The Essentials

• Hugely popular in Russia, Durak is a card shedding game similar to Shithead, Crazy Eights, Old Maid and Big 2. The player who discards all their cards first wins.
• The Durak rules are simple to pick up and the game falls into the ‘easy to learn, hard to master’ category.
• Best played with between two and five players, the Durak card game only requires a standard card deck, making it an excellent travelling game.
• Because of its popularity, Durak is often gambled on in Russia, with the winning player (the first to discard all their cards) winning the pot.

Considering how many people play the game it’s not too well known outside of its native country. Here’s a look at how the Durak Rules, a step by step breakdown of a game turn, where you can play online, and how to gamble on a game of Durak.

Image credit: Vector Point Studio/Shutterstock

Crafting Strategy: How The Durak Rules Work

The concept of the game is very basic. Players must aim to be the quickest to get rid of all their cards. The last person with cards left is the ‘durak’ or fool.

A deck of 36 cards is used and the game is ideally played between two and five players. The deck is shuffled and each player receives six cards. The bottom card of the remaining deck in the middle of the table is displayed face up. This will indicate the trump suit.

The remaining cards in the deck are then placed on top of that face up card at a 90 degree angle so the face up card remains visible. This pile of cards will act as the draw pile called the ‘prikup’.

Cards discarded during the process of the game are placed on a discard pile away from the prikup and become inactive.

Playing by the Rules: A Step-By-Step Guide to Durak Gameplay

Now that you understand the basics of how Durak works, let’s take a look at a step-by-step guide to a Durak card game round:

1. The set-up of durak means players must be forced to attack and defend. The player with the lowest trump card is the first designated attacker. The individual to their left is then the defender.
2. The play rotates clockwise so that is always the case for the remainder of the game.
3. Play begins with the attacker playing their first card face up. The defender then has the chance to either defend or pass the attack.
4. If they successfully defend then they will not have to take on the attacker’s card. If they pass on the attack then they will take the attacker’s card, add it to their own card, and become the attacker themselves.
5. Passing an attack cannot be done if the player does not possess a card of the same rank as the attacker.
6. It is also possible for the defender to defeat the attacker.
7. They can choose higher value cards from their pack to win the hand. Other players can add attacking cards at any point during the turn. If the defender decides they cannot survive the attack then at any point they can cut their losses and pick up the cards in play on the table before the situation worsens.
8. If the player successfully defends against all attacking cards, then the cards are taken out of the game and placed on the discard pile.
9. At the end of every hand, players must then draw cards from the remaining prikup until they are in possession of six cards each.
10. This continues until the prikup is used up. Players may leave the game as soon as they have gotten rid of all their cards in their hand.

Image credit: Vector Point Studio/Shutterstock

Rule Mastery: Elevating Your Game with Expert Strategies

As a game of attack versus defense, Durak naturally has various card game strategies in play. The strategies used in durak can prove to be very in-depth. We’ll attempt to summarize them slightly, to avoid writing a durak version of War and Peace.

• The main strategy should be based around entering the latter stages of the game with as strong a hand of six cards as possible.
• Players do not want to head into that latter stage with the odds stacked against them. A key approach here is to act aggressively early on and try to collect the strongest six card hand they can muster. This will then give them impetus heading into the latter stages.
• When it comes to defending and attacking, players really need to play the scenario. The best approach to have for defending is to always assume the worst case scenario. If a situation arises that players are confident they can defend 90% of the time, then do so. Otherwise, surrender ASAP to avoid things spiraling out of control.
• For attacking, it should be used as a tactic to get rid of bad cards early and save the stronger cards for later. Do not be tempted to bring in the big guns early in order to try and damage the prospects of a fellow player.
• During the end phases of the game it is all about being decisive. Try to control as many Aces as possible. These are not only strong in defense but they are even more powerful in attack because they cannot be beaten.
• Players should do everything they can to get rid of non-trump cards to focus on the more influential trump cards.

Can You Play Online?

Durak is available to play online for free versus a computer opponent and other human players.

Sites such as playok.com and durak.hlop.de offer durak play online for fun or points. It is also available to play on mobile platforms with apps based on the game listed in the Google Play Store and Apple Store.

Can You Gamble on Durak?

Because Durak has a defined winner in each round (the player who discards all their cards first) its an easy game to gamble on. Generally, each player puts a set amount into a communal pot, which the winner scoops.

Despite being a Russian game, gambling on Durak in Russia is a little more complicated. Gambling is only legal in Russia in four regions, after the government made all gambling illegal in 2009.

These four regions are Altai, Kaliningrad, Krasnodar, and Primorsky. Durak can be gambled on provided it takes place within the boundaries of these four regions. Likewise, Russians in those areas can access online casinos, which can banned in the rest of the country.

Of course, if you’re outside of Russia, you can gamble on Durak as much as you like (within the laws of your home country). While you won’t find Durak on as many casino sites as say, online poker or online blackjack, the game is slowly become more popular outside of Russia.

Title Image credit: E.O/Shutterstock

Good Luck Symbols Around the World

1. Four-Leaf Clovers

It is easy to understand why a four-leaf clover would signify luck: they are very difficult to find. Today, many people will wear amulets depicting the four-leaf clover symbol. Legend has it that even Eve knew that having a four-leaf clover in hand would be good luck, so she took it out of the garden with her.

2. Red Lanterns

Red is the color of good luck and prosperity in the East. It is one of the most widely known Chinese good luck charms, and said to ward off bad luck and light the way for good luck and positive energy.

3. Coins

“See a penny pick it up, all that day you’ll have good luck. Find a penny, let it lay, and all day long you’ll have bad luck.” Long before there was paper, plastic, or PayPal, there was only one form of currency: coins. They were commercial life-blood, and those who had the gold had the power. Coins are a sign of good fortune and prosperity.

4. Keys

This is a Japanese good luck charm. In Japan, three keys worn together are very powerful as they unlock the door that leads to love, health, and wealth. Wearing one key signifies that you are opening the door to whatever you seek.

5. The Number Seven

Whether you’re familiar with Japanese mythology and call upon the Seven Gods of Fortune, or you’re familiar with Judeo-Christian traditional texts, you know that the number seven has a strong influence. It is no surprise to see red sevens throughout a casino. It makes it a pretty nice good luck charm for gamblers. But whatever you do, don’t say the word ‘seven’ around craps players!

6. Cat’s Eye

Those who carry a Cat’s Eye stone in their pocket in India do so because they believe that the one who carries this stone in their pocket will never have their good fortune leave them. Cat’s Eye stones protect individuals from unexpected loss, and guard financial decision making.

7. Turtles

In many Native American cultures, the turtle represents fertility and a link between man and Mother Nature. Also, the idea is that longevity and hope are nice to have when going up against the house.

8. Alligator’s Teeth

In Africa, an alligator’s tooth is a pretty important item to have in your pocket if you’re looking to boost your luck. They are also said to bring wealth and good fortune.

9. Dolphins

Dolphins at sea are known to bring protection to wayward sailors. Ancient sailors knew that riches were before them when dolphins would begin to circle their ships, as it was a sign that land was near. This fact causes some people to pick dolphins as their good luck charm.

10. Horseshoe

A horseshoe is a symbol of protection and longevity. Those who wear the talisman or amulet are sure to capture any good luck floating by, provided they remember to keep the open end up. Those who allow it to hang upside down run the risk of losing their luck to passers-by.

More Symbols of Luck

• Buddha: Rubbing Buddha’s belly is known to bring great positivity and good luck.
• Bamboo: Bamboo is known for its longevity, vitality and growth.
• Cricket: Cultures around the world view the cricket as a symbol of good luck. The Chinese believe crickets bring harmony and peace.
• Elephants: Symbols of longevity, happiness, and prosperity.
• Acorn: Acorns protect against loss and are an emblem of good luck.
• Pig: Pigs are a sign of prosperity and good fortune in many cultures around the world.
• Rainbows: The sign of a new beginning. And of course there’s the idea of finding a pot of gold at the end of a rainbow.
• Rabbit’s Foot: The story goes that the ancient Celts believed that because rabbits burrowed underground, they were closer to the gods and underworld, and therefore carried luck with them.
• Frogs: In China, the frog is a symbol of yin and considered good luck.
• Horn: The horn of plenty is a sign of wealth, abundance, power, and that a beast was defeated.

The History Of Luck

People are, by nature, superstitious creatures. Some of the earliest known activities to ward off evil or bad luck can be traced back to 1500 B.C.E. Anthropologists confirm that early cave writings indicate the desire of human beings to keep bad luck at bay.

Superstitions are born out of intuition and memory of past experiences. This is especially the case when it comes to gambling. For example, believing that every time a wife walks up to the craps table, a seven is rolled. The reality is that when a seven is rolled, it stands out in players’ minds.

Luck helps to explain the unexplainable and, in many cases, the feeling that you have control over certain outcomes.

Throughout Africa, people would carry lucky?bags of mojo?for good luck. In the bag would be artifacts from loved ones, or items that represented something good that happened in their past. To have some “mojo” on you will help to increase your chances of walking on the lucky side of the street.

What’s The Difference Between Amulets, Lucky Charms & Talismans?

Amulets are items worn for protection, such as metals, carvings, stones and other items reflective of both culture and desired outcome.

Talismans are items that can be charged with supernatural powers to bring about luck and positive outcomes.

Lucky charms are self-explanatory now, but were originally songs that were sung to cast off evil and invoke luck. When it was feared that the effect of the songs would not last long enough, many people began to believe that the song could be cast upon a charm, resulting in a longer-lasting effect.

For more on luck, check out our article on lucky numbers.

Lead image credit: Leigh Prather/Shutterstock

The top players think nothing of dropping tens of thousands, or even more, in a playing session, knowing that they could easily win it back when they next sit down at the poker table.

But which professional poker players have the largest bank balances, taking into account winnings, endorsements, movie appearances, plus other income streams?

Take a look below to find out…

10. Antonio Esfandiari – $27 Million

At number 10 on this list of the richest poker players is Antonio Esfandiari, one of the best-known players on the poker circuit.

The former magician managed to win three World Series of Poker bracelets throughout his career, plus he’s won three WPT titles, with the first coming in 2004 at the L.A. Poker Classic.

Esfandiari’s biggest ever win came in 2012, when he won the “Big One for One Drop” tournament at the WSOP. This saw him win a massive $18,346,673 – at the time, the largest ever live poker prize.

At one point, he had earned more via tournament winnings than anyone else, until his title was taken by Daniel Negreanu.

Antonio Esfandiari net worth: $27 Million

9. Tony G – $36 Million

Tony G – real name Antanas Guoga – is one of the loudest, most outspoken poker players around.

He’s also a politician in the European Parliament, as well as a successful businessman. He’s never won a WSOP bracelet, however he has finished in the money 15 times.

During his poker career, Tony G has won several six-figure prizes. Most of his wealth comes from his business activities though.

He is the chief executive officer of Cypherpunk Holdings, an investment company listed on the Canadian Securities Exchange.

Tony G net worth: $36 Million

8. Justin Bonomo – $57 Million

Next up, we come to Justin Bonomo, who has found huge success in both live and online tournaments.

He’s a three-time WSOP bracelet winner and has cashed 55 times at the event. He has also won many large online events, including the Super High Roller Bowl Online in 2020.

Bonomo’s biggest ever win came when he won the “Big One for One Drop” tournament in 2018, which added $10 million to his bank account and made him the number one all-time live tournament money winner at the time.

Justin Bonomo net worth: $57 Million

7. Bryn Kenney – $57 Million

Bryn Kenney is an American player and perhaps one of the lesser known names on this list.

He has only won one WSOP bracelet, however he has finished in the money 32 times. He is number one on the list of the players with the highest tournament earnings ever, with winnings of over $55 million.

Kenney is perhaps best-known for winning the highest prize ever awarded at a poker tournament. He won over $20.5 million at the 2019 Triton Million charity event in London.

He actually came second, however he made a deal with eventual winner Aaron Zang when he was the chip leader, allowing him to win the larger prize.

Bryn Kenney net worth: $57 Million

6. Daniel Negreanu – $70 Million

Daniel Negreanu is the most famous poker player of all time. His personality has made him a huge hit with fans, and his skill has ensured he’s one of the richest poker players around.

“Kid Poker” has six WSOP bracelets and is the only player to be named WSOP Player of the Year twice. He’s also a member of the Poker Hall of Fame.

Overall, Negreanu has won nearly $42 million in tournament prize money and has earned a considerable sum from sponsorship deals, with the biggest seeing him become the face of PokerStars.

Negreanu and PokerStars parted ways in 2019 though and he’s now an ambassador for GGPoker, which leaves many wondering which is the best poker room of the two. Check out our PS v GGPoker review to find out!

Daniel Negreanu net worth: $70 Million

5. Doyle Brunson – $75 Million

Doyle Brunson is known as one of the greatest names in poker history.

Throughout his career, he won 10 WSOP bracelets and won the Main Event twice, in 1976 and 1977.

The retiree also regularly played cash games at Bobby’s Room at the Bellagio, including a limit mixed poker game with $4,000/$8,000 blinds.

Overall, Brunson has earned over $6.1 million from live tournament winnings. How much he earned while playing high stakes cash games is unknown.

He’s also earned money from various other sources, including his book Super System, which is regarded as one of the best poker strategy books ever written.

Doyle Brunson net worth: $75 Million

4. Chris Ferguson – $80 Million

It would be fair to say that Chris Ferguson is not the most popular man in poker.

He was accused of being one of the people behind a massive Ponzi scheme at Full Tilt Poker, which stole around $444 million from players.

Even though he later came out with an apology, it was considered too little, too late by many.

Despite his shady behavior he is still a great player, having won the WSOP Main Event in 2000 in which he scooped a $1.5 million prize.

Overall, he has earned nearly $7 million throughout his career in live tournament winnings, with a large percentage of this figure coming from his 168 money finishes at the WSOP. ??

Chris Ferguson net worth: $80 Million

3. Sam Farha – $100 Million

Most players will recognize Sam Farha as the man who lost to Chris Moneymaker in the 2003 Main Event. 

The Lebanese poker player has bagged three WSOP bracelets over the years and although he does play tournaments, he’s better known as a high-stakes Omaha cash game player.

Farha’s biggest tournament win, aside from his prize for finishing second at the WSOP Main Event, is $488,241, which he won when finishing first at the 2010 WSOP $10,000 Omaha Hi-Low Split-8 or Better Championship.

His wealth also comes from several business interests, TV and movie appearances, and writing books.

Sam Farha net worth: $100 Million

2. Phil Ivey – $125 Million

Many consider Phil Ivey to be one of the greatest poker players of all time. The American has managed to win 10 WSOP bracelets – only Phil Hellmuth has more.

