Pokies is an Aussie or Kiwi name for a slot machine. The word derives from the term poker machines, although no one is quite sure why they were called poker machines in the first place.

It has been argued that early video poker machines and slot machines were similar games and often played in the same room, hence the confusion. But whatever the reason, Britain has fruit machines, America has one armed bandits, and Aussies have pokies.

While the name may be different, gameplay and features are the same as any other slot machine around the world. The only variations are usually in game features or themed titles specific to the region.

The earliest versions of slot machines only contained three reels, this meant players could only play one single pay-line per spin, limiting winning opportunities. Eventually five-reel machines appeared, and along with improved graphics and sound effects, gamers enjoyed a more immersive gaming experience.

Where can you play a pokie machine

Gambling is incredibly popular in Australia and New Zealand and pokies have played a part in its appeal. Machines are located in casinos throughout Australia and New Zealand, while several hotels, bars and eateries also contain a more limited number.

Legislation

While legislation varies state by state, there has been a cultural shift in attitude towards gambling and the use of pokie machines in particular. In the early 1990's several Australian States approved the use of slot machines in pubs, creating widespread availability in Queensland, South and NSW.

There are now estimated to be around 95,000 pokies in NSW alone, a total that’s only beaten by the state of Nevada in America, regarded by many as the home of gambling. Further changes in the law have opened up the online market, allowing more people access to their favourite casino games.

The role of technology

Ever improving technology has revolutionised gaming all over the world, and the online casino sector has been a major beneficiary. Thanks to impressive graphics and sound effects, plus the emergence of artificial intelligence and virtual reality, games are becoming a more immersive and compelling experience.

Sites such as pokiesource.co.nz list the top pokie sites available to punters including ratings and the top promotions on offer at each site. A wider variety of titles, latest games and regular updates, are also quickly and easily available at an online pokie site.

Rise of the smart phone

Increasing smart phone usage has transformed the online gaming market, with statistics showing that more people access games via their mobile, than on any other device. Before, players were restricted by the physical location of a land-based casino or its opening hours, but now they can access their favourite games, anytime and anyplace they choose.

Mobile broadband and faster speeds, means access to the internet is now possible for far more people, and opens up online pokies to more players. By downloading a simple app, players can easily access a wide variety of titles that no physical casino can match. No queues, no dress code, no leaving your house.

The advantage of online pokies

Accessibility and convenience are two of the biggest reasons for pokies boom in the digital age. But what are the other benefits of playing pokies online?

Bonuses

Physical casinos very rarely offer customers bonuses to play. However, fierce competition amongst operators in the sector, means online casinos regularly offer bonuses to players.

Signing on bonuses are used to encourage new players, while in game bonuses are designed to keep gamers playing on their sites for longer and often include free spins. Matched deposits and birthday bonuses are just some of the many bonuses and promotions available to players online.

Free game bonuses are incredibly popular as they allow gamers to learn how to play games at no financial risk to themselves. Novice players particularly, enjoy the benefit of learning the ropes before staking their own money.

Game Variety

Pokie machines are big and take up lots of room, which is why physical casinos are limited to how many games they are able to offer because of their size. Online casinos have no such physical limitations and are able to offer a wide variety of games that far outweighs any land-based offering.

Latest games

Another area where physical casinos lag behind the online world, is in the logistical costs and difficulties involved in transporting heavy pokie machines around the country. Online casinos can regularly and easily update their game offering, meaning players have access to the best and most up to date games around.

No Distractions

Playing online allows people to focus solely on their own game and not get distracted by other gamers at a land-based casino. The ability to play from the comfort of their own home, provides a far more relaxing and enjoyable experience.

Payments

The online casino return to player percentage is better and more transparent than physical casinos. Also, most of the betting platforms reveal the player’s chances of winning before they play, allowing gamers to make a more informed decision.

Popular electronic payment methods offer players maximum convenience and are a secure way to both make and receive payments, while winnings can be instantly transferred to players accounts with no delays.

The future of pokies

Pokies may have been around a long time, but thanks to new technology and online casinos, the game has been given a new lease of life. With competition in the sector predicted to increase, gamers can expect even more exciting developments in the years ahead.