Why Gaming on the Go Shouldn’t be a Lottery
In case you hadn’t noticed, mobile gaming has become big business over the last few years and that’s led to an explosion of games and products designed to entice players of all persuasions. From mobile lotteries and casino games to poker and scratchcards, you can now ante-up in a variety of games while you’re out on the move.
Of course, as you’ll probably also know, not all mobile apps or games are created equal. Just like our list of lottery sites or the leading casino platforms, there are good bets and there are, for want of a better phrase, bad bets. Since we’re experts in the iGaming arena and know a thing or two about the mobile market, we thought we’d compile a list of things you should look out for when you “go mobile.”
While you shouldn’t take this list as a definitive guide to mobile casinos, you should look at it as a yardstick by which you should judge the major providers. For example, if you’re contemplating a few sessions of mobile blackjack on 32Red.com and aren’t sure whether it’s app to par then our guide will show you the reasons why it is.
Similarly, if you’re looking for a round of poker on Full Tilt or a few scratchcard sessions on Gala, then you can go through the following checklist to make sure everything is as it should be. So, without further ado, here’s a rundown of the main features you should be looking out for in the mobile gaming arena.
Be Calculated in Your Pursuit of Randomness
One of the major markers of quality you should always be looking for when it comes to mobile gaming is the eCOGRA seal of approval. One of the official companies recognised by the iGaming industry as the official word on fairness, eCOGRA ensures that each operator’s random number generator is 100% fair.
When you log into a site such as 32Red.com you’ll be able to scroll down to the bottom of the screen and find an eCOGRA stamp as well as a link to an official report. If you don’t see this certificate, or one like it, then don’t download anything. All reputable operators will have their certificates clearly displayed (a licensing requirement) and any that don’t may be of questionable standing.
Is it Native or Virtual?
When it comes to mobile gaming, the action is accessible in two ways: via an online site or a native app. In the app it was common for operators to offer a selection of their games via a mobile platform. However, as technology has evolved it’s now possible to downloaded dedicated apps that give you instant access to a suite of games.
For example, at Gala Casino you’ll be able to scan a QR code or simply navigate to a mobile site in order to access a selection of games. Conversely, 32Red has a dedicated iOS app that’s fully optimised for all Apple products, including iPhones and iPads.
In terms of quality there isn’t much to choose between the two mediums; however, in general, native apps offer a more efficient experience. Because the games are instantly accessible (you can load the app and they are there), it makes it easier to ante-up when you’ve got a spare moment.
In contrast, if you’re forced to navigate to a mobile site, it can often be a slower process and, because time equals money, it can affect your overall EV if you’re forced to play on anything other than a native app.
Games, Games, Games
The final consideration you need to bear in mind when you’re choosing a mobile gaming site is the number of games on offer. Unlike online platforms, mobile sites have space and practicality issues and that often means you won’t find a full selection of games in the mobile world.
Because of this you basically need to find the site that has the best selection possible. Any site with more than 15 different mobile casino games should be seen as a winner. Similarly, if you’re a poker player, then you want at least five different cash games and five different tournaments if you’re going to join the action.
Finally, if you’re a lottery lover then don’t ante-up if you’re not able to take part in at least five national lotteries via your mobile. Although you shouldn’t expect the same amount of choice that you’ll find online, that doesn’t mean you should compromise too much. Basically, a generous selection of high quality games is a must and if you’re not getting that then you’re not getting the full mobile experience.
Finding the right mobile casino or gaming site will always be a matter of personal choice; however, if you want the best experience possible, you should keep our checklist in mind before you use up any of your valuable memory.
