We explored four casinos adjacent to the famous Las Vegas Strip on May 3, 2024. The casinos we encountered were Gold Coast, Orleans, Palms, and Rio.
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Around noon, we set off from The Orleans, ready to embark on our gambling adventure. Surprisingly, the casino was bustling, despite the early hour. As we delved into the world of video poker and table games, we couldn't help but notice that not much had changed since our previous visit.
Among the numerous gaming machines available, a noteworthy mention goes to around 30 machines that boast an impressive payout percentage of "Up to 99.8%." Unsurprisingly, these machines offer an array of distinctive games, setting them apart from the ones commonly found in most Boyd Gaming casinos. Among the assortment of options, players can indulge in thrilling games such as Triple Bonus Plus, guaranteeing an enticing payout percentage of 99.8%. Moreover, Double Double Bonus Aces and Faces, with a commendable 99.46% payout percentage, and Ace$ Poker, offering an enticing 99.4% payout percentage, are also included in the enticing repertoire. To cater to diverse preferences, these game machines accept varying denominations, such as $0.25, $0.50, and $1, ensuring that players can choose according to their desired level of investment.
At Orleans, you'll find a variety of video poker games to choose from, with one of the best options being 8/5 Bonus Poker. This particular game is available in different denominations, ranging from $0.25 to $2, and even includes Triple Play and Five Play options for added excitement. While the casino may not have as many video poker variants as some off-Strip establishments, they still offer the usual selection of Spin Poker, Ultimate X, and multi-hand games. However, it's worth noting that these games often have lower pay tables compared to the single-line games. If you prefer lower denominations, you'll typically find options ranging from $0.05 to $1. So whether you're a seasoned video poker player or just looking to try your luck, Orleans has a range of games to suit different preferences and budgets.
At The Orleans, I discovered a variety of table games to choose from. The most popular one appeared to be double-deck blackjack, which had a minimum bet of $15 and paid out at a rate of 3/2. Craps, on the other hand, had a lower minimum bet of $10. For those interested in poker, there were pit games available such as Three Card Poker and Ultimate Texas Hold'em, with a starting bet of $5. Additionally, Fortune Pai Gow Poker was dealt at The Orleans, requiring a minimum bet of $20. Baccarat enthusiasts could enjoy the game starting at $25. However, to my surprise, Free Bet Blackjack was noticeably absent from the pit. This was the first time I had encountered a casino where the game was not offered.
I was excited to discover that the casino has an extensive range of electronic table games, each offering a unique and immersive experience. From the dynamic stadium games to the engaging multiplayer options, there was something for every type of player. As I explored further, I stumbled upon the thrilling heads-up games, where the adrenaline-filled competition was palpable. The 00 roulette, in particular, caught my attention, offering various denominations ranging from $0.10 to $1, allowing players to customize their experience based on their comfort level. For those who favored the classic game of blackjack, the Casino Wizard machines provided an enticing opportunity. With a minimum bet of $3, players could enjoy the 3/2 blackjack variant, where the dealer stood on 17, adding an extra layer of excitement to each hand. Moving on, I discovered the ever-popular Big Six and craps games, both offering a minimum bet of $1, providing a thrilling and accessible gaming experience for all. Lastly, baccarat enthusiasts would be pleased to find that the minimum bet for this elegant game stood at $3, allowing players to partake in the sophistication and allure of this timeless classic.
Following our visit to The Orleans, we strolled over to Palms, which lacked the bustling atmosphere that was present at The Orleans.
During our recent visit, we discovered no novel additions to the selection. However, the undisputed champion of video poker games available is undeniably the 8/5 Bonus Poker. This game boasts a plethora of variations, such as Triple Play, Five Play, Ten Play, and even the intriguing Spin Poker. Additionally, there are several other games that offer a player-friendly 99% payout, such as the 9/7 Double Bonus, 9/6 Double Double Bonus, and the highly rewarding 15/9 Deuces Wild.
At Palms, you'll find an extensive range of video poker variants to choose from. The available denominations typically include $0.05, $0.10, $0.25, $0.50, and $1. Additionally, there are a couple of 10-play games with $0.01 and $0.02 denominations. When it comes to pay tables, you'll mostly come across options in the 97-98% range. Among these, 7/5 Bonus Poker tends to be the most favorable game you can play.
