Picking a Site
In a highly competitive online gaming industry, most, if not all online casinos are happy to offer a “welcome bonus” to attract players. Before signing up to receive a welcome bonus, players should consider the following:
- Software Engine - The most popular software providers are Playtech, Microgaming, Net Entertainment and Betsoft amongst others. Sites using these platforms will usually offer the best games.
- Regulatory Jurisdictions - The most prominent jurisdictions are the UK, Gibraltar, Malta and Curacao.
- Security - It important that a site’s software has been certified as “safe and fair” by an independent testing company such as eCOGRA or iTech Labs. It is also important to verify that the player’s banking and personal information is protected by modern SSL encryption technology.
- Payout Rates - Most legitimate sites will publish an expected payout rate that usually ranges from 95%-98%.
Highly Recommended Sites with Welcome Bonuses
Based on the above criteria and welcome bonus offers, some of the most reliable gaming sites are:
Betfair - The casino’s welcome bonus starts with a “no deposit required” £5 bonus to check out the site. The second part of the welcome bonus is one of three options: (1) 200% match up bonus up to €300 to be used anywhere in the casino (2) 200% match up bonus up to £1,000 to be used on slots (3) 100% match up bonus up to €200 to be used on “live dealer” games. The minimum deposit requirements range from £10-£20, depending on option.
William Hill - The current welcome bonus offer is a 150% match up bonus up to €200 to be used anywhere in the casino. The bonus carries a 20X play through requirement that is applicable to the bonus amount only. The minimum deposit requirement is £35.
Gala - This site offers a welcome bonus of 100% on the first deposits up to a matching value of £400. The funds can be used anywhere in the casino with a play through requirement of 20X on both the original deposit amount and the bonus. The minimum deposit requirement is £10.
Spin Palace - The site’s “golden handshake hello” offers a 100% match up bonus up to £250 to be used anywhere in the casino. The play through requirement is 50X. Players should check terms and conditions for excluded games. The minimum deposit requirement is £20.
32 Red - The unique welcome bonus offer comes in the form of £32 for every £20 deposited the initial deposit up to a maximum value of £160 to be used anywhere in the casino. The minimum deposit requirement is £20. The play through requirement is 40x with a maximum bet size of 6.25.
The Play Through Requirements
Most, if not all bonuses carry some type of play through (rollover) requirement. This is the number of times the bonus money must be wagered before it is eligible to be withdrawn. Example: If a player deposits £100 and receives a 100% match up of £100 with a 30X play through requirement, the player must wager £3000 before the funds are eligible for withdraw. As with any bonus granted, players must read terms and conditions to fully understand the guidelines applicable for any bonus offer in order to avoid unnecessary misunderstandings as requirements may vary.
