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Wednesday, June 22, 2005

How to Pick a Price Per Head Provider

Featuring Dalton Wagner, Founder V.O. Group, S.A.

The number of Price Per Head providers has grown exponentially over the last twelve months with entrants to the marketplace almost daily. With so many choices, the big question is: “How do I know which Price Per Head provider or sports book to choose?”

When evaluating an offshore operation, it is often difficult to sort through the facts, for this reason, you must rely on the following to make a sound choice:

Years In Business: Make sure you choose a Price Per Head operator that has been in business for at least 6 years. A proven track record is a must. You can not afford to risk your clients or your sports season to a fly by night operator or ‘wanna be’ operator. Avoid new sportsbooks. Avoid anyone with an unreasonably low price (<$25/head/week) who may be attempting to gain entry into the market (sign of a new company).

Dalton Wagner Commentary: I invented the concept of PPH in 1999. I have the largest economies of scale and I write more PPH clients than anyone offshore. And, this is in addition to my sportsbook business, my casino business, my racebook business and my poker business. The fact is I make very little money at $25/head/week. It scares me to see new operators entering the market with prices as low as $25. I can tell you that unless they are writing over 15,000 head, they can not make it. Let me re-phrase that…if they are quoting prices as low as $25/head/week there is no way that they have enough employees to service an agent, there is no way they have tri-dundant phone service, there is no way they have tri-dundant internet service – in short, there is no way they can service an agent’s business well enough to help the agent grow. Secondly, PPH companies will lie to you about their company’s age. You must be able to verify the companies age. This is a must. Use Internic, use OSGA.com, and use ThePrescription.com. You must verify the facts.

Location: Check to make sure that the PPH provider you will outsource your clients to is licensed and legally able to service clients world-wide.

Dalton Wagner Commentary: There are only two locations that we know of that allow the outsourcing of bookmaking. The two locations are Costa Rica and Panama. The UK and Dutch Antilles to NOT allow this activity in their licenses. The only one you can trust at the current time is Costa Rica (as evidenced by the recent blow up of www.BetPanAm.com in Panama).

Reputation/Integrity: One of the best ways to make sure that your clients and your business will be safe with a provider is by checking their reputation. Use verifiable and known sources of information like the Off Shore Gaming Association, The Prescription, Bettors World, etc.

Dalton Wagner Commentary: If your outsourcing your business to someone, you expect them to treat it as their own. The person accepting the outsourcing better have a reputation as strong as or stronger than yours. This is the only way you should trust your business to them. One additional note, if the PPH Company also has a post-up division, check the reputation of the post-up side of the company. This will tell you volumes about the company. Rather, if the PPH company is tied to a loser post-up sportsbook or one that has a negative reputation, you know what to expect for your clients.

Service and Offerings: Reputable PPH companies are open 24-hours a day, 7-days a week, 365-days a year. They offer quarter lines, half time lines, game lines, money lines, propositions, multiple casinos, horse betting, and more. You are outsourcing to better service your clients – therefore service is one of the key deciding factors on who to go with.

Dalton Wagner Commentary: Simply put, the more accessible the service is and the more wagering options that exist, the more money the agent will make. You should consider the service mentioned above to be the minimum acceptable. Rather, if they have one casino – you should NOT work with them. If they do not have horses – you should NOT work with them. If they are not open 24-hours a day – you should NOT work with them, PERIOD!

Security: A PPH company must have safeguards and must keep your information and clients secure and anonymous If the company you are considering is publicly held, then your security is compromised (it CAN BE accessed via the government). If the company you are considering has integrity issues, you can assume your data will be passed on to the wrong people.

Dalton Wagner Commentary: Security is the ultimate issue. Our company has had the opportunity to be purchased or taken public on multiple occasions. We decided not to do so because it would put our clients/agents/bookmakers in a compromised situation. Partner agents and bookmakers use our service because our integrity and the security of their data is complete.

Additional Information on a Price Per Head Agency Relationship (also known as outsourcing, outsourced bookmaking, sportsbook agent, sportsbook service, call center outsourcing, etc.):

The concept of Price Per Head Agency or Outsourcing Bookmaking to an Offshore Sports book has become popular recently. By using software written by offshore sports books, agents or illegal credit bookmakers have the ability to outsource the writing of their business to companies like www.BettorsNet.com (owned by V.O. Group, S.A. one of the largest and most respected offshore operators in the world – contact is 1-877-512-1001). Therefore, the agent or bookmaker simply points their clients to a phone number and/or website and allows them to bet with a simple Pin/Password system. The agent or bookmaker then pulls reports at the end of the week, and pays or collects what the client won or lost. The only money that trades hands between the agent or bookmaker and the service provider is a simple Price Per Head service fee.

Obvious benefits of the Price Per Head Agency relationship are (i) improved earning potential for the agent, (ii) decreased legal exposure for the agent, (iii) increased customer service for the agent’s clients, and (iv) ability for the agent to do something other than answer wagering calls (they actually get time to enjoy the money they are earning).

Dalton Wagner’s commentary is found throughout the above. Mr. Wagner has the reputation of being the most innovative operator in offshore gaming and the largest Price Per Head operator offshore. His most recent innovation has allowed small sportsbooks to outsource their complete operation to V.O. Group, S.A. while focusing completely on marketing. With formidable competition, Mr. Wagner founded V.O. Group, S.A. in 1998. While most companies formed that late failed, V.O. Group, S.A. has become one of the top 10 operators offshore (as measured by AnteUp; Gambling Online Magazine; Poker Player Magazine; and Many other Publications).

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Monday, June 20, 2005

Success With Price Per Head (Small Sportsbook Success)

Case Study in Small Sportsbook Success via Use of Price Per Head (PPH) Software Written and Owned by V.O. Group, S.A., the most successful offshore sportsbook in Costa Rica.

Price Per Head vs. Small Sportsbook Operation

Featuring Dalton Wagner, Founder V.O. Group, S.A.

As Founder and Proprietor of V.O. Group, S.A., Dalton Wagner has the reputation of being the most innovative operator in offshore gaming. His most recent innovation has allowed small sportsbooks to outsource their complete operation to V.O. Group, S.A. while focusing completely on marketing. With formidable competition, Mr. Wagner founded V.O. Group, S.A. in 1998. While most companies formed that late failed, V.O. Group, S.A. has become one of the top 10 operators offshore (as measured by AnteUp; Gambling Online Magazine; Poker Player Magazine; and Many other Publications).

Playing Poker Online Magazine: Recently we have been told that V.O. Group, S.A. is now allowing small sportsbook operations to outsource the complete writing of their business to your organization. How is this possible?
Wagner: The situation you speak about is 100% true. However, has only happened one time in our history.

Playing Poker Online Magazine: Can you be more specific?
Wagner: When an offshore sportsbook starts, in 99% of all cases it will fail in the first 24 months of operations given the current market conditions. Examples are everywhere from The Dunes, Platinum, Super Sports Book, etc. It happens every single year. In the past, large sportsbooks like MVP Sportsbook or V-Wager.com would swoop in and try to save the books via financial help or simply buy them at a low price. Well, V.O. Group, S.A. now offers another more innovative solution.

Playing Poker Online Magazine: OK. You’ve got me, explain!
Wagner: We write business for onshore bookmakers and agents charging them a simple price per head per week. This price takes into consideration our considerable economies of scale and a small profit margin. In the case you are speaking of, instead of buying the sportsbook for a low cost that basically sent the owners home broken hearted and with empty pockets, we cut them a deal where they could focus on marketing and leverage off of our economies of scale. Simply put, we took over writing their business for them, and they now focus their limited resources on marketing 100% of the time.

Playing Poker Online Magazine: That sounds like snake oil. How exactly would that work?
Wagner: We don’t sell snake oil. The facts speak for themselves. When V.O. Group, S.A. opened it’s doors in 1998 the market was different. You could recruit players, write their business, and make a profit in years one, two and three. With the current market conditions, there is NO WAY a start up credit or post-up book can be profitable in year one, two or three without 2,000 head a week in business. That is the theoretical breakeven point. If you are writing less than 2,000 head a week, you can double or triple your net earn by letting V.O. Group, S.A. write your business.

Playing Poker Online Magazine: OK. That makes sense because in 1998 and 1999, it was cheaper to find a new client. Is that where the difference in earnings comes from?
Wagner: The fact is yes, that is where the difference is. But, that is not our selling point. Our selling point is that if you stop worrying about writing business and let us do it, you can focus on marketing – which is the key to the success of an online sportsbook. And, that is the simple fact for credit bookmaking, post-up bookmaking and future success in this industry. As long as you think ‘beating the clients’ is the key, you are limiting your business. Let our company worry about that – and, you find clients. Spend your time finding clients and you will make money.

Playing Poker Online Magazine: The theory is sound, but what about the facts?
Wagner: The owners of the sports operation in question do not want me to be specific about whom they are. But, let me simply say that when we took over their operations, they could not even make the post-up money good. Now they have $1.4 million in the bank. So, yes, the facts do follow the theory.

Playing Poker Online Magazine: Wow! That is incredible. Can any poker room, casino, racebook or sports book do this with V.O. Group, S.A.
Wagner: Yes. We have programs for all online products except for bingo. And, by 2006 we should be able to offer options for even bingo operators..

Playing Poker Online Magazine: So how does a bookmaker or current operation learn more about outsourcing their operations to V.O. Group, S.A.?
Wagner: Simply go to any of the V.O. Group, S.A. sites to learn more. I suggest starting at www.BettorsNet.com or calling 1-877-512-1001 or emailing agents@bettorsnet.com to get more information.



Article Note: The situation in this Case Study is a true case, however may not be representative of your situation. All situations are different and therefore may result differently.

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Tuesday, June 14, 2005

Innovation In Bookmaking

Innovation In Bookmaking
Q & A with
Dalton Wagner, Founder V.O. Group, S.A.

As Founder and Proprietor of V.O. Group, S.A., Dalton Wagner has the reputation of ferreting out new markets and attacking while other companies sit on their hindquarters and watch. One market that has always eluded offshore bookmakers is the ‘guy who likes dealing with his credit bookmaker’. Typically this market has been untouchable for the offshore bookmaker, but NOT for Dalton and V.O. Group, S.A. We had an opportunity to catch up with Dalton Wagner on his last visit to Panama.

Vegas Offshore: Tell us about this new product that you are calling your Price Per Head Agency Relationship.
Wagner: As you know, one market that a post-up sportsbook has historically been unable to attack is the huge market of bettors that have been betting with their local guy for years. The reason this market exists is the personal relationship that an onshore bookie has with his clients. Sportsbooks have attempted to educate the player and lure him away from the local bookie, however we have taken another tact. We have partnered with local bookies around the world to make their offering better and more valuable.