There is an array of video poker variants available in Palms, catering to different preferences and playing styles. These options include Triple Play, Five Play, and Ten Play, allowing players to engage in multiple hands simultaneously. For those seeking more excitement, there are variations like 3 Way Action and Hot Roll, which add unique twists to the traditional gameplay. Split Card offers an intriguing concept where one card can be split into two separate hands. Super Triple Play, Ultimate X, and Ultimate X Bonus Streak provide opportunities for enhanced winnings and bonuses. Ultimate X Spin Poker combines the elements of spinning reels and video poker, creating a dynamic and captivating experience. If you aim for even more rewards, Ultimate X Gold offers additional multipliers for increased payouts. Max Action amps up the adrenaline with its fast-paced gameplay. Dream Card introduces the concept of a bonus card that can significantly improve your hand. Multi-Strike allows players to progress through four levels of hands, each with increasing multipliers. Powerhouse brings together poker and slots, offering an innovative fusion of the two games. Lastly, Spin Poker combines video poker with spinning reels, offering a unique blend of luck and strategy. With such a wide range of options, Palms ensures that every player can find their perfect video poker variant.
At Palms, the prices for various table games vary. The majority of the tables in the pit were not open, which limited our options. However, I did manage to find a few games that fit within my budget. Three Card Poker and Ultimate Texas Hold'em were both priced at $10, which seemed like a reasonable deal. For those looking for slightly higher stakes, there were a few other options available. Craps, Double Zero Roulette, Face Up Pai Gow Poker, 6/5 Free Bet and Free Bonus Poker, 3/2 double-deck blackjack, and 3/2 six-deck blackjack were all priced at $15. If you were feeling particularly lucky or wanted to splurge, Baccarat was available at a higher price point of $25. Overall, there were plenty of options to choose from at Palms, catering to a range of budgets and preferences.
I've got some exciting news for you high rollers out there! If you're looking to play some high-stakes blackjack, you're in luck. Our casino offers high limit tables starting at a minimum bet of $100. Now, let me break down the options for you. We have two variations of the game available: a double-deck game where the dealer hits on soft 17, and a six-deck game where the dealer stands on it. But that's not all! In the six-deck game, you also have the opportunity to double down both before and after splitting your cards. So, whether you prefer the fast-paced action of the double-deck game or the strategic possibilities of the six-deck game, we've got you covered. Get ready to place your bets and test your luck at our high limit blackjack tables!
Electronic craps offers a minimum bet of $1, while 00 roulette is available with a minimum bet of $3. Baccarat and 6:5 blackjack require a minimum bet of $5.
Gold Coast provides slightly more advantageous value compared to The Orleans as it offers a wider range of full-pay video poker options and lower limits for table games. Furthermore, Gold Coast remains a place where you can still enjoy live keno.
Gold Coast is known for having the finest selection of video poker machines in the vicinity. You'll be delighted to find an abundance of banks showcasing the highly sought-after "Up to 99.8%" machines. The crème de la crème of these games is Triple Bonus Plus, boasting an impressive 99.8% return. Moreover, you can explore a plethora of other enticing options, such as the 16/10 Deuces Wild machine, which offers a favorable 99.73% payout. For those seeking additional variety, 9/6 Bonus Poker Deluxe (99.64%) and 9/6 Jacks or Better (99.54%) are viable choices. And the cherry on top? Gold Coast has a multitude of other video poker games that fall within the enticing range of 99% to 99.5% return rates.
Nickel video poker enthusiasts can discover a selection of progressive royal flush opportunities, with the most exceptional option being the 7/5 Bonus Poker game.
In the realm of video poker, there exists an array of captivating variants to engage in. These include 3 Way Action, Triple Wheel Poker, Hot Roll, and Powerhouse, to name just a few. One can indulge in the adrenaline rush of Triple Play, Five Play, and Ten Play, or opt for the excitement of Wheel Poker Deluxe and Ultimate X Spin Poker. The pay tables of these games typically fall within the range of 98%. However, select variations such as Triple Play, Five Play, Ten Play, Spin Poker, and Super Times Pay boast an impressive 99% payout, offering games like 8/5 Bonus Poker, 9/7 Double Bonus, 9/6 Double Double Bonus, and 15/9 Deuces Wild. When it comes to denominations, players are presented with a range starting from $0.05, reaching up to $1, catering to individual preferences and strategies.
In this bustling establishment, a variety of video poker machines are available, each offering different pay tables and betting options. At the heart of it all is the main bar, where patrons can find 9/6 Jacks or Better games with denominations of $1, $2, and $5. However, there are also a few machines that offer the same game at a lower denomination of $0.50. For those looking to play with quarters, there are games with progressive jackpots for a suited royal flush, boasting pay tables with a 98% payout rate. But here's the exciting part: as the betting amount increases to $0.50, players can enjoy even more favorable odds with several options boasting a 99% payout rate. So, whether you're a high roller or prefer lower stakes, this place has something to suit every player's preference and budget.
