Game theory, a concept found in economics and mathematics, has a unique place in the world of gambling. It explores strategic decision-making, which is a fundamental aspect of gambling, both at online casinos and sportsbooks.
This article looks at how game theory principles apply to gambling, providing insights into the decisions made in casino games. We’ll give you a brief introduction to game theory and explore how it’s used at casinos and sportsbooks, offering a deeper understanding of the strategic elements.
What Is Game Theory?
Game theory is an interdisciplinary field encompassing economics, mathematics, and psychology, focusing on understanding strategic decision-making and interactions among rational players. In various fields, from computer science to economics, game theory provides a framework for analyzing situations where the outcomes depend not only on one’s actions but also on the actions of others. It involves the study of mathematical models of conflict and cooperation between intelligent, rational decision-makers.
Connection Between Gambling and Game Theory
In gambling, game theory is applied to understand and predict the outcomes of games based on the strategies employed by players. It’s not just about the odds but also about how players interact with each other, their perceptions of each other’s strategies, and how they adjust their strategies in response.
This strategic interaction is a cornerstone of games like poker, where bluffing and predicting opponents’ moves are as crucial as the strength of the cards in hand. Game theory, therefore, provides a fascinating lens through which the psychological and strategic tactics of players can be examined.
Game Theory Application in Popular Gambling Games
Game theory has found its application in various casino games, fundamentally changing strategies and outcomes. This strategic analysis, which revolves around the choices of others as much as one’s own, provides a sophisticated framework for understanding and predicting behaviors in gambling scenarios. Let’s take a look at how it can be applied to some of the most popular casino games.
Poker and Game Theory
Poker, a game where strategy and psychology intertwine, stands as a prime example of game theory’s application. The essence of game theory in poker lies in the strategic interaction between players, where decisions are made not just based on the cards in hand but also on anticipating opponents’ moves to increase your poker chances.
Historically, poker players focused on experience and intuition, emphasizing the psychological aspects of “playing the player” rather than the cards themselves. However, the modern approach has been revolutionized by incorporating game theory, particularly the connection between Nash equilibrium and poker. This equilibrium, which we’ll discuss later in the text, represents a state where each player’s strategy is optimal.
Players focus on unexploitable strategies that maximize winnings based on the strategies used by other players. This shift has led to several notable changes in how poker is played:
Short-stack play: In situations where players have fewer chips, game theory provides clear guidelines on when to go all in or fold.
Mixing up the play: To prevent predictability, game theory suggests mixed strategies, where players randomly vary their actions.
More frequent and strategic bluffing: The new approach suggests a higher ratio of bluff bets to value bets, especially in the early stages of hands.
Blackjack and Game Theory
In blackjack, game theory influences critical decisions, such as when to hit, stand, or double down. While blackjack has elements of chance, the player’s decision-making process can be optimized using game theory because it usually involves two rational persons—the dealer and the player. This involves calculating the probability of different outcomes based on the dealer’s up-card and the player’s current hand.
For instance, game theory can be used to determine the statistically optimal move in any given scenario. It takes into account the likelihood of the dealer busting or achieving a higher total based on their visible card. Players use this information to decide their next move, whether it’s hitting to improve their hand, standing to avoid busting, or doubling down to maximize potential winnings when the odds are favorable.
The concept of a “basic strategy” in blackjack, which is derived from game theory principles, provides players with a guide to the best possible scenario. This strategy minimizes the house edge and increases winning blackjack opportunities over time. However, it’s crucial to note that even with an optimal blackjack strategy, there can’t be a guarantee of consistent wins due to the game’s inherent randomness and the house edge.
Roulette and Game Theory
Roulette, in contrast to games like poker and blackjack, offers limited scope for the application of game theory. The nature of roulette is predominantly random, with each spin of the wheel being an independent event. Furthermore, you’re not playing against another player, and drawing patterns or betting behaviors is impossible. The odds of winning are fixed and known in advance, and no strategy can alter these odds. While players may employ betting systems, these systems don’t change the statistical probability of winning.
Therefore, game theory, which thrives in situations where players’ decisions affect the outcomes, has limited use in roulette. In roulette, every spin is independent, and players have no strategic influence on the outcome, rendering game theory largely inapplicable.
Game Theory in Sports Betting
While game theory has made significant inroads into games like poker and blackjack, its application in sports betting, such as soccer betting, is more nuanced and limited. In sports betting, an event’s outcome is influenced by many factors that are often beyond the control and prediction of bettors. Unlike card games, where players’ decisions directly influence the game’s outcome, sports betting involves predicting the results of external events.
In sports betting, game theory can be applied to understanding the behavior of other bettors rather than the game itself. For instance, bettors may analyze how odds change based on public betting patterns, which can indicate what the majority of bettors believe will be the outcome. This information can be used to look for value bets, where the odds offered are more favorable compared to the actual probability of the event.
How Is Nash Equilibrium Connected to Gambling?
Nash equilibrium, a fundamental concept in game theory, plays a significant role in gambling strategies. Named after the mathematician John Nash, it refers to a situation in a game involving two or more players where no player can benefit by unilaterally changing their strategy, provided the other players’ strategies remain unchanged. In simpler terms, it’s a state where each player’s strategy is optimal, given the other players’ strategies.
