Casino Games

    Written By: Natasa Milojevic
    Updated: Jan 20, 2025
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    Casino games have been kicking around for centuries, evolving with each new era. But through all the shifts, one thing remains the same — the core gameplay principles are always there. 

    If you’re new here, or just want to dip your toes in a game you’ve never tried before, read on as we break down all the most popular casino games types. 

    What Are Casino Games

    Casino games are essentially all games of luck, strategy, or both that you can play at brick-and-mortar or online casinos. These include some of the top casino games you must have heard of, such as slots, card games, table games, and dice games. Some of these casino games fully incorporate extra items such as cards, dice, or betting chips, while others are all about the digital motion of spinning reels. 

    Although all casino games boil down to you laying down your bet and waiting for the outcome based on the game’s rules, logic, and odds, with so many different takes on them, casino games were definitely built to please the masses. That’s why it’s not hard to see why 4.2 billion people gamble at least once a year. And this trend isn’t likely to change anytime soon, since projections show there will be about 291 million active casino games players by 2029.

    Types of Casino Games

    The world of casino games is as diverse as it gets, so to help you get the hang of things, we’ll unwrap what’s at the core of each type. 

    Slots

    Slots are one of the most popular casino games, and they are made up of spinning reels, symbols, and paylines. They come in all shapes and forms, with different variations in themes, mechanics, and winning potential. 

    Card Games

    Card games are essentially all casino games played using a deck of cards. In most cases, strategy and skill are part of the equation with these titles. Some of the classic casino card games include poker, where skill plays a key role, and blackjack, where strategic betting can help you reduce the house edge. 

    Table Games

    Table games are all casino games that are played at a table, such as roulette, craps, and baccarat. In a physical casino, there’s usually a dealer or a croupier running the table game show. Online casino games-wise, things work a bit differently. You might see live games with real dealers on camera, or you could be playing automated table games that run on software. 

    Dice Games

    Dice games are all casino games that are built entirely around the roll of a dice. Sometimes dice games also include additional elements, such as cards for example, but the dice always remain a centerpiece. This category covers popular casino games such as craps, sic-bo, and baccarat. 

    RNG Games

    RNG games are all casino games operated by Random Number Generator, including slots, video poker, online table games, etc. This basically means that a special algorithm pulls the threads on the game outcome, keeping the gameplay completely random and fair. 

    What Are Slots

    Slots are casino games that are built around simple mechanics of spinning reels and aligning symbols across paylines. They first showed up in 1895, thanks to a mechanic named Charles Fey. Back in the day, there were only three spinning reels with horseshoes, stars, and bells. A lot has changed since then, but the basic gameplay hasn’t really budged. You just place your bet, pull the lever (real or a virtual one, depending on where you play), watch the reels spin, and see if the symbols align, triggering a payout.

    How often you’ll see a payout, though, is determined by factors such as the slot’s volatility, paylines, symbol alignment, and RNG. Big-thrill seekers may benefit from high-volatility slots with high RTP, while those just getting started may find it easier to start with low-volatility high RTP. 

    Online slots

    Why Are Online Slots Popular

    Online slots are one of the most popular casino games because they’re virtually one of the easiest to get the hang of yet never fail to deliver excitement. You can be a complete novice, and you’d still know how to pull a lever and set the reels to spinning. 

    On top of that, the variety of slots is almost endless. Each brings its own flavor to the gaming experience — some take you to ancient Egypt, others offer cascading reels and progressive jackpots — you name it. 

    Essentially it all comes down to individual software providers and their inventiveness, but some of the most popular ones we can thank for these action-packed options are Pragmatic Play, NetEnt, Microgaming, Play’n GO, and Big Time Gaming, among others. 

    What Are Card Games

    Card games are one of the top casino games that are structured around a deck of cards, such as poker, video poker, and blackjack. While rookies aren’t exactly restricted from giving card games a go, these games are much more suited for seasoned players because they require a mix of skill, strategy, and decision-making. 

