2008/01/10

Learn How to Win the Pick 3 Lottery

By I C

Playing any lottery involves risk, this holds to be true for many people who lower their odds even more by completely randomizing the numbers they choose; some may pick their birthday, their children's birthday, their lucky day or any other superstitious number which is supposed to give them a chance to win the lottery. If you are one of those people then we are sorry to tell you that superstition doesn't work, the more you randomize your picks the worse things will get for you. Lottery is a game of probabilities, if you were a good math student then you "probably" remember the teacher talking about "averages, large numbers and probability".

Before going any further lets analyze how an "average" Pick 3 lottery player would pick the numbers and play the game. The first thing is always to choose the numbers, some people think that by choosing the same numbers over and over they are bound to to win at some point, while this might hold true the chance that those numbers would come up in his/her lifetime are very large. By choosing a lucky set of numbers Pick 3 players randomize their chances and the odds become huge, since now they are facing a possible ratio of 1:30-50 million, this means that if there are 30 to 50 million players/possible numbers the average person would only have one real chance to hit the numbers chosen.

Following mathematical formulas and proven laws we see that the work of scientists and mathematicians can be directly applied to this game, we are talking about the "Law of Large Numbers" and the "Poisson distribution" in probability theory. Since the average Pick 3 lottery player wouldn't even imagine that the secret to beating this incredible odds lies in mathematical formulas, the organization behind the pick 3 lottery doesn't prohibit the use of these mathematical principles, they also realize that most of the people who play lottery believe in faith, luck, etc so they wouldn't resort to math for their answers.

If math is not your favorite cup of coffee, don't worry, the equations have already been worked out the only thing needed is the input of variables in order to succeed. Not having to work out a complicated mathematical theorem or equation makes things easy for you and gives you a real shot at winning the Pick 3 lottery prizes. So regardless how you choose to play, whether it is a straight bet, straight wheel (3-Way or 6-Way bet combination), Box (3-Way or 6-Way bet combination), front pair bets, back pair bets or split bets, by having a mathematical system will ensure you are able to beat the odds 66% of the time, and that figure represents a lot of money in your pocket.

Video Game Tester Jobs- 3 Quick Tips For New Game Testers

By Sean Saunders

Some people believe that the life of a game tester is all fun and games. Although the games part is mostly true, it is rarely ever "all fun". Being a professional video game tester takes patience, experience, and a good deal of hard work. It would be nice if we game testers got paid to play games all day long, but that simply isn't the case. We get paid to test games, not play them.

Here are 3 Simple Tips To Help You Land More Video Game Tester Jobs

1. Don't look through newspapers and classified ads and expect to find a huge need for video game testers; it won't happen. Game developers constantly need video game testers, but they aren't putting out ads to show it. They know that the testers are going to come to them, so they just sit back and wait for the applications. What does this mean for you? It means you have to go to the source.

Don't sit around and wait for a game tester job to hit your lap. Go out there and start making contacts. Head straight to the gaming companies and developers and tell them who you are, what you do, and how great you are at doing what you do.

Create a strong case for each company you apply to. Don't feel embarrassed about how much time you spend with video games. If you log 30+ hours with games per week, be proud of that fact and let them know it. Wear that accomplishment like a pin on your chest and make sure that the company knows how experienced you really are. If you own every gaming console known to man and have a collection of games that would make any average gamer crap himself, let them know it. Whatever your experience with video games, don't be afraid to brag about it and boost yourself up. Remember, you have to create the impression that you are video game tester material and no one, not even the companies themselves, can say otherwise.


2. Start networking with other testers, programmers, developers, customer support specialists, game artists, etc. The more people you know in the game industry, the more strings you can pull and the more references you will have. An excellent network of people & friends in your industry is 10 times better than any spit polished resume.

The network of people you are in contact with could let you in on jobs that are opening up, deals that are going down, or even new developers that are requesting insane amounts of testers for an upcoming video game. Plus, the best part about networking is that most of your contacts can put in a good word for you and catapult your chances of being hired miles ahead of the competition.


3. Take video game testing seriously. Yes, it is a dream job and you can take pleasure in the fact that none of your friends have a job like yours; but that doesn't mean you can slack off and do whatever you want. You have to remember that a video game tester job is exactly that, a job. You are being paid to do a job, period. Sure, it's more fun than other jobs, but there is still work involved.

