Discussion about the merits of skill in gambling have been going strong for centuries. Gamblers have been debating how useful strategy is in games like blackjack and roulette for as long as these games have been around. Many thought that the debates would be put to rest in the 21st century. We have examinations and studies showing the truth after all. But the emergence of online gambling has reignited the passion and interest that people felt for the topic.
The lines continue to blur to this day. We have the rise of online casinos to thank for this phenomenon. The reason is that online casinos are reimagining the industry. Many of these websites have injected new and exciting mechanics into games that have remained the same for generations. That is why we are interested in examining how casinos on the web are reigniting a discourse and actually injecting new life into it.
Games that Demand Luck
The online gambling industry is built on the pillar of slot games. Slots are basic and simple in their design. The player needs only to pull a lever in land-based games or push a button online. Any argument regarding skill in slots has been thoroughly eliminated over the past century and a half that the games have been around. But modern online slot developers might be changing all that. Platforms like Casino Days now feature upgraded versions of online slots that might demand a bit more skill than you would think.
By infusing modern slot games with video game-style mini games; online game developers have managed to elevate these titles to new heights. Gamers are thrilled to be able to test out new and exciting games that may challenge them the same way some AAA titles do. Old-school gamblers are not all that thrilled though. Some have expressed displeasure with the direction that online slots are taking. Many actually enjoyed the simple and entirely luck-based approach of classic games. It is why plenty of casinos are now modifying the skill-based mini games to be entirely optional.
Roulette on the other hand has remained entirely focused on chance and nothing more. Some have tried their best to crack the code. Many point out historical examples of people who’ve found the answer to roulette. But what they fail to understand is that these examples were likely exploiting flaws in the building or table itself; such as uneven floors or shorter table legs. Such tactics will not work in modern casinos; especially not online. Roulette remains a game based entirely around luck.
Games that Demand Skill
A lot of people are content with claiming that all casino games revolve around luck and leave it at that. We understand why some may feel like that is the best way to look at it. But it is not entirely accurate. Plenty of expert gamblers have proven that blackjack strategies are effective in boosting one’s chances. Edward Thorp is still celebrated as the father of card counting. His book on the subject remains in circulation and is consistently a best-seller among those interested in the hobby. There is no denying that the basic blackjack strategy and card counting are effective tools; even if the latter is discouraged.
Poker is perhaps the most iconic casino game; if not the most popular. Many separate poker from casinos because of its drastic difference from other casino games. Even the staunchest advocates in favor of a luck-based outlook will admit that poker takes a lot of skills. It is closer to chess than to blackjack in that regard. Online casinos have now adopted new and exciting versions of poker; igniting a new fascination with the game. The best part is that mobile platforms make it possible to play poker on the go or from home. It is why the game has been thrust back into the mainstream spotlight.
We further have to inspect the online casino exclusive games that inspire a new conversation regarding the luck vs. skill topic. The fish table games were once the future of the industry. They involved shooting down virtual fish in the manner of Space Invaders and similar classic shooters. The titles were all the rage a few years back. It was the emphasis on skill rather than chance that made them such a hit.
A modern example of online casino games that value skill and knowledge over simple luck are the numerous game show adaptations. These games take inspiration from countless television programs and bring fans a brand new experience. Those who’ve dreamed about being on TV can now experience the thrill of doing just that. But even among these games there is a distinction between ones that focus on trivia knowledge and those that are purely based on luck.
Luck and Skill at Online Casinos
The discussion about luck vs. skill will likely never cease. But there must be an understanding that most casino games are entirely reliant on chance. No amount of training can help you improve at slots or roulette. The reel will simply land where it will; as will the little steel ball that marks the winner in roulette. The dice fall where they may, or so they say. But that doesn’t mean that strategy and skill should be entirely thrown to the wayside.
Gamblers have found a pretty clever way to subvert the idea that strategy is entirely unnecessary. It is why betting strategies have become such a popular pastime for many. Betting strategies take emphasis away from controlling the game; which is out of the player’s hands. Instead they emphasize control over the bankroll. Your personal finances are something that you can control to an extent. Deciding how much to bet and when is at the core of these strategies. It is why many say that money management is a key skill for gamblers.
We can clearly see that those involved with the industry have a creative streak. Even when the odds are stacked against them; they will find a way to create a system of betting or a strategy that boosts their success rate. That is why it is so hard for many to come to a conclusion regarding luck and skill.
