want a second opinion if we commit time or money to doing something. This is particularly true in the entertainment world, where a book, movie, TV series, or game will take up a fair chunk of our precious time.

Film, book, and theatre critics have been around for a long time. You have to go back to 1896 to find the Times' first issue of Book Review, which featured a review titled Oscar Wilde's Forlorn State. People wanted to know what the Times' expert reviewers thought before investing their time in the book. It also afforded them greater knowledge and a broader view of what was on offer without having to read everything themselves. People put significant trust in expert critics; their opinions could make or break an author, movie maker, or performer.

Fast forward almost 130 years, and we can see that expert and peer reviews can now be found for every form of entertainment and nearly every product we consume. In this internet age, reviews have become even more essential as what we spend our money on can often only be perceived in the virtual world.

There are probably fewer sectors where reviews matter more than in online gambling. Not only do you trust casino operators with a vast amount of your personal and financial data, but you also need to know that they operate transparently, offer you a fair chance to win, and pay out your winnings promptly.  Regulators around the world are working hard to stamp out illegal operators, but as one closes down, another pops up.

We spoke to Adam Volz from independent review site Casino.org to find out how they only recommend top, safe, secure, legal, and entertaining online pokie and casino sites.

Here is what he told us,

"Players want to have fun when playing online pokies.  We all know that New Zealanders love their pokies and want to have maximum enjoyment when playing online. However, no matter how enticing a jackpot or game looks, it won't be much fun if it is a front for a scam and just a way for an unscrupulous organisation to scrape your data and steal your money."

"We've been reviewing casino sites for decades and have systems in place to spot scams and frauds. Our twenty-five-point review process also lets the cream rise to the top, and we make recommendations based on the data we gather from following the process. As well as checking out licenses, security protocols, customer services, and payment options, we have to do the tough job of playing the casino games, too!"

"While setting up accounts and playing the pokies sounds like fun, it is done with serious intention. We are totally independent, meaning we are not influenced by what any online casino or game developer tells us. We don't rank somewhere or something more highly because we are paid to do so. It is all down to merit. Does the game or site come up to muster? We stress-test all elements to ensure players are only steered towards the best. We do not take the marketing spiel at face value; we go and find out for ourselves".

"One of the reasons that reviews are so important is because players are committing their own money to play these games, and the last thing they want to do is lose out by playing rubbish ones. We also have loads of hints and tips (including how to get free spins and play on trial versions), so iGamers do not waste funds learning how to play. By the time they deposit real money, they should be fully clued up on how the games work".

Adam explains how he goes about tackling pokies when he is playing on his own terms.

"Understanding all the symbols and their values is essential to having fun on pokie games – and it's why I stick to the games I know. You generally won't "lose out" because you don't know all the rules, unlike a game like blackjack or poker. Still, if you know what you're looking for and which symbols are the most important, your excitement level will go through the roof!"

Adam Volz is an online gambling expert who researches and writes content to help players find the best casinos and games. He uses his attention to detail and experience working in different markets worldwide to find the best online casino experiences around, so he knows what he is talking about.

"Reviews help players find the types and titles of games they want to play. Rather than being blindsided by bonuses for games you would not normally play, reading reviews lets you press your pause button and make considered choices. You do not need to be in a rush, and being properly prepared can save heartache and disappointment down the line".

His colleague Lewis Crane also says it is essential to check out RTP – or return to player -  so that you have a realistic idea of your chances of winning.

He told us,

"Online pokies are all about having fun. To do that, you need to choose the right game that fits your budget and expectations. If you're looking for lots of small returns and making the game session last, opt for an RTP of 97 or 98% with a lower max win. If you're looking for bigger risks but more potential rewards, look for an RTP of around 94% and a high max win."

Reviews matter because they ensure that the only surprises you get are pleasant ones – like when you cash out the jackpot or win a ton of free spins or special features.