Every casino game has a mathematically optimal way to play. While no strategy eliminates the house edge entirely, intelligent play can dramatically reduce it — stretching your bankroll further and giving yourself the best possible chance of a profitable session. This guide covers optimal strategies for the most popular casino table games.
Blackjack Strategy
Perfect basic strategy reduces the house edge to approximately 0.5%. Always memorise when to hit, stand, double down, or split based on your hand total and the dealer’s upcard. Key rules: stand on hard 17+; never split 5s or 10s; always split Aces and 8s; double on 11 against dealer 2–10; always choose European or Atlantic City rules over single-deck 6:5 games.
Roulette Strategy
Choose European Roulette over American for half the house edge (2.7% vs 5.26%). French Roulette with La Partage drops to 1.35% on even-money bets. Avoid inside bets if you want longer sessions. No betting system changes the underlying odds — Martingale and Fibonacci manage bet sizing but not expected value.
Baccarat Strategy
Always bet Banker — the Banker bet carries a 1.06% house edge vs 1.24% for Player. Ignore tie bets (14.4% house edge). Skip card-tracking strategies — baccarat shoes offer negligible edge even to advanced players. The game is essentially pure luck with a slight statistical preference for Banker.
Video Poker Strategy
Jacks or Better, played with a full-pay pay table and optimal strategy, returns up to 99.54% — making it one of the best-value casino games available. The strategy involves holding any pair of Jacks or better, preserving suited connectors for flushes, and folding unpromising hands. Always play the full coin bet to qualify for the Royal Flush bonus.
Slot Strategy
Choose slots with RTPs above 96%. Understand volatility and match it to your bankroll. Set session limits. Use free demo play to understand mechanics before wagering real money. There is no winning system for slots — every spin is completely independent.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the casino game with the best odds?
Blackjack with basic strategy (0.5% house edge) and Jacks or Better video poker with optimal play (0.46%) offer the best theoretical return of any casino games.
Does strategy really work in casino games?
Yes, for skill-based games like blackjack and video poker. Correct strategy demonstrably reduces the house edge. For pure-chance games like slots and roulette, strategy manages your bankroll and bet sizing but cannot alter long-term expected outcomes.
Responsible Gambling: Always gamble within your means. If gambling is causing harm, contact BeGambleAware or call 1-800-522-4700.