Smart Betting With Your Bankroll
Stand: Keep your current hand and end your turn. Surrender: Forfeit half your bet and end the hand (not always available). The key to basic strategy is knowing which action to take based on your hand and the dealer's upcard. Here is a simplified decision table. Double Down: Double your initial bet and receive one more card. Split: If you have two cards of the same value, you can split them into two separate hands. Core Blackjack Actions
Hit: Request another card.
French Roulette: Similar to European Roulette, but includes rules like "La Partage" or "En Prison" that can reduce the house edge on even-money bets to as low as 1.35%. The house edge is 2.7%. American Roulette: Features numbers 1-36, a single zero (0), and a double zero (00). Let's look at the probabilities and payouts for common bets on a European wheel. The extra pocket nearly doubles the house edge to 5.26%. Types of Roulette Wheels and House Edge
European Roulette: Features numbers 1-36 and a single zero (0). For this reason, informed players always prefer European or French Roulette when available.
The initial known European gambling house, the Ridotto, was set up in Venice, Italy, in 1638. A Journey Through Time
The notion of the casino has a rich and captivating history, dating back centuries. From these early beginnings, the casino concept expanded across Europe and eventually to the Americas. Its purpose was to control and regulate gambling during the carnival season.
Adhering to these social norms will help you fit in and avoid any awkward situations with dealers or other players. Beyond the official rules of the games, there's a code of conduct, or etiquette, that ensures a smooth and enjoyable experience for everyone. Casino Decorum
Walking into a casino for the first time can be daunting.
That difference is where the casino makes its money. Bet Name
Numbers Covered
Payout
Chance to Win
Straight Up
1
35 to 1
2.70%
Split
2
17 to 1
5.41%
Street
3
11 to 1
8.11%
Column/Dozen
12
2 to 1
32.43%
Red/Black (Even Money)
18
1 to 1
48.65%
Notice how the probability of winning is always slightly less than what a "fair" payout would be.
19th Century: Saloons with gambling get widespread in the American West. Late 1700s: Casinos gain popularity in spa towns like Baden-Baden and casino Monte Carlo. 1931: Gambling is authorized in Nevada, paving the way for Las Vegas. 1994: The first online casino is released, changing the industry forever. Key Milestones in Casino History
1638: The Ridotto opens in Venice.
Pastime
Important Rule
Blackjack
Use hand signals to indicate Hit or Stand. Poker
Don't talk about a hand you're not in. Act in turn and don't "splash the pot" (throw your chips into the middle). Never touch your cards in a game where they are dealt face-up. Keep your hands out of the way when the shooter is rolling the dice. Roulette
Wait for the dealer to remove the dolly (marker) from the winning number before placing new bets or casino collecting winnings. Craps
Don't say the word "seven" at the table.
Several key technologies are poised to redefine the gambling landscape. Tomorrow's Casino
The casino industry is constantly changing, driven by technological advancements and casino shifting player preferences. The casino - you can find out more - of the future will likely look very different from the ones we know today, offering more personalized, immersive, and integrated experiences.
A complete basic strategy chart provides more detailed advice. Player's Score
Dealer Shows Low Card
Dealer Shows High Card
17-20 (Hard)
Stand
Hold
13-16 (Hard)
Hold
Take Card
12 (Hard)
Hold
Hit
11
Double Down
Double Down
10
Increase Bet
Draw
Note: This is a simplified table.
The key element is the "house edge," which is the casino's built-in advantage. Understanding the math behind the wheel can't change the odds, but it can help you make more informed decisions and appreciate the game on a deeper level. Cracking the Code of the Wheel
Roulette is a game of pure fortune, but its outcomes are governed by the laws of probability.
The objective is simple: casino - reference - get a hand value closer to 21 than the dealer without going over. Improving Your Odds
Blackjack is one of the few casino games where strategy can significantly impact the outcome. While luck always plays a part, grasping basic strategy can lower the house edge and enhance your chances of winning.
When making a bet, place your chips neatly in the designated area. Rules for the Floor
Know the Rules Before You Play: Don't sit down at a table without understanding the basics of the game. Limit Phone Use at the Table: Most casinos frown upon using your phone while at a table game. Watch for a bit first or play online for free to practice. Be polite, and if you're winning, a small tip is always appreciated. Don't Ask for Advice: Do not ask the dealer or other players how you should play your hand. Handle Your Chips Correctly: Don't touch another player's chips. Decisions are yours alone. It slows down the game and can be a security concern. Be Respectful to the Dealer: Dealers are professionals doing their job.