We’ve all been there. You visit an online poker site and are presented with a treasure trove of pokies and slots, but you are unsure what to play first. With so many options at your fingertips, the big question is whether it’s better to play multiple pokies or stick with one.

The good news is that there isn’t a wrong answer. This article will outline the benefits of both approaches so you can decide which pokie strategy is best for your bankroll and circumstances.

Understanding online pokies

Before settling the strategy debate, let’s first explore the world of online pokies. These games are digital slot machines, commonly known as slots - or pokies in Australia and New Zealand. By visiting a reliable online casino, you can play online pokies in New Zealand and other table games like Blackjack, Poker and Roulette with live dealers.

These games are powered by random number generators (RNGs) and require players to match symbols on paylines to trigger bonuses, activate free spins, and secure prizes. Pokies have surged in popularity in New Zealand, and the online gaming industry is projected to reach a value of more than $1 billion in 2024.

With more players enjoying online pokies, there is a growing debate about whether it is better to focus time and energy on a single game rather than switching back and forth between multiple games.

The Case for Playing Multiple Pokies

When playing multiple pokies during a single session, you can switch between games to explore new opportunities and try different features and game modes. When playing pokies online, the aim is to have fun, so this is an excellent strategy for maximising enjoyment. Let’s explore some of the benefits of a multi-pokie approach.

Variety

There’s lots to explore when playing online pokies in New Zealand. With most sites offering a mix of traditional slots and live dealer games, some players enjoy switching between pokies to get the most from an online session. Each pokie has a unique theme, design, and set of game mechanics. You can avoid repetition and freshen things up by switching back and forth. This is great if you plan on online gaming for two hours or more.

Spread betting

Pokies rely on RNGs, a sophisticated algorithm designed to ensure all games are random and fair. However, players who adopt a multi-slot strategy believe they have a better chance of beating the house (the online casino) by spreading their bets rather than focusing on a single game.

They also target games with a higher Return to Player (RTP) percentage. By playing multiple games, you can try games with diverse RTP rates and volatility levels to balance risk and reward. While no hard evidence suggests this is a better strategy overall, it’s one reason experienced players play multiple pokies.

Exploring features

A great reason to play multiple slots is to explore the vast range of features available. Pokies come with bonus rounds, free spins, and unique mechanics that drastically change how the game plays and evolves. By exposing yourself to a myriad of game states and feature sets, you can improve your problem-solving abilities across slots. You will also gain a better understanding of different multipliers and wild cards.

The case for sticking with one pokie

Can you have too much of a good thing? Some players prefer to play one pokie at a time. Again, there is no right or wrong when gaming online, but let’s explore some of the advantages of a single-pokie strategy.

Familiarity and focus

Switching between multiple slots can make it difficult to focus on and learn everything about one game. While most pokies are accessible, there is still a lot to get to grips with, including bonus rounds, paylines, and special features, chief among them. By working away and learning the ins and outs, you will become more familiar with how a pokie works and gain a sense of control over how you play and bet. This is great for developing an effective strategy.

Bankroll management

Playing a dozen games at once can be a strain on your bankroll! Each pokie has its own pace, RTP, and payout structure. By sticking with one, you can better track how much you are spending online and assess your winnings. This allows you to adjust your bets based on the risk and reward you have learned through your own experiences playing online.

Spreading bets across multiple pokies might seem more effective, but you might lose track of how you are divesting your bankroll.

Fewer distractions

Familiarity might also work for you if you don’t want any distractions and prefer a more methodical approach to gameplay. When you log in online, you know you can concentrate on one game and focus on making rational and thoughtful decisions instead of switching back and forth.

How to decide between multiple pokies or one pokie

Consider these factors when deciding whether to play on multiple pokies or stick with one.

Personal playing style

What might work for someone else might not be best for you. When playing online pokies in NZ, you should tailor your strategy based on your personal playing style and preferences. A single pokie is best if you prefer a more focused, strategic approach without distractions. However, if you need to mix it up and want to explore, multiple pokies could be the solution.

Time and budget

You should also factor in your time and budget. If you only have 20 minutes a day to log on and play, sticking with one is a practical choice. However, if you want to enjoy a longer session, shortlisting a few favourite pokies and switching between them could make for a more enjoyable and productive pokie experience. You should also consider how your bankroll and budget for each session might influence your selection.

Summing up

There’s no definitive answer to whether playing multiple pokies or sticking with one is best. There are advantages to both, depending on your budget, preferences, and gameplay goals. The great thing is that your decision isn’t set in stone. You can try both styles over a few weeks to see what’s best and tailor your strategy and online pokie gaming sessions accordingly.