As more of us embrace digital casino gaming, there needs to be a select number of factors that ensure the experience is positive and engaging. The market for online gambling is incredibly competitive, and the reason for this is obvious.
When the iGaming industry started 25 years ago, only a handful of operators entered the space. Many people were still wary about the internet and how much of a role it would play in our lives.
In 2023, this idea seems ridiculous. The internet is arguably the most groundbreaking and game-changing invention of the last century. Online bookmakers are leading the way in innovating in the digital space. Today, we will look at just four things that contribute to a great online bookmaker.
1 – High levels of customer service
While this may not be number one on some lists, it is crucial that online bookmakers have good customer service departments. This can come in many forms, but generally speaking, an online bookmaker that responds quickly and effectively via several methods is one you can trust.
Methods can include social media accounts, such as Twitter or Instagram. Alternatively, if they respond quickly via e-mail or have a telephone number that is easy to contact, these are also positive signs that the online bookmaker knows what they are doing.
A poor customer service experience doesn’t mean that the company operates in bad faith. However, with so many providers out there, you want to ensure the casino you are handing your hard-earned money to will help you in times of uncertainty.
You can also check out customer service reviews online. Some reviews will be skewed as people are likelier to report a terrible experience than a good one.
By researching enough reviews and taking a look at the site’s social media, you should build a clear enough picture of whether the online bookmaker is trustworthy.
2 – Good reviews
This ties into the first point somewhat, but you want to ensure that the online bookmaker you have chosen also has respect among the gambling community. You can also check the internet for any news about the gambling provider.
For instance, if you perform a search and find that they have been subject to a breach or they have many 1-star reviews online, then they’re probably a company that is best avoided. You can treat bookmaker reviews as you would any other business review.
If you use an online retailer or a delivery service, it is best practice to research their reviews and see if their customers are happy with the service. The same principle applies to online bookmakers. Make sure you seek bookmakers with the best reviews and the happiest customers online.
3 – Accessibility and engaging play
We have combined these points as they are equally important. With hundreds of online bookmakers to choose from, it is important that you find a provider who provides you with quick access and engaging games.
Quick access can take many forms, including access to your deposited funds, the ability to easily withdraw any winnings that you have accumulated and the ability to place your bets easily on multiple platforms.
For instance, if you are looking to place an online bet via your laptop, you want to ensure that checking the progress of the bet is easily accessible on your phone.
Although the vast majority of platforms are available across a range of devices, including mobile and PC, it is always best to check before you deposit your money or sign up.
Making sure the online bookmaker offers engaging gameplay works slightly differently. For example, if you’re looking to place a bet on an online bookmaker’s website, you want to ensure that there aren’t any issues with the website when it loads.
If you’re playing a slot machine game, you want to ensure that the website uses the highest quality gameplay and that their app or website has no issues hosting a game with such premium quality graphics.
This all leads to factors that make your online gambling experience fun. If you need to reload your page, or restart your app constantly, or you’re bored with the selection on offer, this is not the sign of a great online bookmaker.
As the market is so competitive, it is difficult to find online bookmakers who don’t tick these boxes.
If you use a provider with casino games that aren’t engaging or accessible, you won’t have trouble finding another website that can fill the void and provide a satisfying service. However, ensuring the operator meets the bare minimum requirements is crucial.
4 – Game selection
On the face of it, game selection may not seem like that much of an issue. As long as a provider gives you a decent selection of games to bet on, then what is the issue?
We aren’t saying there’s an issue, but it may signal that the provider doesn’t have the same width or reach. As this trickles down within the company, smaller profit margins may signal smaller customer service teams and may not offer the optimum experience you desire.
If a casino provider has dozens of different types of games available in each genre, they usually work in conjunction with several reputable casino game designers. This is a sign of a company that is trusted within the industry and values you as a customer.
For instance, if they have many active roulette tables, blackjack tables and hundreds of slot machine titles, this signals a brand with an emphasis on customer experience.
The same applies to their sportsbook operation. If you find a website offering sportsbook betting, but when you log in, they only have NFL or NBA games to bet on, then this could signal that their business isn’t as broad as some competitors.
In addition, a better scope of game selection may involve the variety of sports or genres of games offered.
For instance, one bookmaker could have 50 slot machine games, and another could have 40. However, the 50 slot machine games may all have a singular theme, and the site with 40 has a wider range.
In this instance, the game selection is smaller, but the range is greater. Depending on what type of experience you are looking for, this could be one thing to keep an eye on so that your experience remains engaging and fun.
Conclusion
Having fun while gambling is the most crucial aspect. Unfortunately, problem gambling is on the rise, and if you spend too much time gambling or chasing losses, you could have an issue.
If you set aside a specific amount of money or a certain time for gambling and exceed it, this requires closer examination. Speaking to a professional or confiding in a close friend or family member is an excellent starting place.
If you’re looking for an online bookmaker but need help deciding what factors to consider, we have touched on the four points that will help you today. These are the four key things we have settled on, but there are other factors you may also consider.
Obtaining a wide variety of reviews is a wise move before you spend your money.