Vegas Offshore: So instead of attacking the local guy, you actually approach him with your offer?
Wagner: Exactly. The fact is that the relationship is the last thread holding clients to a local guy. Yes, there is the fact that the local guy extends credit, but with bonuses and promotions we can overcome that offering. The key is the relationship.

Vegas Offshore: I’m confused, please explain.
Wagner: As you know, the onshore bookmaking market has lost steam to the offshore providers like V.O. Group, S.A. The reason is that the offerings that I can provide are far superior to those that any onshore bookmaker can offer. The PPH concept is based on allowing the onshore bookmaker to provide his clients my offerings on a purely anonymous basis via an online automated tool. Rather, by signing up with my PPH service, an onshore bookmaker can compete with all offshore sportsbooks on equal footing offering 24-hour wagering, 365 days a year. All the bookmaker does is use an online system to assign PINs and PASSWORDs and pay me a small fee per week for the service.

Vegas Offshore: Wait a minute. So, this means that a small time operator in Cleveland, Ohio can offer all the same things that V.O. Group, S.A. does without making the multi-million dollar investment?
Wagner: Now your catching on. For as little as $25 per head per week, a guy in Ohio can compete with the biggest sportsbooks in the world. And, better yet, never answer another wagering phone call again.

Vegas Offshore: OK, I get it. They use your automated tool to drive their clients to your software online, and they simply pick up the figures at the end of the week.
Wagner: Exactly correct with one exception. Their clients can bet on the phone via our call center staffed with 250 people OR bet online. Again, they have access to all of the offerings V.O. Group, S.A. provides including call center access, client services and technical support.

Vegas Offshore: Is the PPH product only based on sports wagering?
Wagner: Very good question. The answer is no. We actually have the ability to offer clients two (2) casino products including blackjack, baccarat, slots, 3 card poker, roulette, etc. And, clients may also bet on horses at over 350 tracks worldwide.

Vegas Offshore: Wow! That truly is incredible. So, a bookie that has one client can compete with the likes of MVPsportsbook.com on equal footing?
Wagner: Exactly correct. But, there are two keys to the success of the product launch. The first is being able to compete head to head with the biggest sportsbooks in the world. But, arguably the most important factor is that since the onshore bookie no longer has to answer phones or track plays, he can spend all of his time picking up new clients, NOT writing bets.

Vegas Offshore: I remember that in a prior interview you had stated that the key is not winning, but finding more losers.
Wagner: An embarrassing quote, but true. Amateur bookmakers think that the key is to beat the clients you have. That is a huge mistake. The key to getting rich as a bookmaker is finding a new client every single day of the year. The numbers take care of themselves, the key is to get more and more people playing. That is the TRUE BEAUTY of the PPH software and agency relationship.

Vegas Offshore: Do you have any success stories to tell?
Wagner: I have many, but will tell you one that emphasizes what the PPH program can do. I have a bookmaker that has been working out of San Antonio, Texas for 10 years. The guy has historically made $200,000 a year from his 25 or 30 players. He was introduced to our product in July 2004, and today he is writing over 185 clients. The ability to outsource answering calls and writing tickets to us has allowed him to grow his business 600% and his revenue over 1000%.

Vegas Offshore: Why did his revenue grow more than his business? Is it because your lines are sharper than his?
Wagner: There you go again. That is the obvious mistake that everyone makes. Again, don’t worry about beating the clients. Worry about getting more clients to play. But, to answer your question directly, the ability for his clients to play in the casino, play 24 hours a day, play games/halves/quarters, props, etc. is where the extra revenue comes from. Our lines might be sharper, but the advantage is more clients betting more often.

Vegas Offshore: How many bookmakers do you currently work with?
Wagner: We are writing business for over 250 bookmakers now. Some represent groups as small as 2 or 3; and others represent groups as large as 500. Again, remember the key is finding as many clients as possible. If you get to where you are writing 15 clients or more, it is almost impossible to lose for an extended period of time.


Vegas Offshore: So how does a bookmaker learn more about this?
Wagner: Simply go to any of the V.O. Group, S.A. sites to learn more. I suggest starting at www.BettorsNet.com or calling 1-877-512-1001 or emailing agents@bettorsnet.com to get more information.

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State of the Offshore Gaming Industry

State of the Offshore Gaming Industry
Q & A with
Dalton Wagner, Founder V.O. Group, S.A.

As Founder and Proprietor of V.O. Group, S.A., Dalton Wagner has the reputation of making one-dollar work like three in online marketing. With formidable competition, Mr. Wagner founded V.O. Group, S.A. in 1998 and has quickly risen to be one of the largest offshore operators in the world with over 50,000 active clients. We had an opportunity to catch up with Dalton Wagner on his last visit to Antigua.

Vegas Offshore: This year has been interesting for V.O. Group, S.A. and the offshore industry as a whole (advertising changes, etc.). How do you feel about the industry at the current time?
Wagner: I feel the industry is as strong as it has ever been. We are still finding that our advertising is bringing us new clients at an ever-growing rate. Some competitors are complaining that the crimp on advertising is affecting the industry, but we are not seeing this trend. Consolidation within the industry has begun, and I am sure you will continue to see smaller competitors gobbled up, and medium to larger companies merging. The weaker will go by the wayside.

Vegas Offshore: What about the rumors of V.O. Group, S.A. being bought?
Wagner: I am glad you used the term 'rumors'. The fact is that in July 2004 three suitors approached V.O. Group, S.A. because of our record-breaking profit year. In two of the cases we did see 'value' in a merger/relationship. However, at the end of the day, we could not come to terms that were agreeable on both sides. At this time V.O. Group, S.A. stands independent. And, we are happy being independent, profitable and growing.

Vegas Offshore: It is rumored that Bet On Sports (PLC; BSS.L) was one of the suitors. Is that true?
Wagner: There were three suitors that approached V.O. Group, S.A. And, in all cases confidentiality agreements were signed. For this reason, I cannot confirm or deny who any of the potential suitors were. What I can tell you is that one was a major sportsbook player, one was a major casino player and two were PLCs. I doubt that helps.

Vegas Offshore: Well, if Bet On Sports was involved, I bet you are happy you weren't involved in their November 24, 2004 stock debacle.
Wagner: The Bet On Sports stock debacle was an over-reaction by the market in my opinion. In one day you saw their stock drop 50% in value. And, the reason was poor performance in a very short period. If you looked at the other publicly held offshore gaming companies, you saw the same thing, just not as drastic as with BSS.L. Simply put, I know the founder of Bet On Sports, I know the management of Bet On Sports, I know the staff at Bet On Sports and I would not hesitate to invest in Bet On Sports. They were, and still are, undervalued in my opinion. They are a great competitor and a great company. I wish I had some of their stock at the new adjusted price. I just don't see how you can lose.

Vegas Offshore: It is rare to hear the 'competition' speaking so highly of a major competitor. Why would you do so?
Wagner: Simple. Bet On Sports is a great company. And, I am sure they would tell you the same about V.O. Group, S.A. The fact is, that there are companies out there that make our industry stronger. And, ones that make it weaker. Bet On Sports and V.O.Group, S.A. strive to make our industry stronger and more legitimate on a daily basis (as do BetCris.com; BoDog.com; etc.). What kind of ambassador for the industry would I be if I downplayed a 'good' competitor like Bet On Sports for my own benefit?

Vegas Offshore: If Bet On Sports did approach you, would you consider a merger?
Wagner: I like being independent. But, simply put, NEVER say NEVER.

Vegas Offshore: What of the rumors that you are looking at Panama as a potential relocation site?
Wagner: Our operation currently has offices in Costa Rica, Antigua and Belize. In Costa Rica we currently have over 400 employees. With employment costs in Costa Rica on the rise, the burden of Caja and the ever-changing political climate, we have looked at several alternative locations. One of the most desirable is/was Panama. However, due to the massive failure of BetPanAm.com and the political debacle involving their past gaming commission, we have decided to stay put for the current time. I think it is very safe to say that our primary location will be Costa Rica for the next 5 years. Pending any crazy licensing or governmental changes.

Vegas Offshore: I have visited your office in Antigua, however had no idea that you employed 400 individuals in Costa Rica. Why do you need such a large staff?
Wagner: Our industry has a reputation for being lazy and getting by on a shoestring budget. Most sportsbooks, casinos, racebooks and poker rooms answer phones when it is convenient and buy computers when the ones they are operating blow-up. Most are simply embarrassing to the legitimate operators. To run an operation like ours, servicing 50,000 bettors, you need lots of space, a 1st rate phone system, fiber and satellite phone and Internet backups, IT professionals, accounting professionals, etc. V.O. Group, S.A. is currently located in 35,000 square feet of space, operating 24-hours a day, 365 days a year, and we are busting at the seems. At the current time, we are negotiating to buy the building next to us for future expansion. I think we will employ 600 people come this same time next year.

Vegas Offshore: I have noticed that you are still branching into other products. How has this strategy worked for V.O. Group, S.A.?
Wagner: In 1998 we started with our sports product. We then branched into the casino product. In 2001 and 2002 we opened several major race books and poker rooms. The fact is that we are profitable in all products. However, our core product, and hub for our advertising, is focused on the sports product. The strategy has worked, but we will not desert our core product. You can look for our re-launch of interactive betting in early 2005 and bingo in mid 2005.

Vegas Offshore: What other changes do you see in 2005 for V.O. Group, S.A.
Wagner: I think you will see V.O. Group, S.A. work more on our Internet interface to make it more gamer-friendly; you will see our company move into land-based gaming; and you will see us acquire two or three smaller competitors. Rather, you will see what you have always seen, expansion.

Vegas Offshore: What other changes do you see in 2005 for the industry as a whole?
Wagner: The strong will get stronger. The weak will get weaker. And, the acquisition race will be on.

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Monday, March 14, 2005

Bookmakers!

Read Below To Earn More Cash Than Ever

Are you a onshore bookmaker that wants to Minimize Legal Exposure, Increase Potential Profits, Spend More Time Enjoying the Money You Are Making, and Grow Your Business Beyond Your Wildest Dreams? If you answered ‘YES’ to one or all of these questions, then you need to look at a Price Per Head Agent Relationship with our company.

The concept of a Price Per Head Agent Relationship is based on you, the onshore bookmaker, paying our company a service fee to offer the same services that we offer to thousands of clients (on an anonymous basis).

