Forget Everything You Know: Higher Limit Games Are the Way to Go

A gambling expert speaking at one of the gaming industry’s largest research conferences in Las Vegas is challenging a long-standing belief among casual casino players. Namely, that smaller bets and longer playing sessions are always the safer option.

Lobbying for Higher Limit Games 

Christopher Ingrassia, a mathematics and computer science professor at Kingsborough Community College in New York, told attendees at the Conference on Gambling and Risk Taking at Bellagio that recreational gamblers may actually improve their chances by playing higher limit games that offer better odds rather than lower stakes tables with more unfavorable rules.

The conference, organized by the UNLV International Gaming Institute, gathered more than 500 researchers, gaming executives, and academics from 25 countries to discuss trends shaping the gambling industry.

During a panel focused on changes in casino games and payout structures, Ingrassia pointed to the growing spread of triple-zero roulette wheels and blackjack tables paying 6:5 instead of the traditional 3:2 payout for a natural blackjack.

In practical terms, that means players receive smaller returns even when they win.

“Casino games have become increasingly disadvantageous for the gambler,” Ingrassia said during his presentation.

He focused much of his research on roulette, comparing the long-term results of high-limit single-zero games with lower-stakes triple-zero tables now commonly found in many casinos on the Las Vegas Strip.

According to his simulations, players betting larger amounts on single-zero roulette had statistically better outcomes over hundreds of spins because the house edge is significantly lower.

“Play the Better Game”

At first glance, the findings may seem counterintuitive, especially to casual gamblers who usually prefer placing smaller bets in an attempt to stretch their bankroll for as long as possible. 

However, Ingrassia argued that the quality of the game matters more than the amount being wagered.

“It’s difficult to double your money on either table, regardless. But in conclusion, yes, you should go to the high limit room and play the better game,” he said.

He also encouraged players to avoid games with poorer odds whenever possible, especially triple-zero roulette and low-payout blackjack tables.

“Don’t put up with this triple-zero nonsense,” he added. “The players have to fight back.”

The discussion reflects a broader debate within the casino industry as operators continue introducing games and rule changes designed to increase profitability while many gamblers search for ways to improve their chances at the tables.