Spice Up Your Virtual Game Nights With Poker & Other Card Game Alternatives

The growth of the online gaming world has spiced up virtual game nights. You can play several types of card games with your friends or live opponents, including poker. There’s no need to hit up the crowded clubs to play a round of cards. All you need is a mobile device and a stable Internet connection. Download your choice of card game apps or sign up on gaming platforms offering multiple varieties of card and other games. Then, enjoy! For your upcoming virtual game night, keep in mind the following card games.

Poker

Poker has been played for centuries as one of the most celebrated card games in India and worldwide. You can quickly install a real money poker app to access popular and exciting poker games, including Omaha, Hold’em, and many more. A 52-card deck is used to play poker, and players use their top five cards to make their hands. The objective is to win the money in the middle of the board, called the pot. All the bets made by the players are contained in the pot. The cards are dealt over several betting rounds, and players make their betting actions, such as Showdown, Blinds, Turn, River, etc. Play poker with your friends or real-life opponents, and your virtual game night will be thrilling. You can also partake in tournaments and earn cash prizes.

Teen Patti

Teen Patti is another popular card game and a similar variant to poker. It is played between 3 to 6 players using a pack of 52 cards. There’s no Joker. The dealer gives out three cards to the players, and no more cards are dealt, picked, or discarded in the game. Before starting the rounds, the minimum wager must be decided. All players must place their minimum stake in the pot. The game aims to place a wager on who has the best hand. You can play as a seen or blind player and carefully decide how to progress with the game.

Rummy

Rummy is a popular and loved game in India. It used to be a favorite during social gatherings and festivals. Now the game is played online due to its convenience and accessibility. It is a skill-based game that requires players to use strategy and reason to win. The gameplay involves melding thirteen cards into relevant sets. If you can meld them before the opponents, you win. Online rummy games are played with live opponents, or you can invite friends. There are also ongoing tournaments where several rummy players compete and try to beat each other. Moreover, you can play several rummy variants online, including gin rummy, pool rummy, etc.

Bridge

Bridge is a common card game enjoyed worldwide. There are four players divided into two teams. The teammates face each other and play with thirteen cards from a single deck of standard playing cards. The dealer deals one card at a time to the players. Bridge is similar to call break because it is a trick-taking game. The player with the highest card in the hand wins it. The objective is to score by bidding and then winning the pre-decided tricks. Nobody can see the cards, and every player takes a turn to place the required card at the center. The player who places the highest card wins the trick. The winner leads in the next round, and the game goes on until all thirteen cards are exhausted. Tricks are counted at the end of the game, and the player with the most tricks is declared the winner.

Spider Solitaire

If you want to play an uncomplicated yet exhilarating game, it cannot get better than spider solitaire. The game’s objective is to get the cards in descending order. The gameplay may appear simple when playing with a single suit, but the difficulty level increases when it is played with multiple suits. You can play Spider Solitaire online with opponents and engage in competitive gameplay. Here, the goal is to beat your opponent by scoring the highest. Start with the one-suit spider solitaire game. Once you have understood the rules and think you are ready to handle more competition, opt for two-suit or four-suit spider solitaire.

UNO!

UNO is not about taking tricks or wagering bets according to your hand. It is also not about melding cards into relevant sequences. This game is one of the most exciting card games of modern times and also the cause of most fights. The game’s rules are simple. It would be best if you got rid of all your cards while playing various action, number, and symbol cards. It is the use of action cards that makes this game interesting. You can play action cards and make your opponents pick up two to four cards, shuffle hands, change color, reverse the game’s direction, etc. In online UNO games, you can go up against a bot or compete against real-life opponents worldwide. You can also invite your friends and beat them. If there are any mega tournaments, you can participate in them and earn lucrative rewards.

The Bottom Line

These card games will genuinely add spice to your virtual game night. Play with your friends or online opponents after downloading the application. Sign up and enter the world of thrilling gameplay requiring strategizing skills, quick thinking, and patience.

Can You Camp at the Formula 1 Las Vegas Grand Prix?

The United States of America has caught a severe case of Formula 1 fever. Excitement about the sport has spread right across the country, with Netflix and social media both credited with being catalysts for F1’s ability to entice so many new fans. 

According to figures published by The Athletic, over a period of just three years, the sport acquired over four million new fans just in the USA. American television viewing figures have also skyrocketed as the sport saw its average viewers rise by 28% in 2022 alone. 

That’s also helped to spark a boom in the Formula 1 sports betting markets, with many of these new fans looking to also make predictions on individual Grands Prix and the outcome of the season as a whole. Sportsbook comparison sites like OddsChecker have also played a major role in this by allowing sports fans to find the biggest and most attractive free bet offers from major bookies like BetMGM. 

The worlds of sports betting and Formula 1 will come even closer together this year when Las Vegas hosts the inaugural Las Vegas Grand Prix. 

Technically, it won’t be the first F1 race to take place in the city, but the previous events were run under the name ‘Caesars Palace Grand Prix’ and were held in the parking lot of the casino. In 2023, the Las Vegas Grand Prix will be a far cry from that glorified car park car meet and will, instead, be a specially-designed street track held under the neon lights of the Vegas casinos and run along the city’s famous strip. 

Traditionally, Formula 1 has been a sport that has been very RV friendly. Even outside of the US, where the concept of tailgating and camping at sporting events is nowhere near as established, F1 fans have long piled into parking lots and fields to sleep under the stars. 