During our recent visit, I noticed that the pit area had undergone a slight rearrangement. The minimums and selection for table games remained unchanged, which was consistent with our previous experience. However, the notable difference was the relocation of pai gow poker to the opposite end of the baccarat section. The tables that now occupied its previous position were those dedicated to pai gow.
I notice that double zero roulette tables have a minimum bet of $3, providing a more accessible option for players. If you prefer poker, you can choose between Three Card Poker and Ultimate Texas Hold'em, both with a minimum bet of $5. For those who enjoy the excitement of craps, the minimum bet at the table is $10. Double-deck blackjack, on the other hand, requires a minimum bet of $15. If you're looking for a higher-stakes game, Baccarat, Face Up Pai Gow Poker, and Fortune Pai Gow Poker all have a minimum bet of $25.
At Gold Coast, the live dealer stadiums have undergone a change, now exclusively offering the enticing game of baccarat. It's a captivating experience, as these interconnected stadiums allow for up to four games to be enjoyed simultaneously. Embracing both beginners and seasoned players, the minimum bet for each baccarat game is set at an affordable $5, ensuring accessibility for all. For those seeking a more casual and affordable gaming option, the electronic heads-up baccarat and craps games are available with a mere $1 minimum bet. Additionally, for those who crave the thrill of the roulette wheel, the multiplayer 00 roulette game awaits, with a minimum bet of $3. With such diverse options, the live dealer stadiums at Gold Coast truly cater to the preferences and budgets of all players.
Our day's journey came to an end in Rio, the final destination. Out of all the casinos we explored, Rio proved to be the least fast-paced. The video poker offerings were abysmal, leaving no noteworthy options except for the high limit games. Unfortunately, a multitude of video poker variations were absent, a consequence of the introduction of a novel stadium gaming device.
In the gambling haven of Las Vegas, where fortunes are won and lost, there exists a range of video poker machines that cater to players with varying budgets. Should one possess a modest sum, they may indulge in the thrills of 9/6 Jacks or Better and 8/5 Bonus Poker for a mere $5, $10, or $25. However, for those seeking a more elevated experience, the realm of high limit gaming beckons. A $25, $50, or $100 machine grants access to the aforementioned games, along with the esteemed 9/7 Triple Double Bonus and 9/6 Double Double Bonus. Among these exclusive offerings, the Triple Double Bonus game reigns supreme, rivaled only by Caesars Palace in terms of sheer excellence.
7/5 Bonus Poker is the top choice for $0.25, $0.50, and $1 video poker, with numerous banks offering this game, including those with a progressive jackpot for a royal flush.
I have always found it intriguing that Rio, a renowned casino located off the Las Vegas Strip, stands apart from the crowd in more ways than one. Firstly, when it comes to blackjack, Rio distinguishes itself as one of the only two off-Strip casinos that does not offer a 3/2 blackjack game. The other establishment that shares this unique characteristic is none other than the Alamo Truck Stop. Moreover, Rio continues to set itself apart by being one of the two off-Strip casinos that offers triple zero roulette, with the other being the prestigious Westgate. It is this combination of distinct features that truly makes Rio a fascinating destination for avid gamblers seeking a unique and thrilling experience.
At Rio, I noticed that the minimum bet for Craps was set at $5. It struck me that this same minimum bet applied to a wide variety of poker pit games, including Crazy 4 Poker, High Card Flush, Let it Ride, Mississippi Stud, Three Card Poker, and Ultimate Texas Hold'em. On the other hand, the 6/5 blackjack games required a minimum bet of $10 to get in on the action. For those interested in Baccarat, Face Up Pai Gow Poker, and Fortune Pai Gow Poker, the stakes were set at a slightly higher minimum of $25.
I'm excited to share some exciting news about the gaming options at the Rio! One of the newest additions is the Interblock stadium, which provides an immersive and dynamic gaming experience. If you're a fan of Big Six, you'll be delighted to know that it's now available with a minimum bet of just $1. Additionally, the stadium offers 00 roulette, blackjack, and craps with a minimum bet of $3. For those looking for multiplayer action, you can still enjoy Big Wheel, 00 roulette, and craps, with minimum bets of $2, $3, and $5, respectively. With these diverse options, there's something for every type of player at the Rio's Interblock stadium.
