If you wish to begin playing casino table games, this review is a perfect start. In it, you can familiarise yourself with the best table games, their rules, and variations. You can also learn which options are more suitable for beginners so you don’t get overwhelmed at the beginning of your online gaming journey.
In addition, this guide reveals the best casinos to explore different variants of these games and potential bonuses and promotions designed for table game enthusiasts.
Blackjack
To start with, Blackjack, also known as ‘21’, is one of the most popular table games and is quite common. In this game, all players are playing against the dealer – not one another.
Additionally, your objective is to beat the croupier’s hand without exceeding 21 or ‘busting’. So, you need a higher hand than a dealer to win your bet. Moreover, you determine your hand value by adding up the point values of your cards. Cards 2-10 are counted as their face value, while Jack, Queen, and King are worth 10 points.
However, Ace can be counted as 1 or 11 – whichever suits you more in a particular round. For example, if you get an Ace together with 10, J, Q, or K, this is worth 21 points, meaning you have a Blackjack. In addition, this is what the gameplay looks like:
- Firstly, you make a bet with your chips.
- Secondly, the croupier deals a card to each player and themselves.
- The dealer gives a second card to each participant.
- Then, the player to the left of the croupier starts the game.
- Choose to stand (don’t want another card) or hit (request a card from the dealer).
- Each player gets to decide whether they want to stay or hit.
- The croupier shows their second card. Finally, winners are revealed, and bets are paid out.
As you can see, Blackjack doesn’t have complex rules, making it ideal for newbies. Once you have a good grasp of the gameplay, you may want to consider claiming a blackjack-exclusive offer. These may come in the form of a Blackjack sign-up bonus, a Blackjack offer on your first deposit, a reload bonus, VIP Blackjack deals, or something else.
Single-Deck Blackjack
This blackjack variation uses one deck and has specific rules that may vary from one casino to the next. They include the guidelines regarding the dealer’s hitting or standing on soft 17, doubling down after a split, and when surrender is possible. Usually, the dealer will hit on soft 17, you won’t be able to double down after splitting, and surrender won’t be accepted.
Spanish 21
This version of Blackjack removes 10s from the deck. Because of this, Spanish 21 introduces rules to the player’s advantage, such as doubling down after splitting and late surrender. Moreover, the player’s total point of 21 beats the dealer’s blackjack, even when both are ‘natural blackjack’.
Double Exposure Blackjack
The specific rule of Double Exposure Blackjack is that the dealer has both cards face-up. There is a specific set of rules to compensate for this disadvantage. For example, the croupier wins every tie except a tied Blackjack, and there are certain limitations to doubling down.
Progressive Blackjack
As the name suggests, Progressive Blackjack features a progressive Jackpot. You can place a side bet, thus contributing to the Jackpot prize pool. Furthermore, you need to get a specific hand to win the Jackpot, usually a suited Ace and Jack.
Baccarat
Baccarat is another widely popular game among players and is offered by many casino operators. It is another great option for newbies, as it is easy to learn and play.
Unlike most other table games, Baccarat offers three potential outcomes: Player win, Banker win, and a draw. It’s important to point out that ‘Banker’ doesn’t indicate the house. Essentially, you can bet on the Player’s or Banker’s hand in the game of Baccarat.
Here is a breakdown of one game round:
- You place a bet on the Player or Banker.
- The Player and Banker get two cards each.
- Then, calculate the value of both hands. In this game, 10s and face cards are worth 0 points, while the other cards are counted as their face value. Finally, the Ace is worth one point. For your bet to win, the hand you backed must be closer to 9.
- If when the initial two cards are dealt, the Player or the Banker has 8 or 9 total points, this is called a ‘natural win’ signalling the end of the game.
- See if the Player will get the third card based on the points total. However, note that the Player stands on 6 and 7, while on other totals, the Player draws a third card except if the Banker has totals of 8 or 9. In this case, the Banker’s hand wins.
- Determine the Banker’s next move. This depends on the Player and Banker’s hand.
- Lastly, calculate the winning hand – the one closer to 9.
When it comes to Baccarat bonus offers, you can participate in Prize Pool Giveaways, which may offer free entries to some of the major tournaments, get loyalty tier credits, or get some other promotion.