He has also appeared at the final table of the Main Event, finishing 7^th in 2009. He has won one WPT title, plus has reached nine final tables.

Ivey has won numerous large prizes at tournaments, including AU$4 million for coming first at the 2014 Aussie Millions LK Boutique AU$250,000 Challenge.

Ivey is also a successful online player, plus he’s a superb high-stakes cash game player, once winning $16 million in three days playing against Texan billionaire Andy Beal.

Phil Ivey net worth: $125 Million

1. Dan Bilzerian – $200 Million

Bilzerian is a huge Instagram star and claims that most of his fortune has come from poker winnings, won playing ultra-high-stakes poker games.

Many are dubious of this claim though, as he received an unknown sum of money from a trust fund, plus has many business ventures, as well as a highly lucrative social media presence.

Bilzerian has made some big claims about his poker playing abilities, including that he made $50 million from poker in 2014 alone.

He has never won a major tournament, instead claiming that his money comes from cash games only. The social media sensation has also been arrested on various occasions.

Regardless of how he got his money though, he’s still the richest poker player in the world by far.

Dan Bilzerian net worth: $200 Million

If you are interested in playing poker, check out our online poker guide, or our top poker freerolls.

Sure, you don’t get to keep the winnings, but they pay you, right? Plus you’ll be getting tips from grateful players, and you’ll always be at the heart of the action when someone wins a big jackpot.

With the gambling market getting more competitive every day, casinos everywhere are looking for qualified dealers to fill jobs.

But despite that initial rush of excitement you might feel when considering going into the dealer business, there are some factors you’ll want to consider before taking the plunge. Here’s a look at a few of the benefits – and drawbacks – of taking a job as a dealer at a casino.

For more information, check out our comprehensive guide to casino dealers. 

The Good

1. The Tips

In the US, tips are where the real cash is made (in some other countries, dealers don’t receive tips, but are compensated with a higher base salary), and that increases the total amount a dealer might make significantly.

On an hourly basis, tips can help dealers bring in anywhere from a few extra dollars to $50 or more per hour, depending on how busy they are, what game they’re dealing, and how generous the players are. The biggest tips come from dealing poker, but with all of the rules (which can also vary from house to house), players, and pots to keep track of, it is also the most challenging and skill-intensive game to deal.

When you include tips (and any benefits the casino provides for its workers), the total amount a casino dealer can make varies tremendously. Many peg it at somewhere between $30,000 and $60,000 a year. Some dealers may make even more than that, pulling in as much as $100,000 or more (though new dealers should know that this is not typical).

Keep in mind that some casinos also pool tips between dealers, meaning that no matter how much your players are rewarding you for your service, you’ll be sharing that with your coworkers – so you’d better hope they’re doing a good job, too!

Additionally, remember that the biggest whales are not always the biggest tippers; high-roller rooms everywhere are rife with tales of pro player cheapskates (this is typically, but not always, in poker) who throw tipping etiquette out the window, tipping little or nothing after scooping massive pots.

On the other hand, sometimes lower-limit games draw more relaxed, recreational players who tip better because they are just having fun and feel like it’s all found money anyway.

2. The Training

There are some positives to becoming a dealer that you may not have considered as well. Typically, you won’t have to have too much training to get into the field: a qualified dealer school may have you ready to handle at least some games (such as dealing blackjack) in two months or less, and it may cost under $1,000 to get that training. Some casinos even offer in-house training, especially when they’re first opening.

As well as training, being a good casino dealer comes down to how you interact with the players.

For the “average” dealer, the amount of money you make will come down to how much the players like you. That means that more skilled dealers will make more in tips, but also that more personable dealers will do better.

If you’re not a “people person,” dealing definitely isn’t the profession for you.

3. The Flexibility

The scheduling of a casino can also be a positive for many workers. As most casinos are open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, schedulers are often flexible for dealers who want to work odd hours or know they need certain times off in advance.

Of course, the scheduler can also be your worst enemy if they only assign you to slow times or they need you to work hours that aren’t convenient for you or your family, or on major holidays when the casino must still be fully staffed for players.

4. The Benefits

At casinos operated by major corporations, the benefits can also be a surprising plus. Many of these casinos offer retirement programs and health plans, as well as flexible time off that can make scheduling personal days and vacations even easier.

You may even be able to transfer to another casino owned by the same operator if you’d like to. You might expect that dealers at upscale Vegas properties would make more in tips than their counterparts at smaller regional casinos, but this isn’t always the case. Sure, if you’re dealing for high-rollers in the VIP room, you’ll want to be at a big casino: those tips are going to be massive compared to the ones you’d see on the regular floor, and those opportunities are only available at luxury resorts.

Alternatively, you could work as a dealer on a cruise ship, which can be perfect if you are willing or interested in traveling to new locations.

The Not So Good

1. The Salary

If you’re thinking about a career in casino dealing, the first thing you’ll need to understand is that the base pay for dealing poker, blackjack, baccarat or other casino games like roulette – that is, the money the casino pays you directly – is pretty slim.

When you first start out, you may very well make minimum wage (or less than), rising to $10 or more as you gain experience. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average base pay for a casino dealer is $34,350 a year.

When a dealer first starts at a new casino, they may be forced to work at games that are slower-paced, less popular, and generate fewer tips. The demand for dealers can be somewhat seasonal as well, and when the casino doesn’t need as many tables open, there won’t be as many hours of work to go around, cutting into the earning potential of working in this field.

2. The Physical Strain

While there are definitely some great things about being a dealer, there are some downsides beyond the salary.

For one, you’d better like being on your feet. Poker dealers may be able to sit and deal their game, but for any other table game, you’ll be standing throughout your shift. You’ll get breaks – a typical shift pattern for a dealer consists of an hour on the floor, followed by 20 minutes off – but all of the work you do while standing at the table adds up, and the job can be both mentally and physically tiring.

3. The Rude Players

Though many players are there for a good time, there are some who are just plain rude. You’ve probably already noticed players berating dealers for their own bad luck and poor play, and it only gets worse when dealers really do make mistakes.

But it’s not just the angry players who might get you down. If you don’t think you can deal with taking large sums of money from people at the tables, you may not be able to handle the job of being a dealer on an emotional basis.

4. You’re Being Watched 

And remember, you will be under the constant and watchful eye of casino surveillance at all times; their main job is protecting their own money more than their customers’, and to that end, they watch dealers for anything that might look like cheating, collusion or out-and-out theft (of course!).

Deal or No Deal?

While we’ve definitely presented both sides of the coin in this post, we’re not trying to scare anyone away from becoming a dealer. For some, this really is a dream job, and for many others, becoming a casino dealer can be a good way to get into the gaming industry.

If you’re a people person who enjoys the casino atmosphere and can deal with the varying hours and income, then becoming a casino dealer might just be right up your alley. Want to know more? Check out Casino.org’s exclusive and in-depth guide to becoming a casino dealer.

Lead image: Anna Shvets/Pexels

Evoplay celebrated its fifth anniversary in 2022. What have been your highlights so far?

I have been with the company for three of its five years and I’m amazed by our growth! The company is more than just a workplace; it’s a family with exceptional corporate culture, internal relationships, and processes. Looking back, I’m proud of our accomplishments and excited about the future. My dreams and expectations have come true and there are too many achievements but I’ll choose just a few.

1. We all know about the tremendous growth of Evoplay

The time when I joined the company marked a significant change. The company made a wise decision by hiring highly-qualified professionals, and the success we’ve seen since then is undeniable. All indicators have shown significant improvement, particularly in the number and quality of games produced, new mechanics, fantastic design, and great gameplay. Dungeon: Immortal Evil is the flagship that set our vector, loudly and confidently taking us to the market and securing our strong position.

On my part, I brought innovation to our marketing efforts by introducing a new approach to analytics and metrics. This laid a solid foundation for future marketing campaigns. Taking it a step further, I pursued an innovative approach to promoting games by focusing on uniqueness – a gamble that paid off. While it was a risk, the thought of bringing something completely new to the industry filled me with emotion and drive.

2. The Butterfly Effect

The return of the industry follows the active phase of growth. Multiple nominations, awards, and ceremonies. All this continues now and will continue, but the most pleasant thing was receiving the first awards. This is the best thank you for a job well done. This is a worldwide recognition that your actions are at the highest level of professionalism.

3. Rebranding

It was great to watch how the company matures and acquires an ideology, vision, tone of speech, tones and shades, and fonts. We are reaching a new level, and you are actively involved in this transformation; you see the “before/after”.

4. Star Guardians

The new flagship from Evoplay is a celebration in the industry and a sea of pleasant emotions for us. We put much effort into these projects and are delighted with their success. There are many critical moments in the history of Evoplay, and I could talk about them all day. However, we will continue to move forward.

What are your targets/predictions for the next five years at Evoplay?

Thanks to past achievements, we know our vector, confidently moving forward and boldly planning for years to come. We bring innovation to every aspect of the industry, from game production to game promotion. We set the level and trends and will continue to do so throughout the years. Our plan is to impress the industry time after time, and we have something to show you.

2023 is the year of tournaments for Evoplay, but we don’t plan to stop there. As early as March, the industry can expect to see a plethora of games in new genres, which were previously not part of the Evoplay portfolio. I’m looking forward to some releases, as the games are great and worth watching.

Soon, you will learn about a new game that is poised to shake the industry.

In the long term, I’m sure we can talk about using AI technologies in gambling, both in creating games and gameplay. The availability of VR helmets makes it possible for wider production of games with VR technology, let me remind you that we were the first to create a game using VR technology.

What are Evoplay most excited about bringing to players this year?

As previously mentioned, many of our upcoming releases will be genre novelties for our portfolio. Having already tried them, I can confidently say that they are fantastic games. It’s important to note that a new genre brings in new audiences for us, allowing us to cater to both our existing fans and those who have been eagerly waiting for such games from us.

In addition to our game releases, we are actively working on developing exciting tournaments to make our games more attractive to players. Our system includes a variety of interesting tournaments with incredible prizes. Furthermore, we are expanding into new markets and are eager to welcome new players. To engage with beginners, we have developed a unique content strategy on social networks where we share information about ourselves, our games, popular mechanics, and how they work.

What are your most popular slots titles, and why do you think players love them?

Great question. People often think about the “Formula for a Successful Game” in our industry. It is not possible to please everyone, but it is possible to satisfy the majority. With an excellent balance between mechanics, features, themes, styling, design and music, these games are the best:

• The Greatest Catch: Bonus Buy
• Penalty Shoot-out & Penalty Series
• Goblin Run

You should always have this excellent set of games on hand: handpicked soccer game, multiplayer runner, and top performer with Bonus Buy mechanics.

What are the most significant wins casino players have enjoyed on Evoplay titles?

Many players play in the casino for a pleasant pastime. Sometimes watching the reels spin is soothing and distracting, but occasionally this calmness is interrupted by incredible emotions.

How would you feel if you suddenly won €112,500 ($120,000/￡99,000)  while playing Treasure Mania in the evening? But what if on New Year’s Eve, the notorious, previously mentioned The Greatest Catch: Bonus Buy would give you €750,000 ($800,000/￡657,000)?

At Evoplay, we understand the excitement of these moments, and that’s why we have a section on our social networks called “Friday Megawin” where we showcase the events of our lucky players.

Fast forward to 2033 – what will the iGaming space be like?

By 2033, players will have the ability to wear an AR helmet and enjoy a stylish casino space right from the comfort of their own homes. At Evoplay, we are confident that we will soon contribute to the development of these technologies, allowing our players to fully immerse themselves in our game worlds. Just imagine being transported to the depths of the Egyptian tombs in our Egyptian titles, feeling the warmth of the desert night in the oasis with the heroines of Anubis’ Moon, or even finding yourself on a pirate ship in Treasure-snipes or a space station with the heroes of Star Guardians. The possibilities are endless, and we can’t wait to make this a reality for our players.

With a unified system, players would be able to hold tournaments and full-fledged competitions in multiplayer games between casinos. Game mechanics will develop so dynamically and reach such a level of development that the 2020s will seem like the last century to us.

This and some other topics deserve a separate dedicated time.

Thank you and your readers for taking the time to read my insights and knowledge. It is always a pleasure to share them. I wish you and your readers a successful year ahead.

Until next time!

2023 sees you celebrate 17 years in business – what keeps Betsoft delivering?

The first answer is that we love what we do. We are a team of committed and imaginative professionals across all departments.

Betsoft’s ethos is for an open forum for discussion. This creates a sense of mutual trust between management and the team to keep communications clear and ideas free flowing.

The iGaming market and industry has also changed immensely since we began designing slots. The dynamism and constant innovation make it one of the most exciting industries to work in.

As a renowned brand, we are constantly engaged both in growing new and emerging markets and reinforcing our position in existing ones. That is an exciting challenge for us and one we relish across the business.

However, you are only as successful as your last release and so our focus is always on content. Quality not quantity is our driving force.

Based on a mixture of research, feedback, skill and imagination, our releases continue to create significant engagement with players and generate brand loyalty across the portfolio.

As award-winners for innovation and RNG in slots over the years, we were delighted to be recognised as Starlet RNG Casino Supplier of the Year 2022 and Wilds of Fortune as 2022 Starlet Game of the Year.

In addition, Alkemor’s Elements was voted Most Popular Slot 2022, plus Book of Helios – nominated for Most Electric Slot and Gemini Joker – nominated for ‘Wow’ Slot of the Year with each success built on the previous one; so 2023 has a lot to live up to but we are confident we will keep delivering.

What can we expect from your Roadmap in 2023?

We are well in to our Q1 Roadmap of fantastic new releases with highly innovative features and mechanics; plus Q2 is also now available to our clients.

January release Bounding Luck brought Multiplicative Multipliers for both big and frequent wins alongside a beautiful theme and mellow soundtrack.

We re-designed our jackpot mechanic for smoother play – as shown in the Halloween themed Rags to Witches and Christmas special Sleighin’ It – and February’s release Hearts Desire offered a progressive linked jackpot for some spectacular win potential from just one spin.

Although the Hearts Desire theme is hearts and champagne, this is a slot that gives year-round appeal in a visually beautiful take on a classic fruit slot.

Through linking themes to globally recognized dates and events, we add to our clients’ delivery of memorable campaigns.

However, the range of quality features and win potential ensure that the releases have longevity with players.

Other new feature designs include the Hold & Win Bonus, as shown in Golden Dragon Inferno, which gives a fantastically generous opportunity for unlimited winning combinations and will be used in future releases across 2023.

Another February release is Expansion – a truly mind-bending slot with a revolutionary Directional Wilds mechanic.