    Card games

    Poker

    Poker is a card game where players place bets on who holds the strongest hand. The origins of poker are enshrined in mystery, but what’s known for sure is that the version players love and enjoy today definitely showed up in the US first. This variant typically involves 2-10 players, and one of the most popular setups is the 6-max table. Players usually play poker online (and offline) using a standard deck of 52 cards, though the number of cards dealt in a hand could depend on the poker variant. If we’re talking Texas Hold’em, players are dealt 2 hole (face-down) cards, while with Seven-Card Stud, players would receive up to 7 cards. 

    Video Poker

    Video poker is a single-player fixed-odds card game where you get dealt 5 cards. Your task is to decide which cards to hold and which to discard, and if your final hand matches the one on the paytable — the round is yours. 

    Due to the fast pace of this card game and the fact that land-based casinos usually place the video poker machine next to slots, many people compare the two. But it does require some level of strategy and focus, so it’s not the best pick for total newbies. 

    Blackjack

    Blackjack is a fast-paced card game with the goal of getting as close to 21 as possible with the cards you’re dealt, while trying to beat the dealer. Some claim that blackjack traces back to the 1600s when Miguel de Cervantes wrote about a gambling game called Veintiuna (which means 21 in Spanish).

    The basic idea is still the same today. Each card still carries different point values — number cards hold their face value, while face cards add 10 to your score. 

    While it may sound simple, regardless of whether we’re talking about a blackjack online casino game or playing it in real-world gaming venues, this card game demands both your wit and your skillset. Some variants, such as European blackjack could be more forgiving to beginners due to a simpler gameplay. But you’d still be better off if you played after gaining some experience in the field.

    What Are Table Games

    Table games are the classic card games played on a table, usually involving a dealer, cards, dice, or other props. The most popular table casino games online (and offline, for that matter) are roulette, craps, and baccarat. Depending on which type of table game we’re talking about, they can fit the bill for novices and/or experienced players. Roulette, for example, is mainly luck-dominated, while for baccarat, you’ll need at least a little bit of strategy. 

    Table games

    Roulette

    Roulette is a table game in which players bet where a ball will land on a spinning wheel. The wheel in question has 36 pockets that are colored black and red. After players put their chips on the betting table that match the sections of the wheel, the dealer gives the wheel a spin and drops the ball in. 

    Interestingly, back in the day when it originally appeared, roulette wasn’t even meant to be a casino game. It was, in fact, invented by French mathematician and physicist Blaise Pascal by a total accident. He was actually trying to create a perpetual motion machine. From day one, roulette has been all about chance.

    From then on to this day, roulette has been a perfect table game for everyone, whether you’re new to the scene, a fan of casino games online, or someone who loves the thrill of a land-based casino. 

    Craps

    Craps is essentially a table game and a dice game all rolled into one, dating back to Roman soldiers who are said to have played with pig knuckles carved into dice. The rules haven’t shifted that much from then on — you wager on the outcome of a pair of dice being rolled, but it all happens on a specialized craps table. Whoever accurately predicts the value of the dice wins. 

    Depending on the craps variant, this table game can be played by both first-timers and experts. Beginners, though, may be better off sticking with basic bets like pass line (you win if a 7 or 11 is rolled, but lose if it’s a 2, 3, or 12.). 

    Baccarat

    Baccarat is a unique blend of a card and a table game where players place bets on whether the Player or the Banker will end up with a total closest to 9. Each card is worth a different amount — cards 2-9 are worth their face value, while Aces, for example, are worth 1.Given the lack of hard-to-master intricate rules, baccarat is now a perfect table game for beginners. But it wasn’t always like that. About 500 years ago, when it first came out, baccarat had this almost ritualistic aura around it. People think the game was inspired by old Etruscan legends where priests rolled dice to decide a maiden’s fate.

    What Are Dice Games

    Dice games are casino games that revolve around players rolling the dice to predict the results or match certain outcomes. Since they are more about luck than tactical decisions, dice games are perfect for players just getting their feet wet in the whole casino games thing. 