In gambling, particularly in games like poker that involve strategic decision-making, the Nash equilibrium becomes highly relevant. It signifies a point where a player’s strategy can’t be exploited by their opponents. For example, in poker, a player using a Nash equilibrium strategy would mix up their play in such a way that their opponents can’t predict or consistently counter their moves. This strategy involves making decisions (like betting, folding, or bluffing) that are statistically optimal, considering the possible strategies of other players.
However, it’s important to note that achieving a true Nash equilibrium in real-world gambling scenarios is complex, as it requires an understanding of the complete strategy sets of all players, which is often not feasible. Moreover, the Nash equilibrium considers rational players who always make decisions that maximize their own utility, an assumption that doesn’t always hold true in real-life gambling situations.
For a very easy-to-understand explanation of this concept, refer to the short from the film “A Beautiful Mind” below.
Game Theory and Casino Development
Game theory revolves around strategic decision-making and predicting player behaviors, enabling developers to create casino games that align with players’ preferences and tendencies. By employing mathematical models, developers can simulate various gaming scenarios, allowing them to foresee potential player actions and reactions without needing to play out these situations physically.
One significant aspect of applying game theory to online casino games is the use of data analysis techniques, such as machine learning. These algorithms help in detecting trends and patterns from vast datasets, revealing insights into player preferences and behaviors over time. Consequently, developers can tailor their game designs to stay competitive and appealing to players.
Game theory also aids in balancing the elements within a game, ensuring that there are no unfair advantages or disadvantages during play. This balance is crucial for maintaining player engagement and trust at online casinos. Furthermore, by applying game theory, developers can strategically manage risk and optimize their offerings for maximum profitability.
The Theory That Changed the World of Gambling
Game theory has profoundly reshaped the gambling landscape, offering a sophisticated mechanism through which strategic interactions in various games are understood and optimized. While its application presents challenges, particularly in accurately modeling complex human behaviors and dealing with the inherent randomness of some gambling games, the rewards that come from correctly applying game theory are substantial.
By enabling developers and players alike to anticipate and strategically respond to various scenarios, game theory enhances the profitability, fairness, and engagement in gambling experiences. It transcends traditional approaches, integrating mathematics, psychology, and economics to create a more nuanced and effective understanding of gambling dynamics.
Do you want to play poker like a pro? Then you've come to the right place. Today, I'll explain what poker tells are and discuss what you should do in different scenarios when playing against gamblers.
What Is a Tell in Poker?
A tell in poker is a change in a player's behavior, mood, or approach—a physical or verbal action that gives clues to that player's strength of hand. Finding poker tells is based on the premise that people unwittingly reveal their cards via observable behavior. A player gains an advantage by observing and interpreting another competitor's tell, especially if the tell is unconscious and dependable. Consequently, reading behavioral tells is possible only at live poker tables, while online poker players need to focus on unintentional patterns or actions.
To become successful in poker tells, you must constantly evaluate the accuracy in the context of the situation at hand. Interestingly, a tell may be useful even if it's just under 50 percent correct. In this scenario, if the pot was $400 and you paid $100 to call, you would have won $400. Let's add that the only hand you can defeat is a bluff. If such an occurrence happened five times and you called every time, you'd need your opponent to bluff only once to break even. To put it another way, you'd have to win 20% of the time.
If you were led to believe by a tell that there was a 40% probability that your opponent was bluffing, it would be in your best interest to call. Note the following fact: A player never bluffs, but he appears to bluff at the current moment. Namely, when you recognize the tell, the chances of him bluffing are far higher than when you don't.
If you want to learn how to read people in poker, you need to follow a couple of rules:
Don't glance at your cards; observe your opponent.
Don't stare at the flop, turn or river in Hold 'em; observe your opponent!
When the next stud card appears, OBSERVE YOUR OPPONENT!
Tells from Unaware Players
In this part, I'll go over common tells from unaware players
Appearance
Despite the fact that the vast majority of tells occur during play, we can gain valuable insight into our opponent’s strategy even when they're not involved in a poker hand. You should pay attention to certain aspects of each player's play for hints about their poker strategy.
Well-dressed individuals, in particular, are more likely to play it safe. On the other hand, a guy with a tattered suit and a loosened tie is more likely to be in a gambling mode and play more loosely. Certainly, those who wear religious amulets and good luck charms or exercise superstitious habits tend to be more luck-conscious and liberal with their stakes than average players. Generally, women are less likely to bluff.
To maximize your profit while you're against an unknown opponent, assume that he or she will play like a stereotype until you discover otherwise. Players tend to remember denominations (like Ace, Deuce, and King) better than suits.
Stacking Chips
Stacking chips is rarely used as a ploy. The neatly organized stack suggests that the player will probably play carefully and hardly ever bluff, so look for more chips on his big stacks because that's his profit. You may bluff by betting marginally more than his profit. When winning, players are hesitant to call, yet a bad call might cost them. After they enter a hand, don't play medium-strength hands; try bluffing them and calling less when they bet. Uneven stacks indicate reckless play. Such a player's approach is overly liberal, but he may profit from big hands with aggressive play. Call more frequently and bluff less.