March will see Mr. Vegas 2 – Big Money Tower, a feature-rich sequel to 2012’s Mr. Vegas, which will take the Vegas Strip to a new level before our Q2 Roadmap slots are released. So a lot to look forward to!

You launched two player engagement tools last year: what does this mean for both Betsoft and for players?

‘Continuously giving a new experience’ was the working title we gave to engagement tool development for Take the Prize and Tournament as that was exactly what we wanted to achieve.

Differentiation in a crowded market enables both the slot and the slot provider to stand out.

Through building these network promotions and bespoke retention tools – with more in development – we have delivered tournaments, leaderboards and prize wheels.

Rewarding players both financially and emotionally creates extra connections to the game and the brands. This helps to solidify player trust.

From extended play sessions to increased wagers for bigger payouts, both players and operators benefit from these tools. Promotions can be designed and personalized for players to create the most experiential gaming available.

We are also working on a new engagement tool. We anticipate a positive response to this latest product as it will further reinforce the gamification of our slots, leading to even more immersive experiences for players.

“Follow us on social media to find out more!” is all we can say currently.

Betsoft launched two network promotions in 2022. What’s planned for this year?

The network promotions across 2022 saw bets up by 25%+ and player participation by 30%+ for the first promotion.

The second followed with an even larger prize pool and wider choice of Betsoft titles creating a staggering 50%+ and 60%+ uplift in the numbers for participation and bets wagered.

This success was reinforced through Take the Prize which offers a random cash drop on a fortune wheel, thus bringing in-game experiences with real-time notifications, instant rewards, and a highly inventive UI to players, alongside a constantly growing choice of game.

Subsequently we launched Tournament which enables participants to track their own and other players’ progress throughout the promotion via a real-time updated Leaderboard.

Our new ‘Cash Race’ Network Promotion will showcase both tools in a combined application.

Scheduled for February 23 – March 6, 2023, ‘Cash Race’ will give all players a chance to win a share of over €80,000 in cash prizes throughout a 12-day network promotion with a real-time updated leader board and Take the Prize daily cash prizes across 45+ games.

One lucky spin could be all it takes!

The ‘Cash Race’ details:

• Promo dates: Daily between 10.00am February 23 and 10.00am March 6, 2023
• Bigger prize pool: €80,000.00+ cash giveaway
• Better prizes:
  • Tournament: €50,000 cash across 200 prizes
  • Take the Prize: over €30,000 across 1,100 prizes
• More games: 49 award-winning slots to choose from
• In game tools: Take the Prize and Tournament run in parallel on the same games

NOTE: Italy, Sweden and Denmark are excluded from the Network Promotion.

What are you most excited about delivering next for your customers?

After the promotion, the key focus is on continued and continuous innovation.

All our slots and products come from that mindset of how to build better every time.

Our features support and enhance our narratives and, with quality as the key driver, we know that our players will be as excited as we are.

We are delighted that our current releases showcase these new innovations and offer more personalization within the games to create a bespoke feel.

As we work six months ahead, we know just what treats our players can expect over Q2. And there are some great themes and mechanics with big win potential coming up.

Our Mini Games are well under way and we believe our clients will be delighted by their impact on player sign up and retention.

Social tournaments are also part of the Betsoft calendar for 2023, so a lot of very good things coming.

What markets are you currently targeting and why?

Our focus is on regulated markets. Belgium, Holland, Italy, and Spain, in addition to Sweden and Romania are all very important to us.

A number of new operators as well as the extension of existing relationships opening in many European countries has seen significant reinforcement of the Betsoft brand over the last eighteen months.

Belgium and Holland’s tighter regulations have improved the gaming experience for players, and we were one of the first providers to be licensed by both official regulators.

We are equally well known in the Italian and Spanish markets. These are still growth areas and we have seen very satisfactory development across each country in which we are licensed, certified and accredited.

Working with new and existing operators, we will continue to grow our brand. We have long term partners in Sweden and newer clients in Romania, but each separate jurisdiction is equally important to us.

Certified releases are regularly delivered to all our clients. The latest high impact titles enjoying global success will shortly be available to players – translated and localized for maximum connectivity – beginning with Alkemor’s Elements and followed by Captain’s Quest Treasure Island, the Hold & Win Bonus Golden Dragon Inferno and Woodlanders.

What are you anticipating as the next trend in the industry?

Greater innovation in features and mechanics are always in demand, but more personalization and customization in slot design will be the big driver for 2023.

Our most detailed feedback came from two releases. The award-winning 2022 release Wilds of Fortune puts the player literally center action.

The reception of this game from release was astounding – and we have 17 years of slots to benchmark our releases!

Plus Golden Dragon Inferno. This was our first release to showcase the Hold & Win Bonus feature which created stratospheric levels of engagement.

Players want an experience that involves them directly; one that speaks to them. We aim always to fulfil that desire.

We have built the Betsoft brand on quality.

1. Gonzo’s Quest

Gonzo’s Quest is perhaps the most iconic slot of all time. The NetEnt title has been entertaining players for years, mainly thanks to the Avalanche feature, which can lead to multiple wins on a single turn.

There’s also a superb free spins bonus round, plus the graphics are phenomenal, especially when played using an iPad.

• Gonzo’s Quest full review
• Play Gonzo’s Quest for free

2. Thunderstruck II

The original Thunderstruck is one of the most important games ever made. However, the sequel of takes things to a whole new level.

It’s the perfect game for those looking for a challenge, as you’ll need to continue starting the feature to progress through the various free spins rounds.

Big prizes can also be paid out, which is exciting even if you aren’t playing for real money!

• Thunderstruck II full review
• Play Thunderstruck II for free

3. Aloha! Cluster Pays

If you’re looking for something slightly different from the usual slots format, Aloha! Cluster Pays from NetEnt is a fantastic choice.

This slot doesn’t ask you to make winning lines but instead challenges you to create clusters of symbols.

The fast-paced action is a real winner with casino players and looks fantastic on the high-resolution iPad screen.

• Aloha! Cluster Pays full review
• Play Aloha! Cluster Pays for free

4. Bonanza

Bonanza is a game from Big Time Gaming offering perhaps the most popular feature found at slots in recent years: Megaways.

This feature sees randomly sized reels on every spin, which means you never know how many paylines will be on offer – the maximum is a giant 117,649!

There’s also the exciting Reactions feature, which sees winning symbols exploding and being replaced by new symbols, in a sequence that continues until there are no further winning combos on the reels.

• Bonanza full review
• Play Bonanza for free

5. Rainbow Riches

Rainbow Riches is an iconic name in the world of slot machines. Developed by Barcrest, it has an Irish theme, but don’t think it’s like the rest of the games based on the Emerald Isle.

Instead, this game offers real excitement on every spin, thanks to the quick gameplay and the three different bonus rounds.

• Rainbow Riches full review
• Play Rainbow Riches for free

6. Rook’s Revenge

If you know Betsoft, you’ll be aware that they produce some of the most visually stunning 3D slots around, which look fantastic on iPad.

Rook’s Revenge is one of their best and, despite having been around for years, still competes well with newer titles.

Rook himself provides much of the entertainment as he hangs around to the side of the reels, while the various features lead to excitement on every spin.

• Play Rook’s Revenge for free

7. Mustang Gold

Pragmatic Play has produced some fantastic mobile slots before, but the best is perhaps Mustang Gold.

Sure, it might not be the most incredible looking slot ever created, but the gameplay of this equine-based title is unbeatable, especially when you manage to activate one of the three exciting bonus games.

• Play Mustang Gold for free

8. Ted

Free online slots are supposed to be entertaining, and there aren’t many more interesting than Ted!

Based on the popular movie of the same name, this slot features the badly-behaved stuffed toy and his thunder buddy, along with a slew of fantastic bonus games, all of which will have you laughing along.

• Ted full review
• Play Ted for free

9. Monopoly Megaways

There have been plenty of slots based on Monopoly, but Monopoly Megaways from Big Time Gaming is the best.

This game offers exceptionally original gameplay, as you both spin the reels and move around the board.

It also looks fantastic, plus the well-loved Megaways feature ensures that there will be plenty of action as you play.

• Play Monopoly Megaways for free

10. Break da Bank

If classic slots are your thing, Break da Bank is the best of the bunch.

While this slot from Microgaming doesn’t have any bonus features, it still offers a captivating playing experience, with fast-paced gameplay and regular wins.

Unlike many other classic slots, the graphics are pretty good too, and they’re at their best when using an iPad to play.

• Break da Bank full review
• Play Break da Bank for free

Just For Fun

The above slots all prove that there’s more to playing casino games than money.

In fact, it’s the excitement that makes slots so popular – if it were all about winning, there are plenty of other games out there offering equal or greater chances of success.

Free slots are great because they cost nothing to play but still offer the same gameplay and features as their real money counterparts.

The Apple iPad is compatible with nearly all the world’s biggest slots, which can be played via a browser, meaning there are no downloads required at all.

So whether you’re looking for simple classic slots or more complex slots with bonus games, you’ll find that everything is offered to iPad players.

Try spinning for free today, forgetting about the money and concentrating instead on the exceptional enjoyment slot machines can bring!

But are they really “lucky”?

What if there was a way to improve your chances of winning, or cheat the system?

Well, one man argues that scratchcards aren’t actually random and even has a system to prove it: The Singleton Method.

Let’s take a look how he discovered the popular Singleton Method, how it works, and whether or not scratchcard manufacturers have done anything about it.

Statistician Finds Flaw In Manufacturing

In 2003, a geological statistician living in Toronto named Mohan Srivastava was waiting for some files to download on his computer. To pass the time, he decided to play some old scratch cards that were lying around.

He lost the first one but won a small amount of cash on a tic-tac-toe scratch card. It was this win that got him thinking about how they’re made.

What initially started as an interest about the computer’s algorithm led to him effectively cracking the code of scratch cards. 

The Singleton Method Is Born

Knowing that the tickets were mass-produced, he figured that they couldn’t be totally random since the manufacturers needed to control the number of winning tickets.

After a bit of research and ticket buying, he discovered a flaw in the way scratchcards are made. Once he’d worked it out, he was able to devise a method to cheat them.

You might be expecting a highly complex system, that only those with years of education at MIT would understand. This isn’t the case though.

Instead, Srivastava’s method simply relies on looking to see which numbers are visible on a card before it’s bought. You don’t need to scratch anything off, you just need to look at the numbers that are visible on the side, as they actually reveal essential information.

He found that if a number on the side appeared only once, then it would almost always appear under the latex coating that needed to be scratched off.

He was looking for singletons.

The below graphic by Toronto Star shows how his method works:

So, as you can see, it was easy: those looking to win just needed to find cards that had a few single numbers on them. Cards with three singletons on the same row were pretty much always a winning ticket.

While this didn’t guarantee a prize, it made the odds of winning much higher.

In fact, Srivastava found that tickets he selected had a 90 percent of chance of being winners.

The Manufacturers Haven’t Done Much

While Srivastava reported his findings to the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation, causing the tic-tac-toe game he studied to be pulled, they stated that it was simply caused by a design flaw in the game.

But this wasn’t just a trick Srivastava could use on a single type of scratchcard, it was a method that could be used all over.

This is because most scratchcards in North America are produced by just a few companies, so the bad practice extended to other scratchcards as well. Therefore, Srivastava’s trick could be used to crack most scratchcards on the continent.

He continued to test his method with other similar scratch lottery games.

Srivastava would later have tickets sent to him from Colorado, and he found that the same patterns were evident. He would also buy more scratchcards in Toronto and once again discover the issue was still there.

Clearly the companies producing the tickets hadn’t learned from the information he had provided them with.

But why haven’t they done anything about it?

According to Srivastava, it’s because they can’t.

This is because while the producers want everyone to think that scratchcards are a game of chance, it’s almost impossible to make them truly random.

Companies use algorithms to ensure the correct number of winning cards are produced. If they didn’t then they couldn’t control the number of winning tickets.

But it’s these algorithms that give a way in for those clever enough to exploit them, such as Srivastava.

Using The Singleton Method For Yourself

As yet, it doesn’t seem like the flaw has been fixed by scratchcard companies. In fact, as we previously explained, it might be the case that the flaw can’t be fixed.

If you want to use it, you should know that the Singleton Method only works on extended play scratchcards, where you scratch off numbers and match them with numbers already shown. This is because these visible numbers are the key to this system.

Another thing to note is that you need to be able to see the fronts of scratchcards before you buy them, which isn’t always possible.

On top of this, there’s no guaranteeing how much you’ll win, so you could go to the effort of identifying and purchasing a winner, only to find that you’ve only won $2.

Srivastava did the math and didn’t think it was worth his time or money. But could you scale the process to make it worthwhile for you?

Overall, however, it is still possible for this system to be used, providing the situation is right.

Why not try it the next time you head to the store to buy one?

In the current global crisis of the COVID-19 coronavirus, we urge you to be a smart player and continue to practice safe gambling online. Land-based casinos worldwide have closed down, but online casinos are still open for business.

The Casino.org team has set out some guidance for players who want to play for real money at this turbulent time.

Responsible Gambling in Lockdown or Self-Isolation

Self-isolation during the pandemic is the safest thing we can all do, but this new lifestyle is unchartered territory for millions worldwide.

For those who now find themselves at home, alone, bored and online, you might be looking for ways to keep yourself busy and entertained. Casino.org always promotes responsible gambling, no matter what, but especially in our current situation.

In some of the worst scenarios, people have lost their jobs as a result of businesses closing due to the virus. If you are not earning any money, gambling online can be seen as an easy solution to make some cash.

We have loads of casino guides and tools to help you play safely. Remember to always play smart – gambling real money online is not the only solution.

Are You Looking For Entertainment During Isolation?

• Why not try playing our free games? Playing onsite at Casino.org means there is no danger of spending real money.
• Keep up to date with your passion for gaming, by reading some fascinating features and articles on Casino.org’s blog and news.
• If you like gaming, look into other platforms which do not involve real money gambling – try a console or free non-casino games online.
• Maybe you’d be interested in following Twitch streamers, like these top poker players? It’s a good way to pass the time and you might pick up a trick or two.
• You could dig out your old boardgames or challenge yourself to something new, like one of the five hardest games to master.

There are so many things you could do aside from just gambling: indoor workouts, pick up a new hobby, or tick off those admin jobs you’ve been putting off for months!

Are You Gambling To Earn Money While You’re Not Working?

Stop and think. Can you afford to bet this amount?

Remember the casino always wins. If you’re not earning any money in your current situation, gambling is not a guaranteed way to do so instead. Once your bankroll is gone, it is gone.