Yes, actual work. Contrary to what you may have heard, you won't be sitting on your butt all day, hitting buttons on your controller, and getting paid for it. You will be filling out reports, answering questionnaires, and recreating glitches that you have come across. As the job title dictates, you will be a "video game tester" and not just a "video game player".


So, are you still interested in being a video game tester? Of course you are. Who wouldn't be? No matter what work might be involved, you are still getting payed to play, “ahem” test, the newest and most advanced video games there are. It's a dream job for any and every gamer.

How To Become a Professional Video Game Tester in 5 Simple Steps

By Sean Saunders

Step One: Be Proactive!
You won't land any video game tester jobs if you just sit around and wait for a "Game Testers Wanted" ad to appear in the paper. It won't happen. So instead of sitting back and waiting for a miracle to occur, just get out there and find the perfect video game testing job for you.

Head straight to the game companies and developers and apply for testing jobs. Since they aren't looking for you, the only logical step is to actively search for them. Once you find them (which shouldn't take too long), apply for a game tester position with them and then repeat the process for as many different companies as humanly possible.

On your application/resume, brag about all of your video game achievements, such as the consoles you own, the games you've played, the games you own, the MMORPGs you are apart of, and anything else that shows how much experience you have with video games. And if you want to help your cause even further, create a website/blog that talks about video games, gives reviews, previews, cheats, hints, tips, etc.

You have to remember that experience and professionalism count for a lot in this industry. Therefore, the more experience you have and the more professional you are, the better your chances are for getting a video game tester job.


Step Two: Step Out of Fairy Tale Land and Into Reality
You have to realize that video game testing is a job. Yes, it's a really fun job, but it is still a job nonetheless. This means that you have to treat it as such and take every part of it seriously. Don't merely sit down and play the game to have a good time. Sit down and play the game so that you can collect a paycheck when you're through.

Many "wanna-be" testers believe that being a professional video game tester is a "no work, all play" type of career. Honestly, they couldn't be more wrong. Although there aren't huge amounts of work that a game tester must wade through, there are still a few things that he/she has to complete. For instance, filling out reports. Surprised? Well, most aspiring young testers are when they hear that there is actual work involved with video game testing.

Contrary to what you may have thought, you won't be simply playing games and giving your opinion on whether they are good or not. You will actually be testing them. You will play through a game, find any bugs or glitches, and then fill out reports on any problems that you come across. This is to help the developers and programmers locate and fix those problems. You don't have to be an English professor or a college graduate to write bug reports, but you will have to have basic writing skills. Aside from the reports, you will also be required to fill out numerous questionnaires; which are typically opinion based.

As soon as you accept the fact that you'll be doing actual work as a video game tester, you will have much more success finding testing jobs.

How To Become a Video Game Tester- 4 Quick Tips

By Sean Saunders

Being a professional video game tester is a dream job. Most gamers would love the chance to be able to play great video games and get paid for it. Unfortunately though, most gamers think that paid video game testing is too far out of reach and will remain a dream forever. Well luckily, it's not a “dream” and anybody can be a paid video game tester with the right amount of experience and guidance.

The following tips should help you get started with a career in professional video game testing.

Tip 1: Don't Wait For Jobs to Find You, Get Out There and Find Them.
Video game tester jobs are not going to fall from the sky, so you can't expect to find them with a few glances at the Sunday newspaper. Therefore, instead of just sitting around and waiting, be proactive and actually chase those high paying testing jobs.

Make a beeline straight toward the game developers and present your case, no matter how poor or excellent it might be. Let them know who you are, what you do (game tester), and why you would make a great addition to their team/project.

It's important to remember that developers aren't going to hire you on the spot; so, don't let rejection get you down. They have lots of video game testers applying for projects and jobs, which means they can literally be as picky as they want to be. With that being said, be as confident as you can and be sure to let them know of all your gaming accomplishments and deeds. They should know about what games you play frequently, what consoles you own, what communities you are apart of, and any websites/blogs you own or help operate. No matter what the gaming accomplishment, big or small, it will help with landing you a job.


Tip 2: Don't Think "Hobby with Pay", Think "Career With Benefits!"
You have to keep in mind that developers pay video game testers as part of a job. They are not paying testers to merely enjoy video games at their own expense. Therefore, when you land a testing job, don't simply play it to have fun; play it like you are earning a paycheck. Does that mean you can't have any fun? No; it simply means you shouldn't make "fun" your top priority while testing video games.

