5 best video games that feature casinos

No matter how advanced video games get, developers will always look to casinos to pad out their content.

Games of all sorts have been enjoyed throughout history. While modern titles are much more technologically advanced than hoop and stick, video games take inspiration from older forms of entertainment all the time. Gambling is one of the world’s oldest pursuits, so it’s no surprise to see it pop up in video games. Some games even go the extra mile, with entire sections of their gameplay dedicated to playing poker or hitting the slots. In fact, some titles are entirely based on classic gambling games.

The trend is big enough that AAA studios often directly implement casinos into major video game releases. These high-profile releases usually don’t focus on gambling but instead use them as a minigame to give players a palette cleanser between the standard fare. Rockstar Games is particularly famous for these, but more than just one developer has put effort into side activities. Here are the five best casinos to play in video games in 2023.

GTA Online is the king of video game casinos

The Diamond Casino, introduced into GTA Online in 2019, is the closest gamers can get to the real gambling experience from the comfort of their couch. This virtual casino in Vinewood, Los Santos has a unique storyline and various multiplayer modes. GTA Online Diamond Casino gives a realistic betting experience by playing popular games. They include table games, slots, roulette, blackjack, poker, and more. If you’re having trouble finding a website for legal online gambling in PA, the Diamond Casino is an excellent alternative. It’s the most well-made full casino in gaming, and it continues to get updates to this day.

In addition to gamlbing, players can interact with the venue in multiple ways. GTA Online players can accept missions for the casino, meet others in the lounge, and even pull off a daring heist against the house. All of these traits and more have turned GTA Online’s Diamon Casino into the gold standard for casinos in video games.

Escape into fantasy with The Witcher 3

If a luxurious casino doesn’t pique your interest, you may be looking for a fantastical take on the hobby. Popular open-world RPG Witcher 3 takes place in a fantasy world, and Whoreson Junior’s Casino is one of its major attractions. It has a variety of gambling options in the casino’s lobby, like slot machines and video poker. The fantasy casino features a grand interior, plenty of games, and dangerous characters to acquaint yourself with. Many of the quests involving Whoreson Junior’s tie back into the game’s main story, and some character storylines even reach a climax at the inn.

Red Dead Redemption 2’s poker is top-notch

Whether you’re an experienced gambler or have never held a poker hand, Red Dead Redemption 2 is a great way to play poker at home. Many saloons offer gambling with randomly selected NPCs, who play at different skill levels and react differently to your performance. The experience does a great job of nailing the social aspect of gambling, though gamers looking for real money earnings would be better off at online casinos in Michigan. Poker and blackjack are the main games, but the real fun comes from your opponents, who represent different takes on the wild west gambler archetype. 

Watchdogs has a darker take on gambling

2014’s Watchdogs is mostly known for its in-depth hacking system and dark story, but it also features one of the best casinos in modern video games. The Four Clubs is an in-game illegal gambling joint run by one of the game’s antagonists, but that doesn’t stop the player from waltzing in and betting it all on black. Players use in-game currency to bet on a variety of games, including poker, blackjack, slots, and more. The money earned can go right back into toppling the casino’s owner, giving the side activity relevance to the main plot. All of these traits make Watchdogs’ The Four Clubs one of the best casino video games can offer.

The Sims 3 is best with DLCs

The Sims is most famous for its in-depth simulation of a real community, but players who want something more engaging can always take their sims to the Lucky Simoleon Casino. This DLC package introduces a new venue to your town, complete with slot machines and a blackjack table. Unlike most other casinos in video games, gambling is controlled by NPCs whose success is determined by their stats. It’s not as direct as the classic tabletop games available on platforms like PlayCasinosNJ.com, but it’s a fun way to mess around with the game’s myriad systems. There’s also a chance your sim gets into an altercation at the casino, which is always quality entertainment.

The best casino video games have several benefits, including improving cognitive function, reducing stress, and promoting social interaction. The realistic graphics and immersive gameplay provide a fun and engaging experience. They include slot machines, roulette, poker, crap, keno, and live dealer games. GTA is the most suitable option in this article. This is because it features casinos as one of its main attractions and, as such, makes newbies familiar with a game they can play in casinos, such as slot machines, blackjack, and roulette.