For the first time, you will be able to offer Internet and Phone access to Sports, Horse and Casino (2 casinos) wagering to all your current clients (via a simple PIN and PASSWORD betting system). No longer do you have to compete with offshore sportsbooks and lose clients. YOU WILL BE ABLE TO OFFER EVERYTHING THAT THEY OFFER!

We are Licensed to offer bookmaking services.

We have been in business for 7 years.

We write business for 15,000 clients daily.

We are open 24-hours a day, 7-days a week, 365 days a year.

We have over 500 operators standing by to make you money!

Take advantage of our $5,000,000 USD investment to make your services better than ever. No longer will you have to answer calls all Saturday and Sunday. No longer will you have to lose clients to the offshore bookmakers. No longer will you have to worry about having your door kicked in by the authorities. Now you can compete with the Big Boys! You will simply sit back, watch the games, and earn more than ever before.

To learn more, go to our website, and click on ‘Agents’. If you prefer to use a white-labeled site without bonus and promotional text, visit www.BettorsNet.com for more information.

We look forward to being your service provider.

Call 1-888-333-6914 for more information.

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Innovation In Bookmaking

Q & A with Dalton Wagner, Founder V.O. Group, S.A.

As Founder and Proprietor of V.O. Group, S.A., Dalton Wagner has the reputation of ferreting out new markets and attacking while other companies sit on their hindquarters and watch. One market that has always eluded offshore bookmakers is the ‘guy who likes dealing with his credit bookmaker’. Typically this market has been untouchable for the offshore bookmaker, but NOT for Dalton and V.O. Group, S.A. We had an opportunity to catch up with Dalton Wagner on his last visit to Panama.

Vegas Offshore: Tell us about this new product that you are calling your Price Per Head Agency Relationship.

Wagner: As you know, one market that a post-up sportsbook has historically been unable to attack is the huge market of bettors that have been betting with their local guy for years. The reason this market exists is the personal relationship that an onshore bookie has with his clients. Sportsbooks have attempted to educate the player and lure him away from the local bookie, however we have taken another tact. We have partnered with local bookies around the world to make their offering better and more valuable.

Vegas Offshore: So instead of attacking the local guy, you actually approach him with your offer?

Wagner: Exactly. The fact is that the relationship is the last thread holding clients to a local guy. Yes, there is the fact that the local guy extends credit, but with bonuses and promotions we can overcome that offering. The key is the relationship.

Vegas Offshore: I’m confused, please explain.

Wagner: As you know, the onshore bookmaking market has lost steam to the offshore providers like V.O. Group, S.A. The reason is that the offerings that I can provide are far superior to those that any onshore bookmaker can offer. The PPH concept is based on allowing the onshore bookmaker to provide his clients my offerings on a purely anonymous basis via an online automated tool. Rather, by signing up with my PPH service, an onshore bookmaker can compete with all offshore sportsbooks on equal footing offering 24-hour wagering, 365 days a year. All the bookmaker does is use an online system to assign PINs and PASSWORDs and pay me a small fee per week for the service.

Vegas Offshore: Wait a minute. So, this means that a small time operator in Cleveland, Ohio can offer all the same things that V.O. Group, S.A. does without making the multi-million dollar investment?

Wagner: Now your catching on. For as little as $25 per head per week, a guy in Ohio can compete with the biggest sportsbooks in the world. And, better yet, never answer another wagering phone call again.

Vegas Offshore: OK, I get it. They use your automated tool to drive their clients to your software online, and they simply pick up the figures at the end of the week.

Wagner: Exactly correct with one exception. Their clients can bet on the phone via our call center staffed with 250 people OR bet online. Again, they have access to all of the offerings V.O. Group, S.A. provides including call center access, client services and technical support.

Vegas Offshore: Is the PPH product only based on sports wagering?

Wagner: Very good question. The answer is no. We actually have the ability to offer clients two (2) casino products including blackjack, baccarat, slots, 3 card poker, roulette, etc. And, clients may also bet on horses at over 350 tracks worldwide.

Vegas Offshore: Wow! That truly is incredible. So, a bookie that has one client can compete with the likes of MVPsportsbook.com on equal footing?

Wagner: Exactly correct. But, there are two keys to the success of the product launch. The first is being able to compete head to head with the biggest sportsbooks in the world. But, arguably the most important factor is that since the onshore bookie no longer has to answer phones or track plays, he can spend all of his time picking up new clients, NOT writing bets.

Vegas Offshore: I remember that in a prior interview you had stated that the key is not winning, but finding more losers.

Wagner: An embarrassing quote, but true. Amateur bookmakers think that the key is to beat the clients you have. That is a huge mistake. The key to getting rich as a bookmaker is finding a new client every single day of the year. The numbers take care of themselves, the key is to get more and more people playing. That is the TRUE BEAUTY of the PPH software and agency relationship.

Vegas Offshore: Do you have any success stories to tell?

Wagner: I have many, but will tell you one that emphasizes what the PPH program can do. I have a bookmaker that has been working out of San Antonio, Texas for 10 years. The guy has historically made $200,000 a year from his 25 or 30 players. He was introduced to our product in July 2004, and today he is writing over 185 clients. The ability to outsource answering calls and writing tickets to us has allowed him to grow his business 600% and his revenue over 1000%.

Vegas Offshore: Why did his revenue grow more than his business? Is it because your lines are sharper than his?

Wagner: There you go again. That is the obvious mistake that everyone makes. Again, don’t worry about beating the clients. Worry about getting more clients to play. But, to answer your question directly, the ability for his clients to play in the casino, play 24 hours a day, play games/halves/quarters, props, etc. is where the extra revenue comes from. Our lines might be sharper, but the advantage is more clients betting more often.

Vegas Offshore: How many bookmakers do you currently work with?

Wagner: We are writing business for over 250 bookmakers now. Some represent groups as small as 2 or 3; and others represent groups as large as 500. Again, remember the key is finding as many clients as possible. If you get to where you are writing 15 clients or more, it is almost impossible to lose for an extended period of time.

Vegas Offshore: So how does a bookmaker learn more about this?

Wagner: Simply go to any of the V.O. Group, S.A. sites to learn more. I suggest starting at www.BettorsNet.com or calling 1-877-512-1001 or emailing agents@bettorsnet.com to get more information.

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Casino Basics Free Casino Online

CHOOSING A TABLE

Before playing the game, you'll need to find an appropriate table at which
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Often, you'll find that the lower limit ($3 or $5) tables are quite crowded.
In most casinos, the signs are color-coded to match the minimum bets posted
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you'll want to make sure that the table you have selected is actually for blackjack,
and not another of the various table games offered at the casino. Blackjack
tables will almost certainly have the phrase "Blackjack pays 3 to 2"
printed on the table felt. The next item to observe is the type of game being
dealt. Beginners are usually better off playing the "shoe" games where
6 or 8 decks are used. The advantage for beginners in this game is that all
of the player's cards are dealt face-up in front of each player, and the dealer
can help with playing questions and decisions. Notice: Once you become proficient
at the game, you might want to switch to a game with fewer decks. The casino's
advantage is lower with fewer decks in play. But for now, let's stick with the
multi-deck games for the ease-of-play advantage.

BUYING CHIPS

Once you are seated at a table, you'll need to purchase some chips from the
dealer for your bets. Wait for a break in the action, and place your cash out
in front of you on the table felt. (Some casinos might make you wait until the
dealer shuffles to join the game.) An appropriate buy-in amount is anywhere
from 10 to 20 times your average bet. If you are a $5 bettor, this means a buy-in
of $50-$100 is typical. Don't try to hand your cash to the dealer. For security
reasons, he can't take anything from your hands. Simply lay the cash on the
table; he'll pick it up and change it for an equal value of playing chips. You
won't be getting any change back either. He'll change the entire amount, push
the chips across the table to you, and then drop the cash into a slot in the
table top. Chip colors are fairly standardized in the casino industry, with
red chips representing $5, green chips representing $25, and black chips representing
$100. You'll also see $1 value chips (usually white) or $1 tokens (silver) on
the table as well. Some casinos also use a $2.50 chip that is usually pink in
color. Chip colors above the $100 denomination vary widely, with purple a common
choice for $500 chips. Take a quick look at the chips to make sure that you
know the values, and that you were given the correct amount for your cash. If
you have any questions, just ask the dealer. Part of his job is to help players
learn the game.

MAKING A BET

On the table felt in front of your position, you'll find a circle or box for
your bets. Before each hand begins, place your desired bet into the circle in
one stack. If you are betting multiple denominations of chips, place the larger
valued chips on the bottom of the stack, and the smaller value chips on top.
Once the cards have been dealt, you aren't allowed to touch the bet in the circle.
If you need to know how much you have bet for doubling or splitting (explained
later), the dealer will count down the chips for you. Once the hand is over,
the dealer will move around the table to each position in turn, paying winners
and collecting the chips from losing hands. After the dealer has paid you, you
can remove your chips from the circle, and place your next bet. If you want
to let your winnings ride, you'll need to form one stack of chips from the two
or more stacks on the table after the dealer pays you. Remember, big chips should
be placed on the bottom.

CASHING IN

When you're finished playing, you'll want to take your chips to the cashier
to exchange them for cash. If you have groups of smaller denomination chips
in front of you, the dealer will probably want to "color up" your
chips. This simply means exchanging groups of smaller denomination chips for
larger valued chips. Wait until the end of a hand, then simply push your chips
out in front of you between the betting boxes, so it can't be confused for a
bet. The dealer will count down the chips, and return to you a smaller stack
of chips of equal value. You can take these to the cashier for cash, or to another
table for more play.

Most people look at the vast array of slot machines at the casino and think
they are all alike. They see a handle, coin slot and flashing lights and figure
one is as good as another. What they are missing is a lot of valuable information
that can help determine if and how they play a certain slot machine.

Not all machines are the same and the way to separate one machine from another
is to learn how to "Read" a machine by looking at the pay out schedule
on the front. Lets take a look a typical slot machine and see what information
can be found.

First of all you will find the denomination of the coin needed to play that
machine. I don't know how many times I have seen a person drop a quarter into
a machine only to get a confused look when the coin drops through and back into
the tray. Upon closer observation they discover that they tried to put a quarter
in a dollar machine. This is the first thing you should look for. There are
several types of machines that you need to be aware of:

Multiplier:

This machine has a pay out for a certain symbol and the number of coins played
multiplies it. If the machine pays 5 coins for three lemons when you play one
coin, it would pay 10 for the second coin and 15 for three coins played. This
machine does not penalize you for not playing maximum coins. If you plan to
play only one coin at a time, this is the type of machine you should look for.

