Walking into a casino, one might feel the rush of excitement, the clinking of chips, and the whirl of slot machines. Casinos draw millions each year, and while the “house” typically holds an edge, there are ways to maximize your chances of coming out ahead. Casinos in Las Vegas reported a revenue of $13.5 billion in 2019 alone. This shows many people gamble, but how many leave as winners?
With all those shiny slot machines, it’s tempting to start there. Slots are easy to play, but their return to player (RTP) percentage varies. Most slots have an RTP ranging from 85% to 98%. Opting for machines closer to 98% ups your chances. Sure, you might not hit that massive jackpot, but regular wins keep your wallet happier. Should you play $1 slots or penny slots? Dollar slots tend to have higher RTPs than penny slots, often by at least 5%. That can add up over hundreds of spins.
Blackjack is another popular game with better odds if you play using basic strategy. Blackjack has a house edge of just about 0.5% when using basic strategy correctly. Compare that to American Roulette, with a house edge of 5.26%, and you see why many seasoned gamblers prefer blackjack. Counting cards might seem tempting too, especially after movies like "21", but note that casinos are on the lookout. In fact, casinos use software to track unusual betting patterns. This isn't to say it's impossible—just really challenging in a modern-day casino.
Poker is another beast entirely. You're not playing against the house, but against other players. Players in the 2003 World Series of Poker, like Chris Moneymaker, turned a $40 online satellite entry into $2.5 million. His winning wasn't mere luck; it was a combination of skill and strategy. That said, poker requires immense study and practice. Understanding the different types of hands, pot odds, and reading opponents can make or break your game. Even a small edge, say 1-2% per hand, adds up over time. But remember, online poker also has its share of software and bots that can skew results.
Sports betting offers another opportunity. Betting on sports saw a staggering $150 billion wagered in 2020 alone, as reported by the American Gaming Association. Still, to make a profit consistently, one needs to understand the odds, know the sport inside out, and perhaps subscribe to expert tips. An estimated 3-5% edge is possible for well-informed bettors. Following the trends, understanding historical data, and watching for any injuries can often sway a game’s result. Like any investment, the more data-driven your approach, the more likely you’ll see returns.
Craps provides a particularly exciting experience, though it can seem confusing at first glance. Some bets—like the pass line bet—have a house edge as low as 1.41%. Comparatively, bets like the hard ways (i.e., rolling a pair like 4s or 10s) shoot the edge up to about 9-11%. So, sticking to simpler bets often increases your chances of winning. In 2009, Patricia Demauro rolled dice for over four hours, setting a world record with 154 rolls without a seven.
In a casino, setting a budget is critical. Give yourself a daily or session limit. Walking in with $500 and targeting a 20% win ($100) can keep things in perspective. If you hit your target, consider taking a break. Casinos are designed to keep you playing. There's a reason you don't see clocks on the walls or windows to the outside.
ojwin is another place where you can test some of these strategies online.
Finally, take advantage of comps and bonuses. Joining a casino’s loyalty program usually offers perks like free meals, rooms, and even cash back. Las Vegas casinos gave away over $1 billion in comps last year. These incentives can't be underestimated, as they directly save you money. It’s not just the free stuff either—better players get more invitations to exclusive events or high-roller rooms giving more favorable odds.