Punto Banco
The major difference in Punto Banco is that you play against the dealer, like in Blackjack. Your goal is to have a hand as close to nine as possible and better than the Banker’s hand without going bust. In Punto, the Player, Banker, and tie are called Punto, Bank, and Egalite, as the game originates from Italy.
Mini-Baccarat
Mini-Baccarat is a Baccarat game played on a small table. It uses eight decks of cards. Unlike Classic Baccarat, there isn’t a possibility of drawing the third card, neither for the Player nor the Banker. Additionally, you can place a Dragon Bonus side bet you win when the backed hand is a ‘natural winner’ or if it wins by four points or more.
Dragon Tiger
With its origin in the Far East, Dragon Tiger is an excellent Baccarat variant for players who have no experience with the game. Moreover, this is a two-card variation of Baccarat, with one card dealt to the Dragon and one to the Tiger.
You try to guess if the Dragon or the Tiger has a higher-value hand. Lastly, you can place side bets on the probability of a suited tie or whether a card will be worth below or over a certain number.
Poker
Poker is one of the most iconic and recognisable of top 5 casino table games. As such, it is part of every casino’s gaming library. The most important thing to know are hand rankings from the highest to the lowest:
- Royal Flush: 10, J, Q, K, and A of the same suit in that order
- Straight Flush: Consecutive cards having the same suit
- 4 of a Kind: Four cards of one rank
- Full House: Three matching cards of the same rank plus two matching cards of another rank
- Flush: Five cards of the same suit
- Straight: Five cards of consecutive value with more than one suit
- 3 of a Kind: Three cards of the same value
- 2 Pair: Two cards of the same rank x2
- Pair: Two cards of the same value
- High Card: One high card, like King or Ace
You start the game by placing a minimum bet. At this point, you have two face-down cards, and there are three face-up community cards. These are cards on the table you pair your hand with to potentially achieve a high-ranked hand.
Then, you can look at your two cards and decide if you want to check (skip betting), call (match the bet another player made), raise (add more funds to the betting pool), or fold (avoid matching another player’s bet). Of course, you can always bluff.
The fourth community card is revealed, and you do the same until the fifth community card is turned around. Finally, you reveal your cards, and the winner is determined.
The rules are easy, and once you learn ten 5-card hands and their rankings, you are ready to play. Also, when you master the Poker rules, you may want to claim some bonuses. Moreover, these range from Poker welcome offers to live cashback bonuses and loyalty credits.
Three Card Poker
Also known as Casino Brag, Three Card Poker is a Poker variation in which you play by yourself against the dealer. Here, you need to make three separate bets: the Ante, Pair Plus, and Play bet.
Each round starts with three cards dealt face down. You should choose whether to fold (lose your Ante) or raise (double your Ante). Finally, if you raise, you compare your hand to the dealer’s to see who wins the round.
Texas Hold’em
Texas Hold’em is specific because it doesn’t offer ante-up like most other Poker games. In ante betting, each player places a minimum bet at the beginning of the game.
However, in Texas Hold’em, the player sitting next to the dealer usually places a small blind bet (half of the typical minimum stake), whereas the player to the left of the former player places a big blind bet (at least the minimum bet). Other rules are the same.
Caribbean Stud Poker
After you place an ante bet, the dealer will hand out five cards to each player and five to themselves. Additionally, the dealer has to flip up one of his cards. Then, you decide to fold or play, and if you play, the croupier reveals the rest of their hand.
If the dealer’s hand isn’t a minimum of A-K-A-K, you receive your raise back, while the casino pays your ante bet at 1:1 odds, and the round is over. But, if the dealer qualifies, it’s played head-to-head to determine who’s got the best hand.
Craps
Craps is a fast-paced table game you will find on most online platforms. Because of its super-fast gameplay and slightly confusing table layout, it is not as beginner-friendly as Blackjack, Poker, or Baccarat. However, the good news is that you can try a free game version first.
In Craps, you stake your chips on a roll of the dice. Firstly, one participant rolls the dice, usually trying to hit 7 or 11. If they fail, the rolled number becomes a point number – the number they need to roll again before getting 7.
Moreover, you can bet on the pass line (the player should roll 7 or 11 for you to win) or against the pass line (you win if the player rolls 2, 3, or 12 numbers called ‘craps’). The rolled number becomes the point, so the game progresses to the next stage.
