The online casino industry offers 20,000+ titles for every level. In this article, PeakyCasino introduces the five most popular types of online casino games, from table games to slots. Extra tips for beginners are also included to make your experience more rewarding.
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5 Popular Online Casino Game Types
Five popular online casino game types include table games (Poker, Blackjack, Roulette, and Baccarat), slots (Classic, Video slots, Progressive jackpot), games of chance (Lottery, Bingo, Keno), card games (Rummy, Crazy Eights, Pinochle) and dice games (Craps, Sic Bo, Lightning Dice).
1. Table Games
Table games in online casinos (Poker, Blackjack, Roulette, and Baccarat) revolve around strategy and interaction with dealers or other players. Their outcomes are influenced by both player decisions (such as to hit or to stand) and chance.
Players interact with each other to influence the outcome (Source).
Poker
Here are the rules of two common Poker variants, Texas Hold’em and Omaha:
Texas Hold’em:
Players are dealt 2 private cards (cards that only they can see) and share 5 community cards (dealt face-up in the center of the table, visible to all players).
The objective is to form the best 5-card hand by using any combination of the 2 private cards and the 5 community cards. This game has 4 basic betting rounds: pre-flop, flop (first three community cards), turn (fourth card), and river (fifth card).
Omaha:
It is similar to Texas Hold’em, but players are dealt 4 private cards instead of 2 and must use exactly 2 of them combined with 3 community cards.
Blackjack
In Blackjack, players aim to have a hand total closer to 21 than the dealer (but not going over 21). Numbered cards are worth their face value, face cards are worth 10, and aces count as 1 or 11.
After the initial 2 cards are dealt, players choose to:
- Hit: take another card
- Stand: keep their current hand
- Double down: double their bet for one more card
- Split: Divide matching cards into two separate hands
The rule for the dealers depends, but they usually keep hitting until reaching 17 or higher.
Roulette
Players place their bets on a grid corresponding to numbers (1 to 36) and colors (red or black) on the roulette wheel. A ball is spun in the wheel, and the outcome depends on where it lands. 3 betting options include:
- Straight up: Betting on a single number
- Split: Betting on 2 adjacent numbers
- Outside bets: Red/black, odd/even, or ranges like 1 to 18 or 19 to 36.
Baccarat
For baccarat, players bet on one of three outcomes: the banker’s hand winning, the player’s hand winning, or a tie.
Each hand is dealt 2 or 3 cards, with the goal of having a total closest to 9. Cards 2 to 9 are worth face value, 10s and face cards count as 0, and aces are worth 1. Only the second digit counts if a hand’s total exceeds 9 (e.g., a total of 15 becomes 5).
2. Slots (Gaming Machines)
Classic slots, video slots, and progressive jackpots offer a fast-paced experience with core features like wilds, scatters, free spins, and bonus rounds. Players must spin reels to align symbols for their payouts.
Slots (classic, video slots, progressive) offer a fast-paced thrill (Source).
Classic Slots
It is a straightforward three-reel game that replicates an old mechanical slot machine. To win, players must match symbols across a single or more than two paylines.
Payouts are based on the symbol combinations. For example, landing three cherries on a single payline wins 5 coins, while three bars gain 10 coins.
Video Slots
Video slots follow the same rule as classic slots. However, they feature feature 5+ reels and 100+ paylines, plus interactive elements like:
- Wild symbols (substitute for other symbols to create wins)
- Scatter symbols (trigger bonus features like free spins)
- Engaging theme and storyline to keep players entertained
Progressive Jackpot Slots
The jackpot slots are connected across a network and pool a portion of each wager into a shared jackpot.
The jackpot continues to grow until someone wins, though it often requires players to bet the maximum amount to be eligible. Wins are triggered either randomly or by landing specific symbols (cherries, bars, fish, etc.)
3. Games of Chance
Games of chance like lottery, bingo, and keno rely purely on luck. These are suitable for beginners since they require little to no strategy. Their simplicity also makes them enjoyable and quick to play.
Lottery, bingo, and keno rely purely on luck (Source).
Lottery
Players select a set of numbers (usually between 1 and 49), hoping to match the randomly drawn numbers. Matching more numbers results in higher payouts, and a full match leads to a jackpot prize.
Bingo
Each player receives a card with grids of random numbers. Numbers are called out, and players mark them off on their cards. The goal is to complete a specific pattern (e.g., a line, a full house) to score a “Bingo.”
Keno
For Keno, players select numbers (typically 1 to 10) from a larger pool (e.g., 1 to 80). The game randomly selects winning numbers, and payouts depend on how many numbers match. Like a Lottery game, the more numbers chosen and matched, the higher the payout.
