The Most Popular Casino Games of All Time

People have always loved to play games, with items like dice and dominos dating back thousands of years. Modern casino games have evolved from children’s games and parlour games, eventually taking on the forms we all know and love today. The addition of placing bets and wagers adds an added dimension of excitement and turns a simple card game like blackjack into the international phenomenon that dominates casinos worldwide.

The invention of internet casinos has brough these popular casino games into the 21st century. Now people can play online poker and online slots from the comfort of their own home, competing against opponents from the other side of the world. As a result of casino games becoming more widespread and accessible the number of people playing them has increased dramatically. In fact, online gambling is one of the fastest growing sectors across the world.

Opinions on Gambling

Gambling is an activity which has traditionally split public opinion. Some countries have completely banned both land-based and online casinos, usually on religious or moral reasons. Others  have wholeheartedly embraced the industry and the benefits it can have for the economy – creating jobs, boosting tourism, generating tax revenue etc.

With online casinos being so readily available it’s becoming harder for countries to police a total ban on gambling. As a result, many are beginning to change their attitudes towards casinos and have either legalised or decriminalised online gambling, opening the experience up to more players than ever before.

Games Available Online

Online casinos aren’t limited for space which means they can offer a much bigger variety of games than their land-based counterparts. But rather than coming up with completely new games, online casinos instead off different variants of the most popular classics. One great example is the number of types of poker available; Texas Hold’em, Omaha, Stud etc.

Here’s a look at some of the most popular casino games available to play online.

Slots

Probably the newest addition to the gambling family, slot machines have only been around since the late 19th century. They transitioned into a digital format really easily and now online slots showcase some of the best-looking and most exciting slot games around. The core idea of matching symbols across designated lines hasn’t changed, but the presentation and layout of each online slot is totally unique. With animated reels, exciting sound effects, and the ability to choose multiple playlines, online slots look fantastic whether played on a smartphone, tablet, or computer screen.

Online slots make the perfect introductory game for new online casino customers because there is no skill involved and no complicated rules to learn. Just click and spin!

Poker

Modern poker evolved from a European parlour game and developed its popular variants in the United States. Texas Hold’em is the variation most often seen online, and the one used by poker sites in their tournaments. The poker boom of the 1980s/90s brought the game out of the backrooms and back into the public conscience, and ever since it’s been one of the most popular casino games.

The rules of poker aren’t that difficult to learn, but perfecting strategies and understanding your opponent’s plays can take years to master. This is the perfect game for serious players who enjoy improving their skills.

Blackjack

Another incredibly popular casino card game, blackjack is much simpler than poker. It is great to play with friends, as you are all competing against the dealer rather than each other. Online casinos have recently added a function whereby friends can host their own table and all play together; a perfect way to spend time with people who live further away or find it difficult to travel.

Blackjack is also available in a live casino version, where players at home are able to stream the game directly from a studio. The game is hosted by a real dealer who lays the cards out on the table just as they would in a land-based casino. This is an exciting new format that brings the social and interactive aspect of casino gaming into your own home, and is perfect for players who like to chat with others and have a more laidback evening.

Roulette

Another game which translated very well into a digital format, online roulette looks stunning. The wheel spin result is based on Random Number Generator (RNG) software to ensure fair results so there’s never any bias towards certain numbers. Online casinos offer players the choice between European or American roulette, the main difference being the inclusion of a 00 on the wheel.

Roulette is also available in a live format if players want the excitement of watching the real wheel spin. Either way, the game is easy for beginners to dip into as the concept is so simple. Multiple bets can be placed by clicking/tapping on the corresponding grid spaces and players can see straight away whether they have won or lost money.

In Summary

Different casino games appeal to different players: some are luck-based, others require skills, but all can be huge amounts of fun if played responsibly. Online casinos offer players of all experiences the perfect place to try new games or enjoy old favourites. As more of the world opens up to the idea of online gambling, these games will continue to increase in popularity and find new fans from all over.