If nobody wins or loses on the come-out roll, it’s a good idea to play the ‘point’ (4, 5, 6, 8, or 10). The player aims at rolling the point number again, with 7 now as a losing number. The shooter keeps rolling the dice until one of those numbers comes out. Your pass-line bet wins if the shooter gets the point number. If 7 is rolled, the shooter is replaced.
If you miss the come-out roll, you can place a come bet. It is similar to the pass bet, except that the point number doesn’t impact your bet. Alternatively, you can try a don’t come bet. There are also other kinds of bets, like odds bets and proposition bets, but stick to these easier types at first.
Finally, if you play long enough, you will roll the dice yourself. As a shooter, you need to place either a pass or a come bet.
Simplified Craps
In this simplified version of Craps, you win if you roll 2, 3, 4, 10, 11, or 12. If the total point is 5, 6, 7, 8, or 9, your bet loses. Here, a payout for rolling 2 is 3:1, while moving 3 or 4 is even money.
High Point Craps
In High Point Craps, if the first roll is 2 or 3, the shooter dismisses it and rolls again. If they get 11 or 12, it is winning. In the event of any other total, the point number is established. However, when they throw a dice, they must achieve a higher total for your bet to win.
Diceless Craps
Originating from countries where dice games of chance weren’t allowed, this variation of Craps is based on a deck of cards rather than the dice. Aside from that, all the rules are the same as for the standard version of Craps.
Roulette
Roulette is a popular table game with relatively straightforward rules, so it’s not a bad option for beginners. Moreover, it is widely accessible, as many operators include it in their gaming libraries.
Your objective in Roulette is to predict the number or kind of number the ball will land on after spinning the wheel. So, you start by placing a bet on the preferred number slot.
Furthermore, the game has 36 numbers and a 0. In addition to numbers, Roulette tables provide additional betting options (1- 18, 19- 36, Even, Odd, Black, Red, 1st 12, 2nd 12, and 3rd 12).
It’s often best to start with outside bets (betting on groups of numbers, not individual numbers) as a newbie since they are cheaper and come with a higher chance of hitting. Moreover, you can bet on groups of digits, such as evens & odds, red & blacks, and highs & lows.
Inside bets are placed on specific numbers and have a lower likelihood of winning but offer higher payout odds in most cases. Inside bets include straight-up betting on one number, split betting on two numbers, street betting on three numbers, corner betting on four, and 6-line betting on six.
Players who are looking for Roulette promotions can explore live casino bonus offers or even something like a daily 8 lucky event, where you get the bonus when 8 is a winner.
Players looking to advance their roulette skills can also check out our comprehensive list of online roulette strategies.
European Roulette
European Roulette is most similar to the original version of the game. It features 37 numbers with one 0 pocket and has no side bets or additional payouts. Furthermore, most Roulette variations follow this pattern with slight differences.
American Roulette
American Roulette has 38 numbers and two zero sockets on the wheel – 0 and 00. Moreover, it is the only Roulette variant that has a basket bet that enables you to place a bet on five numbers. It doesn’t differ from the European version in any other respect.
Zoom Roulette
Zoom Roulette earned its name for a good reason. Most of the screen displays a 3D wheel, giving you a nice overview of what is happening. Furthermore, the expanded panel pops up on the screen and provides a close-up of the socket the ball has landed on. Finally, it’s important to note that this variation uses a European-style wheel with one 0 socket.
Other Popular Casino Table Games
Keep reading to discover more of the best casino games for fans of table games.
Pai Gow
Pai Gow is a popular Poker variation where you compete against the dealer rather than other players at the table. If your 5-card and 2-card hand beats the croupier’s, your bet wins, and you have to double it. On the other hand, your bet will fail if both your hands lose against the dealer.
In addition, Pai Gow comes in different variants, like EZ Pai Gow, Commission-Free Fortune Pai Gow with Dealer Bonus, and 6 Card Fortune Pai Gow Poker.
Sic Bo
In the game of Sic Bo, you can bet on a range of dice combinations. The game uses three dice, and you try to guess the outcome of every roll. The difference between Craps and Sic Bo is that this game uses an electronic dice shaker.
As for types of bets, six main categories are differentiated, including:
- single number
- two number combinations
- three number total
- triple
- pair
- big and small bets
Furthermore, you can play this game in different variations, such as Chuck-a-Luck, Yee Hah Hi, Grand Hazard, and Hoo Hee How.