Bonus Multiplier:

This machine operates the same as the multiplier except that it offers a bonus
when you play maximum coins and hit the jackpot. Three 7's may pay 1,000 for
one coin, 2,000 for two coins and 10,000 for maximum coins. You need to decide
if the bonus is worth playing the extra coin.

Multiple Payline:

These machines have more than one line of play. Each coin activates a particular
line. If you hit a winner on a line that is not activated, you will not receive
anything. The older machines used to have three lines but the newer video slots
can have up to nine lines.

Buy A Pay:

These are the most misunderstood machines in the casino. Each coin activates
a different pay out. You need the maximum coins to activate the largest jackpot.
One example is the "Sizzlin 7's" machines. The machine will pay on
cherries, bars and sevens. The sevens pay 1,000 coins. If you play one coin
you can collect only on the cherries. If you play two coins you can collect
on cherries and bars. You need three coins in to collect on the Sizzlin 7's.
If you hit the jackpot with one coin in YOU WILL NOT WIN ANYTHING!!! Do not
play this machine under any circumstances unless you are playing the maximum
coins.

Progressive Slots:

The progressive slots take a certain percentage of the money played and add
it to a pool for the top jackpot. "Megabucks" or "Quarter Mania"
are examples of machines from several casinos linked together to offer a life
changing jackpot. Keep in mind that the percentage of the payback on the lesser
wins is lowered to allow for the big prize. Some casinos have machines linked
together within their own casino to offer mini-progressive jackpots. NEVER PLAY
A PROGRESSIVE WITH LESS THAN MAXMIMUM COINS!! There is a story circulating that
a lady hit the "Megabucks" when the jackpot was 20 million but because
she only had one coin in she collected only $5,000. While this is an "Urban
Legend" there are other cases of people losing out on lesser progressive
jackpots because of short coin play.

All of the slot machines have the information you need posted on the front.
Before you sit down to play, take a minute to "Read" the machine.
This will make you a knowledgeable player and help you determine which machine
is best suited for you.

If you want to go to a casino and play the slots but do not want to bother
with the time to learn the proper strategy for video poker or blackjack, then
you can use our simple slot system to stretch your gaming dollar. We call it
"The One Coin System", read on to find out how it works.

The first step is to find a two coin multiplier slot machine. A multiplier
slot machine has a pay out for a certain symbol and the number of coins played
multiplies it. If the machine pays 5 coins for three lemons when you play one
coin, it would pay 10 for the second coin played. This machine does not penalize
you for not playing maximum coins.

A popular two coin multiplier is IGT's "Double Diamond" machine.
The top award is 800 coins for one coin played and 1,600 for 2 coins played.
This machine also offers a doubling symbol that will double smaller wins. There
are other two coin machines with similar payoffs. Take a look around the casino
and find one that meets this criteria.

Now you have to decide how much you want to play for your session. For this
example we will use $20 which is 2 rolls of quarters and totals 80 coins. You
may want to start with one roll of quarters if want to risk less. Now start
by playing one coin at a time from your rolls of quarters. You will continue
playing one coin until you have a win.

When you have a win you will play 2 coins on your next spin. One coin is played
from your starting bankroll and one coin from you winnings. If you win you continue
to play two coins the same way. If you lose you will go back to playing only
one coin from your starting rolls.

After you have played all 80 coins through the machine, you will count your
winnings. If you have won more than the 80 you started with you will put the
winnings aside. This is your win that you will take home with you. You now have
80 coins to play again in the same fashion.

If you wind up with less than 80 coins you may want to take a break and then
find a new machine to play. You will use whatever coins you have from the first
session and play them in the same way. Play one coin until you win and then
one coin from your starting coins and one from your winnings. If any of your
sessions end with no coins, you will quit. You will not touch any coins you
have put aside from previous winning sessions. Go cash in your winnings. Take
a walk or get something to eat or simply call it a day. If you decide to play
another session later, you will start all over with a new bankroll.

This system does not guarantee you will be a winner. It will however help you
stretch your playing time while risking less of your bankroll. If you only want
to play slots for a little fun this might be the system for you.

Slot Machine:

“One Armed Bandit” ring a bell? For obvious reasons, that used to be the most
commonly used name for slot machines. Playing the “slots” is often a term that
is used by players. In a land-based casino, the machines are physical entities
that receive deposits in the form of coins through a slot. Thus, “slot machine”.
Modern video machines have eliminated the arm, and online slots are played from
money deposited with the cashier via credit card for the most part, so the slot
is gone too. But the basic premise is still the same, and the name has remained.

Jackpots:

Everyone wants to win one. Very few do. There are two basic kinds of jackpots:
progressive, and static.

Progressive:

The amount of the jackpot is set at a base amount and increases with each coin
that is inserted. Sometimes the potential jackpot is limited to a maximum at
which point it converts to static (see below)... and sometimes the sky is the
limit! It depends on the machine. The jackpot is always growing, and large payouts
result…when they payout! The rule of thumb is: the bigger the jackpot, the less
likely you are to win it. Goes with the territory. The payout is less often,
and the number of people who win is not as high. But on the other hand, the
money is greater. Yes, you can become an over-night millionaire.

One important point to remember about progressive jackpots is that you MUST
read the requirements that the machine dictates for you to win the jackpot.
This is especially true if you are not familiar with the machine. If haven’t
deposited the right number of coins, those three red 7’s are not going to do
you any good.

Static:

The amount of the jackpot is set and doesn’t change. No matter how many coins
have been deposited, the jackpot will be the same. These machines payout more
frequently than the progressive jackpots, but with smaller amounts. This can
be more fun for the average gambler as there is a very real possibility of winning
something.

Different machines payout at different rates. The number of lines affects how
big the payout will be as well. The more reels, the lower the odds of winning.
Inversely, the 2 coin, 3 reel, single line play, non-progressive, low jackpot
slot machine will offer you the best odds.

No matter what the jackpot arrangement, playing the slots should be fun. If
you are looking for a site that offers progressive jackpots, check out

Pay Cycle:

Many people believe that the slot machine MUST payout after a predetermined
number of coins have been deposited. The rational is that this is how they meet
the percentage of payout that has been programmed into the software.

Take Cycle:

This is the inverse: that the slot machine will not payout until it has completed
accumulating a certain number of coins. It may payout some very small amounts,
but the main function of the machine is to reach the percentage of “take” programmed
into it before it can payout a sizable jackpot.

Hold:

By law there is a percentage that the house must payout in winnings. The slot
machine is programmed to hold a certain percentage of the money on deposit as
house profit. The exact amount of the house profit held by the slot machine
is decided by the casino. See the article on Random Generated Numbers.

Pay line:

This is often the line in the center of the window, but there can be multiple
lines on some slot machines. Only the designated symbols on this line will activate
a payout by the machine.

Reels:

The symbols that show up on the lines are mounted on reels. The most common
number of reels is three, but there can be more or less than that. Always remember
that your chances of winning go down as the number of reels goes up.

Symbols:

Although lemons, cherries, and 7s are familiar symbols that can be found on
slot machines, the symbols set on the reels can be whatever the casino or the
manufacturer chose. There is no absolute industry standard.

Tilt:

Bet you thought that only happened to pinball machines. Nope. In a land-based
casino, when the slot machine runs out of coins, or a coin becomes jammed, the
machine will shut down all play and the “Tilt” light will come on. The machine
has memory capability, so that when the problem is rectified, any winnings owed
to a player will be remembered. Of course, for slot online players, this is
of no concern at all. Virtual machines have no hopper to run dry or overflow.

Fill:

The opposite, the hopper is overflowing and the excess coins have to be removed.
Again, this is not a problem for online gamblers.

Hopper:

This is the basket where the coins are stored inside the slot machine. When
the hopper is full the excess coins fall into a basket in the bottom of the
machine. When it is empty it flashes “Tilt”.

A wise old gambler once said, "The more you know about slots, the more
luck you'll have." Below are 13 common-sense tips that will keep you from
becoming a casino victim every time you try your luck in a casino.

TIP 1. Don't be confused or intimidated by today's new breed of slots. Each
year a new crop of slots hits the casino floor -- with their gimmicky names
(Cool Millions, Top Cat), theme reels (cows, frogs, spaceships), and digital
sound effects.

But beneath their fancy facades, all slots are basically alike. They're simply
boxes housing the slots' hardware and software produced by the manufacturer.
And they all work on the same principle: put in one or more coins and wait and
see whether you won or lost.

TIP 2. Do leave home without them! Your checkbook, ATM card, debit card, and
all credit cards but one. Use this one for out-of-pocket expenses only: meals,
shows, shopping, etc. Take only the money you can afford to lose. And set a
loss limit for each day. When this is gone, your gambling for the day is over.
No borrowing from the next day's allotted bankroll. And keep away from those
ubiquitous cash-advance machines. Playing with plastic will come back to haunt
you when the bank statements start coming in.

TIP 3. Set realistic goals. Don't go into a casino with the idea of making
money. Steve Wynn, CEO of Mirage Resorts, said, "The only way to make money
in a casino is to own one." They don't build those ritzy mega-resorts and
cruise-to-nowhere riverboats on winners.

TIP 4. Know how slots work. Today's slots are controlled by a miniature computer
(microprocessor) that generates hundreds of win-loss symbols every second, 24
hours a day, weather the slot is being played or not. And since the computer's
generation of win-loss symbols is 100% random, no one can predict what symbol
will appear on the screen and when.

So beware of ads or mail-order offers promising some "secret" or
"sure-fire" way of beating the slots. They're mostly worthless, out-of-date,
or out-and-out scams. Ask yourself: If you found a way to make millions off
the slot machines, would you sell it?

TIP 5. Understand percentage payback. Like cloned sheep, slots may look alike,
but they don't pay alike. The higher a slot's percentage payback, the better
chance you have to win. But you can't tell by looking at a slot what its payback
percentage is, unless it's posted on the slot. Asking slot floor personnel won't
help. They probably won't know.

Theoretically, a slot with an advertised 95% payback will return $95 out of
every $l00 put into it and keep $5 as profit. But 95% is just an average figure,
meaning that the slot will pay back 95% of all the coins put into it, not to
just one player, but to all its players (hundreds, maybe thousands), and in
no set pattern or period of time - just eventually.

So if you were to drop $100 in a slot with a known payback of 95%, you probably
wouldn't get back exactly $95 in the time you were at that slot. You might pocket
more, less, or nothing at all.

TIP 6. Play the right slots. Whatever denomination slot you choose to play,
stick to the 2-coin, 3-reel non-progressive, single-payline slot with the lowest
top jackpot (1000 to 5000 coins). The lower the top jackpot, the more frequent
the smaller paybacks and the better the odds of winning. The bigger the top
jackpot (10,000 to 50,000 coins), the fewer smaller paybacks and the greater
the odds against you.

