Whichever way you choose to look at it, there’s little denying that the past year and a half has been challenging, and has seen all of us have to adapt to new ways of doing the things we love – from communicating and socialising with family and friends, to taking fitness classes (most of which we have Zoom to thank for!)
For entertainment seekers, it’s safe to say that the landscape has also changed – with streaming services like Netflix and Now TV coming into their own, and online gambling and gaming sites attracting a record number of sign-ups. With little to do but stay at home, the early months of lockdown saw us all hunting for new and exciting ways to pass the time – and casino lovers in particular have been well catered to in the wake of widespread bricks-and-mortar closures.
If you enjoy channelling your inner James Bond at the roulette wheel or the baccarat table, chances are you’ve already joined the millions of others who have tried out the online versions. They certainly come with their advantages in terms of convenience, choice and promotions, at least for the everyday player. But can they compete with land-based establishments when it comes to catering to high rollers?
At land-based casinos, being a high roller is about more than simply staking larger wagers alone. Although this certainly has a part to play, it’s all about the luxury VIP experience – which often sees some of the biggest spenders showered with free gifts and bonuses as casinos bid to retain their custom.
From private, high-stakes areas to free bottles of champagne, being a high roller in the traditional sense offers the kind of kudos these bold players simply can’t get enough of – so how exactly can online casinos compete?
You might be surprised to find that they have managed to keep up quite well, with many of the leading platforms upping the ante over recent months as the value of long-term online whales becomes increasingly apparent. Here, we take a look at how to make sure you get the best of the VIP experience as a high roller when playing online.
Choose the right casino
When it comes to land-based casinos – at least in major cities – many big spending players will find themselves spoilt for choice. Nevertheless, they invariably offer that all-important element of glamour and sophistication, and impressive VIP programmes are almost guaranteed. Any casino worthy of its name will offer high roller benefits, and while the specifics of each might vary, the overall benefits and perks will be similar.
Online, it is a little different. There are so many casinos that they are naturally more diverse in their offerings, with each targeting their own specific markets. So for example, you can check out fast paying casinos here if your priority is a quick game on the go – but if you’re a high roller in search of the ultimate luxury treatment, do your research and find a casino that offers the biggest and most extravagant benefits for the full experience.
Become a VIP
VIP benefits are a means of offering incentives to high rollers to encourage them to keep on spending in a casino as opposed to moving on elsewhere – and you might be surprised what they will do to keep your custom. In a physical casino, free drinks, limo transfers and complimentary room upgrades are commonly laid on – but how exactly can that be replicated in cyberspace?
Online, the benefits are a little different, but equally as attractive. Digital casinos are all about the bonuses, but many offer something extra special for their high rollers. That might mean extra free spins or bigger deposit bonuses – the latter usually represent the best value, but pay attention to the wagering requirements to get the most out of them.
Exclusive access is another popular perk, and is the online equivalent of being invited behind the roped-off area or through the mysterious door into the VIP area. Exactly what is in there varies from one casino to the next – you might find early access to the latest new slots that are not yet available to regular members, or perhaps VIP-only tournaments – do be sure to shop around to find the very best.
Then, there are the special events – an arena in which cyberspace and the real world can collide. Online casinos often lavish their VIP high rollers with tickets to sports events, movie premieres and the like, and at times, may even lay on a complimentary sunshine getaway to the Caribbean. Not bad for a good night’s gaming, and the more you play, the more perks you’re likely to get.
The best VIP programs provide high rollers with direct contact to their own personal host, ensuring a superior level of service and 24/7 support, setting them apart from standard players and elevating their experience, no end.
The bottom line
Playing your favourite games in cyberspace is a convenient and accessible way to get your fix, and these days, it no longer means missing out on any of the traditional high roller benefits or perks. Just remember, you can afford to be choosy, so take some time evaluating the different options. The more fun you have placing those bets, the more of the luxury treatment you’ll get to enjoy – so whether you’re on your sofa or a sun lounger, you can now enjoy those big wins and special gifts from anywhere in the world.
Please gamble responsibly (18+ UK) – check age restrictions before participating