If you take each and every testing job seriously and give it your all, you should have a much more successful game testing career.


Tip 3: Know What To Expect
The biggest part of being a professional video game tester is knowing the golden rule; which is "You are paid to test games, not to play them." There may be a fine line between the two, but any real game tester will tell you that the difference is definitely there.

The subtle difference between testing and playing is, well, work. A game tester will have to do actual work, such as filing reports & filling out questionnaires; as opposed to a regular game player, who will just relax and play the game at a leisurely pace. Admittedly, the work isn't back breaking, but it is work nonetheless.

The questionnaires are the easier part of game testing, as all the video game tester has to do is answer some general questions about the game and give his/her honest opinion. The reports, on the other hand, are a bit more difficult to do. These reports need to be filed on every bug/glitch that the tester comes across, and they have to be remarkably accurate. In each report, the video game tester has to describe what happened, where it happened, and how it happened. With this detailed information in hand, the developers & programmers will then fix the problem and find out why it happened in the first place. Every video game goes through this basic cycle, which is precisely why video game testers are so vital to the gaming industry.

As you can see, there really isn't all that much work involved with video game testing, but that doesn't mean it isn't a serious profession.


Tip 4: Build up a Network of Reliable Contacts.
Networking is a crucial part of professional video game testing. Although it is quite possible to have a prosperous career without a reliable network, having one just makes things easier.

A network of contacts can actually help your career in many different ways. The biggest thing it can do is give you heads up about new job openings and testing assignments that have been announced. Also, some of your contacts can even act as valuable references when applying for testing jobs. And, as if those two things weren't enough, your network can give you the inside scoop about what's going on behind closed doors.

Much like a video game tester job, a reliable network is not going to just jump out at you. Therefore, you will have to build it up all on your own. The best way to do that is by getting to know the industry and the people who work in it. Anyone that spends time around video games (professionally, of course) can be included in your network; game testers, developers, programmers, concept artists, art designers, graphics designers, technical support specialists, audio specialists, etc. Basically, if they know video games and work with video games, you want them in your network.


Tip 5: Don't Give Up. Keep Trying!
The unfortunate fact is that you are not going to land a video game tester job whenever you want one. As a matter of fact, it may be weeks or even months before you land your first testing job. However, that doesn't necessarily mean that you don't have what it takes; it just means you have to keep trying & giving it your best. Not many newcomers start off at the top of their game, which means you likely won't either. Hence, just give it time. After a few months and a few jobs, you should be able to get your footing and begin advancing in your career as a professional video game tester.

The Most Important Video Game Tester Questions Answered

By Sean Saunders

There is a lot of confusion about how to get paid to play video games and become a professional video game tester. In this article, I will answer the most frequently asked questions regarding game tester careers.

Why would people pay me to test video games?

Because it saves them money. If they release a game to the general public and there are lots of bugs in it, they lose profit three ways. First, they lose money on returns and reissues. Second, they lose money because some gamers will avoid purchasing future game releases from them. Third, they lose referrals that would have spread from one satisfied gamer to another. In order to make sure this doesn't happen, they rely on game testers to find glitches and problems within their video game. In exchange for doing so, they reward them quite well.

How much can I expect to make as a tester?

How much do you want to make? Video game testing is only limited to your desire and reputation. Typically, when starting out, expect to earn low wages between $9-$12 an hour. These earning won't be this low for long if you prove yourself as a good game tester. If you're reliable, helpful to the game developers, and develop a reputation as an excellent video game tester, you can make upwards of $80 an hour.

What type of video games will I test?

You get a choice when you apply for different jobs to test video games. This means that you can test video games only for certain platforms or just in certain genres. Of course, the more you limit yourself as to the type of games and platforms you will test on, the more limiting your options are for getting high paying video game tester jobs.

What's the easiest way to start a video game tester career?

This is easy -- learn from somebody else who has already done it and can teach you how to do it. The best way to do this is to have a personal mentor willing to help you one on one. Of course, this is not possible for most people. An alternative would be to buy E-books and/or other online e-courses, as well as to read resources by those who have learned how to quickly and effectively land jobs testing video games.

There you have it, four frequently asked questions that are asked by wannabe video game testers on a daily basis. If your question wasn't answered in this article, I urge you to do some more research to get more information on what a video game testing career can offer you.