4. Card Games
A card game emphasizes hand management and a deep understanding of the rules to maximize success. Online versions like Rummy and Crazy Eights include both automated play and multiplayer options to cater to more skill levels, from beginner to advanced.
There are both automated and multiplayer options (Source).
Rummy
In Rummy, players are dealt a hand of cards and aim to form valid sets (three or four of a kind) or sequences (three or more consecutive cards of the same suit). The first player to meet the goal wins.
Crazy Eights
Players take turns discarding cards that match the rank or suit of the top card on the pile. Eights are wild and can be played at any time, allowing the player to choose a new suit. The first player to discard all cards wins.
Pinochle
Pinochle is played with a 48-card deck (9, 10, Jack, Queen, King, Ace, with two copies of each suit). The game has two phases: melding and trick-taking.
In the melding phase, players reveal specific combinations of cards to earn points, such as:
- Marriage: King and Queen of the same suit, 4 points
- Run: Ace, 10, King, Queen, Jack of the same suit, 15 points
- Pinochle: Jack ♦ and Queen ♠, 4 points
Every player reveals these combinations before moving to the trick-taking phase.
For the trick-taking phase, players take turns playing one card each to win tricks (rounds).
The highest card in the leading suit (the suit of the first card played) wins the trick. One only exception is when someone plays a card from the trump suit (chosen at the start of the round), which always beats non-trump suits. Card values are Ace (11), 10 (10), King (4), Queen (3), and Jack (2).
5. Dice Games
The outcomes of dice games (Craps, Sic Bo, Lightning Dice) are determined by the roll of dice. They are popular for their fast-paced and diverse betting options, such as Pass Line bets, Don’t Pass Line bets, Odd bets, and more.
The roll of dice decides you win or lose (Source).
Craps
In Craps, players bet on the results of two dice rolled by the shooter. The game begins with a “come-out rolls”:
- Rolling an 11 or 7 wins for players who bet on the Pass Line.
- Rolling a 12, 3, or 2 means Pass Line bettors lose (that is called “craps.”)
- Rolling any other number (10, 9, 8, 6, 5, or 4) establishes a point. Once a point is established, the shooter keeps rolling.
Sic Bo
In Sic Bo, players bet on the outcome of three dice rolled together. Wins are based on the bets placed:
- Small (4-10) wins if the total is between 4 and 10 (excluding triples)
- Big (11-17) wins if the total is between 11 and 17 (excluding triples)
- Specific triples (e.g., 3-3-3) win if all three dice show the same number.
- Exact combinations (e.g., 2 and 5) win if two specific numbers appear on the dice.
Lightning Dice
Three dice are rolled in a transparent tower, and players bet on the total sum of the dice.
Wins occur if the sum matches the player’s bet. For example, you win when you bet on 9, and the dice total is 9. Random outcomes are struck by a lightning multiplier, boosting payouts up to 1,000x.
Free vs. Real-Money Games
Free online casino games are risk-free and for entertainment or practice. Meanwhile, real-money games offer the potential for real payouts but come with high financial risks. Over 20,000 casino games, like Starburst, Divine Fortune, and Da Vinci Diamonds, come with both free and real-money versions. So, consider the factors below to choose which one to play first.
| Features | Free casino games | Real-money games |
| Cost to play | 100% free
No deposit required |
Requires a deposit |
| Earnings | Virtual rewards | Real, withdrawable payouts |
| Risk | Zero financial risk | High risk of losing real money |
| Availability | No age or location restrictions | Restricted by age (18+ or 21+) and region-specific gambling laws |
| Registration | No registration or verification needed | Requires account creation, identity, and payment details |
| Purpose | Skill-building
Practice |
Competitive gambling for real money |
How to Choose The Best Online Casino Games
Consider whether you enjoy fast, luck-based games like lottery or keno or strategic options like blackjack and poker. Also, think about your risk tolerance — whether you prefer big but rare wins or frequent smaller payouts.
Personal Enjoyment
The best casino game for you depends on your personal preference. So stick to your favorite game if you already know what you enjoy.
For beginners or undecided players, feel free to experiment with popular options like blackjack, roulette, baccarat, poker, craps, etc., to discover your style.
Strategic Play or Instant Luck
Casino games are divided into five categories, including slots, table games, card games, games of chance, and dice games.
Table and card games require strategy and understanding rules, while games of chance, slots, or dice games are luck-based. Research each category carefully to find one that suits your strength and gameplay style best.
Classic or New Variations
Classic games (like classic slots or poker) stick to the traditional format, while their newer variations introduce exciting twists. For example:
- Classic roulette involves betting on a single number, range, or color. Meanwhile, Lightning Roulette includes one or more multipliers to increase your payout.
