Online Casinos

Online Casinos

Here at ManySpins we know all about the best online casinos. We know better than anyone else what you are looking for and we’re here to help you find the best ones. That’s why we’ve prepared a helpful guide of links and explanations in order to find out more about which online casino is best suited to you.

The role of licenses

How difficult is it for online casinos to acquire licenses?

There are some major differences between online and land-based casinos, but one thing that really connects them is just how rigidly they are licensed. Quite simply, without a license, you’re nowhere. And these aren’t as easy as simply signing up for the latest streaming service. To get a license it’s all about the territories you can be represented in, a set of rules you have to strictly adhere to and meeting the high number of jurisdiction requirements including software, security and possible deposit limits. What’s important to know too is that unlike for driving, there really is more than one place to get a license and each offer something different to the others. Indeed, most major online casinos will have more than one.

Online Casinos

Malta Gaming Authority (MGA)

It is also widely considered to be the license that’s hardest to acquire in that it involves a lot of stringent paperwork and numerous compliance audits. The license costs €25,000 with the application costing £5,000. There are four different types of MGA licenses, License 1 being the most popular. This offers an online casino the right to organize games of chance where the result is determined by an RNG (random number generator). In other words, video slots and table games. The other three licenses offer sports betting, poker, and fantasy sports. If you click on the official MGA website, half of their news stories are themselves distancing themselves from fraudulent online casinos so you know how highly valued this license is.

Curacao

While the MGA is famously hard to acquire, Curacao’s license is known for being the favourite of most start-ups as the paperwork is a lot more straightforward and the process more flexible. It also doesn’t require as large amount as capital to obtain as it only costs €21,900 per year + 6% sales tax. A Curacao license also covers every kind of iGaming-related activity. Yes, that even includes esports and scratch cards. If that wasn’t enough, online casinos with a Curacao gambling license are not liable to pay any tax on their revenue, providing that all income is generated outside of the country.

Gibraltar

With some understatement, you could definitely classify the criteria for a Gibraltar gaming license as “rather strict”. Significant proof of the online casino operating in the area with a 32,000 population is also needed, and it helps if you’re a long-time established blue-chip company. The license also costs £100,000 though it is valid for 5 years, unlike most which have to be renewed annually. It has 6 different types of licenses, four of which specialise in remote operators.

The United Kingdom Gambling Commission (UKGC)

As you’ve probably guessed from the title, the United Kingdom Gambling Commission “license, regulate, advise and provide guidance” to those offering gambling in the UK. It’s one of the largest gaming authorities in the world, and proof is required of a solid business plan and no criminal conviction. It will also take up to 4 months to be approved and since 2021, there has been an increase in annual fees for remote operating licenses by 55%.

How to decide if an online casino is safe to play?

Quite simply, if you don’t feel you can trust an online casino, you won’t want to use it. That’s why online casinos work hard to do everything possible to be able to reassure you they are secure and reliable.

Why obtaining a license is so important

It is most likely the first thing you will check when you are considering how secure an online casino is, so online casinos work very hard to ensure all the paperwork is up to scratch, especially as most licenses need to be renewed after a year. The more licenses, the more secure the site. If you are ever in doubt that a casino is using a logo fraudulently, you can check the license page directly. You’ll either see a list of approved online casinos, or else an email you can check with.

How encrypted technology gives an extra layer of protection

You should always look for a padlock sign. This is the SSL (Secure Socket Layer), which provides identification information about the web server on which the casino site runs. It works by establishing an encrypted connection within nanoseconds, that can only be accessed by someone that has decryption keys. And even if someone unauthorised could gain access, they would find it useless as they would not be able to read it. The web address of sites with SSL should also start with HTTPS instead of HTTP.