Nobody knows when this coronavirus pandemic will be over, which makes it a very difficult time to budget.

Managing Your Bankroll During Unemployment or Isolation

1. Delete casino apps on your mobile or tablet so you can’t access them easily.
2. Try setting a daily limit or limiting the days or hours you can gamble.
3. Always consider the Return to Player (RTP) when picking a game.
4. Don’t be tempted by extra bonus offers during the COVID-19 isolation period.

Beware Of Casino Scams And Phishing At This Time

Scammers are trying take advantage of a crisis such as this, knowing that most people are online trying to have fun or make money. It is hugely important during these times that, if you want to gamble, you only do so at a trusted operator.

Scammers are also working hard to take advantage of vulnerable people, who are easy targets when their mental health or financial situation has been affected – such as during a global pandemic.

Please: we urge you to be extra vigilant while there is an increase in phishing emails. Scammers are trying their best to catch people out and are constantly inventing new methods to do so.

Scams: What Are The Warning Signs?

If you receive an email or SMS with a casino offer – even with something believable, such 50 free spins – please DO NOT click any links or give your login details. It could be a computer virus, or allow a hacker to steal your identity and all your cash. Equally, if you receive an email that appears to be legitimate, but the offer seems too good to be true – it probably is.

Get in the mindset of a scammer by reading R. Paul Wilson’s articles. The former writer/presenter of The Real Hustle is an expert on cons, scams and the art of deception. His blogs serve as advice to players on how to avoid getting cheated.

Make sure you know the signs of scams and dodgy sites. If you’re new to gambling during your isolation period, please keep up to date with our guide to blacklisted casinos.

Problem Gambling

Do you know the signs of problem gambling? Despite the current coronavirus situation, thousands of people still suffer from varying forms of gambling addiction. Please read our guide to gambling addiction and inform yourself of the warning signs.

When the fun stops, always stop playing. Do not chase your losses or follow streaks.

Setting Yourself Limits During Isolation

All good casinos have their own measures in place to help you limit your actions. You can activate these at any time from your account. These tools are often called self-exclusion measures.

If you’re self-isolating, please inform yourself about self-exclusion and restrictions before playing more regularly at online casinos.

Some methods offered by casinos include:

• Set a deposit limit: you pick the maximum amount the casino will allow you to spend daily/weekly/monthly/annually.
• Apply a cooling-off period: you choose the date. It can be something like a 30 day pay-to-play restriction on yourself.
• See profit and loss graph: see an at-a-glance view of your ‘winning’ and ‘losing’ months through an easy-to-understand infographic.
• Reality check: set an interval-based popup timer to ask you if you still want to play when you’ve been logged in for a long time.
• Full self-exclusion: choose to exclude your account from all services, or from selected ones, for your chosen amount of time (note that it can be time-consuming and complex to reactivate your account).
• Read responsible gambling info: there’s always a page about this on the casino site, with links to major help organizations such as GamStop and Be Gamble Aware.

You can find out more at GamCare.

Casino.org always promotes responsible gambling and keeping its users safe. Please continue to play and win safely during the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic. Our team wishes everyone the best during this difficult time – stay healthy and stay inside.

Kakegurui – Compulsive Gambler is an anime television series released on Netflix that focuses on the privileged Hyakkaou Private Academy. The story revolves around the arrival of one student who joins the school and shakes things up with their gambling for thrills attitude.

To mark the arrival of this highly anticipated series, here are 9 reasons why you have to check it out.

The TV Show is Based on The Hit Manga Comics

Writer Homura Kawamoto and illustrator Toru Naomura initially released the Kakegurui series in manga form with publisher Yen Press. It has been a part of Gangan Joker since 2014 which is a manga sector of publisher Square Enix.

Seven volumes have been published to date so there is plenty of material for the anime series to draw inspiration from. Fans of the manga comics will know what to expect and it is no surprise that the TV series is so hotly-anticipated.

Yasuko Kobayashi is on Board As Writer

The original manga series might have been written by Kawamoto but the anime version of Kakegurui has seen renowned anime writer Yasuko Kobayashi brought in to freshen the script up.

The veteran 52 year old writer has had a career that stretches almost 25 years. His first credit came in 1993 with Tokusou Robo Janperson.

His other projects have included Yu-Gi-Oh!, Kamen Rider, and Garo: Divine Flame. This series is in safe hands.

The Animation Studio is MAPPA

MAPPA (Maruyama Animation Produce Project Association) has only been involved in animation projects in its current guise since 2012 but their track record is already very impressive.

Previous works released under the studio include Kids on the Slope, Garo: The Animation, and Days. Kakegurui: Compulsive Gambler is the latest in a long line of exciting titles for the studio.

Gambling as A Taboo is Addressed

At the end of 2016, the Japanese government confirmed that gambling would become legalized across Japan before the 2020 Summer Olympics in Tokyo.

Until the finer details are finalized via an implementation bill over the coming months then gambling will remain illegal and a taboo subject. Kakegurui – Compulsive Gambler addresses this taboo by highlighting the highs and lows of gambling.

It’s breaking new ground. Being so open to the topic of gambling would have been almost impossible years ago but the series uses the subject as its main plot.

Finally, gambling in anime can be found in something other than Yuzu Sato.

It’s Not Just For The Shonen

Shonen is the stated target audience for the series. For those of you unfamiliar with the term, it represents the demographic of 8 to 18 years olds of the male gender.

Other shonen-targeted series include Astro Boy, Dragon Ball, and Speed Racer.

Those series prove that the target demographic are not the only ones that can enjoy the content. There is enough going on to ensure that older viewers can become addicted to the show too.

It Has a Strong Female Lead

Shonen series have often made the protagonist a female but until recently it was often the case that the main female character was the romantic interest of the male lead.

Over recent years, female characters have become more commonplace the world over. Kakegurui is another further example of how women are being portrayed on an equal footing as men. It is a positive move and shows more gender equality in a genre where that was not always true.

Yumeko Jabami is a female character that displays a lot of stereotypical male traits showing just how gender equality has become more prevalent in modern society.

Netflix Knows Great Anime

Netflix is really making a push on the television show front right now. US shows such as Orange Is The New Black, 13 Reasons Why, and Making A Murderer have earned high praise and the positive ratings do not stop there.

The streaming portal has a stunning selection of anime titles in its catalogue including Attack On Titan, Death Note, and Sword Art Online. Netflix knows exactly what it is doing when it comes to anime.

Kakegurui is Only The Beginning

Every great television series looks to build on its legacy with a spin-off. Cheers spawned Frasier. Breaking Bad created Better Call Saul. Friends made Joey?… OK, so that last one isn’t the best example but you get the point.

Kakegurui – Compulsive Gambler is only one part of the content. A spin-off manga series called Kakegurui Twin has been released in Gangan Joker since 2015 so there is potential for that content to be turned into an anime series too.

Everything Square Enix Touches Turns to Gold

If there is one name from the entertainment industry you want to see involved in a project right now then it is Square Enix.

The developer is best known for its video games such as Final Fantasy and Dragon Quest but it has also broadened its horizons into publishing. Kakegurui is its latest project with Kingdom Hearts and Star Ocean also receiving positive receptions.

When Square Enix are on the credits you can have absolute faith that you’re onto a winner.

…Season 2 – Kakegurui ×× –?is also worth a watch

The second season of the anime was released and aired earlier this year, from January 8 to March 26, 2019.

Can we expect a Season 3? It’s currently unclear whether we will see more of Kakegurui in the future as there is currently no official news available. Watch this space…

Now there’s been eight episodes, we thought we’d check in on our death forecast and see how the predictions are faring.

And if you haven’t watched them yet (you’re missing out btw) we just want to point out there will be spoilers here, so: WARNING! DO NOT READ THIS!

A lot has happened so far in Season 6. But we’re not here to tell you what we think is going to happen, or whether we are Team Tommy or Team Ghost.

Here’s a mid-season update of our study and prediction:

For our prediction of 48 kills in the season to be accurate, there needs to be four kills an episode. Now, you guys maybe be raising your eyebrows and saying that will never happen.

But remember when the Jimenez, FBI, Jerry, Dre and Jason killed eight people in episode 3? #JustSaying

What is the most common cause of death in Power season 6?

*The unknown death was off screen

Who is the most lethal character in Power?

If you are wondering who the number one murderer has been so far, we have it here …

There have been 11 different murderers so far this season, which is a huge jump from season one when there were only four.

If you have made it this far down, hope you enjoyed this breakdown of our predictions. Make sure you tell us whose team you’re in! Team Tommy or Ghost?

Sources:
https://starzpower.fandom.com/wiki/List_of_deaths

A record number of 457,861 hopefuls applied to take part in next year’s event, but only around 17,500 people will get a ballot space. We all know it’s becoming increasingly difficult to get a place, especially if you’re using the ballot system, but what exactly are your chances of getting a place in the London Marathon? We’ve analyzed the stats to show you. Spoiler alert: the odds get worse every year.

Let’s take a closer look at the number of entries and successful entries. Over the years, the maximum number of ballot entries has been fairly stable: generally around 17,500 runners are able to enter the race this way. We calculated odds based on these estimates.

But the number of people applying for those spots has skyrocketed, especially since the entry process went online in 2009. In the past 10 years, the chances of getting a spot have got slimmer and slimmer, which is a trend we can expect to continue every year.

In 2009, 32% of applications were successful, compared to the 13% who were successful in 2019. So if you got a space, count yourself lucky!

Previously, there was a scheme where you would get a place if you were unsuccessful for five consecutive years, but the numbers have become so big that it became mathematically impossible!

How the ballot works

The ballot is open for five days at the end of April into the beginning of May. So for the 2019 London marathon, the ballot was open from Monday April 30 until Friday May 4, 2018.

It’s open for five days to avoid issues with religious holidays, work schedules, traveling competitors and other restrictions that could make it impossible for someone to sign up at the first second the registration opens, as well as to avoid the site crashing. When it used to be capped for entry, some would-be competitors were not even able to login in time to submit a ballot.

Just like the lottery, winning ballots are drawn completely at random. There is no weighting or preference given. Standard UK entry costs ￡39, with that price going down to ￡35 if you’re a member of a UK-affiliated running club. Overseas entries cost ￡80.

You’ll find out in mid-October if you got a space, through a magazine in the post.

Why is the London Marathon so popular?

We chatted to Thomas Watson, long-distance runner and founder of Marathon Handbook, about the event.

He explained: “The London Marathon is one of the most widely-recognized global marathons, and one of the ‘Big Six’ city marathons. As interest in health and fitness grows, the attraction of completing one of these ‘big ticket’ marathons is growing.”

“The London Marathon is becoming increasingly popular year-on-year thanks to the growing trend of distance running. The number of marathon runners each year has grown over 10% in the past 10 years, and has been especially popular with women. The number of women running marathons has grown over 25% in the past 10 years!” he added.

There are plenty of other reasons why the London Marathon is a bucket-list event for so many runners.

For one, the celebrities involved can be astounding, often featuring the likes of Paula Radcliffe, Steve Jones, and Mo Farah. You can find a list of all the 2019 celebrities here.

The royal family also often makes appearances, with notable events including the Queen starting the race from Windsor Castle or Prince Harry making presentations to the winners of the elite races.

The historic route through the city is also stunning. Runners will race past landmarks such as Tower Bridge, Canary Wharf, Big Ben and Parliament Square.

The crowds make the event even more exciting. Running through East London, for example, you might be offered a beer instead of water. With so many people flocking to the marathon route to cheer the runners along, the vibe and atmosphere of the London Marathon is unlike any other.

How to boost your odds of getting a place in the London Marathon

The ballot odds just keep getting longer, making it harder and harder to get a spot in the London Marathon, but there are some other ways that you could grab a way to run.

Some tour operators are licensed by the event, getting a certain number of race entries. This is ideal for international runners who want to travel to London specifically for the marathon.

Similarly, British athletics clubs are allocated entries in the marathon and can choose which of their members earn the coveted spot in the race. Thomas explained: “Speedy runners with previous marathon finishing times of under 3:00hrs (depending on your sex and age group) can apply for a Championship place.”

Image: ‘The Colour of the London Marathon’ by Flickr/robertsharp is licensed under CC BY 2.0Even if you’re not a member of a registered athletics club, if you’re good enough you might qualify for a place. “Good for Age” entries grant spots to runners according to gender and age.

For example, men aged 18-39 would be expected to run the course in under 3 hours to qualify for a spot, while women aged 18-39 would need to do it in 3 hours and 45 minutes.

Meanwhile, men aged 70-74 would need to run a marathon in under 5 hours to automatically get a spot in the event with women aged 65-69 needing to use that same time frame.

“For the rest of us, the London Marathon website includes a list of charity places. The best bet is to investigate these early and get on there!” recommended Thomas.

A charity place is also one of the most popular ways to get entry. It’s how the marathon has broken so many fundraising records.

Registered charities will get a certain number of spots, and competitors need to raise on average a minimum of ￡2,000 to run.

Charities are familiar with the process and often coach their runners in how to fundraise, as well as how to train for the event, making it a fun and worthwhile partnership.

Alternatives to the London Marathon

Don’t worry if you didn’t get a spot in the London Marathon 2019. There are plenty of other amazing marathons around the world you could take part in instead.

Thomas has two great suggestions: the Edinburgh Marathon and the Great Wall Marathon.

“Held in May, the Edinburgh Marathon has been recognized as one of the fastest marathon routes in the world.? Almost completely flat, the route starts at the top of the historic Royal Mile and takes in many of the city’s most iconic sites, before finishing at the coast. They also offer guaranteed entry for any runner who was unsuccessful in the London Marathon ballot (closed for 2019).”

“[For] something completely different, fly to China and run 26.2 miles along the Great Wall.? Encounter incredible views of rural China and look out as you climb the steps of the wall to see local villagers cheer you on, finishing in a festival-like finish line!”

If you’re after the one of the ‘Big Six’ events, the Boston Marathon is a few weeks away on April 15. Although it’s too late to register for 2019’s race, you can start preparing for next year. The Berlin Marathon is on September 28 and is considered part of the World Marathon Majors.

With so many scenic marathons taking place around the world, there are plenty of life-changing races to be part of – even if you don’t get a chance to run in London.

