Casino Table Games
Guide to The Different Types of Casino Table Games:

The Player’s Overview Introduction:
If your new to table games or just want io try a new game you come to the right place.
In this guide, we’ll offer an easy overview of all online casino table games, giving you a snapshot of their essence, their rules, and some expert tips to sharpen your gameplay.
Curious about Blackjack’s Return to Player (RTP) or the nuance in Baccarat? We’ve got everything you need. Plus, our trusted gambling expert, Nick Gough, is here to share his tips and advice to help you better understand and enjoy each game.
Table of Contents
ToggleThe Different Table Games
Let’s start with the table game that most players enjoy Blackjack: The King of Casino Card Games. I have been playing cards at casinos for over 20 years, and I’ll tell you straight nothing beats blackjack for giving you a proper chance to win!
Blackjack

This legendary game (also called “21”) has kept players coming back for centuries, and for good reason. The rules are dead simple: beat the dealer without going over 21. Yet beneath that simplicity lies a game with genuine strategy and proper decisions that actually matter.
What makes blackjack absolute gold for smart players? The ridiculous RTP! We’re talking 99.5% to 99.7% when you play with basic strategy – that’s literally the best odds you’ll find at any casino, online or off.
RTP: Blackjack’s Return to Player (RTP) can be influenced by the specific rules in place. However, with optimal strategy, players can typically expect an RTP ranging from 99.5% to 99.7%.
The Many Variations and RTP
Blackjack has become a staple at nearly all online casinos. Each type of Blackjack can have slight rule changes, which can affect the RTP (Return to Player) percentages. Remember that the exact RTP can vary between online casinos depending on the specific rules they implement.
Here’s a list of some popular blackjack variants you might find online and their typical RTPs:
Blackjack Variant | Typical RTP |
---|---|
Classic Blackjack | 99.41% – 99.75% |
European Blackjack | 99.60% |
Atlantic City Blackjack | 99.65% |
Vegas Strip Blackjack | 99.65% |
Double Exposure Blackjack | 99.30% |
Pontoon | 99.64% |
Blackjack Switch | 99.87% |
Spanish 21 | 99.51% |
Super Fun 21 | 98.94% |
Perfect Pairs Blackjack | 99.60% |
Multi-hand Blackjack | 99.60% (can vary) |
Single Deck Blackjack | 99.74% |
Progressive Blackjack | Varies (usually slightly lower) |
Blackjack Surrender | 99.65% |
Note:The above RTP values are approximate averages. Always check the specific rules, and RTP at your chosen online casino, as rule variations can affect the RTP.

Expert Advice from Nick Gough
I've watched countless players blow their bankrolls on games with high house edge while I've sat at the blackjack table grinding out steady profits with patient play. Learn basic strategy, find tables with good rules, and blackjack could become your most profitable casino game!
To truly master blackjack and boost your winning chances, it's important to learn the basic strategy. This will help you understand when to hit, stand, double down, and split, all based on your hand and the dealer's visible card.
For those looking to venture deeper, techniques like card counting offer an additional advantage. It's worth noting, though, that card counting is primarily effective in land-based casinos and is prohibited in most establishments.
Expand Your Blackjack Skills
Roulette

Roulette is an iconic casino game that has captivated players for centuries with its elegant wheel and exciting gameplay. Online casinos typically offer a variety of roulette variations, including American, European, and French roulette.
RTP: The RTP for European and French roulette is 97.3%, while the RTP for American roulette is slightly lower at 94.74% due to the presence of the double zero pocket.