2008/01/08

The Video Game Tester Lifestyle

By Sean Saunders

A lot of people will tell you that being a professional video game tester is the ultimate job. You can sit around and do nothing all day except for playing video games; and in addition to that, you'll make a lot of money. This is not exactly true. Let me give you a more accurate picture of the lifestyle of a professional video game tester.

First, if you are a paid game tester and test games from your home, you can work whenever you want to -- just as long as you get the game thoroughly tested and your feedback returned on time. You save time not having to travel to and from work, and you lessen stress because you get to work from home and set your own hours. These are very nice perks.

However, testing a video game is much different than just simply playing it for fun. A professional game tester will sit down with a notepad or some device to capture detailed notes of analysis, as he/she plays. It is not enough to simply recognize and spot a glitch or bug. You must also be able to give feedback on exactly what occurred in the sequence that caused the bug to happen.

Some bugs are simple and straightforward. They are easy to find, easy to document, and easy to reproduce. On the other hand, though, some bugs are very subtle and you won't be sure exactly what triggers them. This results in a lot of level repetition in order to figure out exactly what is happening that is causing the glitch. As you can no doubt guess, this can be tedious and extremely boring.

Another thing, when the tester finds a glitch, you have to make sure to check it against a list of known bugs that already exist. The rule here is not to report a glitch that is already known to the programmer, but to find new ones that plague the game.

Sometimes the pace is slow and quite simple, but as the deadline approaches, things being to pick up. The programmer is working around the clock to get the game ready in time for its debut on the market, thus requiring the game testers to spend longer hours testing every different feature and double checking every other level.

When you have completed the testing instructions to the letter and mailed back your reports, the job is over. Collect your check and then move on to the next game to test, or the next company to apply, whichever is most convenient.

As you can see, it isn't the fantasy lifestyle some make it out to be, nor is it as hard as other people will lead you to believe. However, in any regard, it is still quite rewarding and more fun than any other job your friends probably have. If after reading this, you are still interested in being a professional video game tester, I urge you to check out additional resources on how to become one.

Computer Games: Mind-tickling Games

By Fletcher Mak

Online games store are flooded with revolutionary easy-to-play, downloadable and free computer games. Loaded with sophisticated gaming features, these advanced technology games ensure interactive and thrilling gaming experience to the players.

Computer games are important means of entertainment. It provides an excellent form of amusement to kids, and teens, as they could be seen spending their most time in playing computer games. With the coming of several game consoles, it is easy to download free games from hundreds of online games shop without any cost. Now you can play exciting online games, as you would be getting it free of cost.

Online shopping portals provide different types of computer games like shooting, billiards, war, puzzle, poker and lots more to choose from. These interactive games have better graphics and platforms, ensuring maximum fun. The computer games are convenient form of recreation and could be automatically installed without any specific software.

Online games store has completely changed the entertainment scenario and not only entertains you but also enhance your mind. Go through different online games shop and select from the sports games to shooting games and puzzle games to adventure games. Enjoy playing with them at the comforts of home alone or with your friends. Select several other free downloadable games available online.

Go for XBOX 360 and PS2, as they are lively computer games with impressive sounds and effects. Choose from the different categories of fun games like action and adventure, arcade, driving and racing, role playing, etc. Buy computer games online at low cost or download free games.

Economical multi-player games are best alternatives for mind-tickling entertainment, as they are easily operational and could be played from home. You may choose action and adventure like Halo Wars (XBOX 360), Gangsters Ride (PS2) and many others. Browse through the online shopping portals and see the latest releases, price, news, reviews of computer games. Choose some of the revolutionary gaming device, accessories, controllers, etc. online and get hundreds of free games.

Paid Game Testing- Helpful Tips For Video Game Testers

By Sean Saunders

Landing a job as a video game tester is no walk in the park. As a matter of fact, it can be overwhelmingly difficult if you don't know where to start. Many gamers, instead of being proactive about becoming a professional video game tester, just sit around and do absolutely nothing to further their goals. They never actively search for video game tester jobs, so they never actually land one.

If that sounds at all like you, read & follow the two tips below. They should help you get started with finding your very first video game tester job.

