Lucky Nugget Casino Review

Hits

• Australian players are welcome!
• Operating since 1998
• Powered by continually updated state-of-the-art software from Microgaming
• Also playable in flash version and on mobile devices
• eCogra certified
• 400+ high payout games, including over 300 pokies
• Part of the Microgaming progressive jackpot network
• Choice of many different versions of blackjack and roulette
• Live dealer games
• Free slot and blackjack tournaments
• Lots of fast and secure banking options
• Choice of two generous Welcome Bonuses (for pokies)
• Good loyalty rewards program
• 24/7 Customer Support

Misses

• Welcome Bonus has quite a high requirement
• Welcome Bonus is more useful for pokies
• Website could describe the blackjack and roulette variations better
• Website could be more informative about the casino’s loyalty rewards program

Software and Games

8.8 / 10

Software

When Lucky Nugget Casino Australia first came on the scene in 1998, unlike today, there were very few online casinos and even fewer software providers. Luckily, Lucky Nugget chose Microgaming, the leading online casino software provider back then and still a leader in its field today, to meet all of its software needs. Unlike many other casinos, which frequently add and delete providers or use multiple providers simultaneously in an attempt to find a combination that works, Lucky Nugget has stuck with Microgaming and only Microgaming over the years. Rather than resting on its laurels, Microgaming has been at the forefront of 21st century technology and is widely recognized today for some of the most innovative software on the market. The Microgaming label is your assurance as a player that both the quantity of games available to you and every aspect of their quality (graphics, sounds, animations, interactive features, and reasonable chance to win) far exceed your expectations.

Initially, downloading the software was the only way to access the games at any online casino, including Lucky Nugget. But now, as further proof that Lucky Nugget is as up-to-date as the newest casinos, players can access the games in three different ways.

• Downloading: The one-time procedure is actually very quick and simple. In return, all of the casino’s 400+ games become available to you along with the best quality graphics and many advanced customisable features. The one drawback is that you will only be able to play on your own computer.
• Instant play flash version: No need to be near your own computer. The instant play flash casino not only gives you instant access to more than half of the Lucky Nugget games with no downloading required, but works on any browser. Either Windows or Mac is fine.
• Mobile platform: Today’s busy lifestyle frequently entails being away from home. For all those times when dragging a heavy laptop is inconvenient and no other computer is available, thanks to modern mobile technology, you might still be able to play some of your favourite casino games. At least that is the case at Lucky Nugget Casino. Unlike many other online casinos, whose mobile gambling apps only support play on Apple iOS devices (iPhones and iPads), so their players are out of luck if they own a different type of device, the Lucky Nugget mobile casino is much more versatile. As long as you own any of the major types of smartphones or tablets currently in use, you should be good to go!

Many Mobile Options

Regardless of whether your mobile device is an iPhone, iPad, Android, including Samsung Galaxy tablet, or BlackBerry or Windows device, accessing any of the Lucky Nugget mobile games anytime you wish should be a piece of cake. Simply download the appropriate app onto your device or use the web browser on your device to click on a specific game, fund your account if necessary, and start playing!

At Lucky Nugget, as with most most mobile casinos, the overall game choice using your mobile device is much more limited than on the computer. But the good news for this casino’s players is that you will be able to access more than 50 games, which is a lot more than many other mobile casinos offer. Among them are some of the casino’s most popular pokies like Thunderstruck, Tomb Raider, Avalon, Mermaids Millions, and Break da Bank, along with the progressive jackpot games Major Millions and Mega Moolah. Mobile players, just like computer players, can choose from classic pokies that have been around for many years, more recently introduced themed and branded games, and brand new releases. Video poker, classic blackjack, and European roulette are also available. More good news is that Lucky Nugget mobile players can access the same generous promotions as computer players. Players who use their mobile device to sign up for the first time also receive a Welcome Bonus.

The Microgaming software used to power the Lucky Nugget mobile games is every bit as secure as its computer software. As on the computer, you can play on your mobile phone or tablet either for free or for whatever real money stakes you want with no worries. You can also use your mobile device to make deposits and withdrawals Through advanced digital encryption, your account is fully protected. In short, playing your favourite Lucky Nugget games on your mobile device is easy, convenient, fun, and safe. For more information on the casino’s mobile options, visit Lucky Nugget Mobile Casino.

Games

Lucky Nugget is loaded with all of the casino games Aussie players love. So whenever you want to play but are undecided which game, you can take your time exploring some of your many options. With the exception of the progressive jackpot games and live dealer games, you don’t have to play for real money. If you prefer to play for free initially to get a better feel for the game, you can do so. You can also take advantage of a variety of customisable options, which let you adjust game speed, screen size, audio, and other aspects of the game to best suit your taste. With more than 400 games to choose from, including more than 300 pokies, all of which meet Microgaming’s high standards for quality, enjoyable play, and fairness, how can you go wrong? Sooner or later, you are certain to discover your own group of lucky games.

