The definition of a win is obtaining success. In the casino, breaking even for most IS success. Leaving with the same bankroll we arrived with, or even a little less, is a financial victory. Let me explain why breaking even is a win in a casino. I will also tell you what you can do to decrease that House Edge.
Leaving Even
Some would say breaking even at the Casino isn’t a win. One or two wagers would have been made for a big windfall. But for most of us, leaving with the same bankroll that we started with is a triumphant event. Be proud – you basically beat the casino!
“A Push is a Win”
If I only had a dollar for how many times I’ve heard “A push is as good as a win.” Consider these examples:
- Craps ( $25 table, small bankroll )
- Video Poker ( high volatility games, poor paytables – Triple Triple Bonus, 6/5 Jacks or Better, etc)
- Blackjack ( $25 table, small bankroll )
- The “Big six” wheel ( although I don’t suggest you play one of the worst games in the house ),
- Linked slots with a huge progressive jackpot ( Wheel of Fortune, Megabucks Slots), and
- Video Keno (extremely volatile)
Playing games with a low player return, high limits or a high House Edge can usually lead to ruin. Leaving these games financially even is a win. You have battled successfully against the casino.
NOTE: Yes, I know the house edge for blackjack and craps is smaller when played with optimal strategy. A small bankroll or not knowing how to play can make a good house edge game worse.
Breaking even is not only about the money.
For me, coming home with the same bankroll or 10% less is a win. Of course, that does not include ATM withdrawals or Cash advances.
10% less? Yes. Because your betting at the casino earns other things at the same time.
Players’ Club Rewards and Breaking Even
- Go to the Players Club and sign up for a players’ card. It’s free and used on any machine or table game. Just for using the card when you play, you generally earn points. These points can be redeemed for Free Play. You can also spend them at restaurants or on your hotel bill, etc. Other perks include free slot play. These perks will never happen if the casino can’t track how you play. The rewards card provides the gambling data. It is used to keep track of your play and the points you have earned by betting. (A Related Flip The Switch Post – Casino Players Cards: The Struggle to Bust Myths is Real)
- Casino Rewards have different levels. Higher “status” levels usually bring higher perks. The higher your tier level, the better your perks. For example, you may be offered line cuts or higher discount percentages with a particular card level. But beware of playing outside your expected bankroll. This may raise your rewards level, but it can lead to losing much more than you can afford.
- Many casino rewards programs include a point multiplier for each status level. Foxwoods and Mohegan Sun in Connecticut are examples. While you play, an extra percentage of coin-in is added to your rewards points. The amount is determined by your card level. But never play at the casino just to raise your card level. You’ll be tempted to visit the ATM or casino cage to withdraw more money than your bankroll allows. This is a habit to stay away from.
- If the casino has a players’ lounge, check your rewards level. See if that level qualifies you for free food and drinks. Relaxing away from the casino floor noise is always a great break.
Should you use your rewards card all the time? Click here to find out.
Decreasing the House Edge
Some gamblers (like me) feel that returning home with half your bankroll is a good trip. But only if it involves a multiplier day and equals 3X points or more!
Also, follow casino promotions for multiplier days, slot and table game tournaments, and free stuff – from flashlights to cruises. All of these perks are counted for decreasing the House Edge.
I don’t think the average person realizes how much the casino advantage is. Bringing home 50% of your bankroll on multiplier promotions makes a big difference.
The definition of a win is obtaining success. With very few exceptions, the casino will always have an edge to win. Casino gambling is a losing proposition for 95% of gamblers long-term. So, consider other ways to pick up some of the slack from the House Edge. Earn perks through Player Rewards as you bet.
Did You Have A Good Time?
There are many ways to have a good time besides your gambling time. You even spend a lot more. Still, you leave with the same bankroll and have a good time; you had fun for free. If you left with the same bankroll, or a little less, and had a blast doing it, it’s a win!
Takeaway
One of my weekly polls from my former site asked this very question. “Do You Consider Breaking Even at the Casino a Win?” Here are the results!
- Bringing home most or part of my bankroll is a win – 26%
- Bringing home all of my bankroll is a win – 64%
- Not a win. Winning is increasing your bankroll as well as earning comps – 10%
With 90% believing it’s a win, I believe we’ve answered our question, at least when it comes to gamblers and their rating a casino visit!