Tip 1: Network!
The game industry is a large one, so the more connections you have, the better. You may have heard the phrase "it isn't what you know, it's who you know." Well, it absolutely applies to being a game tester. So, with that being said, start getting to know as many people in the gaming industry as possible; concept artists, designers, programmers, coders, testers, developers, support specialists, and anyone else who hangs around video games and/or has a video game related job.

Although it is very possible to do it all on your own, having a network just makes things easier; a LOT easier! The people in your “network” can let you in on jobs opening up, developers that are opening their doors, or they can just put in a good word for you when you are applying for a testing job. Plus, it never hurts to have a few friends in your respected field of work.

As you have probably guessed by now, having a network of reliable contacts is really a must in this industry; so be sure to work on expanding your "friends list" as much as possible. Although, don't let the networking part of video game testing get you down. After all, no one starts off knowing all of the most influential people.


Tip 2: Get Out There!
Don't wait until you have a huge network of contacts before you get started with your game testing career; just get out there! Game companies and developers are not going to put "Game Testers Wanted" ads in the paper. Sure they need video game testers, but they aren't going to advertise it everywhere.

Why don't they advertise? Because they would be swarmed with wanna-be video game testers that just want to play games all day long and get paid for it. Although that can be seen as the situation for testers, it actually isn't. Game Testers are paid to test games; they are not paid to play them for hours on end. So basically, game developers advertise in order to separate the real testers from the fakes.

What does this mean for you? It means you have to go right to the game companies and developers themselves. You have to find them, talk to them, and convince them that you are an experienced video game tester and that they would greatly benefit from hiring you. Don't be shy either. Tell them about your experience with games, your extensive research on the video game industry, as well as anything else that would likely impress them. Remember, the more experience you have, the better your chances are for being hired.

If you still think this is a dream job and want nothing more than to become a video game tester, then follow the 2 tips above and you should be able to land your first testing job in no time.

Paid Video Game Testers- What Do They Really Do?

By Sean Saunders

Many people hear that they can get paid playing video games, but they aren't sure exactly what a paid game tester actually does. That's what this article is for -- to give you an idea of what it's like being a professional video game tester.

Your primary role as a game tester is to analyze the beta version of a video game, and then document bugs, glitches, and other problems with the quality of the game. Typically, testers work long hours and need to have a lot of focus.

From the time a game is conceived, developed, and finally released to the marketplace, it can take anywhere from one to three years. It takes a lot to develop a video game into it's final form. In the later stages of a game's development, the game is passed on to the video game testers. Usually, testing starts about 75-80% of the way through the development process.

Once you receive a testing version of the game, you'll begin to play it. What you're looking for is any errors or visual issues that occur during gameplay. When you discover an error, you must make note of it and detail it as best you can. This sounds easy, but can be quite complex sometimes. In order to document a glitch properly, it may require several paragraphs to a full-page worth of notes and documentation.

And of course, you have to make sure you're not documenting an error that already exists. In order to avoid that, you're also sent a list of known bugs and glitches; so when you find a glitch or bug, you can check to see if it is on the list or not.

When a game is tweaked, changes are made based on the glitches paid game testers find. Different stages of testing require more copies to be sent out to video game testers. The closer it gets to the developer's deadline, the longer you will be working on the game. But, in retrospect, more work means more money & experience; so be happy about that.

As you can clearly see, video game testing is a dream job for those who are passionate about video games. Admittedly, it's not all happy moments and there is a bit of stress and some work involved; but then again, it's better than 95% of all the jobs out there, especially for hardcore gamers.

Nintendo Wii: Smart Gaming

By adam caitlin

The new Wii is the fifth home video game console from Nintendo. This gaming device is the direct successor to the Nintendo GameCube and targets a broader demographic than that of the Xbox 360 by Microsoft and PlayStation3 by Sony. The game console comes with the distinguishing feature of a wireless controller, the Wii Remote, which can be used as a handheld pointing device and is able to detect acceleration in three dimensions. Another feature is the WiiConnect24, which enables it to receive messages and updates over the Internet in a standby mode.
Nintendo first announced the entry of the Wii console at the 2004 E3 press conference the system and later unveiled it in the 2005 E3. The console was known by the code name of "Revolution" until April 27, 2006. But later, it was changed to the Wii. It was the first home console Nintendo had marketed outside of Japan. Nintendo announced the launching of the console on September 14, 2006. The company announced that the majority of the 2006 shipments would be allotted to the Americas, while the 33 titles would be available in the 2006 launch window. Nintendo also announced the release of the console in South Korea by the beginning of 2008.
Since its launch, Nintendo Wii recorded a high rise in the monthly sale of the console beating its competitors across the globe. According to the NPD Group, the Nintendo Wii sold more units in North America than the Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 combined in the first half of 2007, which was a record in gaming console history. Nintendo also enjoys a large market share in the Japanese market, where it currently leads in total sales, having outsold both consoles by factors of 2:1 to 6:1 nearly every week from its launch until November 2007. The sale of the Nintendo Wii in Australia also created history by overtaking its competitors.