The benefits online casinos receive from using NORA 2.0

Non-obvious relationship awareness (NORA) is a unique kind of security software that’s built to protect online casinos and their players. While the first version of Nora was designed for land-based casinos, Nora 2.0 is specialised in online software. It is able to detect if a third party is trying to install malware and can remove the threat directly or alert the team. It can also spot any gambler trying to use some form of cheating code.

How outside accreditation helps test gaming facilities

Online casinos can ensure players feel a complete sense of trust playing their games by getting certification from third parties. Companies like eCommerce and Online Gaming Regulation and Assurance (eCOGRA) and Technical Testing Systems (TST) are specialised services that check if a website is fair. Passing would means they successfully underwent security checks, software testing and monitoring.

Casino bonuses to look out for

Online Casinos

Online casinos have all different kinds of incentives to catch you attention. They can all be hugely profitable so are definitely worth looking out for.

How no deposit bonuses work

While a no deposit bonus is recognised as more of an incentive for new players, reload bonuses are a way of rewarding existing players. It’s the online casino’s way of thanking you for being with them and encouraging you to stay longer. As with no deposit bonuses, you’ll need to consider the wagering requirements and which games you can play the Free Spins. And like on slots themselves, it will often be the case the more you deposit the more you can win.

How Free Spins work

Another great bonus, and another that you can win big prizes on. As like in a slot game, Free Spins allows you to win big without needing to use any of your own money so you really cannot lose. It’s on a specific game or set of games, but they’ll be popular choices. So, it either gives you a chance to win on a game you already like, or the chance to win while trying out a fun new game. Free Spins can come as part of any promotion so details for each will vary greatly.

How cashback bonuses work

Cashback bonuses are when a player is given part of their cash back, often from losing bets within a certain period, as a way of encouraging them to get that winning feeling again. These are very highly valued and are becoming increasingly popular, with the percentage returned usually ranging from 5-25%. Despite the name, in some cases it may not be just be through actual cash, but with added Free Spins too. It’s also worth noting that some online casinos will label their offer as a cashback bonus when it is a standard welcome bonus.

What do software providers bring to the industry?

Quite simply, without the innovative and imaginative work done behind the scenes by software providers, there is no game. They are the ones thinking up the brilliant concepts and themes, creating technology that enables games to go faster and look better and thinking up new and exciting ways for you to win money both through the base game and through exciting features. Not to mention calculating the RTP and volatility level. New providers also have emerged with a whole new set of ideas and traditional powerhouses have raised their levels to increasingly high levels.

ManySpins has all the best slot providers. 21 in fact! Have a look at four of the more famous ones on our list.

Online Casinos

Starburst, Gonzo’s Quest, Hall of Gods, Warlords… Perhaps rather than tell you about NetEnt, it’s easier just to list to list their best games and let them speak for themselves. Founded over 20 years ago, the Scandinavian provider has created over 200 games and counting to the slot game industry. Popular with gamers everywhere, they favour even higher among music fans. NetEnt were the among the first to see the link between artists and slots, and have iconic games dedicated to Guns n’Roses, Jimi Hendrix and Motorhead.

Microgaming

One of the giants of the software provider industry, and certainly one of the pioneers. They invented their first online casino game in 1994, which is believed by many to be the first of its kind. They are also known for their “Mega Moolah” jackpot series, which have awarded over £1 billion in prizes as part of progressive jackpot payouts. Even if you don’t reach those levels, you’ll still enjoy their 800+ games, including favourites like Jurassic Park, Game of Thrones and Tomb Raider.

Online Casinos

Play’n Go

Online Casinos

As perhaps suggested by their name, Play’n Go sets out to have fun and easy to play games, which connects with the visual style and great bonuses they are known for. As the Swedish provider who created the first mobile friendly casino game, it makes sense that they have also developed the multi-windows feature, allowing you to play more than one game at once. Reactoonz, Moon Princess and Golden Colts all have their followers, but none more than Play’n Go’s jewel in the crown, The Book of Dead.

