Whether you are a seasoned pro or inquisitive beginner, understanding the strategies makes all the difference is what can be the difference between cashing out broke or as a winner with bragging rights. We’re discussing both well-known and lesser-known gambling strategies for you to play more intelligently at online casinos.
We’re being honest here, gambling requires a lot of luck. But if you’re relying on luck alone, you’re missing out on some pretty fantastic techniques that can turn the tables ever-so-slightly in your favor. If you’re playing reels, card games or dropping coins on the next big game, there are tricks and systems that people swear by like maniacs. Some of them are so famous, they’ve reached the silver screen. Others? They’re more like underground advice passed around between die-hards.
This guide isn’t about guaranteeing wins, but it is about boosting your chances, managing your bankroll better and maybe even having more fun while you’re at it. We’ll break down both the popular strategies and the ones flying under the radar, especially for online gambling, where the landscape has evolved in some pretty interesting ways.
The classics: Well-known gambling strategies
These are the ones you’ve probably heard of. But just because they’re familiar doesn’t mean they don’t have use.
The Martingale system
This is the bread and butter of the betting system. The Martingale system is simple: You double your wager every time you lose, hoping a win sometime in the process will pay for all your losses and leave you profit equal to your initial wager.
Where it shines: Even-money bets like roulette (red/black, odd/even), blackjack or baccarat.
Warning: It will burn through your bankroll rapidly if you experience a run of bad luck. Plus, most online casinos set table limits that will truncate this method before it has a chance to pay out.
Card counting (for online blackjack)
Though traditional card counting is challenging (and in some cases impossible) at online blackjack because of automated shuffling and RNGs, it can be applied to live dealer blackjack games broadcast in real time. It is a system of tracking high and low cards to identify when the odds tip in your direction.
Reality check: Most online casinos are aware of this and change decks frequently. It is legal but not quite welcome.
The Paroli system
This is sort of the Martingale’s happy uncle. Instead of doubling up on losses, you double on wins. The idea is to ride with winning streaks and cut short losing ones.
Why it’s popular: It’s not as risky as the Martingale and gives the player control.
Basic strategy for blackjack
If you play blackjack without knowing basic strategy, you’re leaving money on the table. This isn’t a system, it’s a mathematically established method to play each and every hand based on your hand and dealer’s up card.
Pro tip: You can have free charts online and even have them open while you’re playing online. Completely legal.
Under-the-radar strategies worth exploring
These less well-known strategies don’t have the glitz of online Hollywood, but they can provide a pleasant surprise, especially for gamblers who enjoy outside-the-box thinking.
Leveraging promotions and comparison websites
This is where strategy meets smart shopping. Instead of signing up for one casino, some players hop from site to site by utilizing comparison sites that compare promotions. These sites often have special promotions—i.e., free spins no deposit or risk-free sportsbook bets.
One place to be on the lookout for is websites that gather casino and sportsbook daily bonuses. They allow you to grab those elusive bonuses that are not even listed on the website of the casino.
How it works: You get more bang for your deposits, plus a chance to experience different casinos without betting money first.
Bonus hunting
This is the craft of chasing online casino bonuses; welcome bonuses, deposit bonuses, cashback and free spins. The strategy is to play only when the house gives you value on top. Seasoned bonus hunters do math on expected value (EV) and grind small profits in the long term.
Tools of the trade: Spreadsheets, calculators and sometimes entire forums that are devoted to bonus hunts.
Heads-up: Casinos have caught on and now enforce tight wagering requirements. Read the terms.
Playing the slots when RTP is hot
Return-to-Player (RTP) on slots is typically set and locked, but some online websites have “hot” and “cold” slots meters. Even if it’s a gimmick, some players say paying attention to RTP swings and pouncing when a slot looks “due” works for them.
Truth or myth? The jury’s still out, but with low stakes, it can’t do any harm to have a try.
Volatility chasing
Games are available in different levels of volatility. High volatility means fewer wins and bigger payoffs; low volatility means more small wins. Some players jump around between games based on mood, bankroll or aim.
Example: Want to be a daredevil? Play a high-volatility slot with the possibility of massive jackpots. Desiring a $20 deposit to remain viable longer? Play a low-volatility game.
Online-specific strategies: Playing the online game
Online casinos offer unique possibilities, things you can’t do in a traditional venue.
Use auto-betting tools appropriately
Some websites enable you to create auto-bet schedules, which can help with Martingale or Paroli strategy. Don’t let it get out of hand though, while you’re getting coffee. Turn on loss limits, always.
Multi-tabbing slots
This is a bit more advanced. High-rollers usually open numerous slot games at once, especially when grinding wagering requirements. It’s a way of burning bonuses faster, but it will leave you bankrupt if you’re not careful.
Filtering games
Most modern casinos will let you filter games by RTP, variance or supplier. Use this to your advantage. If you’re going to spin, spin where you’ve got the best odds.