Sadly, this wasn’t the case at the new Miami Grand Prix, but the Circuit of the Americas has huge RV facilities for when it hosts the United States Grand Prix. So what will the situation be like for Las Vegas? 

Hotels

The nature of the Las Vegas Grand Prix’s location means that there is a major emphasis on hotel accommodation. In fact, many of the hotels that the track will pass are involved in the planning and hosting of the event. 

Through the race’s official website, there is a listing for rooms from many of these hotels, with the cheapest starting at $417 per night, though most costing closer to $1,000 per night. There will, of course, be rooms at other properties away from the track that will be cheaper, but they’ll still be inflated. 

RVs

If you want somewhere to park your RV so you can attend the Las Vegas Grand Prix with the traditional camping experience, you can still find places to go, but they will be further away from the track than you might get at COTA or many European circuits. 

Oasis Las Vegas RV Resort will be a popular option for fans as it combines fantastic amenities with a convenient location. Situated between Interstate 15 and the Las Vegas Strip, it’s just a short drive from the F1 circuit. It also offers everything you’ll need while away from the circuit, including electric hookup, dump stations, gym, theater, pool, spa, mini-golf, and showers. 

Another option is Thousand Trails Las Vegas RV Park, a campsite with more than 200 spots, each with electric hookup and WiFi. Being six miles from the Strip, you’re just a few minutes’ drive from the action but far enough away to be able to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. Guests can also use the on-site swimming pool and hot tub, and can even bring their pets. 

Both these and many other RV parks around Las Vegas cost less than $60 per night, though they may be a little more pricy during the weekend of the Grand Prix. And while you won’t quite get the full ambience of being surrounded in a field of petrolheads, you’ll still get to combine the fastest sport of earth with the more sedate life of camping.

The 3 Best Casino Strategies and Tips

Are you tired of leaving the casino empty-handed, wondering where you went wrong? While some may argue that it’s all down to luck, the truth is that there are strategies and tips you can use to improve your chances of winning.

From understanding bankroll management to choosing the suitable games to play and calculating the odds of success, several factors can influence your outcomes. Not only that but also using a comprehensive online guide like Casino Spesialisten can also make a difference in your casino experience. Here are the three sure strategies and tips to remember for an ultimate excellent experience.

Bankroll Management

Bankroll is the amount of money a player has set aside expressly for gambling. Players must manage their bankroll effectively to ensure they can play continuously and avoid running out of funds.

Effective bankroll management is crucial because it helps players control their spending and minimize losses. Some practical tips for managing one’s bankroll include setting a budget for gambling, avoiding chasing losses, and knowing when to walk away.

Another critical concept in bankroll management is the betting limit. This refers to the maximum amount of money a player is willing to risk on any bet or game. Setting a betting limit can help players avoid losing all their money in one go and enables them to continue playing responsibly.

Game Selection

Choosing suitable games is crucial for improving your chances of winning at the casino. Different games offer different odds, and it’s essential to understand the difference between skill-based and luck-based games.

Skill-based games, like blackjack or poker, require strategy and decision-making, whereas luck-based games, like slots or roulette, rely primarily on chance. Knowing how to differentiate these two can help you make a perfect choice based on strengths and interests.

Additionally, it’s a good idea to research the odds of various games before you start playing. Some popular games, like blackjack and craps, offer better odds than others, like slots or keno. By choosing games with better odds, you’ll increase your chances of winning and walk away from the casino with more money.

Odds Calculation

Calculating odds is a vital skill for any casino player. To calculate odds, you’ll need to know the probability of a particular outcome. For example, in roulette, the odds of hitting a specific number on a single spin are 1 in 37.

Once you’ve calculated the odds, you can use them to make informed decisions. For instance, if the odds of winning at a particular game are 1 in 5, it may not be worth risking a large bet. Instead, consider placing smaller bets on games with better odds.

To identify casino games with the best odds, it’s essential to do your research. Look for games that offer a low house edge, as these games typically have better odds than others.

Conclusion

Winning at the casino is not just about luck, but it’s also about strategy. By understanding the importance of bankroll management, game selection, and odds calculation, you can increase your chances of success and avoid common mistakes.

Get Started With Online Casino Gaming: Advice for New Players

For those who are just starting out in the world of online casino games, it can be quite intimidating. With all of the different types of games and strategies available, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. However, there’s plenty of advice for new players that will help you get started on the right foot. 

First and foremost, familiarize yourself with the game rules before playing any online casino game. This is especially important if you plan on playing for real money as there may be some additional regulations or requirements that need to be followed. Be sure to set limits for yourself both financially and time-wise; this will help keep your gambling activities under control and prevent potential losses from spiraling out of control due to excessive gaming sessions or bets placed beyond one’s means.

Unlocking the benefits of online casino promotions

Online casino promotions like the Chumba Casino $100 free play games are a great way to get the most out of your gaming experience. Promotions can provide you with extra funds, free spins and other rewards that can help you increase your winnings. 

If you’re a slots player, look for casinos that offer free spins or bonus money on slot games. If you prefer table games, look for casinos that offer bonuses on those games. 

Be aware that some promotions may require a minimum deposit or playthrough requirement before any winnings can be withdrawn. Make sure to meet these requirements in order to unlock the full benefits of the promotion. Finally, keep an eye out for expiration dates so that you don’t miss out on any offers.