Nintendo Wii: Smart Gaming

By adam caitlin

The new Wii is the fifth home video game console from Nintendo. This gaming device is the direct successor to the Nintendo GameCube and targets a broader demographic than that of the Xbox 360 by Microsoft and PlayStation3 by Sony. The game console comes with the distinguishing feature of a wireless controller, the Wii Remote, which can be used as a handheld pointing device and is able to detect acceleration in three dimensions. Another feature is the WiiConnect24, which enables it to receive messages and updates over the Internet in a standby mode.
Nintendo first announced the entry of the Wii console at the 2004 E3 press conference the system and later unveiled it in the 2005 E3. The console was known by the code name of "Revolution" until April 27, 2006. But later, it was changed to the Wii. It was the first home console Nintendo had marketed outside of Japan. Nintendo announced the launching of the console on September 14, 2006. The company announced that the majority of the 2006 shipments would be allotted to the Americas, while the 33 titles would be available in the 2006 launch window. Nintendo also announced the release of the console in South Korea by the beginning of 2008.
Since its launch, Nintendo Wii recorded a high rise in the monthly sale of the console beating its competitors across the globe. According to the NPD Group, the Nintendo Wii sold more units in North America than the Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 combined in the first half of 2007, which was a record in gaming console history. Nintendo also enjoys a large market share in the Japanese market, where it currently leads in total sales, having outsold both consoles by factors of 2:1 to 6:1 nearly every week from its launch until November 2007. The sale of the Nintendo Wii in Australia also created history by overtaking its competitors.

Paid To Beta Test Video Games- The Downsides Of Paid Game Testing

By Sean Saunders

I'm not going to lie to you -- being a professional video game tester is a sweet deal. You get money playing video games in the comfort of your own home. But it's not all a bed of roses. In fact, video game testing is not for everybody. In this article, I'll discuss some of the downsides that are involved with being a paid game tester.

I want you to imagine playing a video game that has no ending. You just play it and play it, and then you reach a certain level and the game stops. Sound like a great game? Well, if you're a game tester, you may have to test games that are like this, uncompleted.

Typically, a game takes about one to three years to completely develop. Testers get their hands on the game around 75-80% of the development stage. Sometimes, this means getting a game that isn't completed from start to end. Some people find it unsatisfying playing a game without being able to beat it.

Also, bugs are sometimes hard to document. Admittedly, a lot of the bugs and glitches are going to be pretty simple, like "every time I jump, I lose my weapon." But, there will also be several bugs that are more subtle and harder to recognize, as well as a few that confuse you altogether. This makes it a challenge to document and is something that may take a few pages of writing to capture.

In addition, you're not the only game tester being paid to test the video game. This means that you have to compare any bugs you find with those on the list of already identified bugs. Nothing is worse than turning in a report on a bug or glitch that has already been found by another tester, especially considering the fact that it makes you look lazy.

Finally, the stop and start process of having to constantly document your play is grueling for some people. Equally grueling is the process of having to play some levels over & over & over again, especially after an update has occurred and you're forced to re-check the game.

If these things are going to be a problem for you, then maybe you should reconsider wanting to be a paid game tester. For most video game testers though, these are just necessary evils that aren't too bad to put up with, considering you are still getting paid a lot of money to test video games. Most agree, it's a worthy trade for a career in professional game testing.