Sharing a Hand
Sometimes a player will show his hand to a fellow player who has folded or a friend who has approached the table. Two-player hands reveal a lot about an opponent's hand. If the observer arrives mid-hand, he's the one to watch. He'll employ kindergarten psychology and act the opposite of the hand's strength. However, players are unaware that they tend to follow a trend when a hand is disclosed from the start.
Usually, players with weak hands won't display their hands for two reasons:
First, he may unintentionally show that he plays poorly.
Second, the spectator may tip off his opponent to his poor hand, losing him the pot.
If gamblers share the hand, it's likely good enough to warrant involvement. Strong players can utilize this tell to bluff. If you suspect that's the case, observe the onlooker. The best tactic isn't to bet or call without at least a solid hand.
Glancing at Chips
Players will only steal a look at their chips when they're contemplating a raise, and almost always because they have improved their hand, which is the most useful tell you can notice. You'll see it when you’re observing beginners, average, experienced, and even world-class players.
First, be sure the glance isn't an act. When players focus on their chips while thinking you're observing, it's definitely an act. However, the pattern of gazing at the hand, then the stack, then away, practically cannot be an act because they don't know if you're watching.
Poker and computer expert Michael Wiesenberg provides a correlated tell. Bettors may look at your chips before making a bet, which is rarer than checking your own stack. If the gaze is quick and short, it usually suggests the player loves his hand and is ready to bet. On the other hand, if your opponent stares at your chips long after he sees his hands, he may be bluffing.
Sandbagging is the term for swiftly glancing at chips, quickly looking away, and then raising. Even if you are sure your opponent will bet, you can still use sandbagging as a potent poker weapon. It's conceptually identical to staring at the flop. Your opponent knows very well that the flop helped, so this studying is unnecessary. You won’t catch a bluff in these circumstances, nor should you bluff yourself.
Other Common Tells
Tell
Strategy
Players who ask for chips flamboyantly play aggressively and carelessly
Call more often/bluff less often
Hiding bankroll/wallet implies conservative play
Call less often/bluff more often
Leaned back/arms folded implies player is in no gambling mood, waiting for good hand
Rarely enter a hand
Leaned back/arm not folded, looking uninterested implies patience
If you’re playing in front, play slightly weaker hands
Stack scattered after a win, winner enters hand
Very rarely bluff from scratch, give value to their hands
A gambler shuffling hand indicates that the hand needs help to become very strong
Use logic
Uncontrollable shaking is a release of tension, not fear
Fold unless you also hold a nuts hand
Covering mouth with hand implies unconscious avoidance of examination
Call with average or even weak hands
Instinctive double-check for a two-pair or a suit in a hole
Consider your own hand and play accordingly
When a gambler takes time to enjoy a cigarette, he's not afraid of the call
60% reliable, fold unless you have a very strong hand
Sudden interest (leaning forward/stopping the humming) usually indicates a very good hand
Enter with caution and don't bluff
Opponent is taking his/her time on a tough decision
Encourage the calls if you raised on strength hands. If you're bluffing, discourage the call
Raising after a long hesitation is a bluff in 50% of the cases
Call
Lack of hesitation implies the hand didn’t improve
Bet accordingly
Closely protected hands are usually strong
If this player opens, pass with all borderline hands
Closely protected hands are usually strong
If you hold a strong hand, check rather than open, knowing this player will open for you
Tells from Actors
Before using an actor's tells, you need to be pretty sure that he's acting and not just unaware. It's probably an act if the player has a reason to think you might be recognizing a certain behavior, and he would benefit from you being wrong. Undoubtedly, strong players are less likely to give you tells. Not only would they withhold the most common poker tells world-class players often try to trick by turning some of the more obvious tells around.
Weak Means Strong
If poker players can persuade you that they have a bad hand when they have a great hand, they'll win a few extra calls. Strong hands are why players go to great lengths to look weak. No player who actually holds a weak hand would ever disclose that. Neither would you expect a bluffer to admit he's bluffing. It's because they're strong that they act weak.
The Shrug
Shrugging and then raising the poker player is suggesting he's unsure about the bet and that his hand could be a lot stronger. Don't take the bait here. There's only one reason he would do this - he has a near-certain winner on his hands. The best strategy is to call only with strong hands; call with the majority of hands you would generally raise with and don't bluff.
The Look Away
Those who glance away from the action are more threatening than those who maintain an eye on the bettors. They don't want to do anything to discourage the bet, so be ready for a raise. There are no two ways to do this, so make sure your hand is strong before putting any additional money into this pot. If you raised first, you might want to consider abandoning your bet.
Furthermore, the quick look away after seeing the flop is even more telling. Only play excellent hands and fold any that you believe might be mildly advantageous. If you have a strong hand, allow your adversary to do the betting for you, and dare not bluff.
The Discard
Those who act like they're going to fold their hole cards before the action reaches them are a threat. Why are they doing this if they're not attempting to deceive you? Essentially it's a double move — a player tells the opponent in front that he can raise, and he encourages those behind to call. However powerful your hand may be, it's best to let the opponent bet on your behalf.
The Hesitation
With the long hesitation, the goal is to make the initial bettor think that raising is a difficult choice. His lengthy delay is an attempt to make you believe his raise is weak. When a player does nothing to prevent a big bet, thinks for a long time, and then makes a big raise, it's unlikely that he's bluffing. If you're willing to part with some nice hands, you'll come out ahead here. What you save by not calling is real money, and you stay in the game waiting for the right opportunity.
