THE ILLUSION OF CONTROL

Games Of Chance Pitted Against Our Ego

Arizona casinos offer us all the opportunity to get our kicks playing games of chance. While that chance is non-specific, we can win or lose. No illusions there. We love to gamble. But it’s best to always keep our wits about us.

We know we’re not in control when we make repeated trips to the ATM, drink too much or refuse to quit playing while winning or losing as the hours pass. Like many things, moderation can be the key to fun and fit survival.

Sometimes, I want to feel in control, in the thick of the action. Other times, I want to hide in the back of the casino and play a slot machine where no one can see me, just pushing the buttons. It’s such a guilt-free pleasure. But what about skill-based games?

Do Casinos Offer Skill-Based Games?

All table games require skill, whether your finesse comes from betting strategies and patience, actual card-tracking at blackjack, or math and player psychology at poker.

You’ll do best at those games if you understand the rules and principles of your gambling, which means the games themselves and your specific gaming psychology.

Until recently, Arizona casinos offered only slots and card games while many players longed for expanded gaming. Now that we’ve got games like craps and roulette, it’s essential not to fool ourselves like we often do at video poker.

Video poker is universally popular because it holds the illusion of player control. Yes, we can pick and choose which cards to discard, but that doesn’t automatically get us a four-of-a-kind or a royal flush. The outcome isn’t preset, but the house odds are!

Craps & Roulette – The Ultimate Test Of Will

Roulette has been a gaming favorite for nearly 200 years; craps about half that long. So what’s the attraction? For starters, both games are easy to learn and play. They both offer even-money bets that pay often and harder-to-hit bets that pay 30-1 at craps and 35-1 at roulette, and both can make you think you are in control.

Believing you are in control of a game can make you feel omnipotent. Just ask a poker pro. It can lead to your biggest scores but presents a delicate balance. The ultimate satisfaction of gaming greatness is tenuously tethered to a game of chance and pride.

If you play craps, there will be times you can’t help but roll the numbers you want. It happens, and it’s great. But are you able to control the dice? Double up and raise your bets while it lasts. Just don’t let ego override the controls and smash your moment.

As for roulette, sometimes it seems almost supernatural when you are wagering on individual numbers, and your mind keeps telling you to add this number and that – and they keep hitting. At 35-1, you’ll clean up quite nicely during a nearly psychic session. But where do those instincts come from? Mind control or good luck?

Nobody knows, but no session of great guesses lasts forever. I load up around a specific number – four corners to start, adding splits and straight up when they hit. Then I play until the feelings subside or I lose a few stacks and head to the cashier. Who’s in control then? $

Writer Al Moe has worked in the casino industry for many years. He has lived and worked in Las Vegas, Reno, and Lake Tahoe. He also attended the University of Nevada, Reno. He is an avid writer and blogger. His book, “Vegas and the Mob," is available online at Amazon.com. He is also the proud father of four beautiful girls.