Sources:
https://www.significancemagazine.com/sports/601-still-running-against-the-odds-revisiting-the-london-marathon-ballot
https://www.standard.co.uk/news/london/london-marathon-2019-recordbreaking-414000-people-enter-ballot-for-next-years-race-a3835416.html
https://adventure.howstuffworks.com/outdoor-activities/running/events/london-marathon1.htm
https://metro.co.uk/2018/04/22/40000-runners-ready-face-hottest-london-marathon-record-7486946
https://www.coachmag.co.uk/marathon-training/6520/london-marathon-ballot
https://www.abbott.com/marathon/london-or-bust.html
https://run247.com/running-features/iconic-races/heat-and-speed-a-statistical-look-at-the-virgin-money-london-marathon
https://www.runnersworld.com/uk/news/a776151/london-marathon-most-popular-marathon-on-the-planet/
https://www.baa.org/races/boston-marathon
https://www.bmw-berlin-marathon.com/en/
https://www.worldmarathonmajors.com/
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-london-43850037

Except it doesn’t.

For more than a decade, a team of card counters based around the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) proved that the house could be beaten.

They came up with, and put into practice, a method for winning at blackjack.

The idea came from the studies of Edward Thorp, a math professor at MIT, who devised a card counting system in the 1950s using the earliest computers.

The team’s success inspired a 2008 movie, 21, starring Kevin Spacey (above), and a best-selling book Bringing Down The House.

But who were these guys? How did they do it? And could their methods still work today?

The MIT Blackjack Card Counting Technique

The first thing to make clear is that card counting is not actually illegal – as long as you are counting in your head. It is a form of advantage play.

Nevada state laws, for instance, specifically prohibit card counting using electronic or mechanical aids.

However, legal though it may be, it’s fair to say that you won’t win many friends among casino owners if you practise the art successfully.

The simplest way of describing the “Hi-Lo” method used by the MIT blackjack card counting team is as follows. You count the high and low cards that have been played since the last shuffle.

You’ll need to have memorized a value assigned to all cards in a deck:

• High cards (10, Jack, Queen, King and ace) count as -1
• Low cards (2, 3, 4, 5 and 6) count as +1
• The rest count as 0

If it becomes clear as the game progresses that the cards dealt out have an overall positive value, that’s the time to bet big.

Mike Aponte, one of the leading members of the MIT team, offers a simple guide to card counting on this video:

Who Were The MIT Team?

The team came together at the start of the 1980s. A group of students at MIT taught themselves a card-counting technique and went to Atlantic City to try it out.

One of the team, JP Massar, overheard a conversation in a Chinese restaurant in Cambridge, where MIT is based.

The man talking was Bill Kaplan (below), who had graduated three years earlier but put off going to Harvard Business School so that he could try to become a professional gambler.

He was talking about how he had run a successful blackjack team in Las Vegas in 1977. He had gone there with $1,000 and turned it into $35,000.

Now Kaplan trained and managed a new team, run as a business with formal management procedures and stringent player selection.

Many MIT students tried out for the team – some were accepted. A ten-strong team rolled into action with an $89,000 investment in August 1980 and in 10 weeks they had doubled their money.

What Was Their Strategy?

Players were recruited through fliers and word of mouth. Potential members were thoroughly vetted.

The process included a “trial by fire”, in which you had to play through eight six-deck shoes with almost perfect results.

As the system kept paying off, the team kept growing. By 1984 there were 35 players and during the 1980s more than 70 different people played in some capacity.

Every partnership set up by the team – there were at least 22 – was profitable. Annual dividends to investors were between 4% and more than 300%.

The team set up a company, Strategic Investments, in 1992 with investment of $1million.

By now they were using a strategy with a three-person team – a big player, a controller and a spotter.

The spotter would check when the deck “went positive”, while the controller was there to bet small and double-check the spotter’s counting. When the count was verified, a signal would be made to the big player, who would make a huge bet – often with huge returns.

Over the next two years the team grew to nearly 80. There were groups in Cambridge, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, California, Illinois and Washington.

At times the team had up to 30 members playing simultaneously at casinos around the world.

Kaplan said: “There are tens of thousands of people who tried to win at the game, but MIT was the only team who really won year over year, because we ran it like a business.

“Training, extensive training, checkout procedures, two hours of perfect play, leaving the table right. It was really run more tightly than most businesses.”

They Carried On Until They Got Caught

Gradually, the bosses realized there was an organized and specific campaign going on. A private detective worked out from the addresses of some involved that there was a connection with Cambridge.

Several of the more prominent team members were identified and banned from casinos. At the end of 1993, Strategic Investments paid out earnings to players and investors and dissolved their partnership.

Casinos also became more adept at spotting card counters and shuffling the decks more often – as many online casinos do today.

As soon as a deck is shuffled, a card counter has to go back to zero and the edge is lost.

How Much Money Did The MIT Blackjack Team Make?

It’s impossible to say.

Card counting is not a foolproof system, but implemented correctly it can give you an edge of between 2% and 4% over the house.

Some have claimed that total winnings for the team were in excess of $10million, but that’s impossible to verify.

Mike Aponte reckons the biggest win was about $500,000 on Super Bowl weekend in 1995. Meanwhile, the largest loss was $130,000.

…Where Are They Now?

Some team members carried on after Strategic Investments folded. They tried more sophisticated systems and were more careful with their recruitment. But by 2000 virtually all had drifted away from blackjack.

Bill Kaplan, the man who started it all, realized that he would have less hassle, and possibly more profit, investing in property and business.

John Chang, another prolific member of the MIT card counting team, still visits casinos. He often wears disguise so members of the public don’t recognize him.

Here he is talking about the movie 21?and card counting in general:

Practice Makes Perfect

By now it should be clear that card counting can work – but it takes time, practice, nerves of steel and a big bank.

You can practice with a card counting trainer tool. This will teach you the basics of assigning values to all cards and working out what the overall value of the dealt cards is as play progresses.

There are even more advanced strategies that give more variation in the value ascribed to particular cards.

Once you’ve mastered the basics, though, it’s all about practice – and more practice – so that you can try the technique in a live scenario.

Be wary about using it in an online blackjack game, though – cards tend to be shuffled far more often than in a casino.

If you enjoyed this post, be sure to read this amazing story about a professor who beat the roulette wheel. He made MILLIONS!

Sources:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/MIT_Blackjack_Team
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/magazine-27519748
https://www.bostonmagazine.com/arts-entertainment/2019/06/21/mit-blackjack-team/
https://www.historyvshollywood.com/reelfaces/21mitblackjack.php

They say this is a big, rich town, yeah, yeah
And I just come from the poorest part, oh

One thing that that is guaranteed from this US crime show is deaths. And a lot of them.

Since Power first hit our screen we’ve seen a big influx in people dying. In Season 1, seven characters got killed off. More and more were getting killed by the season, and by Season 5 there was a massive death count of 32 characters in just one season!

Using data from StarzPower, our team has analyzed the death trends to predict how many deaths we can expect to see in Season 6 of?Power.

Forget Fantastic Four… It’s the Powerful Four

There have been 105 deaths in total across the 5 seasons of Power. Who’s killing all these people?

We all know it’s Ghost (James Saint Patrick), Tommy, Kanan and Andre who get the job done. Even if sometimes the deaths can be accidental (cough, cough… Tommy).

Below is the breakdown of the kill count from each murderer. One caveat is that Tommy and James AKA Ghost share a joint kill.

Guns, knives and hands.

These are all the tools used to kill the aforementioned unlucky 105 people. So, to get more into the gritty violence of Power, we used the data available to show you a quick breakdown of what weapon was used and how many times.

Hmm.. wonder how many of these were using Tasha’s gun?!

Want to seem like the number one true Power fan? Here are some cool facts that you can share with your mates:

Image: Power Facts – Casino.orgNow, if you haven’t watched it at all… LOOK AWAY NOW!

For those who are up to date, here is the trailer of what you can expect from Season 6 of Power:

And, if you’re trying to guess the song name of the lyrics we wrote above, save yourself the hassle because it’s right here:

Sources:
https://starzpower.fandom.com/wiki/List_of_deaths
https://www.springfieldspringfield.co.uk/episode_scripts.php?tv-show=power-2014
https://www.imdb.com/title/tt3281796/trivia
https://www.capitalxtra.com/features/lists/power-facts/
https://www.lyricfind.com/

Playing slot machines, also known as fruit machines in the United Kingdom and pokies in Australia, used to be a simple experience.

You would slot a coin into a one-armed bandit – as they used to be known – and the symbols on a single payline across three reels would decide your fate.

With the arrival of online gaming, slots have gone digital – and they have continued to evolve ever since gamblers first went online.

The newest generation of online games offer no fewer than 243 ways to win on a single spin.

Where do 243 ways slots come from and how do they work?

The first thing you have to understand about these new games is that they drive a big truck through the concept of paylines, while increasing the number of ways to win.

No longer do you have to think of paylines running from left to right across a screen with five reels and three rows.

In 243 ways slots, any combination of three or more matching symbols can be a win, provided they appear anywhere on adjacent reels, starting from the first and going left to right.

The math behind this is incredibly complicated but the simple end result is that there are now 243 ways to create a winning combination.

So there are no paylines in the traditional sense. But there are 243 paylines, given this new way of interpreting the visuals.

Microgaming, one of the leading providers of content to the online gaming world, is generally considered to be the pioneer of the 243 ways concept. Other designers such as NetEnt and Play’n Go have followed in their tracks.

What are the advantages and disadvantages?

The simplest plus for the player is that there are now so many more ways in which you can win.

You also get more value for your wager. Conventional payline slots require you to stake at least one coin for every payline you want to play.

So if you wanted to play a slot with 40 paylines, you had to invest 40 coins. On 243 ways slots, you can bet as little as 10 coins on each spin.

Another advantage is that it becomes easier for the player to see when they should get a payout.? If any match from left to right is a win, you no longer need to worry that maybe some of your paylines are not being counted.

However, in some ways this will be an initial disadvantage for experienced slot players. Getting used to the new way of reading the screen is certain to take time – and some might hanker for the simpler days of set paylines.

What are some of the most popular 243 ways slots?

Immortal Romance: A Microgaming classic. It’s been around since 2011 but still looks and feels as fresh as ever. With characters and storylines, it’s a bit more involving than a simple set of symbols. And it’s packed with features and bonuses.

Thunderstruck II: Who doesn’t like to mix a bit of Norse mythology with their online gaming? This new version of the original Thunderstruck is adapted specifically for 243 ways play. Plenty of bonus rounds and free spins – and it plays well on your cellphone.

Game of Thrones: If you’re a Westeros buff, this should be for you. As you would expect from a Microgaming product, it’s smart and efficient but – possibly because of image rights issues – you won’t find any actual characters from the TV show here.

Jurassic Park: A neat play on an ageless classic movie – and there’s a lot of entertainment to be had here. There are five free spin features, though only a maximum of 12 free spins at a time can be won. This is definitely not a dinosaur of the 243 ways world.

So, there you have it

243 ways slots represent a new way of online play – and one that by definition gives the player more chances to win.

Once you’ve picked up the new way of assimilating the information on the screen, there’s the potential to have a lot of fun with these slots.

One thing is for sure, they aren’t going away – and we’re left to wonder what the next evolutionary step for online slots is.

Six reels, maybe? Anyone want to do that math?

Enjoyed this? Why not check out these 10 slots that changed gambling forever or discover where the BAR on slot machines came from.

And for as long as that little white ball has circled that wheel, people have dreamed of coming up with a clever way to beat the odds and make a fortune.

For all the brash talk on social media about roulette systems that “really work”, it’s an unbreakable statistical fact that over time, the house will always win.

Always.

Always?

Let us tell you the story of Dr Richard Jarecki, who proved that once in a lifetime a genius comes along and actually does beat the wheel.

Why it should be impossible to beat the house at roulette

It’s a simple matter of mathematics and the key to it is the zero – one on European tables, two if you’re in the United States.

When your number comes up, you’re paid out at odds of 35-1. But the actual odds are 36-1 – or 37-1 in the USA, where there is a double zero.

Your payout – on exact number, groups of numbers, red or black, high or low – will always reflect that slightly lower probability. That means the house will, over time, have that edge.

Statistically, therefore, the casino cannot be beaten by a system that relies on the numbers.

But Jarecki’s system was far more insightful than that.

The child prodigy who grew up with a passion for casinos

Richard Jarecki was born in Germany in 1931 but fled with his parents to the USA just before World War II and settled in New Jersey.

He found he was gifted with a brilliant mind that could retain numbers and statistics. He used his talent to win money off his friends at card games.

Even after he became a doctor, his passion was for casinos, and in particular the game of roulette. He became obsessed with it, convinced he could find a way to beat the odds.

And in the early 1960s, he did.?

The wheels always turned – but they didn’t move

Jarecki’s scheme was ingenious, and it required an extraordinary amount of research, but it was rooted in a simple observation.

He noticed that casinos regularly replaced their cards and dice with fresh sets – but the big, heavy, costly roulette wheels stayed in place, sometimes for decades.

Over time, Jarecki calculated, they would develop tiny chips, dents and scratches that might cause certain numbers to come up more frequently than they could.

The only way to test the theory was to manually record the results of thousands of spins and analyze them for inconsistencies.

Not imitation, but perfection

The concept of wheel tracking was not new. Joseph Jagger, an Englishman, pioneered the strategy in the 1880s.

Jagger won ￡80,000, an enormous sum of money at the time, and broke the bank at Monte Carlo – although it is not believed the song of the same name was written for him.

Other people who had used a similar technique were Albert Hibbs in 1947 and Helmut Berlin in 1950. But Jarecki was convinced he could perfect the system.

After gathering months of data, he scraped together $100, his savings, and turned it into $5,000 in a matter of hours.

The conquest of Europe

In the mid-1960s Jarecki, by now in his mid-thirties, moved to Germany to study at the University of Heidelberg.

Alongside the progess of his medical career, the switch to Europe also helped his roulette exploits.

European roulette wheels had 37 slots instead of the 38 of the USA, so the house edge was 2.7% rather than 5.26%. And the venerable, established casinos there used old wheels.

Jarecki and a team of helpers scouted wheels at casinos all over Europe, sometimes recording as many as 20,000 spins in a month.

When he finally got serious and put his theory into practice, he turned $25,000 into $625,000 in the space of six months in 1964.

Striking it rich in San Remo

Jarecki bought a luxury apartment in San Remo, an Italian coastal town with an old casino – and old roulette wheels.

One night in 1968 Jarecki visited and won $48,000 over the next three days. He came back eight months later and won $192,000 over a weekend.

He was banned from the casino – and when the suspension expired he returned and won another $100,000.

Ultimately, it was cheaper for the casino to replace all 24 of its wheels, at huge expense. Its director called Jarecki “a menace to every casino in Europe”.

Jarecki responded with the wonderful remark: “If the casino directors don’t like to lose, they should sell vegetables.”

Could it happen again?

Once you know Jarecki’s story and see the premise upon which he based his theory, it’s tempting to wonder if it could be done again.