Craps

By Robert Baird Baird

The much admired casino dice game of craps was previously referred to as ‘crapaud' and it is believed that the history of the beginning of this game can be traced to back to the time of the crusades and since then it percolated down to the French who popularized it worldwide. The major requisites of the craps casino gambling game are a pair of dice and the players bet against the casino depending on the result of a series of rolls of the two dice or the outcome of a single roll. The game of craps is a very popular game and apart from casinos, it is also commonly played during leisure times. The game can be played by a single player or even several players. The game commences with the player rolling out the two dice. The game comprises of a series of rounds and every time the dice are rolled out for the first time in each round, it is called ‘come-out roll'. The player who rolls out the dice, is referred to as 'shooter'. According to the rules of the game, as it progresses, if the total valuation of both the dice rolled amount to 2, 3,7,11, or 12, then it signals that the round is over and a new round should be commenced immediately. If the result of the roll is 2, 3, or 12, then it is called ‘craps'. While, if the result is 11 or 7, then it referred to as a ‘natural' or ‘win'. However, it is to be remembered that in case, any other number excluding the above like 4,5,6,8,9 and 10 roll out, then it is referred to as a ‘point'. Under such circumstances, the shooter will have to continue rolling the dice again and again till the result of 7 is arrived at. In case, the point situation is referred consecutively, the round is concluded and a new game begins with the same shooter. In this game, if the player manages to score a 7 with the come-out roll, then it is declared to be a ‘seven-out' and that seals the round. A new game commences next with a new shooter.

In this game, players can indulge in multiple betting and in most cases they bet about how the round will conclude. In some other situations, they can also bet on the total scored before a 7 is rolled out etc. Betting in a casino is done by utilizing chips on the craps casino table with a boxman at guard of the chips.

Blackjack

By Robert Baird Baird

One of the most popular among the various casino gambling games that have evolved over centuries is the blackjack, also popularly referred to as 21. the blackjack is a card game which originated around 1700 when they made their inaugural appearances in the French casinos. In case of casino gambling games, it has been noticed that while some games involve the use of intelligence and skill, some others are totally ruled by luck and chance factors. But the blackjack is one game which has the distinction of possessing the superb mix of both skill and chance. With the progress of time, blackjack is one game which has greatly become popular and is played with equal ease even today at casinos.

The name ‘blackjack' too has a short history which can be related to the period when the game was initially introduced in the United States . The mode of playing blackjack is quite simple and interesting. Each card has a certain valuation attached to it. For example, the face cards i.e. jack, king and queen are valued at 10 and all the cards from 2 to 10 retain their own face values. The value of the ace is 11. It is to be remembered that in this game the winner needs to have a winning hand which totals the highest though the total cannot exceed 21. Therefore, in cases the value of the ace as 11 makes the total exceeding 21, the value of the ace is reduced to 1. In times when the hand exceeds a value over 21, it is referred to as ‘bust'. The main aim of the player in course of the game is to overcome the dealer who acquires the hand with the highest total, without a bust. It is also to be borne in mind by the player that in case the dealer busts and so does the player, the player will be the defeated one and not the dealer. There are also some situations while the game of blackjack is on that both the dealer and the player are tied at the same point value. Under such circumstances, the term used is ‘push' and here nobody emerges a winner. It is also to be remembered in case of a game of blackjack in a casino that a dealer usually plays with several sets of players consecutively and therefore while the player can emerge winner in a round, it is possible for the dealer to emerge victorious against any other player in course of the same round.

Roulette

By Robert Baird Baird

The term ‘roulette' has distinct French origins and it refers to a ‘small wheel'. Roulette is a very famous casino gambling game. It is a very interesting game and roulette is played by a lot of people who wish to indulge into some fun and entertainment. The origin of roulette can be traced to the early years of the 18 th century in France . The game of roulette is not at all complicated. It comprises of a circular area. The croupier spins a wheel which is located in this circular space and followed by this he rotates a ball in the opposite direction. The ball travels and eventually falls into one of the pockets crafted in this circular wheel and each of these pockets are colored and contain specific numbers. The players are to declare their stakes by betting on the numbers or the color of the pockets. In case of the American roulette, the wheel is comprised of 38 pockets while in the European roulettes, the number of pockets in the wheel is 37. It is usually noticed that the pockets are colored red and black while the pocket displaying 0 is often found to depict green color. For the casino gambling game of roulette, it is also very significant to remember that the numbers in the pockets of the wheel are definitely not arranged in a consecutive order. It is also necessary to point out that here the kind of bets that can be placed by the players are of two types. There is the ‘outside bet' by means of which it is possible to bet on the color of the pockets or their positioning while in case of ‘inside bets', the players can choose certain pockets where they believe the ball can land upon spinning. The different modes of ‘outside betting' include column, group bets, even money bets while the variety of ‘inside bets' are constituted by street, corner, split, sixline, straight. The betting continues until the dealer announces the termination of betting. The valuations of winning are predetermined.