And run, don't walk, past any slot with four or more reels! Each added reel
increases the odds against you by the millions.

TIP 7. Don't play with the top jackpot in mind. To win the top prize, you must
always bet maximum coins -- which causes you to lose more money and lose it
faster. Your goal should be to find a slot that gives you the longest playing
time and smaller but more frequent paybacks. The longer you can make your bankroll
and playing time last, the better chance you have of finding the right slot
at the right time. Learn to be happy with any win you can get.

TIP 8. Don't play with credits. Some players claim that playing with credits
is a practical way of keeping track of a slot's ups and downs. But when you
play with credits, money loses all meaning. You don't think of those numbers
in the credit meter as real money. They're more like psychological painkillers.
Somehow losing 400 credits on a quarter slot isn't as bad as losing $100. It
may be tiresome to hand-feed coins into a slot, but when you hold a bucketful
of coins, you can see and feel the increase and decrease of coins. And playing
with coins forces you to slow down, which extends your playing time. Remember.
Fast is good for the casino. Slow is good for you. You minimize the house edge.

TIP 9. Limit progressive slot play. The odds are too great. But if you like
to play progressives, stick to the 2-coin, 3-reel, in-house progressive slot
with a top jackpot of $1200 or so. You must remember that progressive slots
don't pay as often or as many small wins as regular slots. So when you play
a progressive, you're really playing for the top jackpot.

TIP 10. Know which slot locations to try. Casinos want players to see other
players winning. It's good advertising. So they often put their better-paying
slots in heavy-traffic, highly visible locations, with room for crowds to gather
and cheer winners on. Such locations include crosswalks, elevated carousels,
and banks of slots near the casino bar, lounges, change booth, and coffee shop.

TIP 11. Know which slot locations to avoid. Near show lines, check-in lines,
buffet lines, in the middle of a long row of slots, and out-of-the-way corners
of the casino. Winners here have little advertising value for the casino. Also
avoid all non-gaming areas, such as airports, bus terminals, gas stations, drug
stores, and cruise lines.

TIP 12. There is no "right," "wrong," or "best"
way to bet at a slot machine. If, like most people, you go to a casino to get
away, have a few hours of fun, and maybe win a few bucks now and then, it doesn't
really matter how you bet: maximum, minimum, or a combination of both. Ignore
any "expert" or casino know-it-all who says to always bet max coins.
They always stress the possibility of winning -- conveniently overlooking the
greater reality of losing. Just remember. It's not their money you're playing
with.

TIP 13. Know the role of luck. Regardless of what the "experts" say,
winning at slots is like winning at keno, bingo, and your state lottery - pure
luck! And luck is either with you at any one time or it isn't. If it's not,
it won't matter what strategy you use or what you do. Even experts admit to
winning no more than 20 to 30% of the time. And on some days they don't win
at all.

Finally, there's only one real secret to casino playing. And that's YOU. !

Odds and probability favor the casino. It's called the casino edge. But you're
in control. You decide where to play, when to play, how much to play, and when
to quit. You're not at the mercy of any slot machine or casino. You can walk
out the door at any time.

A Beginners Guide to Casino Poker

What do you think of when you hear the word poker? Family games for spare change
at the dinner table? A smoky room in the back of a restaurant? Maybe even the
underground world of the movies Rounders, and The Cincinnati Kid?

Poker has moved from back rooms to center stage. Traditional casinos and state
of the art web sites now offer fully monitored poker games for poker enthusiasts
and beginners alike. World-class casinos like the Bellagio have given poker
prestige. Poker championships are broadcast on ESPN and the Discovery channel.
Web sites have brought poker into the 21st Century. All this is causing poker
to have a surge in popularity. And when people are interested in learning about
gambling, Internetcasinolist.com is here to give you the information you need.

First Steps

Casino poker usually offers five versions of the game. Seven Card Stud is probably
most familiar to people. Each player gets seven cards, to make their best five-card
poker hand. (Poker hands always need five cards). Texas Hold Em is the most
popular form of poker today. In this fast game, each player gets two personal
cards and shares five communal cards to make the best hand. Seven Card HiLo
and Omaha HiLo are versions of poker that reward the best high hand and the
best low hand. In my next few columns, I'll look at proper strategies for each
of these games. Today, I'll limit myself to discussing general rules and how
poker works in a casino.

Hand Rankings

The most important thing to know in poker is the ranking of the hands. The
following list goes from best hand to worst:

• Royal Flush = Ace, King, Queen, Jack, Ten of same suit


• Straight Flush = 5 cards of same suit, in numeric order (2,3,4,5,6 of hearts)
  


• Four of a Kind = 4 cards of the same rank (QQQQ)


• Full House = Three cards of same rank, two cards of same rank (QQQ,JJ)


• Flush = All same suit (five hearts)


• Straight = five cards in numeric order (2,3,4,5,6)


• Three of a Kind = three cards of same rank (JJJ)


• Two Pair = (QQ,JJ)


• One Pair = (QQ)


• High Card = Ace the highest, two the lowest

Gambling: Lessons from the Pros

By Frank D. Casale

February 19, 2002

Everyone understands the social aspects of gambling. People log onto a casino
Web site and play a few hands of blackjack for fun. Friends head to a casino
town for drinks and to throw the dice around. Slot players hear the spin of
the wheels in their sleep. However, there are some players that take gambling
a little more seriously. By this I don't mean people who are really intense
when they play.

I'm referring to professional gamblers; in other words, people who actually
make their living gambling. Now, I'm not recommending that you quit your day
job and become a professional gambler. So why consider the professional gambler
at all?

Professional gamblers, and there are only a few who are good enough to actually
make money, are the experts at gambling. By considering the general approach
the professional gambler takes to the tables, the recreational gambler can improve
his or her odds and get more enjoyment out of the casino experience.

The Golden Rule

In "Getting the Best of It", David Sklansky, a professional gambler
and one of the leading gambling theorists, wrote "To be a really successful
gambler you must do the right thing as often as possible when confronted by
important decisions". Winners make the right decisions and losers make
wrong ones. While this may seem obvious, it applies to every aspect of gambling
and reveals just how much the expert player has to know.

In order to win, a player has must make as many bets with the best of it (
this means bets where you are the favorite to win) as possible. To do this,
the professional gambler must be able to identify good bets, understand the
math of the game, devise the proper strategy for each game, and have the discipline
to bet only when he or she has the best of it. Notice I didn't mention things
like 'knowing when you're hot' or when 'you're in a lucky streak'. The expert
gambler doesn't rely on luck. As Sklansky has stated elsewhere, "the professional
gambler is at war with luck".

Slot Machines

by Frank D. Casale

February 5, 2002

If there’s one image of the casino that everyone is familiar with it’s the
old one-armed bandit: the slot machine. Slot machines are some of the most attention
grabbing items on the casino floor, and the machines are incredibly popular.
Women and men of all ages attracted to the slots, as the reels are easy to learn,
fun to play, and move really fast. They’re covered in bright colors and flashing
lights. Slots are equipped with bells, buzzers, and beeps to create a relentless
din. Wheels spin and coins clatter into the tray. The players who pull the handles
of the machines are also some of the most colorful on the floor. They look for
their lucky machine, or one that they feel is ‘due’ for a payoff. As I’ve been
discussing in my previous articles the fun and excitement of the slot machine,
like almost all forms of casino gambling, are now available online.

One good thing for gamblers is that virtual slot machines still have all the
character of their real world relatives. They are still bright and noisy. The
wheels still spin, after handles, when clicked with the mouse, are pulled. Machines
of different money denominations can be found on the Web, and players still
have the choice of how many coins to drop into the machine. Most of all, the
jackpots are still there, waiting to be hit!

Casino web sites offer various versions of slot favorites. Some sites offer
the game as part of their downloadable software package, while others offer
java applet wheels that you can run without downloading anything. While both
are similar gambles, the downloaded slots tend to be graphically superior. Browse
around the casinos on Internetcasinolist.com and find a site that offers the
machines that your looking for.

Basic Slot Machine Information

The first thing to know about slot machines is how the machine selects the
symbol that appears in the payout line. Both online and real time casino slot
machines use a random number generator to determine the symbols that appear.
Some symbols, like the ones needed for the jackpot and big payoffs are less
likely to appear than the symbols used in the smaller payouts. Thus, the odds
can’t simply be figured out by multiplying the number of symbols by the number
of wheels; instead what you need to know is that some symbols and combinations
are far more likely to appear than others.

The second thing to understand is the ‘payback percentage’. Slot machines are
often advertised as having a 97% payback rate. This does not mean you will win
97% of the time you play, or that you will win 97 cents back out of every dollar
you wager. This number refers to the machine’s payback in the long run, which
literally means all the money waged by all players over time. It has no bearing
on what you will win or loose in any particular session.

The third thing to consider is that every spin of the wheel is an independent
trial. Every spin is random. The previous spin doesn’t have any bearing on the
current one. What this means is that your chance of hitting the jackpot doesn’t
get better with every spin. For example, let’s say you have a one out of a hundred
chance of hitting a jackpot. On your next spin, your chances don’t improve to
one in ninety nine. Each spin would have a 1% chance.

This mathematical fact destroys two old and widely believed slot myths. One,
that slot machines are ‘due’, and two that you shouldn’t play a machine that
just paid off. Just because a machine hasn’t paid out any money in a long time
doesn’t mean that the chances of winning have improved; likewise, just because
a machine hit the jackpot doesn’t mean that the machine is now cold. The chances
of winning are the same for every single spin. If a slot machine hasn’t paid
out a jackpot in ten years, its not more likely to hit than a machine that just
gave out a jackpot five minutes ago!

The last thing to consider before you begin playing a slot machine is that
the odds are against you. Both real time and virtual casinos love slot machines
because the reels have a rather high profit margin; they are often the most
profitable games for the casino. Of course, as long as you know this, slot machines
can be a fun way to spend your gambling budget. The suspenseful nature of the
game makes them quite compelling, and when a paying combination does hit it’s
hard not to feel a rush of adrenaline.

Roulette: A Beginner's Guide

by Frank D. Casale

January 11, 2002

Everyone is familiar with the image of the game of roulette. A shiny silver
ball spinning round a brightly colored clicking wheel. Stacks of different colored
chips being pushed around the long numbered table. The ball and wheel slowly
stop spinning and the ball, guided by fate, drops into a numbered slot on the
wheel. Bets are paid in big stacks of chips, and the losing wages are swept
quickly away. But, beside the flashy pictures, how many people actually know
the game of roulette? What exactly should a novice know about this casino staple?