Understand the different types of online casino games

Online casinos offer a wide variety of games, from classic table games like blackjack and roulette to more modern slot machines. It’s important to understand the different types of online casino games before you start playing. 

Table games are the most popular type of online casino game. These include blackjack, baccarat, craps and roulette. Each game has its own set of rules and strategies that players must learn in order to be successful. 

Slot machines are another popular type of online casino game. Slots come in many different varieties, including progressive slots, bonus slots and video slots. Each type of slot machine offers different payouts and bonuses for players who hit certain combinations on the reels. 

Finally, there are specialty games such as keno and bingo which can also be found at some online casinos. These games offer unique gameplay experiences that can be enjoyed by all types of players regardless of their skill level or experience with other types of gambling.

The benefits & drawbacks of playing real money vs free play games

When it comes to playing games, there are two main options: real money and free play. Each of these has its own set of benefits and drawbacks that should be taken into consideration before making a decision. 

Real money games offer the potential for players to win large sums of money, depending on the game and stakes. This can be a great incentive for players who are looking to make some extra cash. However, this also means that there is more risk involved in playing real money games as you could potentially lose your entire bankroll if you’re not careful. 

Free-play games, on the other hand, don’t offer any monetary rewards but they do provide an opportunity for players to practice their skills without risking any of their own money. This can be beneficial for those who are just starting out or want to try out new strategies without having to worry about losing any funds. The downside is that free-play games don’t have the same level of excitement as real money games since there is no potential reward at stake.

Top Tips for The Modern Gambler

Gambling is more popular than it’s ever been right now and with so much ease of access through smartphone apps and online casinos, it’s easy to see why. Many people who are new to gambling enjoy the thrill and adrenaline that comes along with it but it’s always a good idea to follow advice so you can maximize your profits and minimize your losses.

Of course, there is no guarantee in gambling that you can win, but by following these tips, the experience should be improved and maybe even more profitable.

1. Play Games You Understand

      This may sound like an obvious thing, but it’s surprising how many times gamblers stick (and often lose) to a game they have little understanding of simply because someone they once won big, or they saw it in a movie.

      If you want to have a positive gambling experience, it’s much better to play a game that you understand. Some casino games are complicated and have lots of rules and nuances, and if you want to try something new, learn the game offline away from any real money interaction before playing it for real. Same goes for sports, make sure you are clued up on tennis betting tips or whatever sport you want to bet on before you dive in head-first.

      2. Think About Your Financial Risk

        Gambling can be a highly addictive pastime for some people. This being the case, you should think about what level of financial risk you’re prepared to take before you set foot into a land-based or virtual casino. You need to set yourself a limit on how much you are willing to lose to keep gambling fun.

        There are many horror stories of people who have lost their homes and families because of gambling addiction and the inability to stop when things clearly weren’t working. It’s vital that you never fall into the trap of believing that the next bet will be the big winner. Choose an amount you can afford and stick to it. If you lose it all, it’s time to walk away.

        3. Avoid Chasing Losses

          This leads us to the next tip – chasing your losses is never worth it. Losing can be frustrating, and most people’s first response is to try again. Getting up after failing is a noble lesson in life but doesn’t apply to something like gambling, where you don’t have control over the outcome. People who chase their losses end up losing even more of their hard-earned cash.

          Conversely, if you have a good winning streak, ring-fence a certain amount and set it aside; this amount never goes back into the pot and means you will always have won something.

          Money Spread

          4. Know the Odds Beforehand

            The odds are vitally important no matter what type of bet you’re making. The odds can tell you everything you need to know about how likely it is for you to win a bet. Before you place any wagers, be sure to check out the odds. These are statistical calculations relating to the probability and likelihood of a desired outcome. Thinking that you can beat the odds simply because that is the outcome you want is short-sighted and quite naïve.

            Placing a bet on odds that are stacked against you is unlikely to pay off. The most basic example is a game of roulette. Placing a bet that the ball will land in a red slot is much more likely to see you receive a payout than placing a bet that it will land on the number two. Of course, when the odds are in your favor, the payout is less.

            5. Make Use of Promotions and Bonuses

              Casinos operate like any other business; they are there to make money. In such a highly competitive and crowded industry, you will find that players are often offered bonuses and promotions to encourage them to spend money. These can be useful as they will boost the amount of money you have to spend.

              Some casinos will offer bet matching; for example, for every $5 you spend, they will credit your account with $5 up to a maximum limit; others will offer free play and, usually, to new players. Unless you have a strong loyalty to one casino, you may want to shop around and take advantage of some of the new player offers. Just be sure to check that the casino is reputable and correctly registered with the gambling authority for your state or country.

              6. Set Time Limits

                Finally, the best tip for a modern gambler is to know your limits. Not only do you need to be aware of your financial limitations, but you should set some time constraints. As we mentioned earlier, gambling can be highly addictive, and walking away can prove challenging. Therefore, you should factor in regular breaks away from gambling and be sure you have someone to turn to if you feel gambling is becoming an addiction or problem, you can no longer afford.

                Dry Camping Tips

                Most RV parking at casinos (other than casino RV parks) is “dry camping” sometimes called “blacktop boondocking”. To really enjoy doing this you’ll need be able to camp without hookups for water, electric, and sewer.

                Dry camping opens up a whole new world of opportunities for you to enjoy your RV — not only at casinos, but also in beautiful, wild, remote areas of the country as well.

                If you have a fully self-contained RV then you can probably dry camp for 2 – 3 days with no changes at all. But if you want to enjoy this for extended periods you’ll need to prepare. We dry camp a lot (over 50% of the time) and we can help you learn how.