The average amount lost by a player relative to any committed bet is known as house edge or house average. Certain series of number arrangements in the roulette wheel have given rise to certain terminologies according to the positioning of the numbers in the wheel. These are tiers, orphelins, neighbors of zero, xx and neighbors. Each of these terms denote a separate series of numbers. However it is to be kept in mind that not all casinos offer this arrangement of numbers.

Baccarat

By Robert Baird Baird

Casinos and gambling have emerged as common source of entertainment in recent times. Baccarat is a very popular gambling card game and the traces of its origin can be seen in the 15 th century in Italy and from there it traveled to France where it became extremely popular during the reign of Charles the Eighth. Baccarat is a game of cards and there are several variants of the game. These include the baccarat banque, punto baccarat and baccarat chemin de fer. In case of the games like baccarat chemin de fer and the baccarat banque, there is enough opportunity for the players to make choices and therefore display and employ their gaming tricks and skills to ensure winning. However, much to the contrary the punto baccarat is based on chance as the cards determine the performance of the player and no exercising of skill is necessary. The game of baccarat offers three different betting options to the player. These are known as the ‘banker', ‘player' and ‘tie'.

It is interesting to note that in the casino gambling game baccarat, each card has a separate set of values attached to it. For example, the face cards like Joker, Queen and King are valued at zero points as are 10s. The cards from 2 to 9 have the same values as denoted by their figures. The sum of the cards of a player are added up together and in case the added value exceeds 10, the tens digit is abandoned. The maximum points a player can obtain in this game is 9. An added value of 10 is equivalent to 0.

In the baccarat chemin de fer, the game begins with the croupier's shuffling of the cards which then pass hands of each player. At the conclusion of shuffling, the player to the left of the croupier is offered a set of cards. The one to the right of the croupier is also given a set of cards and this individual is the ‘banker' while the rest of the players are punters. The stakes are declared by the ‘banker' followed by those of the punters. In the baccarat banque, the banker is in a more consolidated position and contrary to the baccarat chemin de fer, the loss of the banker means that it passes on to another player instead of concluding the game. Here three packs of cards are used while six packs of cards are used in baccarat chemin de fer. In punto baccarat, the hand with maximum points between the player and banker emerges winner.

Negative effects of casinos and gambling

By Robert Baird Baird

Previously, the term ‘casino' used to refer to a country house or an Italian style villa. However, it was in the early years of the 19 th century that the term came to be designated in its present meaning with several separate buildings dedicated to the purpose of entertainment activities including gambling as a fun activity. Today casinos and gambling are great activities for passing leisure time and most hotels, restaurants and shopping arcades providing gambling facilities to its consumers. This is especially on a high during festivals or occasions of celebrations and in such situations, the hotels and restaurants offer better stakes and huge profit revenues to its customers therefore luring crowds to participate in gambling. It is also interesting to point out here that with the progress of technology and the birth of the internet, casinos and gambling activities too have been revolutionized with the emergence of what is referred to as online casinos or virtual casinos.

While a little bit of occasional indulgence in gambling activities isn't harmful, too much addiction can become a matter of concern. Time and again it has been pointed out by psychiatrists that over indulgence in gambling activities can result in causing psychological disorders. This is prevalent as casinos offer huge benefits upon winning which are successful in attracting the players. Once the game begins, some players continue to play the game even after losing huge stakes in hope that may be they will hit the jackpot amount soon. But in cases it doesn't happen, the player may lose enormous amounts of money and he might also fall into a debt trap which can affect him psychologically or may force him to commit heinous crimes to recover the amount lost.

The casinos are comprised of huge amounts of currency required for betting and gambling and therefore it is necessary for the authorities to make sure that adequate proportions of security forces are deployed as guard since often people are tempted to steal by duping the system. This is why nowadays, close circuit television and hidden cameras are employed for ensuring full proof security. Online casinos too are plagued by frauds. In such cases, some fraudulent players' often are seen to create false slot machines using graphics editing software tools and demanding jackpot amounts against it. These players also use varied identities while signing up in online casinos in order to demand in excess for the winning amount. Such activities should be kept under check in casino gambling.

Template by:
Free Blog Templates