The Best Casino Games in Nevada for Winning (or Losing Less)
- Jeff Young
- 4 days ago
- 5 min read
Nevada’s casinos are world-famous, drawing millions to Las Vegas, Reno, and beyond with the promise of excitement and the chance to win big. But let’s face it: the house always has an edge. That said, some games offer better odds than others, giving savvy players a fighting chance to walk away with more than they came with—or at least minimize their losses. In this blog, we’ll explore the games that provide the best odds, backed by data and sprinkled with tips to maximize your experience.
Blackjack: The King of Casino Odds
Blackjack consistently ranks as one of the best games for players in Nevada casinos, thanks to its low house edge—typically between 0.5% and 2%, depending on the rules and your strategy. The goal is simple: get a hand closer to 21 than the dealer without busting. What makes blackjack stand out is that skill matters. By learning basic strategy (when to hit, stand, double down, or split), you can shrink the house’s advantage to nearly nothing.
Why It’s Great in Nevada: Lately there has been a change at some casinos, offering player-friendly rules like 3:2 payouts for a natural blackjack (instead of the stingier 6:5 found elsewhere). Casinos that offer single-deck games further tilt the odds in your favor.
Pro Tip: Avoid side bets like “insurance” or “perfect pairs”—they inflate the house edge. Stick to basic strategy. Personally, we DO make certain side bets, but we understand the long-shot odds, and we take that into consideration. After all, it's gambling, and "ya gotta go with yer gut" sometimes. Just don't go TOO far. You know your ultimate limit, right? Good. We trust you to do right by yourself. Or you might end up living by yourself in a far-flung location. Whatever that means. Let's not find out!
To improve your chances, learn the basic strategy of any game you want to play. In Blackjack, experts say always hit with a hand total of eleven or lower and consider standing with a total of seventeen or higher. The dealer's "up" card can make all the difference. By mastering the basics, you'll be assured of the best possible odds. Visit our Game Rules page or our Players Book Store to learn more.
Across the casino spectrum, you’ll find numerous tables that welcome both novice and experienced players, though you may have to look around some to find your ideal game.
Craps: The Most Exciting Game in the House.
Craps is the lively, dice-rolling game that draws crowds with its cheers and camaraderie. While it looks intimidating, the game offers some of the best bets in the casino. The “pass line” and “don’t pass” bets carry a house edge of just 1.41% and 1.36%, respectively. Add in “odds” bets—unique to craps because they have no house edge—and you’ve got a game where smart play keeps losses low.
Why It’s Great in Nevada: Nevada’s casinos, particularly those off the Strip, often allow higher odds bets (up to 10x or 20x), which amplify your chances of winning without giving the house more advantage. The vibe at a Nevada craps table is unmatched—expect high-fives and shared excitement. Unless you're a "Don't" bettor. You're on your own playing "the dark side". Of course, you might win more often since there are more ways to make a seven than any other number. The house knows that, so, when betting "Dont Pass" on the come-out roll, they will not pay if a 12 is rolled. That's why BAR 12 is printed on the felt. It's a "push", basically, giving the house a small edge it wouldn't otherwise have. It's the same with "Don't Come" wagers. Again, visit our Game Rules page or our Players Book Store to learn more.
Pro Tips: For ideal results, stick to pass/don’t pass and odds bets. Avoid proposition bets like “any seven” or “hardways”—their house edges can soar past 10%. We advise strongly against placing any chips on Big 6 or Big 8. They are even money bets. PLACE BET the six and eight instead, for a return of 7 to 6. Either way, your bet stays up until the number is rolled, or you "seven out". Craps is a fast-paced game, and you can rapidly burn through your budget before you know it.
Crapless Craps is becoming more prevalent in Nevada casinos every day. In this version of the game, the 2,3, 11, and 12 can also become the point. The "7" is still the villain in that game unless you've decided to bet against the established point. What was it Joe Biden was fond of saying? Oh, yeah. "Don't". Kidding. You do you. Just be informed
Video Poker: A Hidden Gem
Video poker doesn’t get the same hype as slots or table games, but it’s a Nevada staple with excellent odds—sometimes even better than blackjack. Games like Jacks or Better or Deuces Wild can have a house edge below 0.5% if you play optimally. Unlike slots, video poker rewards skill, as your decisions on which cards to hold or discard directly impact the outcome.
Why It’s Great in Nevada: Nevada casinos, especially locals’ spots, are known for offering “full-pay” video poker machines with payout tables that maximize returns. For example, a 9/6 Jacks or Better machine (9 coins for a full house, 6 for a flush) can yield a 99.54% return with perfect play.
Pro Tip: Study the optimal strategy for your chosen game (charts are available online). Also, check the paytable before playing—avoid machines with subpar payouts.
Honorable Mentions
Baccarat: With a house edge around 1.06% on the banker bet, baccarat is another solid choice. It’s simple—no skill required—and Nevada’s high-limit rooms often cater to it. The goal in this game is for the cards you bet on to add up to eight or nine, and, of course, to beat the opposing hand.
Pai Gow Poker: This slower-paced game has a house edge of around 2.5% but offers frequent pushes, meaning you often keep your money longer.
Roulette: An iconic casino experience. The house edge depends on the roulette type, with European roulette offering better odds thanks to a single zero space on the wheel. This slightly lowers the house edge to about 2.7%.
When placing Roulette wagers, consider even-money bets like red/black or odd/even, as they provide the best odds. Although roulette may not match the odds of blackjack or craps, the thrill of watching the wheel spin and waiting for the outcome is unbeatable for many.
Avoid: Slot machines (house edge 5-15%) and games like keno or the Big Six wheel (edges often exceed 20%) unless you’re just in it for fun. That's why WE play, and sometimes we win on those long shots. Still, we stick to a budget. Why? Because we want to live to play another day.
Final Thoughts
Nevada’s casinos are playgrounds, but not every game is created equal. Blackjack, craps, and video poker stand out for their low house edges and opportunities for skill to make a difference. By choosing these games, learning their strategies, and setting limits, you can stretch your bankroll and maybe even leave with a win.
Just remember that gambling is about entertainment first. Enjoy the lights, the buzz, and the thrill—just don’t bet the farm.
Be sure to visit our Game Rules page or our Players Book Store to learn more.
Send comments or questions to jeff@NevadaPlayersClub.com.
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