Table Games - How to Play Safer

Table Games

Have you ever found yourself at the blackjack table saying “just one more hand and then I’ll leave” over and over again until we’ve played more than you intended to?

In this lesson, we’ll explore how that can happen, and what you can do in the future to try and avoid that situation.

Approaches to Managing Risk While Playing Table Games

There are important risks to be aware of when playing blackjack, or any other table game.  Let’s explore some of the most common, as well as practical tips for how to effectively manage them:

Risk: The House Always Has the Edge

Every table game is designed with a built-in advantage for the casino known as the "house edge."  This means that over time, the casino is mathematically guaranteed to make a profit from players.  Even if you play optimal blackjack, the house edge is around 2%.  That means for every $100 wagered, the house makes $2.  All they have to do is keep gambler’s betting, and the money will keep coming in.

Practical Tip: Set a Limit

Set a limit for your session before sitting down at the table, and stick to it.  One great way to do this is to only carry the cash you want to gamble with in your pocket.  Leaving your additional cash or ATM card in the hotel room, your car, or the hands of a trusted friend while you play will build in a forced break if you lose what you have on you.  Many times, that 5 minute walk away from the table can help push the reset button, and keep you from gambling impulsively.

Risk: Table Games Move Fast!

Table games often feature fast-paced gameplay, providing a rapid betting cycle and many opportunities to wager.  The constant action and excitement can be entertaining, but increases impulsivity, which often leads to spending more time or money than we had intended at the table.

Practical Tip: Embrace the Power of the Pause

This may seem like the silliest recommendation in the world, but the best poker players in the world have harnessed the power of the pause.  Before you act, take a deep breath, and count to 4 in your head, then act.  Try it for a couple minutes in your next session and tell us that you don’t find yourself playing better.

Risk: The Tables are Full of “Friends”

Everyone loves making new friends, and nothing breeds camaraderie better than a common enemy, in this case, it’s the Dealer.  Whether it’s playing quicker, betting more, or participating in a side bet, there’s a lot of peer pressure at the table.  It can be easy to give in to this pressure and find yourself pushed beyond your comfort zone.

Practical Tip: Be Assertive

If you ever feel uncomfortable due to peer pressure or excessive temptation, don't hesitate to say no.  Be assertive but polite when declining offers from others to bet more or deviate from your plan.  A simple "No, thank you, I'm sticking to my budget" can be effective.  It may feel a bit uncomfortable at first, but it’s a lot better than the feeling of gambling outside of your comfort zone and having to deal with the consequences.

Risk: Beware of the Side Bets

All table games contain a built-in mathematical advantage to the casino, even if played with optimal strategy.  However, table games today increasingly offer seemingly lucrative side bets such as huge payouts for “perfect pairs” in Blackjack.  We hate to break it to you, but the house edge on these side bets is even worse than the normal game play.  If you consistently engage in these bets, you’ll find that your bankroll shrinks faster than expected.

Practical Tip: Remember Your Goals

Keep in mind why you're at the casino.  Is it for entertainment, relaxation, or socializing?  By focusing your original intentions, you can stay focused on your self-imposed limits.

Risk: Beware of the “Free” Drinks

When it comes to casinos, we like to say “There’s no such thing as a free drink” .

We’re not saying don’t have fun, we’re just saying remember there’s a reason that the casinos keep those drinks rolling in.  If you do find yourself feeling impaired, that’s a really good reason to stop gambling, or significantly lower your limits.

Practical Tip:  Find an Accountability Partner

Friends don’t let friends gamble when they’re impaired.  Always having a friend on hand to pull the plug on your session when you’ve lost control can help avoid devastating consequences.

Let's Reflect

Are there certain factors or events in table games that you find particularly challenging or tempting to navigate?

How can you prioritize mindful behavior while participating in table games?

Closing Thought

Managing the risks of table games is essential for maintaining a healthy and sustainable approach to this activity.   

By recognizing the potential pitfalls and implementing effective strategies to mitigate these risks, you can better safeguard yourself against gambling harm.

If you’re having a hard time controlling your behavior, or experiencing negative consequences from your gambling, it may be time to take a break.