                Fresh water, black and grey water, and electricity all become crucial if dry-camping for any length of time.

                • Fresh water – use what water you have sparingly.
                  • To help save water, use paper plates.
                  • Catch the water in your shower in a small wash bucket while waiting for it to get hot. Then use this water in the bucket to do dishes.
                  • Only take quick showers every few days.
                • Waste water
                  • Do dishes in a small wash bucket, then toss this gray water on some nearby trees or bushes.
                • Electricity
                  • Only use one a two small lights at night. Preferably LED lights.
                  • Change your most-used lighting to LED lights.
                  • Turn your inverter off when not in use. This includes turning it off overnight.

                You can learn much more about dry camping and modifications we’ve made to our motor home. Visit our personal website here.

                Casino RV Parking Etiquette

                Have you ever changed jobs, joined a new club, visited another country?  If so, you realize there are different norms for behavior in different places.  Casino parking is the same way — each casino is different.  So be a good guest, understand what’s expected and allowed, and “when in Rome, do as the Romans do”.

                Some casinos have an RV park or resort with full hookups. Many others allow free overnight parking, and quite a few even welcome you to dry-camp for several days or even weeks.

                Facilities vary, but generally you’ll be “blacktop boondocking” in a parking lot. Here are some guidelines to help you enjoy this free dry parking and to be a good guest of the casino:

                • Call Ahead  If you’re concerned about whether or not overnight RV parking is allowed call the casino and ask to talk with Security.  Our website is a good starting point; however, don’t be upset with a casino if our information is incorrect, it’s not their fault.  Please send send a report and we’ll update our listing.
                • Don’t Leak in the Parking Lot!  If your RV is leaking anything take care of it first or stay away from the casinos please. Leaking oil, transmission fluid, waste water, etc. is a sure way to get kicked out – and rightfully so.
                • Find a good parking spot  It will often be obvious, either they’ll have signs pointing the way or you’ll see other RV’s already there. Otherwise drive to a distant area of the parking lot, and please only take as many spaces as you need. If the area isn’t full, I recommend leaving at some space between you and any neighboring RV.
                • Be sure you feel safe  When you arrive check things out. Look around and make sure you feel comfortable.
                • Check with casino security  Sometimes security will see you drive in and meet you to ensure you know their parking rules. If they don’t, it’s a good idea to check in with them. Some casinos require you to fill out a form, or to join their players club. Sometimes they’ll give you a list of rules. In other locations there’s no formal process.
                • Can you use jacks to get level?  This is sometimes OK, ask Security. If you must use jacks, be sure to put boards down so you won’t leave marks on the asphalt. Trailer and 5th wheel owners, be aware that some places have rules against dropping the rig and driving off.
                • Length of stay? If you plan to stay more than one night make sure this is allowed. Some casinos have no set policy, others say 1 night, 3 days, etc. so be sure you know.
                • Setting up camp?  Using your big awning, table, chairs, BBQ grill, etc. Some casinos have an actual dry camping field or lot, and everyone “makes camp”. However, in most cases you’re staying in a regular parking lot so you don’t want to look like you’re establishing residence!
                • Keep your area clean  Every time we go outside our RV we pick up any trash, cigarette butts, etc. that we see — it doesn’t matter if it’s “our” trash.
                • Be a good neighbor  Be considerate with your generator, TV, stereo, etc.
                • Use common sense and common courtesy with your pets — I don’t have to go into detail here do I?
                • Give the casino your business  We gamble a lot, maybe you don’t gamble that’s fine. Casinos often have very good restaurants and buffets. Some will have arcades, bowling, movie theatres, etc. Higher end places will have a spa, hair salon, retail shops, and so on.
                • Enjoy yourself!  And send us a review to tell others about your experience!
                Casino RV Parking
                Casino RV Parking

                Gambling Quiz

                Quiz

                How much do you know about gambling?

                It’s hard to enjoy a gambling vacation, if you’re always losing.  Over the years we discovered how to play smart, and get the most enjoyment from our gambling bankroll.  One key to this is knowledge.  What you don’t know about gambling can hurt you!

                I started writing a quiz, but then realized there must be several good gambling quizzes online.  So I searched them out and came up with these.  Each will open in a new window when you click it.

                Wizard of Odds gambling quiz – this is a good quiz, and a nice web site too

                FunTrivia.com – At this web site you can create a quiz and store it for other people to come along and take for fun. It’s really a cool site and I have links to three quizzes that I found there.

                Gambling for Beginners

                Gambling Quiz

                Test Your Casi-Know

                Advantage Plays

                Advantage Plays

                First of all, this is NOT a “get rich quick” scheme. It’s also not a “gambling system” like you see advertised for sale all over. I’m not selling this information; I’m giving it away.

                I picked up this information over the years in books (I’ve read a lot of them), online, and through word-of-mouth. As you might expect, I’m giving you the short version, a summary.

                There are times in many casinos where the player has an advantage, provided you know how to play them properly. I’ll separate this into “Advantage Situations” and “Advantage Games”.

                Player Advantage Situations

                 A time when the player has an advantage, sometimes only for one bet. The specific game being played is often of no consequence.