Nick Gough Roulette Playing Advice:
To boost your chances of success at roulette, focus on even-money bets, such as red or black, even or odd, and high or low. These bets offer the lowest risk and the highest probability of winning.
Additionally, consider using a betting system like the Martingale or the Paroli system to manage your bankroll effectively.
Furthermore, if your chosen casino offers American and European roulette, always choose European, as the odds of winning are better, as seen above.
Expand Your Roulette Skills
Baccarat

Baccarat is a sophisticated card game that has gained popularity due to its simple rules and fast-paced gameplay. The objective of baccarat is to bet on the hand that will have a total value closest to nine.
Types of Online Baccarat and each RTP:
Baccarat offers numerous variants each with it’s own betting options and rules. Dive into the most commen types of baccarat games you might encounter:
Punto Banco (North American Baccarat)
Predominantly played in the U.S., Canada, Australia, and parts of Europe, the casino always banks this version, with gameplay guided by set rules.
- Player Bet: ~98.76%
- Banker Bet: ~98.94% (after 5% commission)
- Tie Bet: ~85–86%
Chemin de Fer (Chemmy)
A French favorite where players rotate as the banker, it introduces a strategic depth regarding betting and card decisions.
- Player Bet: ~98.76%
- Banker Bet: ~98.94% (after 5% commission)
- Tie Bet: ~85–86% (RTP is approximate, depending on players' strategies.)
Baccarat Banque (à deux tableaux)
The banker role is more defined here. Banking responsibility might be auctioned to the highest risk-taker.
- Player Bet: ~98.76%
- Banker Bet: ~98.94% (after 5% commission)
- Tie Bet: ~85–86%
Mini-Baccarat
A concise version of Punto Banco, it's renowned for its speed and lower stakes.
- Player Bet: ~98.76%
- Banker Bet: ~98.94% (after commission)
- Tie Bet: ~85–86%
EZ Baccarat
Eliminating the 5% commission, it offers a unique twist; a banker win with a 3-card total of 7 results in a push.
- Player Bet: ~98.76%
- Banker Bet: ~98.5%
- Dragon 7 side bet: ~93.17%
- Panda 8 side bet: ~91.25%
Super 6 / Punto 2000
There's no commission on banker bets, but a banker win with a 6 yields a 1:2 payout.
- Player Bet: ~98.76%
- Banker Bet: ~98.54%
- Super 6 side bet: ~86–87%
Progressive Baccarat
With a side bet leading to a progressive jackpot, it offers a thrilling opportunity.
- Main Game RTP: Mirrors Punto Banco
- Side Bet RTP: Varies significantly based on jackpot size
Note: RTP figures are approximations. Exact percentages might differ due to house rules, game providers, or regional variations. Always consult the specific RTP for the game you’re engaging with.
Explore these variants, and always be on the lookout for proprietary versions or side bets offered by certain casinos or software providers. Prioritize understanding the rules and house edge for any variant or side bet you contemplate.


Nick Gough Baccarat Playing Advice
Since the banker bet has the highest RTP, it's generally the best option for players. However, keep in mind that most casinos charge a commission (usually 5%) on winning banker bets, which slightly reduces the payout. Additionally, avoid the tie bet, as it has a significantly lower RTP and is considered a high-risk wager..
Expand Your Baccarat Skills
Craps

Craps might look intimidating, but it’s actually one of the most exciting casino games you’ll ever try! Online craps takes all the action from the physical casino and packs it into a digital format you can play anytime.
The beauty of online craps? No crowded tables, no pressure, and you can play at your own pace. The video versions simulate everything from the table to the dice throws perfectly.
RTP: Craps offers some of the best odds in any casino – if you bet smart! Stick with Pass Line (98.59% RTP) and Don’t Pass (98.64% RTP) bets. Those flashy center-table bets? Proper bankroll killers with RTPs sometimes below the 90% mark.

Craps Advice from Nick Gough
Been playing craps for years and here's what actually works:
Stick to These Bets:
Pass Line (1.41% house edge): Bet before come out roll. Win on 7 or 11, lose on 2, 3, 12. Any other number becomes your "point" - you win if it rolls again before a 7.
Don't Pass (1.36% house edge): Opposite of Pass Line. Win on 2, 3, lose on 7, 11, push on 12.
Come/Don't Come Bets: Same great odds but placed after a point is established, giving you more action.
Bets to Avoid:
Hardways: Terrible 9-11% house edge, despite the tempting payouts
Proposition Bets: Even worse at 11-17% house edge its a pure money eater!
My strategy? Pass Line with full odds, add 1-2 Come bets as the game progresses, and NEVER touch those center table sucker bets. Stick with this, and you'll instantly play smarter than most players!
Expand Your Craps Skills
Three Card Poker

Three Card Poker is a simplified version of traditional poker that has gained popularity due to its fast pace and easy-to-understand rules. The game involves each player being dealt three cards, with the objective being to create a better poker hand than the dealer.
RTP: The RTP for the Ante and Play bets in Three Card Poker is 96.63%, while the RTP for the Pair Plus side bet is 95.51%.

