What are Pokies?
Pokies is an incredibly popular gambling term, although it is rarely used in countries such as England. Pokies is a term predominantly used in New Zealand and Australia which simply refers to poker machines.
Are pokies the same with video slots?
There are many slang terms used in slot gaming. One of the terms that players may have already come across is pokies - check out Barbados Bingo.
What are Pokies?
Pokies is an incredibly popular gambling term, although it is rarely used in countries such as England. Pokies is a term predominantly used in New Zealand and Australia which simply refers to poker machines. These poker machines are actually incredibly similar to slot machines, with marginal differences at best. Both first came to prominence in 1958 and can be found in bars, clubs and pubs. Pokies have even adopted video screens which replaced the physical reels, much like slot games. Essentially, pokies is a slang term for slot machine. This has caused some confusion with players who visit other countries and find that they are unable to play pokies. There is very little difference between a slot and pokie machine.
Similarities with Online Slots
Aside from the name, pokies and online slots share many similarities. In fact, there is actually very little that differentiates them. The following are some of the key similarities between online slots and pokies.
- RNG - Both pokies and online slots use a little piece of coding known as the random number generator in order to keep their games fair for all. The RNG is used in both online and offline games and it essentially works to ensure that the outcome of a spin is always randomly determined.
- RTP - Standing for return to player, both pokies and online slots use this feature to inform players of their chances of winning. The RTP comes in the form of a percentage, the average of which sits around 95%. Players should always pay attention to the RTP as the percentage can vary wildly, with some RTP percentages being as high as 99%!
- Free spins - A common bonus that pokies offer players are free spins. This tactic is used to try and keep players using the machine, it is also commonly offered by online slot games.
Real life vs Online Gambling
Using pokie machines in real life is a little different to using them in an online casino. There are several key differences between real life and online gambling that players need to be aware of.
● Online gambling can be done anywhere. Real life casinos are usually open for players to come visit but rarely are they open for 24 hours a day. Online casinos are available whenever the player wishes and they don’t have to worry about travelling down to their local casino in order to play!
● Atmosphere is one of the big ways that online and real life gambling differs. A real life casino has a certain atmosphere that is impossible to catch in online gaming. However, there is a certain quality to online gaming that many players still find alluring.
Final Thoughts
Pokies is essentially a slang term for a slot machine. It is primarily used in countries such as Australia and New Zealand. A pokie and slot machine are almost completely identical.