                1. Freerolls, Free Tournaments, etc. Any time a casino offers you a chance at winning something with no entry fee that’s a good wager to take. It doesn’t matter if it’s slots, blackjack, or even Keno. If you pay zero entry fee, and there’s a chance at a prize it may be worth checking it out. This is also sometimes true of tournaments with an entry fee, if the prize pool paid out is equal to the sum of all the entry fees, or when enough value is added from meals, drinks, room, etc.

                  One exception may be if you really hate playing the game in question and would get no fun from it, even with an advantage.Another exception is if your advantage is so small, or your probability of winning so remote, that you would do better at an advantage game that you normally play.

                2. Crap table. If you don’t play Craps, you might want to skip over this. Also, note that this may not be allowed in all casinos.

                  So, you’re playing craps, and someone is betting the dark side. You notice they are calling bets off when the roll is a 6 or an 8. They are giving up a 6 to 5 advantage! It’s one of the dumbest things a person can do in a casino, but if they want to do it you can profit from it.

                  Say that person is betting a green chip on the Don’t. What you want to do is buy that bet from them when the roll is a 6 or 8. That way YOU now have a 6 to 5 (1.2 to 1) advantage over the casino! Here’s how you do it…

                  Say to them, “Hey buddy, I’ve noticed that you call off the 6 and 8. The horoscope for today said those were MY lucky numbers. Next time you have a 6 or 8, do you mind if I buy that bet from you?”. They’ll almost always agree, cause all they want is their green chip back. They don’t care if it comes from you or the casino. And you’ve got yourself a great bet! When the 7 rolls you win!

                3. Bonus Chips. These are non-negotiable chips that you obtain from the casino as an incentive to play. Usually, they are for first time players club members. One well known promotion of this type is at the Sahara on the Las Vegas Strip. As a new players club member, you get a “Fun Book” that has a coupon inside for $50 in non-negotiable chips for $40. So have a 5/4 advantage over the casino on even money bets. I’d take them to the crap table and put the whole $50 on the pass line! You might also visit the Roulette wheel and put it on Black. If you prefer, bet $10 at a time instead of the whole $50.

                4. Free Play. Similar to #3, but in this case the casino has sent you a promotional mailing, offering you free slot play. Depending on your level of play you might receive $5 to $500+. Typically, we get between $10 and $200 ourselves. While you’re playing on their money you have an advantage.

                5. Match Play Coupons. Just like bonus chips and free play, match play coupons are free money from the casino. The catch is that you have to play it along with your own money before you can walk out with it. There are many sources for these coupons. Casino “fun books” given out at the slot club, the American Casino Guide, Las Vegas Advisor, and others. Most are $5 to $25 and may be used on even money bets only.

                  Imagine that you place a $10 bet at Blackjack, then you put a Match Play coupon down with it. You now have a $20 bet! If you win that hand they’re going to pay you $20. So in effect you’re betting $10 to win $20, and I’d do that all day long if they’d let me!

                How long does your advantage last? Regarding items 3 through 5, some people would argue that you have an advantage (mathematically) for a specific period of time, often many hours. This is based on the long term statistical payback for the machine (or table game) that you’re playing. The topic requires a very long discussion, so I’ll only mention it here and let you do your own research.

                The proponents say that your advantage starts with the first play, and extends even after you lose the casino’s money, until you have played long enough for your theoretical loss to equal the amount of the free play. Although the math seems to work, I believe that it’s dangerous to think of things in this way, especially if it causes you to exceed your normal level of play (i.e. exceed your loss limit).

                Player Advantage Games

                The last section talked about specific times when you have the advantage over the casino, if only for one bet. In this section, we’re talking about having a long-term advantage over the casino. Often, this is a slight advantage, but a slight advantage is all that it takes over the long run.

                1. Video Poker. When you consider the amount of advantage possible, and the effort required to exploit it, the most logical choice for an advantage game is Video Poker. Video poker is a unique game, because you can tell exactly what the programmed payout is by simply reading and interpreting the machine’s pay table. For example, a Full Pay Deuces Wild (FPDW) machine has a long-term payout of 100.7% with basic strategy play. Perfect strategy gets you another .07% making it a 100.77% machine. Add comps, cashback, and free play to this, and you’re looking at a substantial advantage play.

                  But wait a minute you say, a 100.7% payback sounds too good to be true. How can the casino stay in business and pay out like that? Good thinking on your part but consider this; the vast majority of gamblers don’t play anywhere close to correct strategy. Played incorrectly, a FPDW machine is probably worse than playing Wheel of Fortune! What does it take to do well at Video Poker? Three things, knowledge, practice, and patience. You have to know the pay back schedules, you have to practice basic strategy play, and you have to be patient to see the results in the long run. You don’t need special aptitude, you don’t have to do math, and you don’t have to cheat. It’s just a matter of memorizing strategy and doing it. Many books have been written on this subject. There’s also lots of information on the web, and several good training programs for your computer. You can also buy, or print out, strategy cards that tell you exactly how to play any hand. You can carry these strategy cards with you to the casino and refer to them when playing.

                2. Live Poker. This is not actually gambling; poker is a game of skill. Playing live poker, you’re not competing against the casino, but against the other players. Texas Hold’em has exploded in popularity and there are a lot of weak players in every poker room in the country. If you’re a good player, you can really clean up. However, becoming a good player isn’t as easy as you may think, and some people just don’t have the aptitude for it. So even though this IS a potential money maker, it doesn’t qualify as an “advantage play” for the average person.

