Many developers also put their spin on the casino world, rolling out video games that go beyond your run-of-the-mill card game to attract both seasoned gamblers and traditional gamers. So, if you've always dreamt of running your own gambling hall or taking down colourful characters at poker, here are some casino-themed games worth exploring.

Cuphead

Finding inspiration in the animation classics of old Hollywood, Cuphead is an inventive run-and-gun game whose characters feel straight out of a 1930s Disney movie. This indie platformer is no fairytale, however. The story kicks off as two cup siblings strike a deal with the devilish owner of a casino after a craps defeat. To recoup their losses, Cuphead and Mugman agree to procure soul contracts for runaway debtors.

Cuphead, therefore, embarks players across a series of beautifully hand-drawn levels that take them to the heart of the Devil's lair, where these unlikely heroes ultimately confront their diabolical creditor. Multiple casino-inspired bosses await along the way, from an oversized chips board fighting alongside the mighty King Dice to the two halves of a domino with a temperamental relationship. Following the unexpected success of this indie gem, a proper dice game hit the shelves, much to the enjoyment of tabletop players. A DLC called The Delicious Last Course also expanded the universe.

Casino Resort Tower

There used to be a time when casino management sims were all but lacklustre. Titles such as Casino Mogul have aged quite poorly even for retrogamers, while the recent Grand Casino Tycoon is more of a puzzler than a pure tycoon sim. Casino Resort Tower is of a different ilk, however. Released in mid-2023, this simulation game is all about building a casino hotel skyscraper from zero and turning it into a financial powerhouse. Once you've willed your casino tower into existence, your task is to manage it efficiently enough to make a sweet profit.

From assigning staff to clean each floor to overseeing the shifts of your casino personnel, you have a lot on your plate to turn your building into a fully functional gambling haven. Organising exclusive events, choosing which games your customers may play, and opening a restaurant are just as instrumental to keep your clients happy and your business thriving. Meanwhile, you shall watch out for troublemakers to ensure the safety of your guests and keep an eye on your hotel's inventory to order supplies whenever your stocks are running low. While still in early access, this casino sim already packs loads of content.

Prominence Poker

Perhaps the most high-tension casino game of all, poker is never getting old in gaming circles. MMORPGs like Prominence Poker have put this timeless card game front and centre. In an immersive single-player mode, this free-to-play Texas Hold 'em title pits you against the shady leaders of the four factions of Prominence City, whose distinct playing styles push you to constantly adapt and up your game until the final showdown with the mysterious Mayor. If you'd rather face real opponents, daily challenges and tournaments are also available in multiplayer. As exciting as this solid poker game can get, however, some players might grow tired of grinding for fake money.

If so, countless real money casinos are close at hand online. Many websites even allow players to access the best casino bonuses with the click of a mouse. All it takes is joining such platforms to receive a regular flow of fresh deals by email. Be they free spins or no-deposit bonuses, every offer comes with comprehensive instructions attached to make it easier to claim. These promotions also extend to online sportsbooks.

Land-based casinos have been around for centuries, but the internet age has arguably rejuvenated the entire industry. The advent of dedicated gambling platforms democratised access to casino classics while pushing forward original variants on desktop and mobile devices. Both indie developers and well-known gaming studios took notice.

Incidentally, many blockbuster franchises like Fallout, Grand Theft Auto, and Like a Dragon feature in-game casinos. Universally-acclaimed titles like Red Dead Redemption also let gamers play poker or wager on high-risk gambling games. Other titles embrace a more creative approach, focusing on the management side of things or subverting casino tropes to build a delightfully surrealist universe.