Nick Gough Three Card Poker Playing Advice
In order to maximize your chances of winning at Three Card Poker, it's essential to understand the hand rankings and the optimal strategy for the game.
When playing the Ante and Play bets, only raise your bet if your hand consists of a Queen-6-4 or higher. For the Pair Plus side bet, keep in mind that it has a lower RTP and a higher house edge, so bet cautiously.
Pai Gow Poker
Pai Gow Poker is a unique poker variant that combines elements of traditional poker and the Chinese domino game of Pai Gow. The game involves each player being dealt seven cards, with the objective being to create two separate poker hands (a five-card hand and a two-card hand) that both beat the dealer’s hands.
RTP: The RTP for Pai Gow Poker is approximately 97.15% when played with optimal strategy.
Nick Gough Pai Gow Playing Advice: To increase your chances of winning at Pai Gow Poker, focus on creating the strongest possible two-card hand without compromising the strength of your five-card hand. Additionally, consider using the house way strategy, which involves mimicking the dealer’s actions and can help guide your decision-making process.
Caribbean Stud Poker
Caribbean Stud Poker is another popular poker variant that is played against the dealer rather than other players. The game involves each player being dealt five cards, with the objective being to create a better poker hand than the dealer while also potentially winning a progressive jackpot.
RTP: The RTP for Caribbean Stud Poker is approximately 94.78% when played with optimal strategy.
Nick Gough Caribbean Stud Poker Playing Advice: To improve your chances of winning at Caribbean Stud Poker, make sure to familiarize yourself with the hand rankings and the optimal strategy for the game. Generally, you should only raise your bet if your hand consists of a pair or better. Additionally, consider placing a side bet on the progressive jackpot for the potential to win a substantial payout.
Let It Ride Poker
Let It Ride Poker is an exciting poker variant that has gained popularity due to its unique gameplay and potential for big payouts. The game involves each player being dealt three cards, with the objective being to create a winning poker hand using three community cards.
RTP: The RTP for Let It Ride Poker is approximately 96.49% when played with optimal strategy.
Nick Gough Let It Ride Poker Playing Advice: To maximize your chances of winning at Let It Ride Poker, it’s crucial to understand the hand rankings and the optimal strategy for the game. Generally, you should only let your first bet ride if your hand consists of a pair of tens or better, three cards to a royal flush, or three consecutive suited cards. For the second bet, let it ride if you have a pair of tens or better, four cards to a flush, or four consecutive cards. Lastly, remember to manage your bankroll effectively and play within your limits.
Casino War
Casino War is a simple yet exhilarating card game that is perfect for players seeking fast-paced action. The game is based on the classic card game “War” and involves each player going head-to-head against the dealer with the objective of having a higher card.
RTP: The RTP for Casino War varies depending on the specific rules of the game, but typically ranges from 96.5% to 97%.
Nick Gough Casino War Playing Advice: To boost your chances of success at Casino War, it’s essential to understand the game’s rules and develop a solid betting strategy. In the event of a tie, you can choose to surrender and forfeit half of your initial bet or go to war by doubling your bet. Going to war is generally the better option, as it offers a lower house edge. Additionally, consider avoiding side bets, as they typically have a higher house edge and lower RTP.
Ultimate Texas Hold’em
Ultimate Texas Hold’em is a popular poker variant that is played against the dealer rather than other players. The game is based on traditional Texas Hold’em but features unique gameplay and betting structures that set it apart.
RTP: The RTP for Ultimate Texas Hold’em is approximately 99.47% when played with optimal strategy.
Nick Gough Ultimate Texas Hold’em Playing Advice: To enhance your chances of winning at Ultimate Texas Hold’em, it’s important to understand the hand rankings and the optimal strategy for the game. One key strategy is to make the maximum 4x pre-flop raise when holding a strong hand, such as a pair, an Ace with a high kicker, or suited connectors. Additionally, familiarize yourself with the post-flop betting strategy, which includes making the 2x raise on the flop with two pair or better and making the 1x raise on the river with a pair or better. Lastly, remember to manage your bankroll effectively and play within your limits.