                3. Blackjack. Most everyone has heard about card counting. Many casinos have blackjack games with conditions that create an advantage for a good card counter. Counting accurately can give you an advantage up to 1.5% (equivalent to 101.5% payback). Some expert counters, against a single deck game with the right conditions, can get a 2% advantage. On the other hand, the typical advantage that normal, accurate counters enjoy on a multi-deck game is less than 1%. Learning to count blackjack is difficult. It requires aptitude, dedication, and concentration. Then, after you learn to count, you need to be able to do it in front of the casino staff without them knowing that you’re doing it. This itself is a stumbling block to otherwise excellent counters. Team play can greatly improve the odds, and help overcome some of these problems, but that’s a whole different story. Also remember, the casino can kick you out if they think you’re counting, and that’s no fun at all.

                4. Sports Betting. As with live poker this is a game of skill. There are professional sports betters who make a good living. They live, sleep, eat, and breath sports betting. They don’t just know sports; they know the sports book system. Becoming a great sport bettor is like becoming a great stock trader, and few achieve greatness.

                5. Craps. Bring this subject up in a group of serious gamblers and you’ll get several different opinions and maybe a lively argument. Craps is one game where the casino has only a small advantage, in some cases under 1%. Some people claim that by arranging the dice in a particular way, and throwing them so they will land and roll without turning sideways, they can have a small influence on the outcome of the roll and therefore influence the success of their bets. They say, correctly, that the casino’s advantage is so small they would only need to successfully influence the dice once in many rolls for their strategy to work. This is known by several names, “controlled rolling”, “precision shooting”, “dice setting”, etc.Is this “real” or folly? I can only give you my opinion, and my personal experience. Short story, I’ve seen it done and it’s real. The longer story is to ask; what does it take to achieve this level of dice control? And can the average person, do it? I’ve read the books, joined the web forums, and attended the classes where I received instruction. I personally don’t have the skill required. However, as I said, I’ve seen it done. My bottom-line assessment. Have you ever seen Tiger Woods do tricks with the golf ball? He’ll bounce the ball in the air 20 times off a wedge, then hit it in the air, and put it on the green. He can also drive the ball about 350 yards with accuracy. Can you do either of these feats? How much practice would it take? How much skill? I rest my case. For further research visit http://www.dicesetter.com/

                In Conclusion

                For the typical gambler, your logical choice of advantage games is Video Poker. It’s the one game where any average person can, with study and practice, become good enough to have a small edge over the house.

                If you enjoy slots or video poker already then it’s a natural for you. If you really don’t enjoy it you’ll need to find games that you do enjoy, with only a slight casino advantage. Gambling 101 addresses this. And don’t forget comps! they enter the picture as well.

                So, you want to learn Video Poker? Here’s a recommended study list:

                • http://wizardofodds.com/videopoker This is a good starting place on the web for VP and most other games
                • Frugal Video Poker – book and software by Jean Scott. HIGHLY recommended. If you buy only one VP resource this is the one to get. http://queenofcomps.com/
                • Bob Dancer Presents WinPoker version 6.0 (training software for your computer
                • vpFREE is a Yahoo group, and one of the best sources of free video poker information on the web. I link to their database for all my state by state casino reviews in this web site. http://groups.yahoo.com/group/vpFREE/
                • http://www.advantageplayer.com/videopoker/index.html Advantage Player web site, a great general resource for advantage play of all kinds
                • http://www.vpinsider.com/ This is a pay site, but has some good free stuff too. I was a paying member for several years. If you get serious about VP it’s probably a good investment for at least one year.
                • I mentioned comps above. They help offset your losses, and can turn a slight disadvantage into a break even situation. If you want to all about comps, and other ways to get the most out of a casino, then read two books by Jean Scott. The Frugal Gambler, and More Frugal Gambling.

                Gambling Basics 101

                What you Play Makes A Difference

                Gambling 101

                Game Selection and Strategy

                What do you enjoy playing?  Slots, Keno, Blackjack, Craps, Video Poker?  I’m going to tell you about the best plays in the casino. I’ll be very brief, but I’ll provide links so you can do more reading and research if you’d like.

                In most casinos (not all) there are some good plays, games where the casino has a 1.5% edge or less (98.5% payback or better).  These include (in alphabetical order) Baccarat, Blackjack, Craps, Pai Gow Poker, Roulette (European Rules), Spanish 21, Super Fun 21, and Video Poker.  Occasionally, you’ll also find other good games, but these are the most common.  Slots can “occasionally” be counted in this group.

                Basic Rule #1:  Know what you’re playing! The player return on these games of 98.5% or better assumes two things:

                1. You play the correct version of the game, and…
                2. You play correct basic strategy.

                This can’t be over emphasized.  One of the worst plays in a casino is to play a game that you don’t understand.  For example, Blackjack can easily return 99.5% or better, but if you fail to play correct basic strategy you can reduce that to 96% or worse.  Craps can be played at under 1% casino advantage, but it also has bets with a double digit house edge!  Yep, 11% or even worse.

                Basic Rule #2: No matter what game you choose to play, be sure you always use your players club card so you will earn comps!  However, note that some casinos won’t comp you for playing very low limit table games.

                Basic Rule #3: Set a budget and stick to it.  Read my section on Money Management for more details.

