Differences Between WV Live and Online Slot Machines

Mardi Gras casino, slots machines, online slots

There are three different ways to play slot machines in West Virginia. These are found at the state’s casinos, video lottery establishments, and online slots. While all share similar characteristics, like the types of random number generators used to determine the outcome. there are some differences. These are more related to the returns and betting amounts than how the slot machines operate.

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WV online slots offer the best returns

The best slot machines in West Virginia are offered by online casinos. There are several reasons for this.

The return of online slot machines is much higher than what is found at casinos and video gaming taverns. For example, DraftKings Casino publishes the theoretical return of all its games. Many of its slots are above 95% return-to-player. Some pay back over 97%. This is possible because of the low overhead online casinos have.

Compare that to West Virginia casinos, where the returns are in the 90-92% range on slots. Video lottery establishments are not permitted to have paybacks over 92% without permission from regulators. The cap is 95%, upon request and acceptance.

Online slots with bonuses in WV

Another perk slots at WV online casinos have over the live machines is bonuses. New players at all casino sites in West Virginia can receive a bonus. The wagering requirement is as low as an amount equal to the bonus. It usually is not higher than 15 times. This adds about 7% to the return for the bonuses with the highest wagering requirements. The one-time offer gives the player 100% of their bets back. This means you can play online slots with an advantage.

Loyal online casino players receive reload bonus offers. These often have the same favorable rules as the first deposit ones. It is important to read the terms and conditions of any bonus offer.

Online slots have another major difference. Players can choose between hundreds of games, right from their computer or mobile device. There is no need to move around a casino to change slot games. You don’t even need to leave your house. All the games are right at your fingertips. 

You don’t need cash to play online slots. Deposit options at online casinos include credit cards, debit cards, bank transfers, and electronic wallets like PayPal, Skrill, Apple Pay, and Play+. You don’t have to worry about ATM fees or carrying around cash when playing at casino sites.

The minimum and maximum bets are often different at online casinos. You can play for as little as pennies or play spins of $100 or more. It is all up to you and your bankroll limits. However, it is imperative that you gamble responsibly

Racetrack and resort casino slots offer a different form of entertainment

The energy of a casino can’t be duplicated online. Even if you don’t play table games, the excitement of a craps or roulette game can add a positive vibe to the entire property. 

Live slot machines at a casino have sound and visual effects that online ones don’t. Drinks are delivered to your slot machine, including free beer. If you use a players card, you earn slot points while in action. You can turn these into free slot play or food comps. You may also receive mailers that include free chips, slot play, hotel, and food. The maximum bet on a slot machine in West Virginia casinos tends to be no higher than $25. 

West Virginia casinos are permitted to have old-fashioned reels. These are impossible at online casinos and forbidden by statute at video gaming establishments. Most high limit slots in West Virginia are reels. 

Casino slot payouts may be no lower than 80%. The cap return is 99.9%. However, it is unlikely any slot returns more than 95%, and those are in high limit rooms. The best video poker return we found at a West Virginia casino is 98.01%. That requires a $% bet and perfect play at Bonus Poker. 

Video lottery slot machines

There are over 1000 video lottery establishments in West Virginia. These are at bars, truck stops, and some nonprofit organizations. The machines must be in an area that is only accessible to adults who are 21 years of age or older. The establishment must have an alcohol license.

Commercial video gaming establishments may only have up to five machines. Nonprofit ones may install up to ten devices. Advertising is not permitted. The name of the business may not imply gambling. 

There are three types of machines permitted in video lottery establishments. These are slot machines, keno, and video poker. A machine may offer all versions of these games.

The payout range on West Virginia video lottery machines is 80 to 92 percent. Establishments may request a boost to 95 percent. Drinks are not free. There are no comp systems. That makes video lottery machines the worst deal in the state. Players pay for the convenience.

All slots must be video. This means that there are no reels. A random number generator that mimics reels may be used. However, the display must be digital. 

Online casinos offer the best slots in WV

With higher payouts, larger selections, bonuses, and convenience, online slots win the race in West Virginia. The value is substantial compared to slots offered by casinos and video gaming businesses. The house advantage can be doubled or tripled at those places than at WV online casinos. 

Like all forms of gambling, make sure to play in moderation. There is nothing wrong with mixing up the different types of slot machines to gain the highest level of entertainment and balance.