    Hazard

    Hazard is one of the oldest known dice games in European history, supposedly invented during the Crusades, played with 2 dice. The game begins with a caster rolling the dice to set the main point, which can be any number from 5 to 9. The other players then place their bets on whether the caster will win or lose after another roll. If the caster rolls in or nicks, they win. Here’s how it works: 5 gets nicked by 5, 6 by 6 or 12, 7 by 7 or 11, 8 by 8 or 12, and 9 by 9. After that’s done, the dice go to the next caster.

    Sic-Bo

    Sic-bo is a simple dice game played with 3 dice that goes all the way back to Ancient China. It used to be played with little bricks marked with different symbols, but the whole point has always been about betting on what might come up. When you’re playing sic-bo, you can pick specific numbers or combinations you think will show up, bet on the total score, or even guess a range. Obviously, if you bet on the exact combination and guess correctly, the rewards would be higher. 

    Being super simple to get the hang of, sic-bo is a beginner-friendly dice game. 

    Chuck-A-Luck

    Chuck-A-Luck is essentially a US variant of sic-bo — a dice game played with 3 dice where you place bets on what numbers will show up. You can bet on a number showing up on one, two, or all three of the dice that are rolled around in a cage. If that number doesn’t show up at all, you lose your bet.

    What Are Games of Chance

    Games of chance are casino games where the result is based on pure luck. While there’s an element of randomness and luck at work in a good deal of casino games, with games of chance such as lottery games, bingo, and slingo, whatever decision a player makes — it won’t affect the result for good or bad. That’s exactly why games of chance have almost a non-existent learning curve, so they’re perfect for players just starting out. 

    Lottery

    Lottery is a game of chance that’s been around for ages. It goes back to Ancient China, when the people used a lottery to raise funds for different construction projects. Nowadays, the lottery is all about having fun. You buy a ticket with numbers on it and sit and wait for the drawing. If the numbers on your ticket match the winning numbers, you win. Sometimes, you get to choose your own numbers, and other times, they just give you some random ones — it all depends on the type of lottery you go for. 

    Bingo

    Bingo is a game of chance that traces its roots back to 16th century Italy. It started as a national lottery, and from that point on the action centers around the card with a numbered grid. The numbers get called out randomly, and you’re supposed to mark each number that you have on your grid. If you complete a pattern (like a full line or a column), you’re the winner. Also, you’re supposed to shout ‘Bingo’ once that happens.

    Slingo

    Slingo is a game of chance that’s essentially a mashup of bingo and slots. It was invented relatively recently, in 1994, by a New Jerseyan real estate developer, Sal Falciglia, who wanted a hint of fast-paced action in his usual bingo routine. 

    The gist of slingo is quite similar to bingo — you start with a grid of numbers, but instead of waiting for them to be called out, you spin a slot machine to see which numbers will pop up. If a number matches what’s on your grid, you mark it off. The ultimate goal is to complete the lines before you’re left with no spins. 

    What Are Live Casino Games

    Live casino games are online games that resemble the look and feel of playing in a physical casino — a real dealer manages the entire gameplay, and the whole thing is broadcast in real-time from a studio or a brick-and-mortar casino. 

    Some of the most popular casino games with live dealers include everything from blackjack, roulette, baccarat, poker, craps, sic-bo, to game shows. Typically, you’ll see them powered by big name software providers such as Evolution Gaming, Pragmatic Play Live, and NetEnt Live.

    What Are Social Casino Games

    Social casino games are online games you can usually play in a social casino or on social media with no money on the line. The social element adds a level of interaction that a typical online casino game doesn’t have — you get to interact with your friends (or strangers), all while playing Texas Hold’em, blackjack, or roulette. 

    Since they’re largely available at social casinos that are essentially play-for-fun platforms, you don’t win or lose anything. That’s why you can find social casino games even in places where gambling isn’t allowed, such as the majority of US states. 

    What Casino Game Has the Best Odds

    Blackjack is generally considered the casino game with the best odds, having a house edge of around 1%. 

    Next up is baccarat, which has a house edge as low as 1.06%. Video poker ranks third with a return to player (RTP) of 99.5%. 

    What Casino Game Has the Worst Odds

    Generally, Keno is considered the casino game with the worst odds, with a high house edge going from 20% to 30%. 