However, casinos now invest in new wheels on a regular basis and they inspect them closely for defects.

Meanwhile, manufacturers of wheels have upgraded their processes to ensure their products are completely free of any potential bias.

So the answer is an emphatic no.

As for Jarecki, after making $1.25million between 1964 and 1969 he went back to New Jersey.

He became a commodities broker and reputedly earned 10 times as much in the years ahead.

Jarecki retired to Manila and died there in 2018 aged 86.

Sources:
https://thehustle.co/professor-who-beat-roulette/
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Joseph_Jagger
https://www.nytimes.com/2018/08/08/obituaries/richard-jarecki-doctor-who-conquered-roulette-dies-at-86.html

There’s nothing inherently part of the BAR symbol that would make you think it’s a key element of slot machine gambling. Then again, why are there so many fruit symbols on there? You can find plenty of information about it online, but it’s important to dig deep and not just trust the first source you find.

Fact vs fiction

Traditional casino games like Blackjack have been around since the 1600s with minimal documentation at the time, so it’s understandable that we might not know how elements of the game evolved.

But slots were only introduced in the late 1880s, so you would think that there would be clear historical records on these matters. However, there’s as much fiction mixed in with fact on the matter, perhaps because of prohibition.

If?you check out our own blog post about how fruit machines got the fruit symbols, you’ll read that gumball machines were made with slot interfaces. So you’d gamble knowing no matter what you’ll get a piece of gum, but depending on if you got cherries or lemons, you’d end up with a different flavor piece of gum.

This was also because laws in the US banned gambling, so this was a way around the rules, as establishments would pay out gum, which of course could be traded back in or used as a kind of currency.

According to this story, the BAR was an image of a pack of gum, eventually becoming more stylized over the years. However, there are images available that show it was the logo of the Bell-Fruit Gum Company. The logo definitely looks like a BAR symbol, so it makes sense why the bar would evolve from the company making the gum dispensed by these slot machines.

But historians can get a bit skeptical. There weren’t any gum companies in the early years of slots that were making single fruit flavored gums.

In fact, the slot designs might have been made to promote a new product from the gum producers before such a product was created, if it even was ever released. It’s hard to even find proof of the existence of the Bell-Fruit Gum Company on its own, apart from the Mills early slot machines.

That said,the original story is still viable as slot machines were not automated in those times. Instead, when the bell rang indicating that you were a winner, the bar or speakeasy you were playing in would pay out accordingly. If gambling for money was illegal at the time, it makes sense that you’d be paid in flavored gum, cigarettes or drinks.

via GIPHY

Is the BAR symbol still popular?

Over the years since the original 3-reel slots were introduced, slot machines have evolved. Additional paylines were added, reels and payouts were upgraded, and eventually we reached the level we’re at today, where most slot games are digital. Video slots are the most popular and bring in tons of revenue for casinos, both online and physical.

While there are always fans of the classic, retro 3-reel slot machines, most gamblers opt for more immersive experiences. With modern slot machines offering videos, animations, bonuses and more, gameplay can become even more thrilling. Even though they’re often referred to as fruit machines, the reality is that they have gone way beyond that.

That said, the BAR symbol still appears on many games. Whether it’s an upgraded version of a classic slot that’s looking for a retro appeal, or simply a way for a developer to pad out the reels and distinguish the standard symbols from the high-paying ones, BAR on the reels continues into the 21^st century.

Together, casinos across the state can keep track of which would-be scammers have previously been convicted for gambling theft or other offenses. This prevents thieves from ripping off one casino after the other.

The statutes actually go beyond simply telling casinos who to ban, though. In fact, if a casino admits or allows banned players to gamble, they can also get a citation, fine and more. As a result, these bans are stringently enforced. So, who is on the list, and how did they get on it? Each one has an intriguing story!

1.?Dominic Anthony Spinale
Date Added: January 26, 1994
Amount Scammed: Unknown
Scam Story: With two convictions for bookmaking and ties to the New England organized crime family, it was quick and easy to ban this mobster.

2.?Ronald Dale Harris
Date Added: February 20, 1997
Amount Scammed: $100,000+
Scam Story: Harris was actually a 12-year employee of the State Gaming Control Board, assigned to evaluate gaming devices. Arrested in New Jersey for using a computer program to win $100,000 on a Keno game, he was later charged in Nevada for rigging slot machines.

3.?Douglas Joseph Barr
Date Added: November 29, 1990
Amount Scammed: Unknown
Scam Story: Placed on the list at age 31, Barr had already been arrested about 30 times. Many of his arrests were for gambling related offenses, and his father was placed on the list four years later for slot cheating.

4.?Joseph Whit Moody
Date Added: August 23, 2018
Amount Scammed: Unknown
Scam Story: One of the more recent additions to the list, Moody was known for running scams on tourists in Las Vegas. He would distract female or elderly visitors as they used redemption kiosks or ATMs. Blocking their view of the part of the machine where cash was dispensed, he’d ask for directions or a similar innocuous question. When his victims were distracted, he’d grab the funds and disappear in the crowds of the casino.

5.?Sandra Kay Vaccaro
Date Added: October 2, 1986
Amount Scammed: Millions
Scam Story: Sandra Vaccaro is the only woman on the list, a dubious honor to say the least. She was actually added to the list along with her husband, who was part of the Los Angeles Organized Crime Family. Together, they collaborated with other criminals to rig slot machines to win progressive jackpots – stealing millions from Nevada casinos.

Sources:
https://www.reviewjournal.com/uncategorized/knowing-vegas-whats-the-story-behind-nevadas-black-book/
https://gaming.nv.gov/index.aspx?page=75
https://gaming.nv.gov/index.aspx?page=207
https://gaming.nv.gov/index.aspx?page=126
https://gaming.nv.gov/index.aspx?page=190
https://gaming.nv.gov/index.aspx?page=336
https://www.cdcgamingreports.com/two-time-convicted-felon-nominated-to-nevadas-black-book/
https://gaming.nv.gov/index.aspx?page=211
https://law.justia.com/cases/federal/appellate-courts/F2/816/443/137475/

1. Ripley’s Believe It or Not!

While the TV show focuses on some of the gorier items, this museum actually has everything from the sublime to the ridiculous. You’ll find a range of unusual things, and the museum is way bigger than it looks like on the outside.

In fact, Ripley’s Believe It or Not! can be an excellent all-day activity with children of all ages. Let your kids measure themselves against the tallest man, or learn how circuses used to fool people with unique “creatures”.

2. Mini Golf

Nothing says family adventure like mini golf. It’s fun, silly, and a good time for everyone. Visit this Atlantic City mini golf course during the day and you could take in some impressive views. Or you can visit at night when the course is lit up in all its glory.

Alternatively, head to Glowgolf on the second floor of the Pier at Caesars and enjoy this glow in the dark miniature golf experience. Even the clubs and balls glow. Take on the 27 holes before having a go at the laser challenge.

3. Swimming

It’s obvious that kids love swimming, right? We all know this. And you’ll have plenty of options when you visit Atlantic City.

Most of the best hotels have resort pools, which means there are a variety of ways for your kids to swim, splash and generally have fun. Planning a visit during colder months? You may want to stay at the Tropicana, which has an indoor pool as well.

There’s also the beach, which doesn’t have any fees or tags. Normally in New Jersey, you need to pay to enjoy the beach, but not here – so take full advantage.

4. Steel Pier

Arcade and carnival games are about as close to gambling as kids can get, and they are tons of fun at Steel Pier. Beyond the usual claw games, there are hoops, shooters and unique prizes to win. While generally best for slightly older kids, even young ones can have a good time playing.

Even better, there are tons of rides here. From a carousel to bumper cars, there are plenty of planes, trains and automobiles designed to bring fun and thrills. Just be prepared to buy lots and lots of tickets to make it all happen.

Oh, and word of advice: try to take a short breather between inhaling the funnel cakes and hot dogs and getting on the more stomach turning rides.

5. Bikes on the Boardwalk

You could walk the boardwalk, taking everything in. But at four miles each way, that’s a whole day affair. Why not rent a bike instead? It’s a leisurely ride that can be done in less than two hours, even with stopping for a bite to eat.

Keep in mind that biking is only allowed on the boardwalk from 6am to noon year-round, with extra hours during certain times of year. Then again, if you’re traveling with a kid, you probably aren’t getting to sleep in anyway…

6. Rainforest Cafe

You know a place is designed for kids when there are more than three options on the kids’ menu. But this restaurant offers more than that. That’s because the scenery comes alive here. Not in a way that will leave your little ones screaming, but instead to create a fun rainforest experience. Sit next to a waterfall, or order a volcano dessert for even more flair.

Adults can also enjoy the expansive drinks menu, delicious burgers or sandwiches and a chance to breathe while the kids are enthralled at the Rainforest Cafe.

7. Lucy the Elephant

Want to visit a Historical Landmark? Why not one that’s six stories high and an elephant!

Yes, it’s as weird as you’re thinking, but you can go on a guided tour that gets all the way to the howdah on her back so you can enjoy a 360 degree view of the shore area.

This is probably going to be more of a photo op than an all-day activity, but just do it for the gram.

8. AC Aquarium

A visit to the aquarium is always a good idea with kids. Younger ones are happy to simply watch the fish swimming around their tanks, while older kids can play with the touch tanks, learn about reptiles or snakes, and even see a show.

The Atlantic City Aquarium is big enough to offer a variety of experiences, while still being intimate enough that kids can ask the staff all their questions. Make sure to visit their website, or browse on Groupon, as there are always coupons for entry.

9. Sugar Factory

You’ll be the most popular person when you take a kid to the Sugar Factory. This is home of some of the most incredible shakes and even the King Kong Sundae, which is best enjoyed with 10-12 of your closest friends. Kids go wild for all the different ice cream, milkshake and pancake options.

But that doesn’t mean you can’t get a more adult treat if you prefer. Order a decadent cocktail, or some baked brie. There are also monster burgers, grilled entrees and premium fondues. No matter your age or tastes, you’ll find something truly delectable here.

10. Storybook Land

Established in 1955, Storybook Land is less than 20 minutes from Atlantic City. Best for kids aged 1-8, your family can literally walk through all the favorite stories and nursery rhymes. Complete with trains, toys houses, exhibits and tons of rides, there’s plenty to do, see and even eat.

You should probably plan on spending about 3 hours here, depending on your family’s enthusiasm for the theme. What’s particularly nice is that there isn’t a fee for parking and the ticket includes all the rides, so you know exactly what to expect and won’t need to keep shelling out more cash to keep having fun. Food is available on site, or you can make use of the picnic areas if you prefer.

Sources:
https://www.ripleys.com/atlanticcity/
https://storybookland.com/
https://www.acaquarium.com/
https://sugarfactory.com/location/atlanticcity/
https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g29750-d819004-Reviews-Rainforest_Cafe-Atlantic_City_New_Jersey.html
https://www.acminigolf.co/
https://www.achotelexperts.com/glowgolf-and-laser-challenge-attraction/

Where you play can make a big difference on any of these guidelines. Being a small fish in a big pond, such as a $25 per hand table game player in Las Vegas, you probably won’t be treated as a high roller. But do the same in a smaller local casino, and you might get to enjoy the perks of being a big fish in a small pond.

Luxury Rooms and Suites

This is one of the most sought after and common perks for casino visitors. If you want to head to Las Vegas or Atlantic City, of course it’s ideal to get comped the room or suite. Free accommodation can be fantastic, and help you feel seen and appreciated… especially if your room comes with a welcoming bottle of champagne.

Hosts will often comp high rollers with luxurious rooms or suites. Bring your whole family and make the most of the trip, or travel alone to truly indulge. Depending on how much you plan to play, the casino might even organize your travel to and from the casino.

Fine Dining

All the best casinos have incredible restaurants. Off the strip establishment and even local casinos can offer decadent dining, with top chefs crafting delicious cuisine. If you are comped for dinner, it usually doesn’t matter what you order, so feel free to indulge. Other times, you might get comped to a certain value, at which point you may need to actually check the prices on the menu.

Then there’s the booze. Top casinos have incredible wine lists, champagne and top-shelf liquors available. Try out a signature cocktail or that amazing vintage of wine while you play. Most casinos offer free drinks to anyone who is gambling, but the higher you roll, the more top-shelf your drinks will be.

Shows and Entertainment

Want to see top performers? Tickets have always been a key way for casino hosts to lure players in. Back in the day you might get comped to go see Elvis, whereas now the performers are Lady Gaga, Britney Spears or Celine Deon. From Cirque du Soleil to famous touring acts, your casino host can set you up with VIP tickets to the best events and entertainment around.

Traveling with kids? Ensure that the casino comps you with free pool cabanas or arcade credits. Have a partner who isn’t the biggest fan of the casinos? Ask your casino host about shopping comps, spas or free tours in the area.

Extended Lines of Credit

One of the most common (and controversial) perks comes in the form of extended lines of credit. Casinos will often offer their own lines of credit to high rollers, making it easy for you to chase losses or keep playing after your bankroll runs out. This can be a wonderful perk if you’ve got plenty of cash or you earn tons, but it can also be a dangerous way to dig a deep hole.

How Much do You Need to Spend to Become a High Roller?

The answer to this will vary a lot depending on what you play and where. For example, the odds are typically better the more you’re wagering. Slots found in the high roller rooms might have a house edge of 3% compared to the 10% on the casino floor.

It also depends on how long you like to play for. Do you want to have a marathon, 8-hour play session, or do you tend to gamble for an hour or two before moving on?

Back in the day, casino hosts just made their own decisions about who to comp and how much. But now, it’s all linked to how much you’ve accrued on your player’s card. That’s why it’s important to always use your player’s card, whether you play slots or table games.

In general, there’s a formula to help a casino determine how much to give players. This is how much you bet per hand or spin, how many hands or spins you average per hour, how many hours you play, and the house edge to determine your theoretical losses. For example:

$1,000 bet per hand x 100 hands per hour = $100,000 in bets

$100,000 x 8 hours = $800,000 total bets

1% house edge

$8,000 in theoretical losses

$25 bet per spin x 120 spins per hour = $3,000 in bets

$3,000 x 2 hours = $6,000

3% house edge

$180 in theoretical losses

Obviously, you could end up winning or losing during that period, as theoretical values aren’t necessarily true in reality. However, if the casino assumes you’ll lose $8,000, of course they will comp you a $500 suite or meal, whereas a $180 loss might get you a free gift or buffet.

Again, if you play at your local casino compared to a hotel on the Las Vegas strip, your theoretical losses could go a lot further. The most expensive suite in Las Vegas would go for $25,000 per night, compared to a local casino’s presidential suite for $17,000. The most expensive meal in Las Vegas could run into the thousands, compared to hundreds at your local 5-star establishment.

