Stepping into a casino or joining an online gaming platform for the first time can be daunting – not just because of the fast-paced action and flashing lights but also due to the unfamiliar jargon. Whether you’re spinning the reels of slots, playing blackjack, or placing a bet at roulette, understanding the lingo makes the experience far more enjoyable.
Here’s a beginner’s guide to the most common terms every player should know.
The Basics: Casino and Gaming Essentials
- Casino – A place where you can play games such as slots, poker, blackjack, and roulette. Either online or in person.
- Dealer – The person who runs the game, especially in card games like blackjack and poker. When playing at online casinos, the dealer may be a real person or automated software.
- House – The casino itself.
- House Edge – The mathematical advantage the casino has over players. An example of this is the house edge of around 2.7% for European roulette.
- RTP (Return to Player) – A term used in slot gaming. The RTP shows the percentage of money that will be paid back to players over time. An RTP of 96% means players, on average, will get back £96 for every £100 wagered.
Money Talk: Bankroll, Bets and Chips
- Bankroll – The total amount a player sets aside for playing with.
- Bet/Wager – The amount placed on a game or a hand.
- Stake – Another word for bet/wager.
- Chips – Used instead of cash in most land-based casinos. Players exchange money for chips.
- Buy-in – The amount required to enter a game, especially poker.
Winning and Losing Terms
- Jackpot – A large payout, often seen on slots. Some jackpots are progressive, meaning they grow over time.
- Payout – The money a player wins from a bet or game.
- Hit – Asking for another card in blackjack.
- Stand – Choosing to stick with the hand you’ve got in blackjack.
- Bust – Going bust means you’re out of the game in blackjack for going over 21.
Table Games and Strategies
- Roulette – A popular table game where a ball is spun around a wheel, and players bet on where it will land.
- Slots – Machines or digital reels with various symbols.
- Double Down – Doubling your bet and taking one more card in blackjack.
- Fold – Dropping out of a hand and forfeiting your cards in poker.
- Bluff – Pretending to have a strong hand in poker.
Online and Modern Casino Lingo
- Bonus – Extra money or spins given by an online casino, usually after signing up or making a deposit.
- Free Spins – Spins on slots that don’t cost the player anything.
- Wagering Requirements – The number of times you need to bet your bonus before you can withdraw winnings.
- Live Casino – Online games such as blackjack and roulette, hosted by real dealers in real-time.
Conclusion
Whether you’re exploring online gaming platforms or visiting a land-based casino, understanding the lingo to use will make you feel more comfortable and in control. As with any game, knowledge is power – so now that you know your hits from your folds and your RTP from your jackpot, you’re ready to rock and roll.
This information has been brought to you by BetVictor Casino New Zealand, one of the most reputable and popular betting sites.