To maximize your chances of winning, you must absolutely avoid games that carry a massive casino advantage.
The 'house edge' dictates exactly how much money the casino expects to keep from every wager over the long term.
Blackjack: The King of Low Edge
With a house edge that can drop to roughly 0.5%, blackjack is mathematically the smartest game to play.
If you play based on 'gut feeling' rather than math, the house edge skyrockets to over 2%.
- Rules like 'Dealer stands on soft 17' lower the house edge further in your favor
- If surrender is allowed, use it mathematically to save half your bet on terrible hands
- Print out a basic strategy card and keep it on the table; casinos legally allow you to use them
Finding Value Beyond the Blackjack Table
James Bond's favorite game is essentially a coin flip where the casino only takes a microscopic advantage.
Alternatively, certain variations of Video Poker (like 9/6 Jacks or Better) offer an edge of less than 0.5%.
| Title | Mathematical Disadvantage | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| European Roulette | 2.70% | Acceptable for casual play |
| Keno | 25.00%+ | Avoid at all costs |
Ultimately, doing a little bit of research before you sit down can save you hundreds of dollars.