Strong Means Weak
In terms of dollars, catching players who are acting strong is even more valuable. When you determine that a player is acting weak, you'll often save a call, but the value is just a fraction of the total pot. Conversely, when you catch a player acting strong, you'll utilize that to make a call and win the entire pot.
The Stare
Players stare at a bad flop, trying to appear dangerous. By seeming interested, they want to dissuade betting. As previously covered, you realize that players who like flops tend to look away. Now is the time for a good bluff. Also, call more liberally since he's likely weak or bluffing.
Players making eye contact with the bettor are trying to do the same. Another reason opponents keep an eye on your bets is to ensure they won't get short-changed. You may assume an opponent is attempting to act strong when he's only keeping an eye on your stake amount. Aim to elicit a call from a weaker hand by betting medium-strength hands. Bluff as a last resort.
Reaching for Chips
By grabbing his chips out of turn and looking at his cards, the gambler hopes to seem threatening and prevent them from opening with marginal hands, indicating that the outcome is a sure thing. In this case, you should open with any marginal hand, even those you wouldn't have considered.
Strong players may grab the pot early to provoke a call. The rules change when a player grabs the pot while an opponent is passing. The bettor seeks to win the pot by removing an opponent's remaining uncertainties. Any player with a winning hand will let you call. Even with a weak hand, consider calling or raising to bluff.
Other Actor Tells
Tell
Strategy
If a player bets and then checks his hand as you grab for chips, he's bluffing
Check/Call
‘Accidentally’ exposing means players are trying to convey strength hands
Call
Active player looking as if the pot is far from his mind, is a dangerous opponent
Don’t bluff, play only extremely strong hands and even then, check
Pretending to pass to encourage bets
Don’t bluff, don’t bet and pass
Keeping their hands off their chips to encourage bets
Don't bet into or call without a very strong hand
Looking at the bettor and reaching for chips to discourage bets
Bet marginal hands for value. Think about bluffing, but be careful
The player who gently slides his bet is hoping for a call
Don't call without an extremely strong hand
The bettor who puts chips down with a little extra force hopes for a fold
Call/Raise if you can’t win in a showdown
Sweeping gestures with outstretched arms are used to lure a call by using strange behavior
Fold unless you hold a strong hand
The player who looks and bets at the same time wants to lure a call
You need a good hand to call
Player won't look right at the bettor, but his eyes suggest otherwise
Fold
Looking away with eyes on the pot
Don’t bet
Verbal poker tells like sighs or sounds of sorrow imply good hands
Beware
Online Poker Patterns
When it comes to gaining knowledge about our opponents, learning to recognize and identify typical online betting patterns is crucial in 2022. Bear in mind that online poker tells are different from those used in live games.
It's important to know some terms used at poker sites:
Tanking implies taking a longer time to decide
A strange or typed-in bet is a raise in the odds amount, like $7.99
Instead of verbal poker tells, there's now a chat feature that should be considered
Move
Tell
The Check Then Insta-Call
Marginal hand, likely to fold if not improved
Tank-Checking
Hoping to see another card
Tank-Calling
Quite possibly a fairly strong hand
Big raise after Tank
Possibly nuts
Massive Overbet
Rarely a bluff
Strange amount bets
Value bets, not bluffing
Complaining about lost hand
Play often against this player
Talker goes quiet
Watch out
Buying in for Unusual Amounts
Be involved in hands against these players
Conclusion
If your goal is to play poker successfully, don't jump to conclusions right away when you spot poker tells. Instead, take your time and display uncertainty. By using this approach, your opponent will be less likely to change his behavior, and you'll be able to keep reading poker tells that your opponent gives.
Finally, as the games grow harder, you must take advantage of whatever advantage you can uncover. You won’t improve your win rate if you disregard or don't follow what other players are doing.
Want to learn how to be better while playing poker online? Understanding how counting cards in poker works can help you win more games. Namely, card counting became popular thanks to movies, books, and groups of people such as the incredible MIT blackjack team. In case you want to learn more, watch the movie "21" or read the book "Bringing Down the House."
First things first, you should get yourself familiar with the essential concepts in poker games, like straight outs, flop, river, odds, and blockers. In this article, I’ll specifically discuss card counting in poker games.
How Does Counting Cards in Poker Work?
Card counting is frowned upon by the casino when it comes to blackjack, but it won't get you in trouble in any other game, especially poker.
In a casino game, counting cards means keeping track of which cards have come out of a deck. In all types of poker, there are cards that everyone can see (called "community cards") and cards that only the player who has them can see (called "hole cards"). Note that when you do count cards in poker, there won't be as many face-up cards as in blackjack, so you won’t have as much information to work with.
In poker, you can get a strategic edge if you consider everything you know. For example, if you have a certain card, you know that no one else at the table has it. So, how do you count cards in poker? I’ll explain in the section below to make it more understandable.
Counting Your and Your Opponent's Outs
What is an out? It’s a possible card that can improve the strength of your deck. Outs are cards left in the deck that haven't yet been dealt. When players are waiting for a straight or flush draw, they need a certain card to complete or improve their hands. Knowing how many possible outs there are in a round can help you make important decisions, like whether to call someone's "over" bet or make a "value" bet on the last two streets. That’s where counting outs come in.
