Players today are so used to the structure of online casinos that it is difficult to imagine a gaming setup outside the casino. However, centuries before the first online casino was designed, people played different games in their homes and in public spaces. These games were largely dependent on skill, thus, players spent time learning the gameplay and praying for luck.
In this piece, we will journey down memory lane to shed some light on five popular traditional games. We will journey from France to China and land somewhere in India. Ready for the ride? Let’s go!
5 Popular Traditional Games
This list was curated by our team of experts. So, relax and enjoy our review of these traditional games that require skill and luck.
Chemin de Fer
Chemin de Fer is a fascinating card game with roots in France. The history of the game dates back to the late 19th century. Although it has since found its way into both land-based and online casinos, its unique gameplay remains unchanged.
Chemin de Fer gained cinematic fame when it was showcased by James Bond, played by Sean Connery, in the film Dr. No in 1962. Because of its gameplay similarities with baccarat, it is often regarded as a variation of baccarat, but its gameplay is still unique. AskGamblers UK articulates this uniqueness very well in its review.
Chemin de Fer is played between two hands: The player’s hand and the banker’s hand. Players bet on which hand they believe will win, and the game utilizes six decks of cards. The goal here is to have a hand value as close to nine as possible. The game involves a series of rounds where players can choose to draw additional cards. Although it’s pretty straightforward, players have to rely on luck to get the best cards.
Texas Hold’em
Texas Hold’em has become a staple in nearly every casino, especially in North America. The game originated in Robstown, Texas, in the 1900s. So, how did Texas Hold’em become so popular? The answer might interest you.
Casinos earn revenue through tournament fees and cash game rakes in Texas Hold’em. The game’s popularity has only increased with the rise of televised poker tournaments and online gaming platforms. These factors solidified the status of Texas Hold’em in the gaming industry.
In Texas Hold’em, each player is dealt two private cards, known as hole cards. The dealer, on the other hand, reveals five community cards in stages: Three cards at once during the flop, one card during the turn, and the final card during the river. The goal is to make the best possible five-card hand using a combination of the player’s hole cards and the community cards.
To play Texas Hold’em, players must engage in thoughtful betting, skillful bluffing, and keen observation of their opponents’ behaviors. Like Chemin de Fer, the cards you get here are a matter of luck.
Caribbean Stud
Caribbean Stud Poker, often referred to simply as stud poker, is a popular variation of poker. Its history has been traced to 14th-century Europe, however, specific details of its origin are unavailable.
Unlike most table games, players don’t compete against each other in Caribbean Stud. The competition here is against the dealer. The dealer and each player are dealt five cards, with one of the dealer’s cards revealed face-up. This visible card provides players with crucial information as they decide whether to fold or raise based on the strength of their hand and the dealer’s exposed card.
One of the most enticing features of Caribbean Stud Poker is its progressive jackpot, which players can win by achieving a royal flush. The game also has the potential for high payouts—explaining why it is a favorite among many casino visitors.
Pai Gow
Pai Gow is a blend of traditional Chinese Pai Gow and North American poker. The game was developed in the United States in 1985 by Sam Torosian. His intention was to adapt the classic Chinese domino game into a card format.
In Pai Gow Poker, players are dealt seven cards and must create two hands: A five-card hand and a two-card hand. The goal is to beat both the dealer’s hands.
Pai Gow Poker has slower gameplay, which creates a more relaxed atmosphere at the tables. This leisurely style is particularly appealing to players who enjoy socializing while they play. With a little more practice of Pai Gow, any player can shine at a Poker table. The game’s fusion of Eastern and Western gaming styles also attracts a range of audiences. It also has a relatively low house edge, which is ideal for players who want games with better odds.
Teen Patti
Teen Patti is an indigenous Indian game that can be traced back to the 16th century. Hence, the name Indian Poker. The game is so popular that an Indian 2010 movie was named after it.
Like other table games, Teen Patti is not just about luck. The game incorporates elements of strategy and psychology, as players gauge the strength of their opponents’ hands and make decisions accordingly.
Teen Patti is typically played with three to six players. At the beginning of the game, each player is dealt three cards, face down. Players must decide whether to call, raise, or fold based on the strength of their hands. The winner is determined by the highest-ranking hand and they take home the entire pot.
Final Thoughts
The five traditional games highlighted in this piece are historic masterpieces. Each game has maintained its own unique blend of skill and luck. This explains why they continue to captivate players.
Now you have taken a walk through the rich history of these games, which of them would you like to play? Regardless of your preference, you can rest assured that you will have a good time, provided you learn the basics of the game and have some luck on your side. Remember to gamble responsibly. All the best!