Pragmatic Play

Founded in 2015, Pragmatic Play is one of the newer providers around, so won’t have as many games as its rivals. Though 200 in 7 years seems pretty good to us, especially as they are represented in 31 languages over 78 countries. What Pragmatic Play really are recognised for is the visual quality of their games (based on HTML5) and the fact that all of their games are available on any relevant device. Among the classics in their repertoire are Gates of Olympus, Sweet Bonanza, The Dog House, and the more recent Peaky Blinders.

We’d highly recommend any of the 21 providers we’ve listed. Each of them is all full of the latest technology and have a wide array of fantastic games for you to choose from. Even if some of them aren’t as big as other names, don’t let that stop you. They’ll be full of innovative and imaginative slots with fun themes, special bonuses and big payouts. Your new favourite games are just waiting to be played.

Online Casinos

Slot types

Online Casinos

All different kinds of slots

Just as there are all kinds of games, there are all kinds of slots. And ManySpins have every type of slot you can imagine. So much so, we have 20 different types. Yes, you read that right, 20 slot types to cover every style of game you can imagine.

Progressive slots

Just like with an epic rock anthem building to a big chorus, a progressive jackpot is all about watching something build over a period of time before the joyous big release. Progressive jackpots get bigger every time someone places an unsuccessful bet until someone wins the humongous amount worth millions, and it resets back to a specific number (known as the seed). And you and every other player can see just how big the jackpot is at every point, which is very special as while some casinos cap the limit, others don’t.

Penny slots

As you’ll have guessed from the name, these slots go back quite a way to the days when a penny was all you needed to play. But while inflation has very much kicked on, the essence of what they are has very much remained the same and they are more popular than ever. As well as their value and the huge number of games on offer, part of their appeal is down to the fact you can still win such big amounts both on the base game and numerous bonuses. Some penny slots are even linked to progressive jackpots.

Classic slots

While software providers continue to develop games using innovative new technology, create ones based on current TV shows/films or launch slots with an exciting new payout style, traditional slots are very much alive and well. Usually featuring only 3 reels and up to 5 paylines, classic slots have a simple design with retro symbols, no bonuses and big payout possibilities. Not to mention a huge sense of nostalgia.

Best Online slots

Even with the incredible standard of slots, these games have stood out. Created by providers keen to push the envelope, they know there is no set formula for the perfect game. But they know that by doing something different, they have a bigger chance of getting your attention. As you’ll see from the mix of games, they’ve done something very right.

Sure. We've highlighted four of the most notable slot types, but Manyspins has plenty more. Maybe you want to keep things straightforward by choosing based on the number of reels? We have that covered with games grouped at 3,5,6 and 7 reels. Or perhaps you’d prefer slots with a strong visual element? In that case you’ll love the 3D and video slots on offer. And if you’re looking for a game with a focus on odds or jackpots, why not try the Megaways, High Limits or Best Odds slots?

Banking and payment providers

Online Casinos

What are the differences between all the banking and payment providers?

Online casinos are known for how seriously they take payment security and the many different ways they allow financial transactions. They recognise their players will come from different parts of the world and different forms of technological devices so try to cover as many as possible.

In effect, they are looking for three things:

  • Highest possible level of security
  • Quickest transactions
  • Ease of use

Banking and credit cards

The most common form of payment for online casinos. As the original form of payment, casinos have had a long time to set up the most secure procedures, which is always very reassuring. Players are also aware there are three forms of security, made up of those representing the debit/credit card, that of the online casino and also your bank. Other major benefits include faster transactions and higher transaction limits. It is worth considering that some banks or credit cards will offer some form of cashback or points scheme. However, there are problems for UK gamblers. SInce 14th April 2020, all UK licensed gambling operators no longer accept credit cards for gambling, including gambling overseas.