Thrilling Table Games
Online casino table games offer a diverse and exciting range of gaming experiences for players of all skill levels. By understanding the different games available, their respective RTPs, and the expert advice provided in this guide, you can enhance your overall gaming experience and improve your chances of winning. As with any form of gambling, it’s essential to play responsibly and within your limits. Now that you’re equipped with the knowledge to navigate the world of online casino table games, it’s time to put your skills to the test and enjoy the thrill of the virtual casino floor.
Exploring 5 Unusual Casino Card Games:
Some online casinos offer card games beyond the usual blackjack and poker variants. Several lesser-known table games provide a fresh and exciting gaming experience for players seeking something new and unique. These five below are unusual casino card games you can play at certain online casinos. We will discuss the rules and gameplay, RTP percentages, and provide expert advice to help you maximize your chances of winning. So let’s dive in and explore these intriguing card games.
Red Dog
Red Dog, also known as Red Dog Poker or Yablon, is a straightforward card game perfect for players seeking a fast-paced and easy-to-learn experience. The game involves betting on whether the value of a third card will fall between the values of the first two cards dealt.
RTP: The RTP for Red Dog varies depending on the specific rules of the game and the number of decks used but typically ranges from 95.25% to 96.84%.
Nick Gough Red Dog Playing Advice: To improve your chances of success when playing Red Dog, it’s essential to understand the game’s rules and develop a solid betting strategy. As the spread (the range of possible card values between the first two cards) increases, so do your chances of winning. Therefore, consider increasing your bet when the spread is wide and decreasing your bet when the spread is narrow. Additionally, remember to manage your bankroll effectively and play within your limits.
Punto Banco
Punto Banco is a popular variant of baccarat that offers a unique twist on the classic game. The objective of Punto Banco is to bet on the hand (either the player or the banker) that will have a total value closest to nine.
RTP: The RTP for Punto Banco is similar to standard baccarat, with the banker bet offering an RTP of 98.94%, the player bet offering an RTP of 98.76%, and the tie bet offering a significantly lower RTP of 85.64%.
Nick Gough Punto Banco Playing Advice: Like in baccarat, the banker bet is generally the best option for players due to its higher RTP. However, remember that most casinos charge a commission (usually 5%) on winning banker bets, which slightly reduces the payout. Additionally, avoid the tie bet, as it has a significantly lower RTP and is considered a high-risk wager.
Casino Hold’em
Casino Hold’em is an exciting poker variant where you play against the dealer rather than other players. The game is based on traditional Texas Hold’em but features unique gameplay and betting structures that set it apart.
RTP: The RTP for Casino Hold’em is approximately 97.84% when played with optimal strategy.
Nick Gough Casino Hold’em Playing Advice: To maximize your chances of winning at Casino Hold’em, it’s crucial to understand the hand rankings and the optimal strategy for the game. One key strategy is to make the maximum pre-flop raise when holding a strong hand, such as a pair, an Ace with a high kicker, or suited connectors. Additionally, familiarize yourself with the post-flop betting strategy, which includes making the raise on the river with a pair or better. Lastly, remember to manage your bankroll effectively and play within your limits.
Triple Pocket Hold’em Poker
Triple Pocket Hold’em Poker is another poker variant that offers a unique twist on traditional Texas Hold’em. In this game, the player competes against two dealer hands simultaneously, with the objective being to create a better poker hand than both dealer’s hands.
RTP: The RTP for Triple Pocket Hold’em Poker is approximately 97.29% when played with optimal strategy.