To count outs in Texas Hold'em, you have to figure out how many combinations of cards you need to make a hand. First, you need to establish how many outs several common flop drawing hands have vs. made hands:
A pair and a flush draw usually have about 12 outs, while a top pair draw usually only has two.
Compared to a made hand, a naked flush draw has about nine chances to win.
Most of the time, overcards have about six ways to win against a pair.
A pair and an overcard usually have about five chances to beat a top pair.
Counting the Pot Equity
In poker, "equity" means your "fair" share of the pot based on how likely you're to win the hand. So, when you have a drawing hand, you can quickly figure out how much money you have by counting your potential outs. I've mentioned how many outs each typical draw has, so all you have to do to determine the likely equity is to use the rule of 4 and 2.
If you're on the flop, multiply your number of outs by four to get a rough estimate of your chances of drawing a hand. On the other hand, if it's your turn, multiply the number of outs by two, and you’ll determine the chance of a draw.
Counting Cards in a Tainted Deck
Still wondering how to count cards in poker? Note that there’s a difference between a clean out and a tainted out. You should focus on a clean out because tainted outs can improve your hand but help your opponent out even more.
I'll give an example to help you understand this concept better. Say you have Ax-8x, and the flop is J-7-4 with two more spades, giving you a total of four to the nut flush. So, what you have now are nine solid outs: the unseen spades (13 - 4 = 9).
Also, you might think you have three more chances to catch another ace, but these are already used. If an ace falls on the table, a player with an ace and a higher kicker would "out-kick" you, leaving you with the worst hand.
That could cost a lot of money, so it's best to think of the remaining aces as tainted, so you only count them as half as much as the nine unseen spades in the deck. Therefore, the total outs are 9 (the spades that are left) plus 3 x ? = 1.5, for a total of 10.5.
When counting cards in Texas Hold’Em, it’s basically just deducting how many different combinations you need to for a hand. For a straight gutshot draw, you need one numbered card, no matter what suit. Thus, you need four outs. Open-ended straight draws are better because you can form a hand with two numbered cards, meaning you need eight outs to get a straight. Flush draws have nine outs because thirteen cards have the same suit.
Is It Legal to Count Cards in Poker?
Can you count cards in poker? Yes, it’s legal, and it mostly happens during the flop and turn. However, remember that counting cards isn’t used to beat others and win, but to make more money than other players.
It’s not only legal but also a crucial technique that all successful players use. I advise you to use your hole cards and the community cards to estimate the likelihood that your opponent will have a specific hand.
There are countries where this might not be the case, though. It’s also frowned upon sometimes, and Hollywood helped this happen. Some casinos discourage it and might ban you from using it.
Pros and Cons of Card Counting in Poker
Like with everything else in life, counting cards has both good sides and bad sides.
Pros
Cons
You can gain an advantage over other players
The advantage you can gain is less significant than in blackjack
Anyone can learn it
It’s illegal in some places, and some casinos ban it
You can expand your knowledge
It makes you richer
Conclusion
Card counting can be a very lucrative hobby, especially for risk-takers. It’s much easier to learn than it might seem in movies; you just need practice and self-discipline. However, choosing something else is better if you’d like to feel more secure about your financial situation.
It will help you understand your equity and the equity of your opponent, and it’s known as the blocker effect. Thanks to it, you’ll get a strategic advantage by gathering all available information. The more layers you add to your card-counting strategy, the more money you're likely to win.
FAQ
Is counting cards illegal in poker?
It’s legal, but there might be places where it’s illegal, so you should check just in case. It’s legal in the US. However, it can be frowned upon in some places even though it’s legal, so keep that in mind.
How can you tell if someone is counting cards in poker?
There are several ways to tell. For example, if you notice that someone bets much more at the end of the shoe, that’s a sign that they're counting. Another way to spot a counter is to notice that the bets go up when many low-value cards are played.
What’s a gutshot?
A gutshot is a straight draw with four outs to improve a hand. On an AT6 board, 87 is an example. To make a straight, you would need to hit a 9.
Searching for the finest opportunity to win big when playing at online casinos? Look no further than the top 10 highest RTP slots for 2023! In this article, we’ve explained what RTP is in more detail, discussed the elements that affect slot games, offered you some advice on how to win at casino slots, and listed the top 10 games with the highest RTP. Let’s get spinning!
Highest RTP Slot Machines: The Basics
You probably already know what RTP stands for if you like online slot machines. If you’re a new casino player though, RTP, or return to player, is the percentage of money won at a slot machine that’s paid out over time at a casino. A higher RTP offers a better possibility of winning in the long term, making it an important consideration when deciding which slot game to play at the top online casinos. And who doesn’t want to win more, right? Let’s learn more about RTP below.
The success and popularity of a slot machine depend on a number of elements. The payout percentage, paylines, volatility, and bonus games are just a few of the key aspects to look out for when deciding on online slots with the highest RTP.
Determining a Good RTP
As a general rule, the higher the RTP, the better. While an RTP of 100% would be ideal for online slots, anything above 97% is considered excellent. It’s important to keep in mind, however, that not all machines with high RTPs are made equal. Depending on the slot machine, some may have lower volatility, paying out smaller amounts more frequently, while others may have higher volatility, paying out larger sums but less frequently.