- The standard version of blackjack focuses on beating the dealer’s hand. However, sites like 888Casino or BetMGM offer side bets (e.g., wagering on the chance of being dealt a pair) or additional mini-games to boost your experience.
So consider the two options and choose one that works best for you.
Automated Games or Live Dealer
Live dealer games are streamed in real-time with a human dealer to offer an authentic casino experience with social interaction. Automated games, like virtual slots or roulette, allow you to play privately at your preferred speed.
Choose the one you like, though beginners often start with automated games to learn at their own pace.
Frequent Wins or High Stakes
Games with lower Return to Player (RTP) rates, like Progressive jackpot or Classic slots, offer large but rare payouts. We recommend them for players who like to chase big wins.
Conversely, poker or blackjack provide smaller but more frequent payouts if you play with the right strategy. They are suitable for those who prefer steady, consistent returns over long gaming sessions.
How to Play Online Casino Games
To play online casino games safely and enjoyably, follow these four steps:
- Find a reliable casino or game provider. Turn to PeakyCasino’s recommendations if you cannot decide.
- Decide on the type of game you want to play, then research its rules and gameplay carefully. Check user reviews to ensure the game has good customer support and fair payouts.
- Verify the casino and game holds a license from recognizable authorities like the UK Gambling Commission or Malta Gaming Authority.
- Register (if required), deposit within your budget, and start playing.
5 Tips for Getting Good at Online Casino Games
To get better at online casino games, set a realistic goal, focus on learning the strategies (when to hit, fold, or double down), and explore different versions of the same game type to find what suits your style.
Set a realistic goal and budget (Source).
Set Realistic Goals
Do not expect to win big every time you play. For example, in blackjack, aim to learn the basic strategy to reduce the house edge rather than assuming you will win every hand.
Meanwhile, for games like slots or roulette, remember that luck is the main factor; focus on having fun instead of chasing a big payout.
Explore Different Variations
Try different versions of the same game type to find one that fits your style. In poker, for instance, Texas Hold’em is great for bluffing and strategy, while Omaha requires focusing on your hand and the community cards.
Study and Apply Strategies
Use strategies to improve your chances, especially in games of skill:
- For blackjack, learn the basic strategy chart to know when to hit, stand, or double down.
- In poker, practice managing your chips and knowing when to fold.
- Even in roulette, using a betting system like the Martingale helps you manage your bankroll more effectively.
Practice
Consider using the free versions of games (e.g., Cleopatra, Lobstermania, Da Vinci Diamonds, etc.) to practice without financial risk, especially if you are a beginner. It also helps you build more confidence when you eventually play with real money.
Stick to Your Limit
Always set a budget and stick to it. Suppose you plan to spend $20; stop playing once you have used it up, even if you are winning. Set a time limit, too; playing for too long leads to poor decisions and overspending.
FAQs
How do these games work?
These games work unpredictably. Every online casino utilizes random number generators (RNGs). They generate sequences of numbers corresponding to game results, such as card deals or slot spins, to make each outcome independent.
What are the best games for beginners?
Best games for new players are slots, roulette, and blackjack. Slots require no strategy — just spin the reels. Roulette offers simple betting options (such as red or black). Blackjack combines simplicity with just a bit of strategy.
What are the best high-risk, high-reward games?
The best high-risk, high-reward games are progressive jackpot slots and poker variants like No Limit Texas Hold’em or Pot Limit Omaha. They accumulate winnings over time but require considerable skill and carry higher risks than other games like blackjack or roulette.
How do you choose good casinos?
To choose the best casino, check for proper licensing from recognized authorities (such as the UK Gambling Commission) and ensure the casino offers secure payment methods (PayPal, credit card, etc.) Read reviews from PeakyCasino to learn which site to choose.
What are the best games for advanced players?
The best games for advanced players are poker, blackjack, and baccarat. They require strategic thinking, allowing for skill development and strategy application. So, the experience is both more challenging and rewarding.
Why is it good to play free casino games?
Free casino games let beginners familiarize themselves with game rules (e.g., how to use the paylines and bonuses) and mechanics without financial risk. It’s a safe way to practice strategies and build confidence before engaging in real-money play.
What is the simplest casino game?
Slot machines, like Da Vinci Diamonds, Cleopatra, and Divine Fortune, are considered the simplest casino games since they require no strategy or decision-making. Players simply spin the reels and await the outcome.
Are online casino games rigged?
No. Reputable online casino games like Book of Dead or Cleopatra use RNGs to ensure fair play. They also undergo regular updates to maintain integrity. Still, it’s important to choose a licensed and regulated casino to avoid being rigged.
What casino games have the worst odds?
Casino games with the worst odds are slots, keno, and the American version of roulette. They have higher house edges, which are less favorable for players. American roulette has an additional double zero, increasing the house edge compared to European roulette (single zero).