                I’ve included a session bankroll guide below.  For each game it indicates a minimum recommended buy-in to enjoy the game with a low risk of going broke quickly.  If this is too much for your bankroll you should pick another game.  You’ll rarely have any fun sitting down at a $10 BJ table with $30 in your hand

                Baccarat

                Baccarat

                Most large Baccarat tables are high stakes, the minimum bet is often $100.  “Mini-Bac” sometimes is offered with minimum stakes in the $25 range.  The house advantage is under 1.5%, and the best bet (Banker) gives you a 98.94% payback.

                I don’t personally play Baccarat because I find it boring.  However, if you have a couple thousand dollars to play with, and you want to experience one of the “high class” games at a casino, then you might give it a try.  The dealer does everything for you, and you can’t make a mistake as long as you remember to bet on the Banker.  Just let the dealer know it’s your first time playing and they’ll help you out.

                Recommended Buy-in: Ten to fifteen times the table minimum, or your initial bet if higher.

                Click this link for More info on Baccarat

                Blackjack

                It’s the most popular table game in the casino, and one of the best bets for the player.  House edge varies but is typically 0.37% to 0.9%.  Blackjack is a fun game!  Some skill is required to learn basic strategy, but it’s not really that tough, and you can carry a cheat sheet to the table – no kidding!  It’s also a very social game, where you can have a good time.  If you find yourself at a “serious” table with grouchy people MOVE.  This is supposed to be fun!

                You don’t need to be a high-roller to play Blackjack.  You can usually find a table with $5 minimum bet, and some as low as $1.  However, on Friday or Saturday, at any major property on the Las Vegas Strip, you’ll be challenged to find an open seat at a table that’s $10 or less.

                There are many variations of blackjack “rules”.  For example, how many decks are used, does the dealer stand or hit “soft 17” (Ace-6), can you split any pair, can you double on any two cards, etc.?  These rule variations can favor the player, or the house, so you need to learn which are best for you so you can pick a table that will give you a high return.  One thing to avoid like the plague is any table that pays 6 to 5 on a Blackjack.  The standard payoff is 3 to 2, and a 6 to 5 game is a rip-off by comparison.  However, if you find yourself in a small casino with nothing but 6 to 5 Blackjack and slots, you’re still better off playing Blackjack.  The link below will give you more details.

                Recommended Buyin: 15 times the table minimum wager or your initial bet if higher.  So, buy in for $75 on a $5 table, $375 on a $25 table, etc.

                More Info on Blackjack This link takes you to the Wizard of Odds web site.  One of the best for learning about Blackjack.

                Craps

                If you walk into a casino and hear a bunch of people shouting and cheering it’s a good bet it’s coming from the Crap table.  Craps is an exciting game; however, it’s also somewhat complicated and that often keeps people from playing.  The crap table contains some of the best and worst bets in the casino, so you do need to have some basic knowledge before you walk up.  Finally, there is a unique etiquette at the crap table, much of which is based on the numerous superstitions of crap players.

                In my personal opinion, craps is fun, and it’s worth taking the time to learn. It also offers you a basic bet with a house advantage of only 1.41%, and you can often improve this to under 1/2 of one percent, a better than 99.5% payback.

                Concerning superstitions at the crap table, some players take these very seriously, so it’s wise to be aware of them.  Here are a few that will keep you from making enemies:

                1. NEVER say the number “Seven” at a crap table after the point is established (large white button is placed on a point number).  The superstition is that saying the number will cause it to appear on the dice, and when it does just about everyone will lose!
                2. Keep your hands up, out of the way, after the dice are out (passed to the thrower by the stick man).  The superstition; if the dice hit your hands they will land on Seven.
                3. Don’t touch, or talk to, the shooter (person throwing the dice), especially if they’re on a good roll, and especially after they pick up the dice.  It’s bad luck to do so.
                4. If you’re a man, and have never played Craps before, don’t tell the table this.  A “virgin” male player is considered bad luck, especially when you’re throwing the dice.  On the other hand, if you’re a female “virgin” that’s good luck, and it’s OK to announce it when you start to play.  I’ve even seen a high roller place a $25 bet for the rookie female on her first roll.

                More info on Craps This link takes you to the Wizard of Odds web site.  You may have recognized a trend here.   In my opinion, this is one of the best sites on the web for good, reliable gambling information without any scams or useless “systems” for sale.

                More info on Craps About.com also has some good information, but I’ll warn you that there’s a lot of advertising.  Don’t be suckered in to paying anyone for a “winning craps system”.  It doesn’t exist.

                Recommended Buy-in: Ten times your initial bets.  On a $5 table, if you play the pass line and 2x odds that’s $15 so you should buy in for $150.  If you intend to place multiple bets, buy in for ten times the total of your initial bets.  For example, if you plan to bet $5 pass line with 2x odds, and two come bets with 2x odds, that’s $45, so you should buy in for $450.

                Pai Gow Poker

                If you’re looking for a game that’s a little more relaxed and easy-going than Blackjack or Craps then Pai Gow Poker may be your choice.  It’s a variation on the Chinese tile game of Pai Gow, and is played with a 53 card deck (one joker).  The overall house advantage if you play correct basic strategy is 1.46%, and sometimes better

                I don’t play Pai Gow Poker myself, so I won’t try to give you any advice other than this: learn basic strategy!  (Do I sound like a broken record).  Here’s a link to more information on Pai Gow Poker.

                Roulette

                Roulette Wheel

                Roulette is an old, classic casino game.  It’s simple, sometimes interesting, sometimes boring (to be honest) and often gives you a really nice payout when you win.  It’s a social game, and you have time to talk with the other players, enjoy your cocktail, flirt with the pretty girls (handsome boys), etc.