How to Play the Game

The purpose of roulette is to bet on a number, or combination of numbers. After
all bets are placed the wheel is spun, and a ball is dropped onto the wheel.
Whatever number the ball lands on is the winning number. All bets placed on
that number are paid; all other bets are loosing bets and are collected by the
casino.

The first thing to think about when playing roulette is the table's minimum
bet. In other words, the minimum amount of money you can wager on any spin of
the wheel. (The table minimum you select should be based on the amount of money
you've budgeted for gambling; never bet more that you can afford to lose.) As
an example, imagine you were playing at a $5 minimum table. This means that
each bet you make, not the total of all you bets, must be at least $5. If you
wanted to bet on the number 12 and the number 23, you would have to bet at least
$5 on each number.

The table felt has the numbers 1 to 36 printed on it in 3 columns. Zero (0)
and double zero (00) are printed, in green, at the very top of the number rows.
Eighteen numbers are red, and eighteen are black. The color of the numbers on
the board matches the color of the numbers on the wheel. Along the sides and
bottom of the numbers are spaces for a few other betting options. When you cash
in at the table, you will be given a stack of colored chips (often representing
one dollar); each player has a different colored chip, and the casino identifies
a player's bet by the color of the chips.

There are several ways you can bet at a roulette table. You can bet on individual
numbers; just pick your lucky number and place at least the minimum wager on
it. You don't have to bet just one number; you can bet as many as you like.
You can also bet numbers in groups of 12, by selecting the first 12, second
12, or third 12. Or you can bet columns of 12 by betting the 1st, 2nd, or 3rd
column. (The numbers included in each grouping are clearly marked on the table).
For example, if you bet the first twelve, and the number 11 came out you would
win! You can also bet if the winning number will be odd or even. If you get
tired of betting on numbers you can even bet on colors. You can wager whether
the winning number will be red or black.

The Odds: Stacked Against You

When people think of roulette, they often think of huge payouts. A winning
single number bet pays 35-1. Any of the 12 number group bets pay 2-1. Betting
on odds or even, or red or black, pays even money. While these may seem fair,
the casino has a huge edge over the player, over 5% on every bet. The main reason
is that the payouts are generated for a 36 number wheel. However, including
the zero and double zero, there are 38 numbers on the wheel.

Baccarat Basics

by Frank D. Casale

January 4, 1002

Baccarat (pronounced "bah-ca-rah") is perhaps the most glamorous
of all games of chance. In movies, it's the game we expect to see James Bond,
or Humphrey Bogart, playing. The name evokes images of high rollers in tuxedos
pushing around stacks of hundred dollar chips while drinking champagne and acting
refined. Casinos often festoon the Baccarat pit with rich drapes and tapestries,
and block off the entire area with velvet ropes. However, this image of baccarat
shouldn't intimidate new players; this fast paced game isn 't just for jet-setting
millionaires. Playing Baccarat on-line is a great way to learn and enjoy this
fun, tradition filled game.

The Rules and Play of Baccarat

While at first baccarat seems terribly complicated, it is a game quickly mastered.
Baccarat is played with 8 decks, shuffled into a shoe. Bettors have three betting
options; they can wager that either the 'bank' or the 'player' (these are just
named circles on the felt) will win, or they can bet that the hand will result
in a tie. Once bets have been placed, the hand plays out automatically.

Cards have the following values:

Tens, Jacks, Queens, and Kings equal Zero

Aces equal One

2 through 9 equal their face value.

The 'player' and the 'bank' each receive two cards at first. The cards are
turned over and the values are added together. The hand closest to nine wins,
just as in blackjack the hand closest to 21 wins. However, unlike in blackjack,
a hand cannot 'bust-out'. In baccarat you 'wrap around'; in other words, when
adding the cards always drop the first number if the total is greater than nine.
For example, a hand consisting of a 5 and a 6 equals a total of 1 ( 5+6=11,
drop first digit = 1 ). A Jack and a 7 equals 7 ( 0+7=7 ).

If the first two cards add up to 8 or 9 that hand is called a 'natural' and
automatically wins. If both the 'player' and the 'bank' have naturals the hand
closer to 9 wins. If they both have an equal total, the tie bet wins, and wagers
on 'bank' and 'player' push. If neither hand is a natural an additional card
may be drawn for each hand to determine the winner. Don't worry; while the rules
governing the drawing of the cards seem complicated, they are followed automatically
by the dealer.

Player Rules

Player's first two cards total: Player must:

1,2,3,4,5,0  Draw

6,7  Stand

8,9  Stand (Natural)

Bank Rules

Bank's first two cards total: Bank draws when player's third card is:

3  1-2-3-4-5-6-7-9-0

4  2-3-4-5-6-7

5  4-5-6-7

6  6-7

Bank's first two cards total: Bank stands when player's third card is:

3  8

4  1-8-9-0

5  1-2-3-8-9-0

6  1-2-3-4-5-8-9-0

7  Stands

8-9  Stands (Natural)

If the player stands on a 6 or 7,

the bank must hit 0,1,2,3,4,5 and stand on

a 6,7,8,9.

Odds and Payouts

A winning wager placed on 'bank' or 'player' pays even money. All winning banker
bets must pay a 5% commission to the house. While this may seem unfair, the
commission is charged because the 'bank' bet is more likely to win. (The house
edge on a 'bank' bet is 1.06%, and on a 'player' bet 1.24%). Thus, even with
the house commission, 'bank' bets should earn more money than 'player' bets
in the long run (about 0.19% more). 'Tie' bets pay 8-1, however, the chance
of a tie result is almost 10-1. All wagers in baccarat give the casino the edge
over the bettor.

Try Your Luck

After a few hands of baccarat you'll learn why the game is one of the most
popular in Europe and Asia. It is one of the simplest games to learn; it literally
plays itself.

Where Do I Start? Good Advice and Common Sense Tips

by Internet Casino List Staff

Imagine a trip to Vegas without the trip to Vegas. The appeal of online gambling
lies in the convenience and world of options available to gamblers over an Internet
connection and a suitable PC. Besides saving on hotel and airfare, online gambling
has the added benefit of providing near-instant access to your favorite games.

So what is a beginner to do? Even gambling veterans are vexed by the tons of
options and alternatives available to them online. Here you'll find some common
sense tips to making your time spent online fun and hopefully productive.

Judge a book by its cover.

If the Vegas strip where nothing but dilapidated shacks, no one would visit.
In the case of online casinos, the same is true. Most online casinos take pride
in their online business and will show it by offering Web sites that not only
look good but also are intuitive to the average Internet user.

Besides professional-quality artwork and layout, the site should be easy to
navigate and have a straightforward style. Directions should be clear and concise
and the "fine print" should be easy to access and make sense of.

Try before you buy.

O.K., so it's in questionable taste to break in a pair of socks or unmentionables
and then return it to the store. Not so with online gambling sites! Most
will offer a comprehensive catalog of "free play" games. Use them
and abuse them all you want before you wage your hard-earned money.

This is the time to get a feel for the games that an online casino offers.
Are the odds fair? Are the commands easy and intuitive? Does it deliver the
excitement of a real-world casino? Granted, Vegas and your PC may seem worlds
apart, but when was the last time you waltzed onto the casino floor in your
sleepwear? Yes, another Internet casino advantage!

Use the Internet Casino List Directory found to find casinos that offer a "free
play" option.

Make use this time to check out some of the site's other features. Many casinos
will also replicate the social aspects of real world gambling by offering real-time
chat and multiplayer tournaments.

The games you play...

Passion for poker? Many online casinos are truly feature-rich and benefit from
a game selection that rivals tried and true gambling destinations. Make sure
your favorite games and variations thereof are well represented.

Again, try them first by using the "free play" options. You'll find
that many online casinos can keep you busy for hours on end. Perfect for those
who love some "table hopping".

The padlock is your friend.

Before that very first roll of the dice, make sure your online information
is in good hands. During the registration process, look for a little padlock
to appear near the bottom of your Internet browser. To make doubly sure that
your connection is secure, the in your address bar should begin with https://.

If none of the above is true when you're about to divulge your precious info,
turn right around! For added security, review the site's privacy policy. Reputable
sites will not share your data with anyone without your prior consent.

This is also a good time to review payment options. Some sites accommodate
PayPal accounts, a nearly ubiquitous method of paying online. Not only is it
convenient, but it can also help you manage the money you set aside for gambling
better. Don't forget that takes quite a burden off your credit cards. After
all why pay interest charges on your wagers?

When it comes to downloading software, make sure that it is secure. Read the
fine print and make certain you understand how it connects to the Internet.
Last thing you need it so get slapped with expensive long-distance calls you
may not be aware your PC made. Reputable Internet casinos offer free downloadable
software and are "up front" about the connection options available
to its users.

Customer service or disservice?

So you're seconds away from joining... Lay your concerns to rest by giving
customer service a ring. How long did you wait? Did they answer your questions
to your satisfaction? How did they treat you? What's the process for getting
problems resolved? What about disputes?

If the "24/7" phone number on the site just rings and rings, that's
not a good sign. Moreover, most reputable sites have toll-free numbers. Also
test their e-mail and chat options. If they don't meet with your expectations
now, chances are they won't meet them when you really need them.

Also, take this opportunity to ask about the cashing out process and how long
it takes to fulfill a request and what guarantees they offer. There is no substitute
for peace of mind.

If they refuse to answer your questions because you're not a member yet, well
then, their loss. There are plenty more that are eager for your business.

Added bonuses

As an incentive to play, online casinos generally offer bonuses, giveaways,
sweepstakes and other special treats. Some even award players for each deposit!
Take advantage of them and make sure you know how to redeem them! Most bonuses
require that you wager at least the bonus amount first so there’s no point in
signing up for some quick and easy cash. Oh well, it’s still a nice perk!

Finally, have fun!

Once you're comfortable with the casino you've chosen, sit back and enjoy.

Video Poker: Part One - The Basics

By Margaret Rantz

October 23, 2001

Seems like a million straight flushes ago that the Rantz family huddled around
the video poker machines in the Star Dust and made a single $50 last until 4
am. Perhaps it was the free Corona or the buttered corn, but something in addition
to the poker kept us glued to our chairs at Slots O Fun. Those days may be over,
but video poker still attracts hordes to its interactive card playing.

The first "nationally known" poker card machines were manufactured
by Sittman and Pitt of Brooklyn in 1891. Early drop-card machines didn't use
a full deck (excuse the pun), but placed 50 cards on 5 drums.*

No Poker Face

The first thing to remember is video poker doesn't replicate the poker parlor.
You aren't playing against other people; you're playing against "the machine."
No poker face is required. Winning is secured by achieving a certain hand or
better. "You don't need to outsmart anyone. But you do have to play smart,"
as they say at Absolute Video Poker.com.