Pokies

Pokies are the meat and potatoes of any good Australian casino, and Lucky Nugget is no exception. In fact, unless you already know ahead of time exactly which game you want to play, your decision won’t be easy since Lucky Nugget has hundreds of these tempting games. Basically every type of pokie game in existence can be found here: classic 3-reel pokies, fruit machines, super exciting 5-reel video pokies and mega spin games (multiple games in one), and, as if all that isn’t enough, Microgaming’s multi-casino progressive jackpot pokies. Because every spin on these games, not just by Lucky Nugget players, but those at other participating Microgaming casinos, contributes to the growing jackpot pool, the top jackpots sometimes reach seven figures. There is no way of knowing which machine is going to hit next and when, so the next Lucky Nugget multimillionaire could be lucky you!

Of course, even if you don’t win a mega size jackpot, frequent smaller wins in the pokies can add up over time. Aussie players seem to especially enjoy playing the video pokies. Some of the most popular at Lucky Nugget are Thunderstruck and Thunderstruck II, Tomb Raider, Big Kahuna, Stash of the Titans, and Hitman. Free pokie tournaments offer another way to win. And every month, Lucky Nugget receives new releases from Microgaming, so whenever you’re game to try something new and different, you have plenty of opportunities.

Other Games

Lucky Nugget is a full service casino, offering for your online gambling pleasure not just pokies, but all of the popular casino games. Anytime you’re in the mood to play something else, video poker, blackjack, roulette, baccarat, craps, table poker, keno, and scratch cards are a click away. Blackjack and roulette players should be especially pleased by the many different variations of these games that can be played at Lucky Nugget, compared to the much more limited choice that is available, not only in land-based casinos, but also in most online casinos.

Roulette and Blackjack: Options Galore but Rules Matter

American roulette is still offered at Lucky Nugget Casino, but even the casino itself cautions players that the European and French roulette options offer more favourable odds. The difference is based on the fact that American roulette has both a single zero and double zero on the wheel instead of just a single zero. 90% of the roulette action at Lucky Nugget is on European roulette. Lucky Nugget also offers a special version of European roulette called European Roulette Gold. This game is specifically designed to simulate the atmosphere of a roulette table in a real casino and offers exceptional quality graphics, sounds, and animations and special advanced features like auto play. According to the website, more than 33 varieties of roulette are offered at this casino, but other than the varieties mentioned here, does not describe how it comes up with that figure.

Blackjack players have an ever bigger choice. According to the website, Lucky Nugget offers more than 47 variations of this popular game, but again does not specifically mention more than just a few of them. For example, classic blackjack, Vegas Strip blackjack, and Atlantic City blackjack are some of the possibilities open to you, along with single deck blackjack, Blackjack Switch, Double Exposure Blackjack, Spanish 21, and tournament blackjack. Some of these games are offered in a Gold Series version with advanced features.

Keep in mind, however, that differences in the rules between one form of blackjack and another can have an important bearing on both the house edge and the best way to play certain hands. So do yourself a favour and familiarise yourself beforehand with the rules and basic strategy for the particular game you decide to play. Unfortunately, some of the strategy advice included on the website, though given with good intentions, is erroneous, so we strongly urge you to obtain this information elsewhere.

Live Dealer Games

There is no better way to treat yourself to all the fun and excitement of playing in a real casino without actually making the trip than to play live dealer games online. You read right. Lucky Nugget Casino is now offering the opportunity to play blackjack, roulette, and baccarat on your computer in real time with a real live dealer. You can actually watch the cards being dealt or roulette wheel spinning and carry on a conversation with the dealer and other players at your table, and best of all, watch the dealer pay you every time you win!

Exclusive Bonus: 150% up to AU $200

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Security and Fair Play

The fact that Lucky Nugget Casino Australia has been operating online since 1998 is in itself a strong indication that that this is a casino you can trust. Its endorsement by reputable outside organisations only enhance your reassurance that with regard to both safety and fairness, you have nothing to worry about whatsoever.

Lucky Nugget Casino is owned by the renowned Digimedia casino group, licensed by the Malta Gaming Authority, and in full compliance with the Online Casino Act, Financial Services Commission of Malta, and Financial Task Force. In addition, Lucky Nugget is proud to be audited by the eCogra and carries the seal of approval on their site. This recognition is only given to those online casinos that adhere to the highest standards for fair games, fast payments, outstanding player service, and responsible casino conduct. All of the eCogra findings are reported on the website, so you can check them yourself as often as you like. The most recent reports at the time of preparing this Lucky Nugget Review show the random number generators (RNGs) used by this casino to be fair and random. In addition, the average payout for all games combined, which is updated monthly, was reported at 96.40%. In other words, you won’t go wrong playing any of the Lucky Nugget Games; all of them offer a fair chance to win.

Regardless of whether you use your computer or your mobile device to play, the casino’s use of the most advanced digital encryption technology available ensures that every financial transaction is private and secure. This is a casino that also does everything it can to treat players fairly, not only allowing you the option to try out most games for free, but also to set limits on your deposits. You are free to use the PlayCheck option to review your play history and the CashCheck option to review your transactions. Also, not many online casinos bother to give their players advice on money management and game playing strategy, so that is another plus for which Lucky Nugget deserves recognition.