    Slots aren’t that far behind, with house edges that vary but usually range from 5% to 15%.

    What Is the Best Casino Game for Beginners

    Beginners may find slots the easiest to get the hang of. But, given their usual high house edge, they may feel pretty overwhelming for someone just starting out. If you don’t really know how your bets impact the odds, you could end up losing faster than you expect.

    Baccarat is also a beginner-friendly game since it’s super simple to learn and doesn’t have such a steep house edge. 

    How to Choose the Best Casino Games to Play

    Choosing the best casino games to play definitely requires some thought, so that’s why we’ve gathered some tips to help you make a choice you’ll be happy with down the road. 

    • Think about what you like — If you’re just starting out in the whole casino games waters, you may not know what hits the spot for you. But thinking about whether you like to think things through as with blackjack or prefer the simplicity of slots can point you in the right direction. 
    • Keep your experience in mind — Taking into account your experience and skill-level can prevent you from losing a bunch of money just because you’re still finding your feet in the gameplay. 
    • Do your research — You should always do your homework before signing up for anything, and that includes both the casino games and the very casino you decide to take these games for a spin. You can always refer to our online casino reviews that feature the platforms that have been put through our rigorous Casinomeister rating system, and see if a casino offers a free play of the game you’ve locked in on. 
    • Don’t lose sight of your budget — As always, keeping a strict budget for gambling should be your top priority, and that’s something that needs to be factored in when deciding on what to play. Responsible gambling is non-negotiable if you don’t want to burn through your cash. So, go for something with better odds that would help you keep your bets in check. 

    Can You Win Real Money Playing Casino Games Online

    Yes, you can win real money playing gambling games online, but only if you play at a real-money, properly regulated casino. If you end up at a shady, fly-by-night casino, no matter your skill or strategy, there’s very little that could help you cash out if their whole purpose is to hold onto your money.

    Should You Play Free Casino Games

    There’s no reason why you shouldn’t play free casino games, especially if you’re a rookie or want to go the whole no-commitment, no-risk road. Free casino games allow for trial and error and can even be a decent aid on finding what kind of games you’re into before putting any money on the line. 

    Are Casino Games Rigged

    Casino games aren’t rigged if they’re featured in a licensed, well-regulated online casino and crafted by reputable software providers with a stellar reputation they can’t risk damaging. Think Playtech, Evolution Gaming, NetEnt, Microgaming, Pragmatic Play, Yggdrasil Gaming, etc. 

    All of these providers use certified RNGs, hold proper licenses, and rigorously test their games before they even reach any online casino platform. 

    Can AI Predict Casino Games Outcome

    No, AI cannot predict casino game outcomes, especially when the RNGs are involved, such as with slots. What it can do is use past data to forecast what’s next, but this is just useful for calculating the odds, it essentially has nothing to do with the whole outcome of the online casino games. 

    Legal Age for Playing Casino Games

    The legal age for playing casino games depends on which part of the globe you’re in. For reference, in France, Germany, and the UK, the legal age is 18, but in the US, casino games are usually restricted to those younger than 21. The rules hold true regardless of whether you’re playing casino games online or you’re pulling the lever on physical machines, but it’s always wise to verify your area’s laws and regulations.

    FAQ

    What is the best casino game to win money?

    There’s no clear-cut response to the question of the best casino game to win money since this can greatly depend on your skill and taste. But generally speaking, you can’t go wrong with simple-to-play online casino games with low house edges, like baccarat and video poker.

    What is the most common casino game?

    Slots are typically found at virtually every casino. Players love them due to their low-skill, no-strategy mechanics, so no shock there is why they’re a staple everywhere you can play gambling games online.

    What is a real casino game?

    A real casino game is basically any game you play at a legit, licensed casino that’s following the rules.

    Are casino games random?

    Yes, casino games are random if you’re playing online casino games coming straight from the brains of top software providers at a fully licensed casino.

    What is the most skill-based casino game?

    The most skill-based casino game is poker since it takes quite a bit of reading and outsmarting your opponents, as well as assessing when’s the right time to bet, fold, or raise — so lots of strategy, psychology, and wit.