The Video Hand

A poker hand consists of five cards. Aces are high; deuces are low. The Royal
Flush is the ultimate goal, and it's comprised of a same-suited hand of A, K,
Q, J, and 10.

The object of the game is to get the best hand possible. The payout depends
on the variation of video poker being played, such as Jacks or Better, Progressive,
Double Bonus, etc. New types of machines pop up every day.

The various poker hands are described below from lowest to highest*:

• No pair - The lowest hand, containing five separate cards that do not match
  up to create any of the hands below.


• One pair - If two of the five cards are of the same value, it is a one pair.
  Example: two Jacks.


• Two pair - Two pairs in the same hand, such as two 8s and two 5s.


• Three of a Kind - Three cards of the same value. Example: three Aces.


• Straight - Five consecutive cards, such as 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6. They need
  not be of the same suit. An Ace can be used in two ways. It can be a "1"
  card in a A, 2, 3, 4, 5 hand, or it can also be placed above the King in an
  10, J, Q, K, A sequence.


• Flush - Five cards of the same suit. They do not have to be in any order.
  


• Full House - 3 cards of the same value, along with a pair. Example: Three
  Kings and two Aces.


• Four of a Kind - Four cards with the same value, such as four Jacks.


• Straight Flush - This is both a straight and a flush in one hand. Five cards
  must be in sequential order AND they must be of the same suit.


• Royal Flush - The best possible hand in poker. You'll rarely ever see this
  hand. It is an A, K, Q, J, and 10, all in the same suit.

A. 9-6 Jacks or Better --- played with 1 thru 4 coins --- 98.37%

B. 9-6 Jacks or Better --- max coins --- 99.54%

C. 8-5 Jacks or Better --- max coins --- 97.30%

D. 8-5 Bonus Poker --- 99.17%

E. 10-7 Double Bonus --- 100.17%

Craps: Tips and Strategies

By Margaret Rantz

October 12, 2001

Welcome to another casinolist.com tips article. Today we'll focus on craps
and offer some hints on where to find additional information. In future editions,
find helpful hints on other online casino games.

After much research, one could offer simple, boring rhetoric about probability
and mathematics because that's what it all comes down to - unless you're like
most craps enthusiasts who value luck and superstition.

Ask Mr. Craps offers a thorough overview of the craps world (see http://www.askmrcraps.com/).
From the start, Mr. Craps says, "Of all the games to play in a casino,
craps probably has the most quirks of them all. Generally, the group of people
who play craps are an extremely superstitious lot and, in my opinion, are not
the most patient people in the world!"

In addition to info about superstitions, a glossary, and online play, Mr. Craps
also offers an etiquette section. Guess that explains the "Mr." Yes,
Craps Etiquette 101 involves the following simple gestures (and you can ):

• Know the rules


• Hit the back wall when rolling the dice


• Don't aim for the dealer's pile of chips


• Use shelves under the crap table to store your cocktail, not the table itself
  (what a mess that could be)


• Tip the dealer


• Be courteous to other (even inexperienced) players

I would add "Know the players" to that list, meaning the people who
are running the show. A1 Casino's site (see ) explains that there are four people
actively running the game:

• The boxman sits behind the middle of the table and is the boss who keeps
  constant watch over the game.


• The two dealers on each side of the boxman pay off the winners and "rake"
  in the losers' chips. Each dealer handles all the players on his side. The
  table is divided by the center box of proposition bets.


• The table is also divided by the stickman who stands on the players' side
  of the table. The stickman controls the action of the dice and the pace of
  the game.

Now, returning back to the math involved, how the game plays out really depends
on the dice.

The following is a chart with all 36 possible dice combinations:

(Notice 7 is the most prevalent, followed by 6 and 8.)

Source: A1 Casinos .

There are obviously oodles of online casinos for practice and real-time play,
but I found these sites offer a more all-around description of the nuances of
the game. The long-named Crapsrulesstrategies.com (see http://www.crapsrulesstrategies.com/superstisions.html),
for example, covers official rules, betting, strategy, dice control, a glossary,
superstitions, and then offers a practice game and real online gambling once
you're ready.

As the player list and dice combination chart are to the basic game, the superstitions
are to the entertainment or "thrill" factor. According to the book
Beat the Craps Out of the Casinos, which is quoted on this site, for example,
one should "never open a table or be the first or only player at a table.
Dice are cold at a new table and have to be handled before they can warm up."

Some superstitions even address sexism. A woman novice at craps is considered
good luck, but not so for a man. It is thought that novice men will have bad
rolls.

The glossaries on these sites are nothing but entertaining. Craprulesstrategies.com
offers the casino world's definition of "Crapping Out." Technically,
it means the numbers 2, 3, or 12 appear on the first roll of the dice. "Big
Red" is not a gum or a dog in this word; it means placing a bet on Any
Seven.

Also offered are various dice rolls and the creative names they go by:

10 src="../../images/casino_2.gif">

• Puppy paws


• Pair-a-roses


• Pair of sunflowers


• The big one on the end

12 src="../../images/casino_3.gif">

• Craps


• Boxcars


• Triple dipple, in the lucky ducky

Blackjack Tips

First Step: The Basics

By Margaret Rantz

October 3, 2001

Welcome to internetcasinolist.com's first tips article. Today we'll focus on
the tips and strategies of blackjack and offer some hints on where to find additional
information. In other articles, find helpful hints on other online casino games.

Short of studying probability and mathematics - Julian Braun of IBM developed
the first blackjack simulation - you'll just have to rely on luck. But there
are plenty of tips and techniques out there to increase your chances.

The Blackjack Center, for example, promises all the info necessary to be a
winner (see ). There's even a glossary of official blackjack terminology. Learn
about card counting, the hi-lo system and casual counting. Also, cluster counting
or shuffle tracking studies the probability of high cards being dealt. Among
the "betting systems" are the Martingdale and Progressive (2 level
and 5 level) systems. Blackjack Center even offers a free blackjack game for
practice (while other sites make you hand over some funds before playing) and
provides access to a free game simulator.

If you're just too tired for traditional study habits, there are just straightforward
tips at hand. On NBCi.com, the peacock channel, find free blackjack tips and
a free online game and newsletter. The recent tip here was to "bet the
streaks" (see ) -- "The first rule of thumb is to always bet WITH
the streak, never against it. In other words, your bets need to increase as
the streak continues. When the streak ends, your wager should drop back down
until another streak begins. Using this betting technique along with good strategy
will help you maximize profits and minimize losses."

On the trail to put more money in your pocket, Martin Pieratt offers more blackjack
strategy tips for free (see ). (He may also put some bills in his own pocket
since the site also markets his book Blackjack $ecrets Revealed for $19.95.)
Below is Pieratt's sort of "Top 10" list for winning at blackjack:

• Learn the basic strategy that will virtually eliminate the casino advantage
  


• Use progressive betting to take advantage of a streak


• Master the simple system that will allow you to win anywhere


• Discover the easy way to track the cards without a photographic memory


• How to read the dealer


• Learn when to bet big and when to lay back


• Recognize which table gives the player the best opportunity to win


• Get the facts about double downs, splitting, insurance and surrender

No, this isn't the main event card at Caesar's Palace. It's the fight between
online casinos and the traditional land-based alternative for the public's gambling
dollar.

The question is: Which is better?

Both online casinos and land based casinos have unique and powerful advantages
weighing in their favor. But, while they share some similarities, they are really
quite different.

The biggest advantage that a hotel-casino in Las Vegas, for example, has in
its favor is the atmosphere. Try as they might, the biggest and best online
alternative will never be able to replicate the atmosphere that is part and
parcel of the Vegas experience. Try as they might, software manufacturers haven't
yet been able to capture the neon glow on The Strip and impart that into the
online gaming experience.

The roar of players surrounding the craps table isn't yet present in the artificial
craps environment offered by the Internet brand of gaming. In Vegas or Atlantic
City, cheers echo throughout the casino floor when a player gets the roll of
the dice. Unless you are playing at an online casino that offers multi-player
chat, the only cheers you hear in front of your computer, are your own.

The best, and perhaps easiest, way to compare an online casino to a land-based
hotel is to use baseball as an example.

If you have ever played video games at home, you'll know that game developers
like EA Sports have done a tremendous job in making the playing environment
as realistic as possible. Players today have a fluid movement that puts similar
products from a decade ago to shame. The grass looks authentic; the crack of
the bat is eerily realistic; the crowd cheers; and they now have play-by-play
announcers calling the game as you play.

But nothing can replace the sights and sounds of attending a live game at Fenway
Park. Until EA Sports can manufacture a way to embed the artificial smell of
hot dogs and cracker jacks into their software, they have a long way to go before
they can replace the real thing.

But that is where the comparison should end in the debate of online vs. land-based
casinos.

Because while gambling is a form of entertainment, it is definitely not a game.
Where the hotel-casinos fall short, is in the most important area of all - issues
that directly effect the player's chances of winning.

There are far too many variables involved at an offline casino to favor it
over playing online. Below is a list of ways in which online has surpassed its
offline counterpart in offering players an environment that is more conducive
to winning.

Comps

In terms of getting freebies from the casino, playing online in 2001, is what
Vegas used to be like in the 1970s. With roughly 1,300 casinos vying for your
business, online operators bend over backwards to get, and maintain, your gambling
dollars. Rarely, if ever, do you make a deposit into a casino account without
being comped. These offers include no-deposit-required comps, percentage bonuses,
match bonuses, and existing player bonuses.

The knock against online casino comps has been that they have conditions attached
to them and that they must be played several times over. But if you pay attention
to your playing methods, you'll notice that $50 can go a long way and in no
time, you'll have wagered more than $1,000 on that free comp. For example, I
recently played at an online casino and deposited $50 into an account, the match
bonus resulted in an ensuing $50 match bonus. A $100 bankroll may not sound
like much, but I managed to wager a total of $2,800 at the end of my session,
due in large part to the comp I received. Again, this is free money that you're
playing with, so any profit you make on top of that is icing on the cake.

If you're playing at a hotel-casino, you must spend hundreds of dollars to
even be considered for a comp of any sort. For example, at a major Vegas casino,
you must bet $75 a hand while playing blackjack for at least two hours, to be
considered for even the smallest freebie. Unless you put together a good run,
you'll be looking for handouts at places other than just the casino. They do,
however, love to give you free drinks. Sit at a table or machine long enough,
and a kindly waitress is bound to offer you booze at some point during the course
of your gambling session. But before you think too highly of the operator, think
long and hard about why alcohol is referred to as "chip remover" by
most experts.