Volatility
Slot games vary in volatility, which affects the financial risks associated with them. Although high-volatility slots offer the chance for greater rewards, they tend to pay out less frequently than lower-volatility slots that offer more frequent but smaller payouts. If you want to increase your odds of winning at a slot machine, it’s important to pick one that has a volatility level that suits your play style.
Paylines
The term “payline” is used to describe the lines on which a player’s symbols must fall for them to win. If the slot machine has multiple paylines, each spin increases the player’s chances of winning. Some highest-paying online slots have fixed paylines, whereas others allow players to select the number of active paylines.
Bonus Rounds
Slot games sometimes include bonus features, also known as “bonus rounds,” that provide players with additional chances to win or increase their winnings from previous spins. Examples include free spins, multipliers, click-and-win games, and other variations. Slot games with bonus rounds are more enjoyable to play and offer players the opportunity to win more money at casinos.
Types of Slot Machines
Players can find countless variations of online slot games to fit their individual preferences. There is a slot machine out there for everyone, from traditional slots to modern video slots, jackpot slots, and even 3D slots.
Video Slots
Video slots’ gameplay is more complex thanks to their rich visuals, animations, and extra features. They’re more interesting and engaging to some people due to the abundance of available plots and themes, including top RTP slots.
Jackpot Slots
Casino players seeking life-changing sums of money rush to jackpot slots. The jackpots at these slot machines can be worth anywhere from a few thousand to several million dollars, and the jackpot pool for some slot machines grows larger with each wager until some lucky player hits it.
Progressive Jackpots
Progressive jackpots are jackpots that keep increasing until one lucky player claims the entire prize; one spin might result in a life-changing sum of money for the lucky winner. Progressive jackpots are not exclusive to video slots, and can be won on both old and modern slot machines.
Fruit Machines
Fruit machines are another type of British-made slot machine. They are characterized by fruit symbols, simple gameplay, and a bonus trail where players can unlock more rewards.
3D Slots
Finally, 3D slots, the newest addition to online casino slots, offer breathtaking visuals, animations, and immersion unlike anything else in the industry. Players love them because they provide a new dimension of fun and excitement to their online gaming experience.
Top 10 Highest RTP Slots in 2023
The following list includes the top 10 high RTP slots. It isn’t based only on the RTP percentage; gameplay, bonus features, volatility, and other characteristics are taken into consideration.
Goblin’s Cave by Playtech
Get ready to explore the depths of the Goblin’s Cave, a simple yet thrilling 3-reel slot game from Playtech. No wonder this is one of the best paying online slots! With symbols including rubies, crowns, teapots, and gold coins, the game features a sparkling ruby wild and a bonus game with 10 treasure chests. But the real treasure lies in the game’s incredible RTP of 99.32%, the highest you’ll find on any slot game today!
While Goblin’s Cave may not have a plethora of features, its hold-and-win feature and high payout rate make it a must-try for any slot enthusiast on a budget. And with medium volatility, you’ll be on the edge of your seat as you spin the reels.
Fruits Dimension by World Match
Fruits Dimension is a video slot game that takes players to a vivid and lively fruit-filled planet. The game has a 5-reel structure with 25 paylines and medium volatility, allowing for a balance of regular payouts and large wins. The game has a high RTP of 98.1%. Fruits Dimension’s symbols include traditional fruit symbols like watermelons, lemons, and cherries, as well as some unusual ones like the bell and the blue seven.
The Wild symbol substitutes for any other symbol on the reels except the Free Spins and Bonus Game. The Scatter symbol, or Free Spins, awards 10 free spins and doubles all prizes. During the free Bonus round, you select a basket and add the contents to the mixer to juice your wins.
Ooh Aah Dracula by Barcrest
Get ready to be spooked by Count Dracula’s castle in this gothic-themed slot from Barcrest! Third on our list of the best RTP online slots, this game will keep you on the edge of your seat with Graveyard and Super Graveyard bonus games, as well as a Heart Attack Bonus.
But its unique Big Bet options make it stand out, giving you access to the highest RTP and a skeleton arm strategy indicator to help you make informed decisions. This game is a must-try for any high roller looking for big wins, with free spins, a high roller option, and an RTP of 99%.
Book of 99 by Relax Gaming
Is the brand new Book of 99 slot game setting you up for an exciting journey? Relax Gaming’s Book of 99 is a high-variance slot set in a world of Greek mythology, filled with unique creatures and heroes. Nevertheless, the game’s real upside is its astonishing 99% return to player percentage, making it one of the highest-paying online slots available.
Book of 99 is a 5-reel, 10-line slot machine with expanding wild symbols, respin rounds, and a maximum payoff of 5,000x your wager. However, due to its high variance, winning spins don’t always happen. On the other hand, if you care about the highest RTP games, you should definitely give this game a shot.
MoonStone by SmartSoft Gaming
MoonStone is an exceptionally engaging video slot game launched by SmartSoft Gaming. The game takes players to a fantastical world of exotic creatures and wondrous sights. The game is played against the backdrop of a night sky in foggy woodland. It consists of 5 reels, 3 rows, and 243 paylines. The slot machine has a low level of volatility, and its return-to-player percentage is 98.5%. Therefore, it’s an excellent option for gamblers looking for a game that offers a balanced combination of risk and profit.
