Casino gaming has been around for hundreds of years, so, naturally, many myths and misconceptions surrounding the games have been formed over time. And this is the case across all forms of gaming; whether you play online casino games, or prefer to visit your local brick-and-mortar establishment, you’re bound to encounter numerous rumours and suggestions that could make you question the legitimacy of your favourite game.
With this in mind, let’s take a look at some of the most well-known casino myths, and debunk them as we go! Read on to find out more.
1. Casino games are rigged
Perhaps one of the greatest casino misconceptions is that the games are rigged or fixed. This is not true. For online casinos, a Random Number Generator (RNG) creates new, undecipherable patterns, combinations and outcomes each second, keeping the games unpredictable and fair. At land-based establishments, games are kept fair with thanks to the professionally trained dealers, as well as the use of automatic card shufflers (ACS), which are a similar concept to RNGs.
2. Card counting is illegal
Card counting in Great Britain is in fact not illegal. However, casinos generally frown upon the practice, so tend to have rules and systems in place to prevent it. But ultimately, players are allowed to use any strategy they see fit as long as it doesn’t involve cheating or directly interfering with the gameplay, which can sometimes include card counting. What’s more, playing online makes it impossible to count cards – so it’s best not to bother learning!
3. Slot machines have hot and cold streaks
Another myth that needs debunking is that slot machines have hot and cold streaks, or are more likely to pay out at certain times of the day. Where the reels land depends on a complex computer algorithm rather than recent activity, and it’s the trusty RNG that we can thank once again, for keeping gameplay fair and random. It doesn’t matter what time of the day you play, how long ago the machine last paid out, or whether you play slot games online or at a land-based machine, the result will always be random and based on each machines’ individual volatility and return to player (RTP) rate.
4. Roulette wheels are biased
More than a century ago, Roulette wheels were made my hand, so physical imperfections couldn’t always be avoided. Those who watched and researched the wheels extensively could sometimes spot these imperfections, using this to their advantage as the games weren’t always completely random. In the modern day, Roulette wheels are inspected and certified on a regular basis to prevent bias, and at an online casino, RNGs provide players with unpredictable gameplay. Due to this, no matter what, Roulette remains the ultimate game of chance, and regardless of where the ball landed on a previous spin, there’s an equal chance of it landing anywhere on the wheel on the next.
5. Good luck charms can help you win
Whilst there’s no harm in carrying a four-leaf-clover or wearing your lucky pair of socks, it’s important to remember that these sentimental items have no direct effect on your gaming outcome. Any positive effects are coincidental, and whilst following rituals and ‘feeling lucky’ can be fun, there’s really nothing more to it.
6. It’s all pure luck
Casino games rely heavily on chance, and luck doesn’t have much to do with it. However, some rely on chance more so than others, with games like Poker and Blackjack also have a certain amount of strategy involved that could help you minimise your losses, or potentially even boost your bankroll. Some might describe bagging yourself a win as ‘lucky’, but ultimately, all casino games rely on chance to some degree.