Of course, the odds and vibe are also different at your local casino. So, in the end, it’s best to see comps as additional rewards, instead of some kind of gambling investment.

Sources:
https://www.businessinsider.com/casinos-perks-for-high-rollers-tied-to-las-vegas-shooting-2017-10#casinos-offer-known-whales-perks-like-free-luxury-cars-discounts-on-gambling-losses-and-even-shopping-funds-which-are-especially-helpful-if-they-have-a-spouse-who-is-less-interested-in-spending-hours-in-a-casino-4
https://www.covers.com/editorial/Article/dde1a81b-b51e-e711-80cb-44a8423171c1

But there is another side to the city. From homelessness to addiction and poverty, Las Vegas hides a lot of issues behind its glitz and glamour.

Homelessness

According to the latest census data, Las Vegas has the 8^th highest homelessness rate of cities in America. But compared to the other cities on the list it is by far the smallest city, which makes the homeless population a major concern.

There are numerous programs?to try and help those who have fallen through the cracks. While some homeless people end up living in tunnels under the city, shelters are available for many families and single people who are homeless.

There is increasingly a push towards donating directly to service providers or shelters rather than giving homeless people food, blankets or other goods. That’s because there are issues with food safety, and often homeless people then need to use the goods to barter, getting less value from them.

Like other parts of the country, homelessness is most often attributed to lack of employment and the high cost of housing that leaves unemployed or underemployed individuals without an affordable place to live. In Las Vegas, there are also numerous women and young people fleeing domestic violence and other precarious situations. With reduced support for people in need, more and more communities see upstanding people fall through the cracks.

Addiction

When it comes to availability, you can get pretty much any thrill you’re looking for in Las Vegas. From drugs to alcohol, gambling to paid sexual encounters, Nevada has something for everyone. While the majority of visitors and residents can enjoy these experiences without becoming addicted, there are still startlingly high addiction rates in Las Vegas.

Las Vegas has been hit hard by the Opioid crisis in America. Like in many cities across the country, people became addicted to prescription pain killers. Eventually, this led many to turn to heroine for cheaper and better highs, resulting in serious drug addiction and overdose. In fact, Nevada has the fourth highest rate of drug overdose deaths.

When it comes to alcohol, Las Vegas also has a serious issue with alcoholism. The stats are tricky, though, because it’s difficult to separate out the details of those who go on a bender during a trip to Sin City compared to those who live in the city and regularly overindulge. What health workers have said is that while someone might drink too much in other cities, they go even more overboard in Vegas, especially combining alcohol with other addictions.

One of the most common addictions in Las Vegas is gambling. Though often under reported, gambling can be more addictive than alcohol. With the highest gambling addiction rate in the country, numerous people fall victim to it. Health workers have seen significant spikes of addicts among seniors, an issue that has previously been ignored.

It’s not that they believe that seniors are more likely to become addicted, but rather that more seniors are retiring to Nevada due to the warm weather and most affordable cost of living, only to end up gambling their social security checks away.

While alcoholics can try to stay out of bars, gambling is everywhere in Las Vegas. Whether you’re waiting for your dry cleaning or picking up some groceries, there are slots, video poker machines and more. You don’t need to hit the strip to blow through your cash, you could end up doing it while filling your tank with gas. As a result, gambling addicts in Las Vegas often find little to no relief from the constant temptation.

Poverty

It’s easy to see the signs of poverty in Las Vegas, for example among the homeless population. But not all people who live in poverty end up homeless. Instead, there are also numerous people living in the suburbs of Las Vegas who are unable to make ends meet.

The economic recession and housing collapse of the early 2000s meant that many people ended up living in houses that were financially underwater. This led people to take up second jobs, working hard to cover bills and keep a roof over their heads.

While there has been economic recovery since then, it hasn’t always worked its way to all levels of society and all employment sectors. Wages are increasing and more jobs are returning to Las Vegas, but numerous people are still struggling to find the necessary employment to pull out of poverty.

One of the main issues is the lack of resources for people in this situation. If you end up homeless, you can get help with job placement, temporary shelter, food and more. But the poverty levels required for food stamps, women and infant care and other programs mean that many people simply aren’t able to feed their families, keep the power on and sustain their homes – even when working two or more jobs.

Las Vegas is an incredible city to visit, filled with all luxury and glamour you could hope for. But for many, it is simply the name of the city where their homelessness, poverty and addiction lead to devastating situations.

Sources:
https://www.worldatlas.com/articles/10-us-cities-with-the-largest-homeless-populations.html
https://www.reviewjournal.com/local/local-las-vegas/las-vegas-homeless-courtyard-now-open-24-7/
https://knpr.org/knpr/2018-03/city-las-vegas-launches-new-effort-help-homeless
https://www.lasvegasadvisor.com/question/homelessness-las-vegas/
https://knpr.org/knpr/2017-12/despite-flashy-image-does-las-vegas-have-drinking-problem

Stranger Than Fiction

It’s now over 13 years since Smith’s notorious story went viral, and society has been left asking a lot of questions. People continue to wonder how we could reach a stage where an individual is getting their face inked for profit. We couldn’t even include Smith in our recent article on tattoo regrets because she was so willing to have this done.

Smith had set up an eBay auction in order to try and raise some much-needed funds. She had put up an auction offering any company to pay $10,000 to get a permanent tattoo of the company name and logo on her forehead. (3)

Up stepped popular online gambling site GoldenPalace.com, who paid the amount in full using the “Buy It Now” function on the auction website. Smith, clearly being a woman of her word, got the casino’s logo printed on her face. It was the stuff of internet legend.

“Forehead Goldie”

The hysteria surrounding the tattoo episode saw Smith, who earned the nickname, “Forehead Goldie”, become a local celebrity. Some questioned her mental state, and it’s alleged that the tattooists at the tattoo parlour where she had her ink completed spent over 7 hours trying to persuade her not to get the tattoo done.

Perhaps there’s difference between Smith getting a company logo tattoo for money and someone tattooing the name of a loved one that they’ve not been in a relationship with for too long. At least with the company logo you’ve still got the $10,000 to fall back on if it all falls apart. If a relationship crumbles you’re left with no money and a vomit-inducing tattoo that will make for some very awkward conversations in the future.

Tattoo Trendsetter?

Smith’s tattoo débacle also inspired others to follow suit. Canadian Brent “The Human Pincushion” Moffatt also agreed to get the GoldenPalace.com logo tattooed on his body. Admittedly, his experience wasn’t quite as embarrassing.

Moffatt’s case was a little different. Firstly, he was attempting to break records with the number of tattoos and piercings on his body. One more company logo tattoo hardly looks out of place. Secondly, Moffatt is a character who fits getting an outlandish tattoo. Unlike Smith, who had all the characteristics of a middle America blonde-haired soccer mom.

Yet another GoldenPalace.com promotional stunt involved tattooing the casino name onto a person’s body. In the case of Angel Brammer it wasn’t a permanent tattoo but a temporary one. The Scottish lady auctioned off advertising space on her 42GG size breasts. Once again, GoldenPalace.com saw a marketing opportunity and grinned all the way to the bank. It’s rumoured that on this occasion the winning bid only cost ￡422.

The GoldenPalace.com PR Machine

The story of Smith and the GoldenPalace.com tattoo is not the only time the online casino has become embroiled in a controversial marketing strategy. In fact, the casino is almost as famous for its advertising as it is for its classic casino table games.

In November 2004, the casino paid a staggering $28,000 for a cheese sandwich on eBay that was alleged to have the image of the Virgin Mary scorched into it. The news went global, and it showed that the gaming industry was adopting a new approach to publicity.

Then in May 2005 GoldenPalace.com paid a whopping $15,199 for one woman to legally change her name to GoldenPalace.com. The woman, formerly known as Terri Ilagan, agreed to go through with the transaction, and has now committed her life to the casino’s advertising push.

Richard Rowe of GoldenPalace.com cheekily stated at the time, “We hope that the money spent will go a long way in helping GoldenPalace.com’s family. Anyone that has kids knows the enormous expense that it requires to provide for them. We are happy to help GoldenPalace.com make ends meet.”

Rowe added: “This is a new step in edgy marketing. We know that this will receive widespread media attention.”

Where Is She Now?

What happened to Smith after her brief flirtation with fame? Well, she used a large percentage of the money to put her son through private education. Unfortunately, it appears that the money soon ran out. It was later reported that she put up a post on Facebook confirming that she was living in the basement of her father’s house.

Changes to gambling laws within the US meant it was not possible for Americans to gamble at GoldenPalace.com. In 2012, it was confirmed that the casino had provided the necessary funds to help Smith have the tattoo removed.

1.

Attention to detail is a precious talent when it comes to tattoo line work, but this tattooist pulls it off with verve and class here. The white of the playing cards stands out, but the longer you look the more you take in and notice. It’s basically got everything you could want in a brilliant tattoo. Gambling paraphernalia. Check. Welcome to Las Vegas sign. Check. Tiger roaring. Check. Fire. Check. What isn’t there to like about this tattoo?

2.

Credit is due to any tattooist who can make it look like they’ve tattooed a photograph onto a person’s skin. The use of red, black, and smoky tones is gritty here, but it also offers enough vibrancy to give this tattoo the life that sometimes gets lost when an image is inked on. The clarity of the roulette wheel is up there with the best. You probably wouldn’t be the only person to try spinning the wheel on that person’s arm and hoping to hit 35 black!

3.

This tattoo could make the list on its bold colors alone. The clash of red and black epitomises the 50-50 odds of gambling. The 3D design of the dice is also stunning, and the refined detail on the playing cards and dollar bills shows great care and ability. It is also an interesting design for the Ace card. We can only wonder what the story behind that is.

4.

If you are awarding points for definition on a tattoo, this has to be right at the top. Looking at this Las Vegas-inspired artwork you would be forgiven for thinking it’s been printed on crisp white paper. I’m not sure I’ve even seen newsprint with this sort of detail on the ink. The roulette wheel, dice, and playing cards emphasise the gambling theme, but it’s the toning involved that really make this beautiful to look at.

5.

OK, so this tattoo might not be the cleanest in terms of its design. Some of the other entries on this list are more detailed and, dare we say, aesthetically pleasing. So why is this tattoo on the list? Well, we thought we’d end on a feel-good factor. It’s all about the message for us here. Simple but philosophical. “Life’s a gamble” is a phrase we can all live by. Every choice you make holds an element of risk. Everything we do might work or it might fail. You’ve just got to play the hand you’re dealt. So true.

Tattoos are enjoying a golden era, with an estimated 18.25% of the population aged 18 years and older admitting to having body art located on them. Unfortunately, while they may seem like a good idea at the time, for some people the love of tattoos doesn’t always last and they come to regret getting inked for life.

Dr Stephen Crabbe of the University of Portsmouth and researchers at Casino.org recently commissioned OnePoll to survey 1,000 UK residents who’d confessed to regretting their tattoos. We found out what tattoos they had, why they got them in the first place, and why they changed their mind about them. Are there common trends in the designs that people most regret, or their reasons for getting them? The British public have spoken, and here is what they had to say!

A Design for Life?

One of the most popular reasons people get a tattoo is to symbolise their love or affection for somebody. This can be either somebody the person is in a relationship with, somebody they admire, someone they are related to, or some person they wish to pay tribute towards.

It’s therefore no surprise that someone’s name is the design most men and women regret having as a tattoo. 31.34% of males regretted getting a person’s name inked on them. 24.33% of females was a lower percentage, but still the most common tattoo type they regret.

It’s clear from the stats that the name of your love interest is a risky tattoo choice. Relationships between people can change, and if a commitment to togetherness results in a tattoo then there’s immediate regret if the relationship breaks down.

Other designs also stood out, though. For men, a tribal theme (12.81%) and Asian characters (12.53%) were the other most popular designs they held regrets about getting. Women felt star constellations (15.95%) and Asian characters (12.64%) were most likely designs to regret, alongside others not listed in the survey.

Battle of the Sexes: Tattoos by Gender

The part of the body where somebody gets a tattoo can make quite a statement. When David Beckham got a set of guardian angel wings tattooed on his neck in 2000 it became an instant fashion statement. The lower back tattoo that has since become labelled as the”tramp stamp” was made famous by celebrities such as Britney Spears and Cheryl Cole during the early 21^st century.

The lower back has remained a popular choice for the location of a tattoo. In fact, 15.17% of women who regretted having a tattoo said theirs was positioned on their lower back. Out of the men surveyed, 20.98% had their tattoo of regret on their forearm.

Interestingly, both sexes seemed to hold equal regret over tattoos located on the shoulders, chest, and upper back. Tattoos that were inked on the face, shins, ribs, quads, and neck had almost no regret associated with them.

Moment of Madness? How Long People Planned Their Tattoos

Everybody has been in that situation where they’ve done something rash and in the spur of the moment. For some people it’s the first puff of a cigarette or sip of alcohol while underage, for others, it’s getting a tattoo.

The statistics don’t lie. It’s clear that those who regretted having a tattoo were more likely to have spent less time thinking about it. It can be argued that impulsive behaviour makes life more interesting. On the flip side, it can also get you tattoos you later cringe about having.

A staggering 21.96% of men and 21.25% of women admitted it took them “no time at all” to decide on the tattoo they now regret. On a wider scale, a total of 65.4% of males took a few days or less to decide, compared to 53.95% of females. Clearly, taking time to consider the pros and cons of a tattoo can reduce the risk of regret further down the line.

Are certain areas of the UK more spontaneous than others when it comes to getting tattoos? It turns out the Welsh lead the way for moments of madness, with 34% of those who regret their tattoos taking no time at all to choose their ink.

At the other end of the spectrum, the Northern Irish seem to be more sensible. Not a single respondent across the Irish Sea answered “no time at all” for their decision time. Those in the East Midlands and South East were the most calculating when it came to their tattoos. 7.14% in both regions took a few years before deciding to get their body art done. Nobody in Scotland, West Midlands, or Wales took that long!

The Inspirations for Regretted Tattoos (Divine Inspiration)

This is where things get juicy. What inspired people to get the tattoos they no longer wish to keep? What could’ve changed since they were inked to make them hate what they once loved?

You’d think breaking up with someone you’ve had tattooed on your arm would be the most likely cause of regret. Looking at the statistics, the survey suggests otherwise. Only 23.90% of people said this kind of tattoo was something they regretted.

11.90% said their tattoo regret was of a significant other, with 11.70% listing a friend and 11.30% claiming it was something they picked from a book at the tattoo parlour. Inspiration from a book or movie, the internet, family members, pets, and favourite bands were other reasons, but far less likely to be ones people regret. Creepily, 1.30% of those surveyed regretted getting a stranger tattooed on their body.

