Casino

Step into any casino, whether a bustling Vegas floor or a polished online platform, and you’ll quickly notice something: some games just never lose their shine.

Sure, new formats and features pop up all the time. Just look at the rise of Megaways slots, which reinvent the spinning reels with thousands of potential ways to win.

Players flock to classic favourites for top odds and entertainment. Let’s dive into the timeless casino games that give you the most bang for your buck without skimping on thrill.

Why the old-school casino games still matter

In a casino world buzzing with innovation, it’s easy to chase the latest trends. But seasoned players know better. Sometimes, your best bet is also your most familiar one.

Classic games have stood the test of time for a reason—they combine skill, pace, and above all, competitive odds.

If your goal is to play smart, manage risk, and maybe even come out ahead now and then, it helps to know which games stack the odds in your favour. And no, this doesn’t mean adopting a sceptical or joyless mindset. It’s about understanding your edge and playing with intention.

Ready for some real value? Let’s look at the classic casino games with the best odds.

1. blackjack: still the gold standard for low house edge

Ask any casino veteran which game gives players the best shot, and they’ll point to blackjack.

With a house edge as low as 0.5% (when played using basic strategy), blackjack is widely considered the most “beatable” game on the floor.

Why it works:

• It’s a game of decisions, not just luck.
• A basic strategy can be learned in an afternoon.
• Played head-to-head with the dealer, you’re not competing against high rollers or seasoned pros.

Want to push the odds further in your favour? Avoid side bets, understand when to split or double down, and always be aware of table rules (they matter more than you think).

2. craps: don’t let the dice fool you

Craps can look chaotic to the untrained eye, but behind the shouting and flying dice is a game with some of the best odds in the building. The key lies in choosing your bets wisely.

Best bets in craps:

• Pass Line/Don’t Pass Line: House edge of 1.41% and 1.36% respectively.
• Come/Don’t Come bets: Similar structure to Pass Line bets.
• Odds Bets: Often overlooked, but they carry zero house edge.

In short: avoid the flashy proposition bets in the centre of the table, and stick with the core structure. Play it smart, and you’ll see why craps is a long-time favourite for savvy players.

3. baccarat: elegance meets efficiency

It may be James Bond’s go-to for high-stakes glamour, but baccarat is far simpler (and friendlier) than its reputation suggests. In fact, it’s arguably the most straightforward game in the casino.

The smart baccarat bets:

• Banker: House edge around 1.06%
• Player: Slightly higher edge at 1.24%

Avoid entirely:

• Tie bets — tempting payouts, but a house edge around 14% makes them one of the worst bets in the building.

For those who want a low-maintenance game with competitive odds and a fast pace, baccarat might be the perfect fit.

4. roulette: stick to european for better odds

Roulette is a casino icon. It’s smooth, stylish, and endlessly watchable. But not all roulette wheels are created equal.

Key difference:

• European Roulette: Single zero, house edge of 2.7%
• American Roulette: Double zero, house edge jumps to 5.26%

That one little extra zero makes a big difference over time. If you’re playing with odds in mind, the European wheel should always be your go-to.

Bonus tip: Look for rules like en prison or la partage (common in French roulette). They return part of your even-money bets if the ball lands on zero—nudging the odds even further in your favour.

What about slots?

This is where nuance matters. Traditional slots can vary wildly in payout percentages (RTP–Return to Player), but modern games like Megaways have added a fresh twist. While they may not rival blackjack or baccarat in terms of odds, they offer something else: potential.

Why Megaways slots remain popular:

• Dynamic reels offer thousands of winning combinations.
• Features like cascading wins, multipliers, and bonus rounds create excitement beyond the base game.
• Often higher volatility — which means larger wins are possible, even if less frequent.

For players who want a thrill ride with a chance at a significant payout, these modern slots strike a compelling balance.

Play smart: a quick guide to odds-focused gaming

Looking to get the most out of your next casino session? Keep this in mind:

1. stick with the games that give you a say

Games like blackjack and video poker reward strategy. If you enjoy learning systems and thinking through your moves, these are ideal.

2. know the rules before you sit down

Even small tweaks in rules (e.g.,how many decks are used in blackjack) can shift the odds. A little research goes a long way.

3. bet with a purpose, not just for the payout

Big bets can be thrilling, but they also burn through your bankroll.

Look for low house-edge bets that let you play longer and smarter.

4. entertainment counts too

Odds are important, but enjoyment matters.

If Megaways slots or roulette are what you enjoy most, go for it, just balance fun with awareness.

The edge is in the understanding

The best casino games aren’t just about bright lights and big jackpots—they’re about clarity.

The games we’ve covered here remain favourites for one simple reason. They combine entertainment with favourable odds.

So next time you’re weighing up your options and keep this in mind: it’s not about beating the casino every time. It’s about knowing how to play your best game.

Start the best online casinos now.

Or brush up on your strategy via the Roger iGaming blog.