6 Global Casino Games With Regional Variations

Casino games are played across the world. Whether in glitzy casinos, on online platforms, or at a friend’s house, these games continue to attract and entertain players looking for a good time and to win some extra cash.

Although many casino games have become globally popular, there are regional variations of many of these games that add a unique twist reflecting local preferences.

1. Baccarat

Baccarat is one of the oldest casino games and has undergone a transformation that has associated this once-basic game with high-rollers and sparkling gaming halls. However, despite this game’s lofty status, it has taken on several variations across countries.

Chemin de fer is popular in France and is a highly interactive version of the game. Players take turns being the banker, giving the game a lot more moving parts. This variation has higher levels of player involvement and decision-making, making it a favourite among baccarat traditionalists.

Punto Banco is the North American adaptation, where the house always plays as the banker. Players bet on the player (punto) or banker (banco) outcome. This version is fast-paced, relying completely on luck. It is a very popular game across casinos in the US and Canada.

2. Roulette

Roulette is iconic thanks to the spinning wheel and has become closely associated with top casinos across the world.

European roulette is prevalent in most of the world, not just in Europe. In this variant, the wheel has 37 pockets, including numbers 1-36 and a zero. There is no double zero, giving this version a lower house edge and making it a favourable choice.

American roulette is found in most US casinos, and has the double zero (00) on the wheel too, increasing the number of pockets to 38. The change may be subtle, but it lowers the house edge compared to its European counterpart. Despite this, it remains popular since it promises high payouts.

3. Blackjack

Blackjack is a casino classic, where players aim to beat the dealer by getting a hand value close to 21, without exceeding it.

During a round of American blackjack, the dealer receives two cards at the start, one face up and one face down (the hole card). This version is played widely throughout North and South America.

In European blackjack, the dealer’s hole card is not dealt until after all the players have completed their turns. It is a small difference from the American version, but it alters the strategy of the game since players have to make choices based on only one of the dealer’s cards.

3. Poker

Poker has widespread appeal, likely stemming from its social elements. There are two popular variations, each highlighting regional preferences.

Texas Hold’Em originated in the States and is the most popular poker variant across the world. It is known for a balance of strategy and luck. Players use two hole cards and three community cards to create a five-card hand. This variation has become a staple in poker tournaments and also social games at home.

Omaha Hold’Em is popular in Europe. It is similar to Texas Hold’Em but with one main difference: players are dealt four hole cards and use only two of them, and three community cards. This variation is more complex than Texas Hold’Em, appealing to professional players.

4. Slots

Slot machines are a favourite for both novice and experienced gamblers. It’s played across the world in countries with favourable gambling regulations.

In North America and Europe, slots are digital machines that have diverse themes, bonus rounds, and progressive jackpots. These games use graphics and sound to keep players engaged.

In Australia and New Zealand, slot machines are called “pokies”. Although they don’t vary from traditional slots in terms of gameplay, their affectionate nickname indicates regional differences in nomenclature. Pokies are also not limited to casinos and can often be found in pubs and hotels.

5. Lottery

Lotteries are the oldest form of gambling, and there are unique variations found in each country. Most areas where lotteries are legal have state-run variations.

Standard lotteries, like those found in the US, UK, and Europe, involve drawing random numbers from a pool. Players select numbers, hoping to match the winning combination during the draw. There are often large jackpots associated with these lotteries. The game is straightforward, based on luck, and appeals to a wide audience.

Keno originated in Ancient China and remains a popular lottery-based game in Asia and Australia. It has a faster pace than standard lotteries since players choose from a smaller number pool and draws happen every few minutes. It may offer smaller jackpots than traditional state-run lotteries, but the fast pace makes it a favourite for many gamblers.

6. Craps

Although Sic Bo is not exactly the same as craps, it is closely related. This game is popular in Asia, especially in Macau. This game is also played with dice. It still has a focus on betting and probability, just like the original baccarat that is played with cards. Players bet on the roll of the dice.

With craps found in UK and North American casinos, some bets require specific rolls first before a bet is won or lost.