The main examples of banking and credit cards are Visa, Mastercard, American Express and Discover, which is especially big in the USA. Visa and Mastercard have the huge benefit of being accepted pretty much anywhere, as well as charging less for merchant fees. However, in up to 90% of casinos, credit cards like Mastercard can be used to deposit money but not to withdraw. Visa will most likely be a fee to withdraw and may take up to 5 days. Luxury credit card American Express is not accepted at all online casinos, but does have the distinction of being the card issuer and card network (though it charges higher swipe fees). Discover tends to be used by casinos with an American license.

E-wallets

E-wallets, sometimes known as a digital wallet, allows buyers to make quick digital transactions on multiple websites by securely storing their payment and password information. This works either through depositing money into a digital wallet directly or else connecting to their bank account. Using the e-wallet system has numerous benefits at an online casino. One aspect which you would assume would be true for all payment methods but isn’t, is that is accepted both for deposit and withdrawal. E-wallets also use the latest SSL encryption technology meaning your transaction is highly protected. While credit and debit cards can take a while to release money, using the digital system won’t take days or hours, but will be instant. As an additional bonus, you won’t need to share any banking information with your casino, adding an even further layer of security and anonymity.

As such, it’s no surprise that there are so many forms of e-wallets around, especially as most don’t charge for their services. The most famous is Paypal. Easy (and free) to register and even easier to use, Paypal does not charge excessive fees, and covers over 200 countries and regions. Neteller uses SSL and 128-bit encryption as part of its extensive security, and is part of Paysafe, a business group with extensive experience in online payments to which Skrill and Paysafecard also belong. Although accepted in most countries, it is not accepted in the USA. Other notable forms of e-wallets include Apple Pay Casinos, Visa Qiwi (e-wallet based on prepaid Visa account), Qiwi wallet, ecoPayz and Jeton.

Cryptocurrency

Cryptocurrency is a digital payment system that enables anyone anywhere to send and receive payments, without the need of a bank to verify transactions. Based on blockchain technology, it maintains a tamper-resistant record of transactions and keeps track of who owns what. You can store and spend your cryptocurrency using cryptographic wallets.

Although there are over 5,000 different examples, there are numerous more famous ones which tend to be accepted by the major online casinos.

Casino streaming

Online Casinos

Just how valuable is the casino streaming business?

Casino streaming is big business. Twitch, which hosts 91% of all video game streaming, is said to be worth $15 billion having only founded in 2011. Twitch (an Amazon subsidiary) is in the perfect place to connect with an online casino industry worth nearly $60 billion. Its slots section currently has a million followers and a growing younger audience.

There are 5 main ways for streamers to earn money while fans watch them play different slot games.

  • Paid subscriptions
  • Advertisement revenue
  • Donations from fans
  • Affiliations with casino operators
  • Selling merchandise

Who are the most famous streamers?

In the world of online streaming, these nine casino streamers are the A*listers, the rock royalty, the guys top of the pile and in a league of their own. We’ve highlighted four of the biggest casino streamers, but we recommend all of them as each offer something a little different and have their own unique style. And with names like CasinoDaddy, Xposed and LetsGiveItASpin, we know you’re curious to find out more.

Roshtein

Top of the pile and by some distance. The Swedish star currently living in Malta has over half a million followers and averages between 10-15,000 spectators a day. If that wasn’t enough, he also won an actual €1 million on the Book of Shadows slot.

DavidLabowsky

His real name may be Hendrik but to all of us he’s DavidLabowsky, quite possibly the most laid-back guy in slot streaming. As proof, check out his winning videos where he is far composed than we’d be if we won his huge payouts, especially for low stakes.

DeuceAce

His name may sound more fitting for a Poker tournament, but he’s more than had his success on the slot market, including a very memorable Є129,122 on Pragmatic Play’s The Dog House.

ClassyBeef

Not one but seven streamers who teamed up and going by their photos and videos, now having the time of their lives. They are known as being among the most prolific twitchers, playing up to 6 times a week, 18 hours a day, with big wins on slots including The Dog House, Dead or Alive 2 and Apollo Rising.