Teen Patti
Teen Patti is a card game that originated in India. In it, you should choose to play blind (not seeing your cards) or seen (seeing your cards). With each turn, you may fold, place an ante, or double your stake. When only two players are left, either can request a showdown, and the one with the higher-ranking hand wins.
Additionally, here is Teen Patti’s hand ranking from the best to the worst:
- Trail/ Set/ Trio: Three cards of the same values regardless of suit or colour.
- Pure Sequence/ Straight Flush: Three consecutive cards with the same colour and suit.
- Sequence/ Run/ Straight: Three consecutive cards with different suit.
- Colour/ Flush: Three cards not in a sequence with the same colour and suit.
- Pair: Two similar cards without regard to colour or suit.
- High Card: Three cards of the same suit or value, but not in a sequence.
Finally, Auction, Joker Hunt, King Little, Odd Sequence, and Discard One are some of the best variants of Teen Patti.
Casino War
In the War game, players get an equal number of cards from a standard deck of 52 cards. Each player flips one card over and places it in the middle. The player with the highest card wins the rest of the cards.
However, if there are matching numbers, players flip four additional cards face down and one face up. Whoever reveals a higher up-card wins. Other variations may include Joker cards and a wild card, while Razboi is a popular Romanian variation of this game.
Where Can You Play Casino Table Games?
You can join Poker, Roulette, and other tables at land-based casinos and on casino sites alike. This is a matter of personal preference.
Moreover, with the advancement of technology, you don’t have to go to a brick-and-mortar casino to play casino games. Today, many operators offer a live casino section where you can play table games with real-life dealers, chat with them, and interact with other players.
Whether you decide to play at physical casinos or open a gaming account, there is an etiquette you need to follow. Some guidelines refer to all games, but each game also has its own rules. So, before you join a table, be sure to get familiar with the set of rules associated with that particular game.
Not only that, but different countries may have different norms when it comes to the dress code as well as things you cannot do at the table. So, do a little investigation whenever you are heading on a trip.
Recommended Casino Sites
You must be wondering by now how to find the best casinos with table games. The leading operators in this area include bet365, Netbet and William Hill.
For a more detailed list, you can visit our online casino promo codes page, where our experts recommend only the best of the best sites. You can get familiar with their table game selection, offers, and other valuable details to choose the right casino with table games for your needs.
Table Games at Online Casinos vs. Traditional Casinos
You are probably wondering if table games at land-based casinos and casino platforms have the same rules, and the answer is yes. So, once you learn the rules of a particular game, you can play anywhere you like.
However, you should know that playing casino table games online and in traditional casinos differs in some aspects. For example, online table games are more accessible and convenient and may offer exclusive bonuses for table game players.
On the other hand, if you prioritise social interaction and authentic experience, traditional casinos take the lead. Still, it’s important to note that online casinos were affected by the technological boom, so now operators can provide a more lively and interactive gaming service through live dealer games.
Safer Gambling Tools
Reputable brands encourage safe play and, therefore, offer a variety of safer gambling tools, like deposit limits, betting limits, and Reality Check. You should implement them in your gambling strategy, whether you are a beginner or a seasoned player. They will help you manage your budget and the time you spend playing.
Top 5 Casino Table Games Conclusion
Blackjack, Poker, Roulette, Craps, and Baccarat are among the most popular table games worldwide. As such, they are indispensable to all leading operators, who offer their many different variations. Whether you frequent casinos or play in online rooms, you are guaranteed a thrilling experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Finally, take a look at some of the most commonly asked questions about table games.
Which table game is best for beginners?
Blackjack is arguably the best table game for newbies because of its simple rules and easy-to-implement strategies.
Can I play table games for free?
Many casino sites offer demo versions of automatic table games. However, you need to stake real money to sit at a live dealer table.
What are different Blackjack betting systems?
Firstly, you need to choose between flat and positive or negative progressive betting. Based on that, you can apply Martingale, Reverse Martingale, One Half Up, Labouchere, Oscar’s Grind, Fibonacci, or some other casino betting system.
Which Roulette game has a lower house edge – European or American?
European Roulette has a house edge of 2,70%, while American Roulette features a 5.26% house advantage.
Where can I play table games?
You can play table games in brick-and-mortar casinos and on online platforms. Moreover, you can find some of the best sites to play roulette, poker, and other table games in this review.
