10 tips for playing slots smarter, and winning more, in 2020
A new year brings hope and promises of new beginnings, new opportunities and hopefully a better year than the one before. The conclusion of one year and the beginning of the next is a time for reflection, and for resolving to correct certain bad habits and focus on new goals—and if you’re a frequent visitor to casinos, there are a number of vows you can make right now to get the most out of each and every trip.
This year, we’ve got some important advice for you: fill your resolution list with easy, good-for-you goals and resolve to play smarter in the casino. By doing so, you’re likely to make it your best year at the casinos yet. Here is a list of resolutions that will help motivate you in year 2020 and help you have more fun, excitement, and satisfaction you experience in the casino.
1) Set aside a few extra dollars each week to spend on casino visits.
Even if you don’t know the next time you’ll be visiting the casino, now is a great time to start setting aside a few dollars each week into a casino fund. This way, you will have the money on hand if you receive a great promotional offer, or if you just want to get away for a trip to the casino.
2) Always use a players club card.
Not using your players card is the equivalent of turning away free money. The casinos give you comps for your play, and the only way they know how much to give you is by tracking your play. If you don’t use your card, the casino can’t track your play. Using your card does not affect how the machine will pay out, as some players falsely believe. It does, however, affect the amount of comps that you earn.
3) Keep a gaming log.
Smart players keep a log book. The law allows you to deduct gambling loses up to the amount of your winnings. You can only do this if you have documentation of your losses. Keeping a diary or logbook is the way to do this, and with the beginning of a new year around the corner, it’s the perfect time to start your log. There is even an app named “Gamblers Anonymous” that will let you keep your log on your phone.
4) Take advantage of casino promotions.
Casinos are constantly running promotions to attract players. These may include special drawings, tournaments or double point days. Taking advantage of these promotions is a smart way to get a little something extra.
5) Learn a new game.
Table games have a lower house edge than slot machines when you learn to play based with the correct strategy. If you’re a slot player, why not give a table game a try? If you prefer to stick with slots exclusively, then try a new, exciting slot title for a change of pace.
6) Play only the best-paying video poker games.
Not all video poker games are created equal. Resolve to locate and play only the best games. Gone are the days when 100 percent and greater payback games were common. There are still enough very good paying games to make it worthwhile to seek them out. There are positive games such as 10/7 Double Bonus (100.17 percent) and full pay Deuces Wild (100.76 percent) available in selected locations of some casinos. When these games aren’t available, look for games that return at least 99 percent.
7) Learn the correct video poker strategy.
Video poker is one of the best games you can play. The house edge is low if you learn to play the correct strategy for each particular game. Many players sit down and rely on hunches for playing their hands, which increases the house edge. This year, resolve to learn the playing strategy for one or more of the best games. In order to maximize wins—or minimize losses—not only must you choose the best game(s), you must also play that game properly. To do that, you must learn the proper playing strategy. Strategies are available in books, software or even online. Pick one, two, or three games and learn the strategy or strategies perfectly.
8) Play only with a pre-determined bankroll.
Bankroll is critical for any casino trip. In any random game, there are fluctuations. You may win more than you lose for a while and then lose more than you win for a while. Sometimes you lose a lot more than you win and sometimes you lose more than you win for a very long time. All of these happenings are part of the natural flow of a random game. To enjoy your trip to the casino you must have enough money to last through the losing times. Make sure you have enough, and make sure it isn’t your next mortgage payment you are using. A losing streak doesn’t have to end at any particular time, so make sure you can afford to lose whatever you are bringing to the casino.
9) Play only while rested and sharp.
Playing after you become tired, or after a few too many drinks, can cost you money. It is natural to want to continue to play when you’re having a good time, or thinking the next hand will be a royal flush. However, if you become tired, stop playing. If you find you are not thinking clearly due to consuming a few drinks, stop.
10) Have a game plan.
Many players simply go to the casino with a pocket full of money and jump from game to game until all their money is gone. You can have a much better time if you just spend a few minutes to make a plan for your next casino visit. Know ahead of time how long you will play, how much money you want to risk, and what other activities you will do there. And if a casino isn’t appreciating your patronage (and club membership), find another place to play. There are a ton of terrific properties out there which will welcome your action and give you a fair shot
