Casino

Beginner’s Guide to Table Games: Blackjack, Roulette, and Baccarat

Whether you’re stepping into a casino for the first time or exploring online table games from your sofa, you’ll quickly encounter three timeless classics: Blackjack, Roulette, and Baccarat. These games are simple to learn, exciting to play, and offer a perfect starting point for anyone new to the world of casino gaming.

In this beginner-friendly guide, we’ll break down how each game works, the basic rules, and what to expect at the table—plus how you can get started playing safely and confidently at trusted platforms like BetTOM, a new online sportsbook and casino designed for players of all levels.

🎴 Blackjack: Beat the Dealer, Not the Table

Blackjack is one of the most popular and beginner-friendly casino games. The goal is simple: get as close to 21 as possible without going over.

How It Works:

  • Each player is dealt two cards.
  • The dealer also gets two cards (usually one face-up).
  • Number cards are worth their value, face cards (J, Q, K) are worth 10, and Aces are worth 1 or 11.
  • Players can choose to:
    • Hit(take another card)
    • Stand(keep their current total)
    • Double Down(double their bet, take one more card)
    • Split(if you have a pair, you can split into two hands)

How to Win:

  • Beat the dealer’s hand without exceeding 21.
  • If you go over 21, it’s a bustand you lose.
  • If the dealer busts and you don’t, you win!

Tip for Beginners:

Stick with totals between 17–20, and learn basic strategy to reduce the house edge.

🎡 Roulette: A Game of Pure Chance

Roulette is all about luck, excitement, and spinning the wheel. It’s one of the most iconic casino games and incredibly easy to understand.

How It Works:

  • A small ball is spun around a wheel with 37 or 38 numbered slots(depending on the version—European or American).
  • You place bets on where you think the ball will land.

Types of Bets:

  • Inside Bets(specific numbers or small groups): Higher payouts, lower odds.
  • Outside Bets(red/black, odd/even, high/low): Lower payouts, better odds.

Common Payouts:

  • Single number (straight-up): 35 to 1
  • Red or black: 1 to 1
  • Dozens or columns: 2 to 1

Tip for Beginners:

Start with outside bets like red/black or odd/even for a safer intro to the game.

🃏 Baccarat: The Game of High Stakes Made Simple

Though often seen as a game for high rollers, baccarat is actually very beginner-friendly. It’s a game of chance with only three possible outcomes.

How It Works:

  • Two hands are dealt: one for the Player, one for the Banker.
  • You bet on whether the Playeror Banker hand will win, or if it will be a Tie.
  • The hand closest to 9 wins.
    • 2–9 are face value, 10s and face cards are worth 0, and Aces are worth 1.
    • If the total is over 9, only the second digit counts (e.g., 14 becomes 4).

Bet Options:

  • Banker(slightly better odds): Pays 1:1 minus 5% commission.
  • Player: Pays 1:1.
  • Tie: Pays 8:1 or 9:1 depending on the casino.

Tip for Beginners:

Statistically, the Banker bet has the lowest house edge—it’s the safest choice over time.

Where to Start Playing Online

If you’re ready to dip your toes into the world of online table games, choose a platform that offers:

  • Fair play and licensed games
  • Clear game rules and bet limits
  • Free demo versions for practice

A great starting point is BetTOM, a new and user-friendly online sportsbook and casino. It combines classic casino experiences with smart features and seamless gameplay—ideal for players who are still learning the ropes or exploring new strategies.

Final Thoughts

Blackjack, roulette, and baccarat may seem intimidating at first glance, but they’re actually some of the easiest and most enjoyable casino games to learn. By understanding the basics and starting with simple bets, you can dive into the action with confidence.

Whether you’re in it for the fun, the strategy, or the thrill of the spin, there’s a table game that fits your style. And with platforms like BetTOM making it easier than ever to play safely and securely online, you’re just a few clicks away from joining the game.