If you shouldn't drink on the job, drink and drive, or drink while operating
heavy machinery, you certainly don't want to drink while you are playing with
money. These are your finances, not poker chips, that you are playing with,
so politely ask the waitress for a Coke without the rum.

Variety

Look at a map of the Vegas Strip at night, and it appears as though there is
an endless array of casinos where you can play. In reality, there are only a
handful of options and they aren't necessarily within walking distance. In total,
there are just 80 casinos in Vegas.

Online, however, with more than 1,300 options available, the competition is
only a click away. If you don't like online casino X because of poor customer
service, comps, or game selection, a simple search will reveal a variety of
alternatives and online casino Y is only the click of a mouse away. That brings
us back to the competition aspect. Operators are Netizens like yourself, and
while they know the advantages of housing an online operation, they are more
aware than anyone of the potential drawbacks that could be of detriment to their
ability to compete in this burgeoning industry. That results in a wider variety
of games, bonuses, software options, language, and customer service.

Competition breeds success, and while Vegas has proven beyond a shadow of a
doubt to be the success story of American commerce in the 20th Century, it hasn't
necessarily resulted in benefit for the player. The same could be said for the
online casino industry 5-10 years down the road, but because the business is
still in its infancy, it is a buyers market. The potential is there for the
Internet to fall subject to the same fate as Vegas if a company with deep pockets
eats up smaller casinos, but until that day arrives, it's a free-for-all, and
you are the benefactor.

Strategy

Time is your friend online.

If you have ever played at a land-based casino, you'll know that sitting at
a table brings with it inherent external pressures that aren't present online.

If you are playing Blackjack, for example, and are unsure whether to hit on
a 15 when the dealer is showing a 7, there is a sense that the other players
are staring a hole through you to hurry up and hit, stand, surrender, or whatever.
Just something!

At home, though, the only pressure to make a hurried decision comes from within
yourself. If you hurry and make a dumb play, the only person you can blame is
yourself, because unless there are little voices in your head telling you to
do otherwise, you are the source of your own pressure. If you are unsure of
what the proper strategic move is, you can keep the program running in the bacground,
and refer to the volumes of data that have been produced about situational moves.
It stands to reason, then, that the more time you have, the more you stand to
make.

Taking a few minutes to contemplate the merits of doubling down on a face card
when the dealer is showing a nine would be suicide at a land-based casino. But
online, you can play at your leisure and be secure in knowing that when you
play a hand, you've put some thought into it, and have not played as a result
of impulse or peer pressure.

Real Money

When is $100 not $100? When it is in the form of a plastic chip.

When you place a bet at a land-based casino, the value of a bet is the color
of the chip you lay down, or the token you put into the machine. Because you
are not playing with a monetary note, your sense of money management is hampered.

You would likely think twice about careless, or risky bets if you were putting
a $20 bill on the table as opposed to a pair of $10 chips.

When you are playing online, the software clearly shows how you are wagering
and how much you have remaining in your bankroll in real dollars. Unless you
are a highroller and don't give much thought to the amount of your wager, you
will pay far closer attention to the rate at which your cash is dwindling, or
hopefully increasing, and then base your decision on when it is time to cash
out based on those factors.

Environment

While the atmosphere is the biggest drawing point for land-based casinos, there
is something to be said about environment. Don't understand the distinction?
The two are similar, but noticeably different.

After all of the glitz, roaring crowds, waitresses and shows subside, your
favorite chair is as good a spot as any to gamble. Because you know your home
as no other, you have all of the conveniences at your disposal.

If you don't smoke, you can escape the cloud that hovers over the table and
concentrate on winning. If you do smoke, you don't (and if you don't, you should)
have to worry yourself about imposing your nasty habit on others, and distracting
them from their play. It is generally frowned upon to open a bag of Doritos
at the roulette table, but your home is your castle, so eat yourself into a
coma if that's your preference.

Also, when is the last time you noticed a clock in the casino? There is a very
good reason why they are absent, and it's not because the operators are hesitant
to stop using the sun dial. If people actually paid attention to the time they
spent in a casino, they would be amazed. I was recently at Casino Niagara and
noticed an 80-something-year-old grandmother playing slots at 4 a.m. I was long
since exhausted, so she should have been nestled cozily in her bed many, many
hours ago. Your digital alarm clock will let you know just how long you have
been playing and if it's time to get some shut-eye before you go to work the
next morning.

These aren't the most vital of differences, but comfort goes a long way towards
producing positive results. I prefer to make certain that I have tended to the
most miniscule of details to ensure that I have covered even the smallest of
bases to make my experience a successful one.

Cost Going to Vegas is great. You get to see The Strip, Wayne Newton, the Hoover
Dam, etc., but they all cost money. Unless you live around the corner from the
MGM, you will most likely have to fly to Nevada. The cost of a plane ticket
alone is a major consideration, but then factor in meals and hotel rooms, and
you're looking at a hefty bill to do what you could have done online for much
less. You might be able to get a comp for the hotel and meals, but in order
to qualify, you'd likely have to gamble close to what you would have spent on
the room and food to begin with.

Also, as nice as the lovely waitresses in Vegas may be, they are an expense.
Suddenly, all of those free drinks aren't so free anymore once you begin to
tip. Don't forget to drop a few bucks on the dealer while you're there either,
else you'll be shot an evil eye from the dealer and experienced players, and
the gambling gods may no longer be with you. At home, the only tips you need
to concern yourself with, are those which will better your game so that you
might one day be able to afford that elusive trip to Vegas.

Pressure

As much as we like to think that blackjack or craps are individual games, that
point is debatable.

A poor play while playing blackjack, and you'll hear rumbles under the breath
of your tablemates. A bad roll of the dice will elicit jeers, not cheers, from
those wagering alongside you at the craps table. There are external forces ---
those same forces which can make Vegas so attractive --- that make it a pressure
cooker and can have a devastating impact on your game. The same can be said
for other players who make debatable plays during the course of a game and affect
your outcome.

So-called experts are more than happy to suggest how you should play, even
though your gut tells you to buck to odds and go with your instincts. Where
are the experts when you listen to their advice and their fool proof plan goes
awry? They certainly aren't handing chips over to you lost because of their
tainted advice.

This is why most experts will advise you to stay as far away from multi-player
chat-enabled games online. You should keep yourself focused on the task at hand,
which is, of course, winning.

Anything, no matter how seemingly trivial, that distracts you from your goal
to make money, is a distraction that you should avoid at all costs. Putting
yourself in a situation where another player can directly impact your ability
to win is not only risky, but outright careless.

Ease of Access

My most recent visit to a land-based casino was mostly spent hovering around
the blackjack table, waiting for a seat to open. You can spend hours waiting
to play blackjack, slots, video poker or most other games even on weeknights.
If you ever have any of those problems online, please let me know immediately
because it would be an experience that I have never, ever heard of. I'll dream
up some sort of certificate for you to mark the occasion and mail it to you.

But having easy access to the games is not the only difficulty you'll experience
at a hotel-casino. The variety of online operators and resulting competition,
have fostered games and machines that offer better odds for the player. By and
large, when you are playing on land, the odds remain constant no matter the
game or location.

Each of these arguments shouldn't be considered as knocks against land-based
casinos, particularly Vegas, because anyone who enjoys gambling as a hobby should
experience the buzz and electricity that lives in a major land-based casino
at least once. Casino operators have spent billions upon billions of dollars
constructing the ideal atmosphere for their customers and it's success is shown
in the state of the industry. They have defined the industry and have grown
it from its infancy since the middle of the 20th Century.

In closing, Vegas is not an annual ritual for everybody. It is a considerable
expense, and for some, it is a once in a lifetime experience. But anyone with
a computer can keep a hand in gambling, and in terms of making money at it,
online is by far the most advantageous for the player. Of course, there are
issues with the industry that will be incurred by any industry that is still
in its infancy. But even at this early stage of its development, the pros far
outweigh the cons when deciding if online or land-based is the place for you
to place you wager.

If you bet methodically or want to devise your own betting system, then these
are our three best gambling tips:

1st tip:

Employ this 'one-way' winning strategy: Start with minimal bets. When winning,
intensify the betting progressively as you win risking only a calculated portion
of your wins. Put NO limit to winnings as long as profit is progressing.

2nd tip:

Set your target profit levels backwards. It is easier to fulfil a target level
backwards (as profit recedes) than forward. The danger of forward profit targeting
is that you can get close to it, never quite make it, and then lose the lot.
Backward profit level targeting is more suitable on low risk/win ratio betting
systems; that is, you risk a little to win a lot but you win fewer times. Therefore
when devising your system you should aim to win more money with fewer bets and
in fewer winning rounds, hands or cues. Positive progression betting is one
way to achieve that. This is usually a more efficient way to bet and gives you
more flexibility in managing your winnings.

3rd tip:

Approach gambling realistically. You cannot force a winning outcome and don't
expect to win every time. Decide on a plan that lets you play in sessions or
intervals, closing each session once certain criteria are met, and don't aim
to win each one of them. Remember, what matters is the overall net profit result.

The Game: This is Roman Palace Casino's new spin on the popular game of poker.
In this game, however, you need Jacks or better to win. Your total wager determines
the payout amount.

How to Play: To play, first choose a game that you feel comfortable with the
table limits. Video Poker games can vary from bets of $1 to $50 or more. Place
your bet by clicking on the up and down arrow and selecting the amount you wish
to wager. Next, click on the DEAL button to receive your cards.

You then need to choose which cards you wish to keep. To do this, click on
the cards or the HOLD button under the cards that you wish to keep. When you
are finished, click on DRAW, and you will receive new cards in the positions
of the cards that were not held.

Royal Flush:

A, K, Q, J, 10 all of the same suit.

Straight Flush:

Any five card sequence in the same suit. (Ex: 4, 5, 6, 7, 8).

Four of a Kind:

All four cards of the same index (Ex: Q, Q, Q, Q).

Full House:

Three of a kind combined with a pair (Ex: K, K, 3, 3, 3).

Flush:

Any five cards of the same suit, but not in sequence.

Straight:

Five cards in sequence, but not in the same suit.

Three of a Kind:

Three cards of the same index.

Two Pair:

Two separate pairs (Ex: Q, Q, 7, 8).

Pair:

Two cards of the same index. (Ex: Q, Q).

High Card:

The highest ranking card in your hand. (Ex: If you had a K, J, 7, 3, 2 - the
high card would be the King).

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