Other than fantastic beasts, the most rewarding symbols are the enchanted skull and the bonus symbol.
Mega Joker by NetEnt
Prepare to reminisce about the good old days of slot machines with Giant Joker, a classic online casino game by NetEnt. Mega Joker is a simple and rewarding slot machine game featuring recognizable fruit symbols and music reminiscent of the 1960s, 33 paylines, and the potential to win a random payout when you land three joker symbols. Theoretical RTP is 99%.
Mega Joker has it all, including the Supermeter Bonus game and the opportunity to win a progressive jackpot. Make sure to spin the reels of this must-play slot game, which can be found at most online casinos. NetEnt is a gaming studio that offers other high RTP slots, like Blood Suckers, for example.
Ancient China by Concept Gaming
Ancient China Slot is a 5-reel, 20-payline game with traditional symbols, beautiful graphics, and sound effects inspired by ancient Chinese culture.
The game is available on both desktop and mobile platforms and includes customizable options such as autospin, speed play, and sound management.
Ancient China Slot contains bonus games, free spins, and Wilds, as well as a peaceful, calm background.
This Asian-themed slot game has a high RTP of 98.1% and caters to a wide range of players, offering up to 2,500 coins on a maximum limit stake of 10 coins. While the wins on a low limit wager of 0.20 coins are not as high, the variation in betting options appeals to those who want to play it safe and those who wish to aim for the biggest prizes.
1429 Uncharted Seas by Thunderkick
Set sail for a thrilling adventure with Thunderkick’s 1429 Uncharted Seas online slot. This slot has a tempting return to player percentage of 98.6% and low volatility, which means that when winnings do occur, they are big. Moreover, you should not pass up the opportunity to win up to 67,000 times your first wager.
Enjoy this game’s breathtaking graphics, which are influenced by historical maritime charts and seafaring tales. There are expanding wilds, scatter symbols, and an exciting bonus game on the game’s five reels and twenty-five paylines. Also, it’s mobile-friendly, which is always a plus with the highest RTP slot machines.
Xcalibur by World Match
Enter the enchanted realm of King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table with the Xcalibur slot! This World Match game has a high RTP of 98% and several ways to win thanks to its bonus rounds, free spins, wilds, and scatters. The intricate insignia of helmets, dragons, shields, King Arthur, and Queen Guinevere is based on the mythical Camelot.
The Excalibur sword serves as the game’s Wild symbol, while Merlin the Wizard serves as the Scatter to activate 12 free spins. Keep an eye out for the intriguing bonus game, which is triggered by the silver key symbols and allows you to open doors and discover multipliers of up to 10x. Put on your armor and go on a treasure hunt with the Xcalibur.
Jokerizer by Yggdrasil Gaming
Prepare to spin the reels of Jokerizer, a gorgeous 3D slot machine from Yggdrasil Gaming with a 98% return to player percentage. The traditional fruit machine symbols in this high volatility game have been given a modern twist, including the Joker symbol, which activates the Mystery Win feature and Jokerizer mode.
The possibility of large payments makes it worth the wait, even though you might go for a while without winning. It’s easy to see why this machine is on our list of the highest RTP online slots, so play Jokerizer and try to win a maximum of 6,000 coins.
Tips for Winning at the Best RTP Slots
It’s time to start winning money now that you’ve learned where to find the finest high RTP slots, what RTP is, and what elements affect slot games. Listed below are some suggestions that should help you improve your slot-playing skills and increase your chances of winning:
Choose your casino slots wisely: Learn about the various slot machines and pick one with a good return to player percentage and some fun extras.
Practice with free games: Get a sense of the game’s dynamics with free practice games before making your first deposit, then move on to playing for real money.
Study the paytable: The key to maximizing your profits is to understand the paytable and various symbols and rewards.
Stick to your budget: Establish and maintain a spending limit for your slot session. Be careful not to risk more than you can afford to lose by betting too much.
Aim for smaller jackpots: While huge jackpots can be tempting, smaller jackpot games can offer more frequent payouts and higher winning chances.
Know when to quit: Learn to recognize when it’s time to end a session or game and walk away rather than trying to recoup your losses.
Conclusion
So there you have it, the top 10 best RTP slot machines of 2023! These slots should absolutely be on your must-play list because they give players the best chance to get large prizes. But keep in mind that it’s not just about the RTP; choose a slot that matches your playing preferences and financial constraints. Make your new deposit worthwhile. Happy spinning!
FAQ
Does bet size affect RTP?
No, the size of the bet has no effect on the RTP.
Which slots have the highest RTP?
Goblin’s Cave by Playtech (99.32%), Ugga Bugga by Playtech (99.07%), and Ooh Aah Dracula by Barcrest (99.00%) are a few of the top highest RTP slots.
Is high or low RTP better?
It’s up to the individual casino player and their preferred style of play. A higher RTP is usually preferable because it increases the player’s long-term chances of winning. The key is to find a machine that accommodates the player’s preferred style of play while also offering an optimal RTP.
What is the biggest-ever online slot win?
A Finnish man earned $24 million in 2013 while playing the Mega Fortune slot machine with just a 25-cent bet per spin, which is the largest online slot win ever. So, you don’t need a big deposit or big bets to win big in slots.