                You’ll also enjoy a house edge of only 1.35% if you search and find a single zero wheel with European Rules.  Otherwise, you’re giving up 2.7% on an American single zero wheel, or a whopping 5.26% on a double zero wheel.  The only problem is, most of these European wheels are in high-roller areas on the strip where the lowest table minimum you’ll find is likely to be $25 or more.  However, if your bankroll allows you to budget for a $250 session, it may be fun to waltz into the highroller area of Mirage and plop down at the roulette table.  Or take $1000 to the Bellagio as the minimum bet was $100 there when this was written.

                PLEASE, PLEASE, whatever you do.  DON’T pay anyone for a Roulette “system”.  None of them are winners, you can’t beat this game.  The link I provide below will help you understand the game and learn basic .

                Recommended Buy-in: Ten times your total bets for one spin.

                Here’s a link to more information on Roulette.

                Spanish 21

                If you enjoy blackjack, but are getting bored with it, I highly recommend trying Spanish 21.  Even if you’ve never played a table game this might be fun, especially since you can carry your basic strategy “cheat sheet” to the table with you (in most casinos).

                After all the tightening of rules for traditional Blackjack, you’ll find some casinos where the Spanish 21 odds are better for the player (most Atlantic City casinos for example).  The house edge is only 0.76% when the dealer hits soft 17 and redoubling isn’t allowed.  This improves to 0.38% if redoubling IS allowed.  The house edge is only 0.40% when the dealer stands on soft 17.

                This link will tell you all about the game and give you good basic strategy guidelines.

                Recommended Buy-in: 15 times your initial bet.

                Super Fun 21

                This is another blackjack variation, and the house has an edge of about 0.95% to 1.15%.  Some scoff at this game and say it’s “Super Fun” for the house, because the edge is so much better than some traditional blackjack games.  I think it depends on what’s being offered at the casino you’re at.  Remember the old song “if you can’t be with the one you love, then love the one you’re with”?  Ok, so I’m showing my age.

                Given a choice, I’d rather play a good traditional Blackjack game with half of one percent house edge, but in some casinos Super Fun 21 is the best game available, and at least it’s fun!

                Click here to get more info and basic strategy.

                Video Poker

                Video Poker

                I could write a book on Video Poker, but that’s already been done a few dozen times.  So I’ll keep this brief and give you several links to more info.

                VP is the only game where a person with average skills and average dedication can teach themselves a basic strategy that actually has an advantage over the casino.  Yep, a slight statistical advantage of under 1%.  But think about it, one percent is all the casino needs to clean you out over time!  So having that edge over them is a good thing.

                But don’t rush out and drop a grand into the nearest Video Poker machine!  First you need to learn to differentiate the GOOD machines, (and the GREAT ones) from the mediocre and lousy ones.  Then, you need to take the time to study basic strategy and be able to play perfectly.  Only then can you storm the walls of the casino castle!

                Yes, I know, some people find Video Poker boring.  If you’re one of those, then I recommend picking from the better table games listed above.

                Free Online Resources

                • First, as with the other games on the page, I’ll refer you to the Wizard of Odds site
                • vpFREE is one of the best sources of free video poker information on the web.  I link to their database for all my casino reviews in this web site.  They have an extensive listing of links to additional information too.  In addition, they have a very active Yahoo! group.  Jean Scott, Skip Hughes, Bob Dancer, and other top VP writers hang out here to answer questions and socialize with the masses. http://groups.yahoo.com/group/vpFREE/
                • 5-Card’s video poker pages give you a wealth of information about the odds and costs of playing specific games.  http://videopoker.fws1.com/index.html

                Recommended books, software, and subscription web sites

                • Jean Scott’s Frugal Video Poker is a complete video poker learning system in two parts.  Each of them is good alone, but I recommend having both.  1) The FVP software will let you learn to play video poker on your home computer.  It also includes a valuable feature — you can create and print strategy cards for any game and carry these with you to the casino.  2) Jean also has a book out by the same name Frugal Video Poker, and it’s an excellent video poker textbook for both new players and experienced alike.
                • WinPoker version 6.0 This is another training software for your computer, the one we started out using many years ago and still have and use often. It has an attractive video interface, and you can customize the machine payouts.  However, it doesn’t have a feature to print out strategy cards, so you’ll need to purchase that separately.
                • http://www.vpinsider.com/ This is a paid membership site, but has some good free stuff too.  I was a paying member for several years.  If you get serious about VP it’s probably a good investment for at least one year.
                • Comps are also an important part of any strategy.  They help offset your losses, and can turn a slight disadvantage into a break even situation.  If you want to learn about comps, and other ways to get the most out of a casino, then read two books by Jean Scott.  The Frugal Gambler, and More Frugal Gambling. You’ll find these and more information on her web site:  http://queenofcomps.com

                What about live Poker?

                 Poker isn’t gambling.  It’s a game of skill, and you’re competing against other players, not the house.

                General Gambling Information

                For any and all general subjects related to gambling and Las Vegas the “Master Site” in my opinion is www.lasvegasadvisor.com.  Some content is free, and membership is only $39/yr.  You get an excellent coupon book that will more than pay for the cost of membership with just one coupon used!  Check the LVA out free for 5 days.  Click on the following link:  http://www.lasvegasadvisor.com/free5day.cfm FYI, I have no financial ties to the LVA, I’ve been a member since 2000 and it’s a great deal.