Nick Gough Playing Advice: To improve your chances of winning at Triple Pocket Hold’em Poker, it’s essential to understand the hand rankings and the optimal strategy for the game. One key strategy is to be selective with the hands you choose to play, as you need to beat both dealer hands to win. Generally, only play strong hands such as high pairs, high-suited connectors, or high-unsuited connectors. Additionally, pay close attention to the community cards and adjust your strategy based on the potential hands the dealer may have. Lastly, remember to manage your bankroll effectively and play within your limits.
Spanish 21
Spanish 21 is a blackjack variant that offers a unique twist on the classic game, with several additional rules and side bets that add an extra layer of excitement. The most significant difference is that Spanish 21 uses a 48-card deck, with all four tens removed.
RTP: The RTP for Spanish 21 can vary depending on the specific rules of the game and the number of decks used but typically ranges from 99.2% to 99.6% when played with optimal strategy.
Nick Gough Spanish 21 Playing Advice: To maximize your chances of winning at Spanish 21, it’s crucial to familiarize yourself with the additional rules and gameplay modifications, such as the bonus payouts for specific hands and the option to surrender at any time. Additionally, learn the optimal strategy for Spanish 21, which can differ from the standard blackjack strategy due to removing the tens from the deck. Lastly, be cautious with side bets, as they often have a lower RTP and a higher house edge.
Unusual Casino Card Games Conclusion
These five unusual casino card games offer a refreshing and engaging alternative to traditional casino games. By understanding the rules, RTPs, and expert advice provided in this article, you can enhance your overall gaming experience and improve your chances of winning. Of course, as with any form of gambling, playing responsibly and within your limits is essential.
Finding Your Perfect Casino Table Game: A Regular Player’s Guide
After spending two decades bouncing between blackjack tables, poker rooms, and roulette wheels across Vegas, Atlantic City, and dozens of UK casinos, I’ve learned that picking the right game makes all the difference between a brilliant night out and a frustrating money drain. Here’s my no-nonsense advice on finding your perfect table match.
Know Your Skill Level Honestly
Let’s be real – we all think we’re better at casino games than we actually are! Here’s my experience based breakdown:
If You’re a Complete Beginner: Start with Baccarat – it’s literally just betting on who gets closest to 9. Zero strategy needed! You can learn everything in about 30 seconds, the house edge is decent at around 1.2% on banker bets, and nobody expects you to make complex decisions. I’ve introduced countless mates to casino gaming through baccarat because it’s impossible to “play wrong” and embarrass yourself.
Roulette is another great starter game. Just place your chips where you fancy, then watch the wheel spin. I usually recommend new players stick to outside bets like red/black or odd/even, which give you almost 50/50 chances. Perfect for stretching your bankroll while figuring out the casino vibe.
If You’re Ready for a Bit of Strategy: Blackjack remains the king of “easy to learn, lifetime to master” games. The basic rules take 5 minutes to grasp, and even just following basic strategy (those charts that tell you when to hit/stand) brings the house edge down to a tiny 0.5%. I always carry a strategy card in my wallet – even casinos allow these at the table!
For Experienced Players: Poker is the ultimate skill game, but be warned – it’s also the most brutal on beginners. Unlike other casino games where you’re playing against the house, in poker you’re up against other players who will happily take your money if you don’t know what you’re doing. I spent my first two years as a poker player basically donating to more experienced regulars before I got decent!
Craps looks intimidating with its complex table layout, but once you get past the learning curve, it offers some of the best odds in the casino and creates the most electric atmosphere. I avoided it for years before a friendly dealer took the time to show me the basics – now it’s often my first stop.
Be Honest About Your Personality
Your personality should heavily influence your game choice. I’ve seen this play out hundreds of times:
🧑🤝🧑 If You’re Social and Enjoy Camaraderie: Craps is unbeatable for creating that “us against the house” team spirit. When the entire table’s roaring and high-fiving after a good roll, there’s nothing like it in the casino. Some of my best casino memories involve cheering on complete strangers during hot streaks.
