| Having all of the information at
hand allows you to make the best, most informed decision.
What does it mean when a casino is offering download,
Flash, or Java software? Will one play better than the
other? Which has the best graphics? Well we're going
to explain all that and more here.
Download vs. No-download – what is the
difference?
When you play at an on line casino you can download
the software and play, or you can enter the casino and
play from your browser. You are playing with non-download
software on the server's side when you play in a web
browser (such as Internet Explorer). The game information
is stored on servers and your computer (the client)
requests files from their computer (the server) which
delivers the requested files and allows you to play.
A download casino the software is stored on your computer
(the client) and as such it is faster, because your
computer doesn't have to ask their computer for information.
This is the most important difference between download
and no-download
casinos.
Download Games
Download games take some time and effort before you
are able to play. First you need to download the application
on to your computer and then you need to install it.
The time it takes depends on your connection speed and
the file size. To avoid a long download time most download
casinos offer a CD-ROM instead, but then you have to
wait for it to be delivered to your home. Download casinos
have a larger file size, this is why the software is
not on the server – it would be too slow. Because
their file size is larger they also have better graphics,
sound, and options for the user. Having the software
located on your computer makes the games faster as well.
If you don't mind extra software on your computer, and
are patient, then a download casino may be for you.
Java Games
Java is a programming language developed by Sun
Microsystems that allows the software to reside
on the server. Your browser must be a Java enabled browser
such as Netscape 3.0+, Internet Explorer 4.0+ or AOL
4.0+ or higher. Unfortunately, WebTV is NOT Java enabled.
There are also minimum system requirements, but if you
have a computer that is 3 years old or younger you shouldn't
have a problem. Just check the site for the specific
requirements if necessary. The nice thing about Java
casinos is that you can play within moments of finishing
your registration (no download or installation time).
The minus is that it is slower than download and occasionally
you need to clear your computers memory (easiest way
is by restarting) or else it will crash. If you have
no patience, a lot of memory and don't want to have
any invasive software on your computer, then Java just
might be for you.
Flash Games
Flash games are interactive and cute and fun. Flash
is a programming language developed by Macromedia
and allows the game software to reside on the server.
They aren't as heavy as Java and as such are less likely
to cause your computer to crash. However, there aren't
as many casinos done in Flash as it is a newer programming
language. They are also not compatible with Apple computers.
If you don't mind a smaller selection to choose from,
like a cute game and don’t want to wait for a
download, then Flash could be for you.
Choosing your gambling
software can be tricky, but knowing the differences
will help you make the right choice for you. Remember,
the software isn't anywhere near as important as making
sure you are playing in an honest
casino, so keep that in mind while choosing.
|
