Online casinos are typically divided into two main categories, based on their interface or software: download-version and web-based version.
Web-Based Online Casinos
As you start looking over the online casinos, you will realize that the majority of them are indeed web-based versions. Also known as flash or instant play casinos, they are platforms where players play casino games without necessarily downloading and installing any software to their local computers. Typically, games are represented in the browser plugins, Macromedia Shockwave, Java, or Macromedia Flash, and often need browser support for the said plugins. Besides that, more bandwidth is required since all the animations, sounds, and graphics are loaded via the plugin to the web. Another challenge that is perhaps common with Instant play online casinos is that they offer fewer games. Nonetheless, this is changing as many casinos are tremendously increasing the game selection under this software.
Download-Based Online Casinos
As the name implies, download-based casinos require players to download and install the software client to play and bet on the casino games on offer. The software or interface connects to the server of the casino service provider without the need for browser support. Typically, compared to the web-based versions, the latter version runs faster since the gameplay features are cached by the software client, instead of loading them from the internet. One of the drawbacks of this version is that the initial download (and installation) of the software takes plenty of time to complete. Besides that, the risk of the program having malware-related issues cannot be ruled out, just like any other download file.
Another version, although it can be urged to fall into the two major groups, is the mobile version of online casinos. It’s an ideal type of online casino for gamblers who prefer to play on the go. In most cases, mobile-based casinos are compatible with most mobile devices, including tablets and smartphones. The only challenge with the latest version is that the game selection is much less than those found in the other versions, but since mobile casinos are gaining popularity every other day, the game selection will increase as well.
Online Casino Games and Software Providers
Thanks to the invention of modern sophisticated technologies and the introduction of the internet, these days, you can play a vast range of exciting casino games via the internet. The good news is that variations of most of the top casino games that are basically available at the brick-and-mortar casinos may be found. Some of the most popular games currently available in most internet casinos include but are not limited to blackjack, craps, roulette, classic slots, video poker, video slots, and interactive slots. Besides that, online casinos present seasoned gamblers with the opportunity to participate in some exciting tournament action. Quite often, these tournaments are accessed in different casino games such as blackjack, poker, and some selected video slots. Another group of games available on a few selected online casino sites is Bingo, Keno, and Sic Bo.
When choosing an online casino website to play, the issue of the software providers can be one of the determining factors. Despite the fact that there are a few important issues in the online gambling industry such as payouts, security, customer support, and promotions, reliable online casino software is a crucial element of a just and fair gaming world. Today, a wide range of casino games are powered and offered by different software providers. Some of the well-known providers include Playtech, Net Entertainment, Realtime Gaming, and Microgaming.