Promotions and Customer Support

Welcome Bonus

Telling you that Lucky Nugget Online Casino offers new players signing up for the first time a Welcome Bonus is hardly noteworthy; you would be surprised if it did not. But what is noteworthy is that instead of just offering one bonus to everybody, take it or leave it, Lucky Nugget recognizes that different players have different needs and therefore lets you choose which of two alternative bonuses is best for you. Either way, you receive the full bonus with your first deposit. No doling out of the bonus piecemeal and waiting around until you have made multiple deposits for the bonus to be finally delivered in its entirety.

Bonus 1: 150% match of first deposit up to AU$200

Bonus 2: 100% match of first deposit up to AU$1,000

As soon as you make your first deposit, you will have to choose which of the two bonuses you want. While the choice is entirely up to you, the second, potentially much bigger bonus, is primarily intended for high rollers. If you are a small player, your best bet is to take the first bonus. After all, unless you plan to deposit enough to receive more than a $200 bonus, you might as well get 150% on your money instead of 100%.

Terms and Conditions

Either bonus has a rather high playthrough requirement of 50x the bonus. That is all the more reason, if you have your eye on the maximum bonus of $1,000, to make sure you fully understand what is required of you and you are okay with it. Before the extra $1,000 can be yours to keep, first you will have to deposit $1,000 of your own funds, and this amount must be deposited all at once, not spread out. Then you will have to give the casino $50,000 in action. If you can comfortably afford this level of play, great, but if not, you should make a smaller initial deposit and be content with a smaller bonus. The minimum deposit is only $20, and with a $30 bonus, that’s $50 to play with, which should keep a very small player in action for a while.

Keep in mind that that the bonus is 100% valid on these games only: pokies, progressive pokies, keno and scratch cards. Blackjack and video poker count minimally at 10%; the exception being All Aces video poker, which only counts for 2% of the bonus. In other words, the best way to treat this bonus is as one for pokies only. However, that should not be a problem for any Aussie gambler, especially because you can play progressive pokies and meet 100% of the bonus terms. You might even be lucky enough to win a progressive jackpot. If you wish to claim either bonus, the qualifying initial deposit must be made within 7 days of opening your account, after which you have a maximum of two months to clear the bonus.

Even with the restricted games and heavy playthrough requirement, either of the Lucky Nugget Welcome Bonuses is one of the better ones you will see online. The terms are simple and straightforward, and the amount you have to wager is based only the bonus and not on the associated deposit in addition. Then, when all is said and done, your deposit, winnings, and the casino bonus can be withdrawn from the cashier.

Loyalty Rewards

Sometimes a player gets lucky right out of the starting gate, and sometimes it takes a while for Lady Luck to work its magic. Therefore, while a generous Welcome Bonus can be a very helpful bankroll booster early on, it comes with no guarantees. But you do have another kinds of guarantee if you sign up with and continue to play at Lucky Nugget. All of your play from day 1 onward is recognized and counts towards earning loyalty points

When you make a deposit, and wager, AU$10, you will receive between 1 and 3 loyalty points, depending on the game. For instance, you will earn 3 loyalty points for every AU $10 wagered on pokies, parlour games and Sic Bo. Two loyalty points are given for every AU$10 wagered on video and progressive pokies, roulette, Casino War, and the ever exciting Pai Gow Poker. While a $10 wager on the blackjack table, video poker, craps, baccarat, or Red Dog is worth 1 point. Once you accumulate 200 points, you receive one casino credit valued at AU$1.

Unfortunately, the above is the only information included on the website about this casino’s loyalty program. The fact that Lucky Nugget is willing to give out a Welcome Bonus of $1,000 as a 100% first deposit match should encourage high rollers to sign up in large numbers. But players who are willing to bet big money need more of an incentive in the form of continued rewards appropriate for their level of play or they will be inclined to take their business elsewhere. According to the website, qualifying players are assigned their own VIP host and exclusive offers and promotions. However, information is lacking both about what these additional offers and promotions consist of and the level of play required. It is also not clear from the website whether there are tiered loyalty levels to which other players can aspire and be rewarded accordingly. If these perks exist, the website needs to more forthcoming about what higher level players can expect before making a commitment and signing up with a large deposit.

Other Promotions

All players should check the website frequently as well as their personal emails to see what special promotions (i.e., reload bonus invitations or drawings for prizes) might be available to them. Keep in mind that some of these promotions might be for a limited time only. Meanwhile, here are two promotions open to qualifying players that have been ongoing for awhile and may continue indefinitely.

• Free Spins Mania: Free spins on some of the casino’s most popular games
• Free Credit Frenzy: Free credits on some of the casino’s most popular games

Customer Support

All Lucky Nugget players will surely enjoy the ability to reach out to the casino’s 24/7 customer support service, which is available via live chat, phone, or email in multiple languages.