Hitting the virtual casino floor for the first time? There are hundreds of games. Bright lights. Spinning reels. Cards. Dice. Wondering where to start?
Let me help you not make the same dumb moves I did. Here’s how to pick your very first casino game—something fun and not likely to eat your coins in one go.
NorskTipping Casino offers Norwegians a trusted state-run platform where all proceeds support national sports and cultural programs. With games ranging from lotteries and sports betting to slots and live dealer options, the site requires Norwegian BankID verification and features a 100kr welcome bonus with 50 free spins for new players. Their mobile app enables gaming on the go, while mandatory responsible gambling measures include daily and monthly spending limits.
Here’s How Not to Screw Your Online Casino Debut
Know What You’re After (And Be Honest About It)
First off, ask yourself: what kind of fun are you looking for?
If you just want to sit back and zone out, you’ll probably like slots. If you’re the type who likes puzzles or games with some control, go for blackjack or poker. If you’re just feeling lucky, roulette or game shows could be your thing.
There’s no best game. It’s about what you enjoy.
Just Want Easy Fun? Go With Slots
Slots are a solid place to start. No rules to learn. You click spin and see what happens. Simple.
Now, the kicker. Some take your money fast. Others are more chill. For starters, try low-volatility slots. These give smaller wins more often, so your coins last longer.
Start with titles like Starburst, Gonzo’s Quest, or Big Bass Bonanza. These give a good mix of action and breathing room. Plus, most casinos let you try slots in demo mode. Use it.
Also, skip the ones with 300 bonus features. Too much stuff.
Want a Bit of Control? Try Blackjack or Video Poker
Blackjack is all about beating the dealer. You learn when to hit, when to stand. It’s easy to get the hang of. And once you know the basic strategy, the odds aren’t half bad.
Same with video poker. You hold and discard cards to try and make the best hand. My first time playing Jacks or Better, I actually felt like I had a say in what was happening.
Here’s the trick: look for tables or machines with low minimum bets and “perfect strategy” options. Some titles will even tell you the right move. Use them.
Feeling Lucky? Try Roulette
Roulette is pure chance, but it feels more “gamey” than slots. You pick a number, color, or section. The wheel spins. If it lands where you bet—boom, win.
Just one thing: always pick European roulette over American. European has one zero. American has two. That tiny difference makes the house edge much higher.
You don’t need any special strategy. Just place simple bets to start—like red or black, odd or even.
Want Something Weird and Fun? Game Shows Are Underrated
If you like TV shows and bright colors, give live game shows a go. These are Lightning Roulette, Crazy Time, and Monopoly Live, to name a few.
They’re live-streamed with real hosts, bonus wheels, and big animations. You’re not going to win huge here, but it’s fun. Especially if you’re bored of watching reels spin.
Crazy Time was the first one I tried. This one made me laugh a lot. It felt more like a party than a casino game.
Start Small and Watch the Speed
When trying a new game, always start with the lowest possible bets. Not just to “save money”—but to see how the game moves.
Some games are slow burns. Others will eat 20 spins in under a minute. When I played Reactoonz for the first time, I didn’t realize how fast it went. I blinked and my balance was gone.
Use demo modes when you can. Time yourself. Do you feel like you’re clicking “spin” nonstop and seeing nothing back? Perhaps that game’s not your speed.
Common First-Time Fails (That I Totally Made)
Here’s a quick list of the dumb things I did when starting out:
- Picked a game based on flashy graphics, not gameplay.
- Sat down at a live dealer table with a $10 minimum bet. Bad move.
- Tried to learn five different games in one night. Brain = fried.
- Played jackpot slots thinking I’d win big on my first try. Spoiler: I didn’t.
Pick one game. Try it. Learn it. Play slow. Then branch out.
My Quick Picks for First-Timers
Still not sure where to start? Here’s what I usually recommend to my friends:
- Best chill slot: Starburst – simple and light.
- Best themed slot: Gonzo’s Quest Megaways – not too crazy, still fun.
- Best beginner card game: Blackjack with Perfect Strategy mode – learn as you go.
- Best live game: Crazy Time – weird in a good way.
- Best quickie game: Aviator – one button, fast action, fun to watch.
For personalized recommendations beyond my suggestions, TOP Slot Games to Play categorizes options by volatility, theme, and bonus features.
One Click Can Hook You—So Make It a Good One
Your first game sets the tone. Pick something easy. Fun. Something that fits your mood, not just your wallet.
Don’t be afraid to bounce around a bit. Try demos. Watch a few YouTube clips of how the game works. Or just click and go—but make sure you’re clicking for you, not just ‘cause the colors are pretty.