Games where your decisions matter
Poker
In poker you play other players, and the casino takes a rake. Skill decides results over time. Live casino poker games such as Casino Hold'em are played against the house with a fixed edge. See our poker page.
Blackjack
Basic strategy brings the edge to around 0.5% on good rules. The table rules, especially the 3:2 payout, matter as much as your play. Our blackjack strategy guide has the details.
Video poker
Full-pay Jacks or Better (9/6) returns 99.54% with perfect holds; the 8/5 version returns about 97.3%. Our Jacks or Better strategy guide explains the holds.
Games where only bet choice matters
| Game and bet | House edge |
|---|---|
| Baccarat, Banker | 1.06% |
| Craps, pass line | 1.41% |
| Craps, odds bet | 0% |
| Roulette, single zero | 2.70% |
| Roulette, double zero | 5.26% |
| Sic bo, big or small | 2.78% |
Betting systems such as Martingale or Fibonacci change stake sizes, not the edge. Patterns in past spins or rolls do not predict the next one in a fair game.
Habits of advanced players
- Read each variant's help screen for the paytable and RTP before playing it.
- Pick the bet with the lowest edge in the game you play.
- Size bets as a small, fixed share of the session bankroll.
- Track results and stop at a limit you set in advance.
Bonuses rarely help on table games because many count 10% or less toward wagering. Check our guide to casino terms before you claim.