🧠 If You’re Analytical and Enjoy Strategy: Blackjack or Poker will give your brain the workout it craves. I’m naturally a bit of a math nerd, so I love counting cards in blackjack (still legal, despite what casinos would prefer!) and calculating pot odds in poker. Your mileage may vary if you’re looking to switch off rather than think harder!
⚡ If You’re Impatient or Easily Bored: Roulette or Three Card Poker provide quick results with minimal waiting. I’ve got mates with the attention span of a goldfish who can’t stand poker’s pace but will happily play roulette for hours because something happens every 60 seconds.
Be Realistic About Your Bankroll
Your budget should drastically influence your game choice:
💸 For Small Bankrolls (Under $100): Stick with Blackjack or Baccarat where minimum bets can be as low as $5-10 and the house edge is tiny. My standard approach with $100 is to sit down at a $5 blackjack table, which typically gives me at least an hour of solid entertainment even on an unlucky night.
💰 For Medium Bankrolls ($100-500): You can explore Craps or Roulette more comfortably. With $250, I’ll often play $10-15 per round and expect a decent session length. Casino poker tournaments in this buy-in range can also offer fantastic value – I once turned a $220 tournament entry into $1,800 over six hours of play.
🤑 For Larger Bankrolls ($500+): The world’s your oyster! Poker cash games with meaningful stakes become an option. I’d still avoid high-minimum baccarat and roulette tables though – the gameplay isn’t any better just because you’re betting $50 per hand instead of $10!
Consider the House Edge
This is where maths meets real money. Here’s my ranking of popular table games from best to worst odds:
1️⃣ Blackjack: About 0.5% house edge with basic strategy – practically even money!
2️⃣ Craps: Around 1.4% on Pass/Don’t Pass bets with odds
3️⃣ Baccarat: Roughly 1.2% on banker bets
4️⃣ Three Card Poker: About 3.4% on ante/play bets
5️⃣ Roulette: 2.7% on European wheels, nasty 5.26% on American double-zero wheels
I personally refuse to play American roulette – why give the house an extra 2.5% advantage for literally the exact same game? I once watched a mate burn through $500 in 20 minutes on an American wheel when a European table sat empty just across the casino floor. Madness!
🎯 What I Recommend (After 10+ Years at the Tables)
After all these years playing and observing, here’s what I typically recommend to friends:
🥇Best Overall Beginner Game: Baccarat It’s simple, social, has great odds, and you can’t embarrass yourself by “playing wrong.”
💸Best Game for Stretching Your Bankroll: Blackjack With just basic strategy, you can play for hours on a modest budget. My personal record is turning $100 into a 7-hour session that included free drinks and dinner!
🔥Most Exciting Game: Craps Nothing beats the energy of a hot craps table. I’ve literally seen strangers hugging after a shooter made their point for the 8th time in a row.
🚫Best Game When You’re Drunk: Don’t gamble when drunk! Seriously, this is how casinos make their money. I’ve made this mistake multiple times so you don’t have to!
🧑🤝🧑Most Social Game: Poker When played at relaxed, lower-stakes tables, poker is as much about the banter as the cards. Some of my closest mates today are people I met at poker tables years ago.
💡Remember: the perfect casino game is one that gives you genuine enjoyment for your money, not just the one with the best mathematical edge. I’d rather have fun losing slowly at craps than be bored winning slowly at baccarat! Find what clicks with your personality, learn the basic strategy, and always set time and money limits before you sit down at any table.
You might also want to dive into the world of all casino games. Please remember to enjoy your time at the tables responsibly!.
About the Author: Nick Gough – Admin & Expert at OnlineCasinos.net
I’ve spent over 20 years gambling, testing, and writing honest reviews about Canadian online casinos. My experience has given me a deep understanding of the good and bad sides of the casino industry.
Specialties: I am a real gambler, and I’ve developed a strong knowledge of slot machines and table games.
Mission: My goal is to help Canadians find legal, safe, and trustworthy gambling sites and share my knowledge.
Nicky Smith, Editor at OnlineCasinos.net, also fact-checked this review.
Reference