How to read the rating of online casinos and slot machines correctly

Many newcomers and even experienced players make a choice at the top of the rating - "5 stars, good comment, high score." But a rating is not just a number or a visual label. This is a collection of many factors that need to be analyzed, not taken on faith.

In this article we will analyze:

• Which includes rating casinos and slots
• How to distinguish a manipulative rating from an honest one
• What parameters are really important
• Why reviews are not always true

What is a casino rating?

Casino rating is a generalized rating based on:

• 1. Platform reliability
• 2. Speed and honesty of payments
• 3. Reputation among players
• 4. Quality of support
• 5. Bonus conditions
• 6. Assortment of games
• 7. Licensing level
• 8. Mobile version operation
• 9. Traffic and popularity
• 10. Real complaints (and their solution)

An example of a scoring rating structure:

Criterion	Weight in Overall Score	Comment
Security & License	25%	Is there a license, KYC, data protection
Payments and Withdrawal	20%	Payment Speed and Honesty
Support	10%	Are there any chat, answers, problem solving
Bonus Policy	15%	Transparency and Honesty of Terms
Games and providers	10%	Number and quality of slots
Mobility	5%	How easy to play from your phone
Reputation/reviews	15%	Complaints, responses, public image

How do I read the slot machine rating?

The rating of a particular slot is usually based on:

• RTP (theoretical return to player)
• Volatility (riskiness)
• Bonus Round Frequency
• Popularity among players
• Visual, Sound, UX
• Maximum win

What does RTP mean?

RTP (Return to Player) is the percentage that a slot theoretically returns to a player over a long period.

RTP (%)	Return level
96% +	High (Good)
94-95%	Average
< 94%	Low (less likely to win)

Important: RTP runs over a long distance - it's not a guarantee of an instant win.

Volatility

Low: Frequent but small wins
Average: Balanced
High: Rare but many (e.g. jackpot games)

In tournaments, high volatility is often chosen, and low for relaxed play.

How are the "star" assessments arranged?

This is usually an average score on a 5-point scale:

Score	What it means
(4.5-5)	Almost perfect site/game. High reputation, few complaints
(4.0-4.4)	Reliable, but there are minor disadvantages
(3.0-3.9)	Medium, but there may be risks or inconveniences
(2.0-2.9)	It is best to avoid: complaints, problems with payments
(1.0-1.9)	Suspicious or malicious casino

Why not blindly believe the reviews?

Reviews are an important but subjective source. Here's why:

• Fraudulent casinos often wind up positive reviews
• Dissatisfied players leave negative due to their own mistakes (for example, they did not read the terms of the bonus)
• Detailed, neutral feedback with facts have value
• Forums and independent platforms are a more reliable source (AskGamblers, CasinoGuru, etc.)

What to pay attention to if the rating is high:

• 1. Do casinos have a real license?
• 2. Are the terms of bonuses spelled out in understandable language?
• 3. How does the casino respond to complaints on the Internet?
• 4. What is his historical mark: when created, were there scandals?

Practical checklist

Before making a deposit, check:

• Rating above 4.2 (if below - read reasons)
• License specified and verified
• Payment methods are right for you
• Reviews don't look like a template
• RTP at slot above 95%
• All withdrawal conditions are clear

Conclusion

Ranking is a tool, not a final decision. It is important to understand:

• Where Points Come From
• What's behind the figure
• What metrics really affect your experience

The more competent you approach the choice of casinos and games, the more likely you are to keep the bankroll, nerves and fun of the game.

See also: "How to distinguish a fake casino," "What gives a license," "Deceptions with bonuses."