Although slot machine gaming is a solo game, there are still rules of etiquette to understand when you play. Here are some rules to remember:

·         Never move someone else’s coin cup. It may sound rudimentary, but you’d be surprised how many people see a game they want and just wait for the opportunity to push another player out. Although it may seem like a good move to take advantage of a claimed but empty slot machine, it is a matter of etiquette. If you have to leave your machine, you can always ask an attendant to watch your station and then when you return, be sure to tip them well.

·         Next, if you move to a machine that has a frequent player card or VIP card still in it, be sure to put the card on top of the machine. This is the customary place for a player to look when they are searching for their card. At the end of the night, casinos will also search the top of the machines and put any VIP cards into the Lost and Found. This is why it’s a good idea to just put it on top and leave it alone.

·         Remember when playing multiple machines to be polite about doing so.  Only do so if there are no signs prohibiting such behavior, either overall or during busy times.  If someone asks to use your second machine when no other machines of the same type are available, you should be polite and give up your second seat.

 ·         If you are a smoker, remember to abide by casino rules regarding smoking.  Smoking may be prohibited or allowed only in certain areas or outside of the casino.  If smoking is permitted, you should whenever possible attempt to position your cigarette so that the smoke is not bothering another player at a nearby machine.

 ·         While tipping is customary in most casinos, the amount you tip is a personal decision, usually determined by the quality of service you receive.  When you have a jackpot that requires a hand pay by the attendant, it is customary to tip them when they bring your money.  Again, this is based on the service.  If the jackpot was paid quickly, then a tip is order, usually 0.5%-1% of the jackpot is considered fair. 

If you’re an online gambler then you know the rules. There are unspoken rules of etiquette when gaming. Here are some of them to be sure and follow:

1)      Know the Rules. Sure some games are pretty straightforward, but then there are those that have varying rules depending on what type of game you’re playing. Roulette for example—you could be playing with 37 or 38 numbers. When playing blackjack, the style also dictates the moves you can make. Be sure to read the rules online before you log-in to play. Another good idea is to use the “play free” option with gaming. That way you can get used to the game before you officially start playing with “real money.”  You also can get the rhythm of the game and some valuable experience before a real wager.

2)      There are chat rules. A lot of online casinos recognized the need for a social outlet online. When you go to a “real” casino, part of the fun is the interaction you’re involved in. Online casinos tried to duplicate this interaction by creating messaging systems. If you decide to chat, try to keep the dialogue upbeat and fun. Remember that it’s a time to enjoy yourself and other players.  Never use the messaging system to argue with another player or engage in dialogue that could be considered questionable. This is another part of online gaming that you may use the “free play” option to familiarize yourself with. If you are playing free, take note of the dialogue going around the table. In particular, bingo has a specific language. Free play time is the perfect place to gain some experience in messaging.

3)      Be safe with your IP address. This is a growing concern for people using various computers to gamble. When an online casino has a new customer, it logs their IP address. This IP is going to be affiliated with their information for the duration of their account’s existence. If you plan on switching that address, you could inadvertently trigger an issue from the websites’ security software. Let the casino know beforehand that you will be logging on from various locations. Different casinos deal with the issue differently, but this is a good way to not get your account blocked.

By understanding the proper online etiquette, you can make the experience enjoyable for all.