What are the best casino games for beginners?

As a newbie, go for games that are both simple to play and entertaining – blackjack (your goal is simply to outscore the dealer’s hand without busting), slots (just push a button and hope for the best), or baccarat (where all you have to do is bet on either the “player, ” “banker, ” or “tie”), to name a few. The rules are straightforward and the house advantages are not as high as some might imagine.

Don’t play roulette unless you’re a pro. The balls are spinning too fast, and the house’s cut rises from 2.7% in Europe to 5.26% in America. If you are not careful, those extra two-and-a-half points will kill you.

In short, begin with a game of blackjack, slots, or baccarat. These are straightforward enough that you won’t feel like throwing your gaming device out the window after ten rounds.

As a casino professional, my personal opinion is that Blackjack and Baccarat are great games to start with because of their low house edge and ease. Slots are for people who have no idea what they are doing. Roulette can be fun, but you will lose money quickly if you bet blindly. The tables are noisy and chaotic but you don't need to go near them. Play Blackjack to learn the ins and outs, play Baccarat for easy money, and treat Slots like junk food. Those are my tips for anyone going to a casino for the first time. Play smart and don't make stupid mistakes.

Dear Reader, If you are a newbie, play blackjack: easy, fun, low house advantage, and you can win by using basic strategy. Slot machines are a ripoff – either you win a jackpot and are deliriously happy or you lose your money very fast. Baccarat is also not so bad but it is difficult to know what to bet on. Steer away from roulette: the house has a 5% edge. Play slowly, and choose games that require skill not just luck. Best of luck. Don’t blow it all in one night. Signed, Old Timer