Microgaming Review

Microgaming Gaming Software Review

Online gaming has been a fast-moving industry since its conception in 1994. It was Microgaming that set the ball rolling in that year, and although early rival Cryptologic can claim to have turned out the first full online casino the following year, Microgaming has had a hand in almost every major innovation in the industry since those early years.

It quickly saw the massive potential of big slot machine jackpots, launching Cash Splash, the first progressive online jackpot, in 1998. Since then, Microgaming has continued to assemble a crack squad of the latest and greatest in slots - adding stunning graphics to immense choice. The company's major software suite, Viper, quickly ripped through the online casino world in 2002. Whether we're talking slots, blackjack, or roulette, Microgaming can offer one of the most extensive and exciting sets of software titles.

Huge Variety

Anyone tempted to brand blackjack as a simple game would do well to look at Microgaming's different takes - Ladbrokes alone features 25 different games from the company's massive library. This being Microgaming, many versions are available in a 'gold' edition, which compensates for its longer loading time with improved options, graphics and sound. In addition, many come in a 'Multi Hand' version, which lets you play up to five hands at a time against the dealer.

In line with other Microgaming titles, the graphics across the blackjack range are superb, with each variation given its own look and feel. Those looking for the best traditional blackjack experience can sift through the many classic renditions, searching for exactly the right set of rules to suit their taste. The Atlantic City variation is hugely popular, and just about the best starting point, while the Vegas Downtown is more one for the traditionalists, taking them back to the game's US origins. The most sophisticated users will adore the advanced strategy and options of the Premier Blackjack title. But those looking for a more radical overhaul of the game will also find plenty to feast on.

Interesting Variations

The Spanish version, for example, removes the tens, making for a very different type of game. Double Exposure, though, lets you see both of the dealer's cards at once. This isn't the house-edge-killer you might take it for, as the game decreases your advantage in other areas - cutting your blackjack payout to evens, for instance. Nonetheless, it makes for a more tactical style of play that will appeal to many. Super Fun 21 spices up play with countless bonuses, while Perfect Pairs and Triple Sevens Progressive allow you to hit additional wins with certain combinations. The Single Deck version cuts down on the variety of card choices, although it does push up the house edge again by allowing the dealer to hit on a soft 17.

Microgaming Changes the Industry

Microgaming is about far more than mere code, though, and the company has done much to champion the rights of players. Its experiments with trusted forms of self-regulation led to it co-founding (with 888.com) the highly influential eCOGRA (e-Commerce Online Gambling Regulation and Assurance) organisation. It also runs various help systems, designed to allow players to get the most from their gambling.

Microgaming works very hard for the players of its games, producing not just the finest versions available, but securing them the best deal as well. Wherever Microgaming is offered, players know they're in for a treat.

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