Baccarat is one of the most popular games at online casinos today, with a rich and long history that goes back more than 500 years. The ancient populace considered the game to be for Aristocrats only.
With the help of casinos and, by extension, online casinos, Baccarat became an international game in no time, reaching even India. Anyone can find out where they can play Baccarat online in India or elsewhere in Asia with just a simple internet search.
In this article, I'll point out the fascinating history of Baccarat and explain how it became such a popular game all over the world.
History of Baccarat
In the following section, I'll discuss the Baccarat game throughout the years.
Origin of the Baccarat — Italy
When it comes to Baccarat origin, there are a variety of theories. Some believe it began in France, while others believe it began in Rome, Italy. The Italian story is regarded as an origin because it's the most popular version and seems to be the most accurate.
Namely, Baccarat originated in Italy in the 1400s.
Falguiere created the game and named it "baccara," which in Italian means zero because the face cards had a zero value.
Then, Baccarat spread rapidly to France, where the French spelling "Baccarat" originated. As of today, French spelling has become the norm in Europe, Asia, and the rest of the world.
According to legend, Felix created the game based on old Etruscan folklore about a virgin who threw a die with nine sides. There are different versions of the story, with some saying it was a pregnant woman. She became a priestess for every eight or nine she threw. However, if she threw a 6 or 7, she would remain alive but lose all her priestly roles. However, if she throws anything below 6, she'll drown in the sea.
Baccarat History in France — Chemin de Fer
During the 1800s, Baccarat quickly spread from its birthplace, Italy, to its neighboring country, France. The French called it Chemin de Fer. However, as the name was shortened, many people called the game Chemmy.
During the reign of King Charles VIII, Baccarat became a game for the aristocracy in France. Interestingly, only the nobles and the wealthy people of France could participate in the game with King Charles. For many centuries, the game was popular among the rich and noble in France.
Soon after being brought to France, the game was introduced to England by French travelers. In England, Baccarat was a game for everyone to enjoy, and in a short time, it became wildly played.
After learning how to play the game, Ian Fleming conceived James Bond, a fictional character who loves Baccarat.
Punto Banco
Baccarat spread across the ocean to South America and the Caribbean over time. In the early years of Baccarat, it was known as Punto Banco and was adapted in several ways to fit into the local culture. The main change was that the players played only against the house instead of each other. Also, the casinos acted as banks. After a while, the game became known as "American Baccarat."
After that, Tommy Renzoni introduced the game to Las Vegas, Nevada, in the late 1950s.
In contrast to roulette and slot machines, Baccarat haven't been played that much among casino gamblers. Due to this, casino owners marketed the game as a game for the select few by setting high minimum bets and hiding the tables in special rooms furnished with posh leather chairs. Thus, the baccarat game attracted additional attention and added to its allure.
Baccarat at Online Casinos
Since the 1990s, the online casino industry has grown rapidly and attracted millions of players.
As one of the most popular casino games in the world, the Baccarat casino game is available at most online casinos, and it's unlikely that you'll find one that doesn't have at least one Baccarat variation in its selection of games.
As a result of the fast connection speed and the latest technology, players can now enjoy sharp graphics and a user-friendly interface regardless of the device they use for playing.
The stakes are typically lower when playing Baccarat online, making it more exciting and joyful.
Baccarat at Brick-and-Mortar Casinos
It's well known that the Baccarat card game that attracts high rollers. The house edge is approximately 1%, making it one of the games with the lowest house edge.
In the middle of the 20th century, the French version of Baccarat, Chemin de Fer, also called European Baccarat, was introduced in US casinos.
Initially, the rules were complicated, players acted as bankers, and three dealers were required to be involved in the game.
Due to the high stakes, the game became most popular among wealthy players, while mass players preferred blackjack and roulette. But, after some of the issues were resolved, Baccarat became more popular among regular players.
There were also simplified rules, and three dealers were no longer needed. Instead, players needed to place an initial wager on either the player, the banker, or a "tie." In addition, all game action was handled by the dealer, and stakes were lowered.
Old vs. New Baccarat
When you think about it, Baccarat has some pretty scary stories. Now that all that has passed, women can play the game without fear of losing their lives.
In Baccarat, throwing a number less than six means you lose. Aside from that, there are differences between how we play Baccarat today and how gamblers used to play it. In spite of this, the majority of the differences that we see in Baccarat today were adopted when the game was introduced to Americans.
Today, Baccarat only has one dealer, and players can place bets against the house, which also acts as the bank.
Conclusion
To sum up, the history of Baccarat goes back to the 1400s, and it was known as Baccara which translates to zero in Italian. A few centuries later, in France, in the 1800s, this game was known as Chemin de Fer or Chemmy.
After being introduced to the players in South America under the name Punto Blanco, the game of Baccarat came to Nevada around the 1850s, with slightly changed rules, and got the name — American Baccarat.
While new variants have emerged in recent years, EZ Baccarat and Super 6 Baccarat have experienced less innovation than others.
Over time, the rules of Baccarat have changed, and now there are various versions of Baccarat that casino game fans can play in land-based or online casinos.
FAQ
Who was Baccarat made for?
Originally, the game was intended for aristocrats and noblemen, but today many gamblers prefer to play this game, especially high rollers in brick-and-mortar casinos.