Top Reasons People Regret Their Tattoos

Whatever the reason a person has for getting a tattoo, there will also be something that makes them come to regret it later on. The reasons are surprisingly quite varied, and both women and men give a number of causes for regretting their ink.

28.44% of women simply got bored of their tattoos, with 23.85% stating that the colour had faded over the years. The actual artistry was the issue for 20.38%, who claimed the line work was poor. Perhaps most evocatively, 23.70% of women said the tattoo no longer held the same value to them as it once did.

The men surveyed showed a slightly more significant change of heart regards their tattoos, with 28.07% confirming that the tattoo no longer meant as much as it did for one reason or another. 24.52% believed that they just got bored of their tattoo.

A sad aspect of society found by the survey was that 15.64% of women felt judged by their tattoo, compared to just 9.54% of men. These findings come in an era of the #MeToo and #TimesUp movements, where evidence of sexism continued presence in society is a big concern.

Tattoo Cover Ups

Tattoos have firmly moved into the mainstream of UK society. Rather than a sign of rebellion, tattoos are seen as a symbol of conformity. You’re strange if you haven’t got one, and you’re just the same as everyone else if you do have one. Perceptions of tattoos are changing, and for some this means covering up tattoos they were once proud to have on display.

A huge 67% of people that have regretted getting tattoos have felt the need to cover them up at some point. 8.16% more men than women have never covered up their tattoos, with women feeling more judged for having tattoos being one suggestion for these stats. Other people believe it can have a negative impact on their job prospects if they display their tattoos.

Erase and Rewind: Tattoo Removal

Tattoo removal is a hot topic at the moment. Somebody that has regretted having a tattoo could just get it removed. Not everybody finds this easy, though. The painful process, heal time, and cost are all things to consider, and can put people off the idea of removing ink.

When questioned about tattoo removal, those surveyed delivered varying responses. 29.50% said they had considered getting a tattoo removed but hadn’t yet gone through with it. 24.50% already had removed a tattoo. 28.30% answered that they would rather cover the tattoo up than have it removed. Just 17.70% admitted that they would leave the tattoo as it was and not cover it up.

It’s easy to understand why people aren’t sure about getting a tattoo removed. Despite people claiming it doesn’t hurt any more than getting a tattoo done, the pain factor is enough to put people off. The cost of ￡100 for the removal of a small tattoo also means it can hit the wallet hard.

The whole ordeal can be a prolonged process as well. It can take 6-8 weeks between laser treatments to remove a tattoo. There is no set schedule for how many treatments will be needed to erase the tattoo, either. The Kirkby-Desai scale is used to calculate this, but it’s worked out on a case-by-case basis. It’s often too much time for people to commit to having a tattoo removed.

That said, the process has become available to certain patients on the NHS. This has led to an increase in the number of people getting tattoos removed. It’s also a process that is becoming less taboo, and the scare-mongering surrounding the treatment is not as rife as it once was.

Tattoo Removal by Region

How do the figures stack up when we compare tattoo removals up and down the UK? Which regions have seen the most number of tattoo removals, and which prefer to just tolerate their unwanted body art?

Those living in the West Midlands lead the way for tattoo removal treatment. 46.77% of those surveyed replied by saying they had already had a tattoo removed. 28.21% of residents in the Eastern region claimed that they wouldn’t get a tattoo removed and wouldn’t even bother covering it up.

Intriguingly, the region where people most want to have their tattoos removed yet haven’t gone through with the process is Scotland, where 44.87% are seriously considering getting their tattoos removed, but have so far held back.

Where Were You When You Got Tattooed?

The time and place can have a huge bearing on the level of regret over getting a tattoo, according to the results of this survey. 55.45% of women and 50.68% of men claimed that they got the tattoo on just your average day. Nothing special about it.

This was not the case for everybody. 25% of Londoners, one quarter of residents in the capital city, got their tattoo of regret while on a stag or hen do. A whopping 40.91% of Northern Irelanders regretted getting their tattoos on honeymoon. They were obviously too intoxicated by love.

It’s also worth noting that men are three times more likely than women to get ink done on a night out. 12.81% of males responded by saying they regretted getting a tattoo after a session on the beers, compared to just 4.74% of women. There’s no pressure like peer pressure.

The Wrap Up

The results of this survey offer intriguing and shocking results. Stigmatisation surrounding tattoos can certainly be a huge contributing factor for women over men. Society appears to judge women more for tattoos, and thus puts them under more pressure to feel comfortable wearing their tattoos.

Many people just assume that a person was young, stupid, or not being true to themselves if they regret having a tattoo. This survey actually shows us a more complex picture. There are countless reasons why people get tattoos, but there are an equal number of reasons why they get them removed. Frequently, these reasons are not necessarily associated.

Despite living in a more tolerant society than ever before, where equal rights are correctly pushed across all groups, tattoos remain a subject that sees prejudice cast unfairly. This survey shows that, like the tattoos they wear, each person who regrets getting a tattoo each has their own story to tell.

In fact, casinos have been inviting famous Hollywood celebrities to their openings, events and high-roller tables for decades. It’s ideal for everyone, as the actors get to play excellent high-stakes games while other players can brag about playing poker with a movie star. Of course, some Hollywood stars need less convincing than others, and a few notable names have been more than happy to join in on any gambling action.

Charlie Sheen

Many details of Sheen’s personal life came out when he split from his wife Denise Richards. One such personal detail was that the actor bet on sports every day, with highs and lows in the hundreds of thousands of dollars. He was also apparently a bad loser, with violent mood swings when wagers didn’t go his way.

Following his public meltdowns Sheen started a gambling site, although he’s since said that he’s cutting back or stopping gambling altogether. His reputation as a bad boy means he might always be associated with his vices, though.

Ben Affleck

Back in 2014, Affleck was banned from the blackjack table at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas. While reports at the time claimed that he was counting cards, he insisted that he just got really good at the game. Either way, he clearly spent a lot of time honing his abilities, gambling for extended periods in Sin City.

He disputed the idea that he had a gambling addiction, though, saying that casinos don’t tend to kick gambling addicts off the tables for being too good at the game. Blackjack is his only game, and he doesn’t wager on sports or other casino games.

Matt Damon

The cult movie Rounders (1998) shows Matt Damon as a proficient gambler, something he would continue to play in his role in the Oceans 11 franchise. He actually did learn some card skills in order to prepare for the role, which prompted him to develop a rather healthy interest in playing poker off camera as well.

While he continues to play poker in high-stakes rooms and private games, he’s known for being understated and polite. He isn’t one of the rowdy Hollywood gamblers, but rather a down-to-earth guy who enjoys betting on a good hand of cards.

Pamela Anderson

Back in 2007, Anderson told Ellen Degeneres that she was playing poker and ended up down $250,000. Her male opponent said she could clear the bet if she made out with him. She joked that she paid off a poker debt with sexual favors and fell in love. This tallied with reports of her marriage to, and subsequent divorce from, Rick Salomon, formerly of Paris Hilton sex-tape fame.

It’s hard to say if she’s keeping her gambling under wraps now, or if marrying someone to pay off poker debts is keeping her from the casino tables these days.

Ray Romano

Four years after the end of Everybody Loves Raymond, Romano hoped to be taken more seriously in his career. That’s part of why he took on the role of a compulsive gambler in Men of a Certain Age – or was the character made that way because Romano was himself a gambling addict?

Romano did in fact admit that he had a gambling problem, which ended up being a key part of his character. He got help for his addiction, and also competed in the World Series of Poker. He also continues to make “virtual bets” when playing golf.

Shannon Elizabeth

Made famous in her role as foreign exchange student Nadia in American Pie (1999), Elizabeth has gone on to do well at the poker tables. She is known as a formidable opponent, winning big and playing hard with the rest of them. With notable wins at the World Series of Poker, as well as great standing in online poker rankings, this star means business.

Tobey Maguire

Back in 2011, Maguire settled a lawsuit following his involvement in illegal high-stakes poker gaming. But the organizer of those games said that he was generally not a good sport when it came to his gambling habits. He was rude, a sore loser, and even told her to bark like a seal if she wanted a tip.

Staying largely out of the media these days, it’s unknown if he has switched to only playing private games or if he’s given up poker altogether. But with the book and subsequent movie Molly’s Game (2017) highlighting his less than stellar character at poker games, his poker antics will probably end up in the spotlight more than he’d like.

Walter Matthau

Originally making a name for himself in movies like The Odd Couple (1968) and Charade (1963), this classic movie actor continued to act well past typical retirement age in ’90s comedies like Grumpy Old Men (1993) and Dennis the Menace (1993). But he wasn’t just a movie star – he was also an avid gambler.

He preferred to wager on sporting events, particularly on basketball or horse racing. While he wasn’t a big fan of Las Vegas’ casino action, he admitted that it was hard for him to walk past a craps table without trying a few rolls of the dice.

Sources:

https://www.etonline.com/news/151356_ben_affleck_explains_why_he_was_banned_from_blackjack

https://www.nytimes.com/1971/07/04/archives/what-the-otb-bettor-can-learn-from-walter-matthau-a-lesson-from.html

https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/gallery/hollywood-gambling-5-players-who-866242/2-charlie-sheen

https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2663783/I-used-call-Tobey-Maguire-Hannibal-Lecter-Hollywood-poker-madame-spills-beans-A-listers.html

https://www.today.com/popculture/pam-anderson-cites-fraud-split-hubby-wbna23359838

https://www.nytimes.com/2009/11/29/arts/television/29romano.html

https://www.therichest.com/expensive-lifestyle/lifestyle/celebrities-who-love-to-gambe/

Whether it’s in movies, TV or popular culture, casinos and gambling are depicted as part of a criminal underworld, or at least linked to a criminal underbelly. But when you visit the best online casinos or head to your local licensed gambling establishment, none of those clichés apply.

So why is gambling associated with crime? Is there still a criminal element to gambling, or is that link out of date?

Money Laundering

The concept of money laundering has been around for centuries, but the term in law enforcement in relatively new. The idea is quite simple. If you get money from a criminal act, whether from extortion, drugs or theft, you can’t just turn around and use those funds without attracting attention from the cops and tax authorities. That’s why criminals need to move money around to make it seem like it was legitimately-earned cash rather than something nefarious.

Money laundering laws were originally created during the prohibition period. Mobsters and underground rings started creating places for people to drink and gamble illegally (and wanted to use the ill-gotten funds).

You can’t buy a car with a suitcase of cash without raising suspicion and depositing large sums of cash will also lead to some questions about how you got the money in the first place. In fact, mobsters like Al Capone were brought down due to money laundering and tax evasion rather than any other crime the mob was involved in.

This is where casinos come into the picture. Going to a physical casino meant that you could buy a huge stack of chips, gamble for a little while and then cash out, claiming that all those funds were gambling winnings. You could even ask other people to pay you in casino chips to avoid raising any eyebrows. Casino are often high-cash flow businesses, making them ideal for money laundering and making the source of the funds untraceable.

As a result, criminals have used casinos to “clean” money so that it could be used without raising any suspicion. That’s why there are so many regulations in place now for all big deposits, withdrawals and payouts at a casino, both online and in person.

Mob Involvement

Yes, during prohibition, the Mafia was involved in running underground saloons and casinos. But even when casinos were made legal in Las Vegas, the Mafia still got involved.

Mobsters helped finance the building of casinos in the early days. Construction was expensive, and most of the unions were controlled by the Mafia, too. So would-be casino developers got into bed with the mob, using their funds and connections to build up Sin City. The most iconic mob front man was Bugsy Siegel, who built the Flamingo hotel and essentially created the idea of a gambling mecca, starting the flow of Mafia families into Las Vegas.

This meant that the various Mafia families were partners in the casinos themselves, using the backrooms for nefarious deeds and taking a cut of the profits for years. Again, this tied into money laundering, making it easier for mobsters to cook the books and make it look like all their wealth was from the casino operation rather than their various crime syndicates.

But the US government passed the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) Act in 1970, which changed the way that law enforcement could combat organized crime. In particular, they could prosecute the related crimes like loan sharking, running a protection racket, harassment and assault. While the Mafia does still exist today, the FBI’s fight against organized crime has helped effectively minimize the Mafia’s influence in Las Vegas and the rest of the country.

Modern Links Between Gambling and Crime

So, if the Mafia isn’t part of the casinos anymore, why are casinos and crime still so closely linked in pop culture and public perception? It’s not to say that casinos are all good or bad, but rather that there’s a trade-off.

Bringing a casino into an area can lead to literally hundreds or even thousands of new jobs, which can improve the local economy, employment and even lower the crime rate due to improved conditions for workers. Local business can improve as employees have more money to spend and increased tax collection can be used to improve public services, like schools and hospitals.

But, there’s also generally an addiction rate of 2-5%, with pathological gamblers responsible for petty crime, embezzlement, theft and other criminal acts to fund their habit. Because casinos are often linked with higher levels of drinking, alcoholism and its associated issues can also surge with a casino. While this can mean that new social policies are required, it doesn’t mean that casinos necessarily bring an increase in crime.

Shared Thrills

One of the main reasons why casinos are still seen as linked to criminal activity is because of the shared exhilaration that they can bring. Unlike other forms of entertainment, gambling at a casino is uniquely exciting and even causes some of the same psychological thrills as criminal acts.

Research shows that those who engage in shoplifting, robbery or other crimes aren’t necessarily doing it because they need to items or cash. Instead, they’re after the thrill of the experience, which triggers the same parts of the brain as gambling. Some even argue that the best way to fight crime is to reduce boredom and malaise.

While problem gamblers can lead to increased criminal activity, some gambling might even be a way to prevent would-be gangsters from ever feeling inclined to commit a crime. While it doesn’t seem like casinos can be used to prevent crime, it does appear that the link between gambling and criminal activity is increasingly a thing of the past.

Sources:
https://www.cracked.com/article_16588_7-great-sports-moments-that-might-have-been-fixed.html
https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/wonk/wp/2012/10/30/studies-casinos-bring-jobs-but-also-crime-bankruptcy-and-even-suicide/?noredirect=on&utm_term=.6a8792a9055f
https://people.howstuffworks.com/mafia10.htm
https://www.news-medical.net/news/20090527/Many-of-the-costs-of-gambling-are-hidden-and-crime-related.aspx
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Money_laundering
https://www.reviewjournal.com/news/from-siegel-to-spilotro-mafia-influenced-gambling-regulation-in-las-vegas/
https://www.nytimes.com/1988/11/20/books/the-sneaky-thrill-of-breaking-the-law.htmlhttps://www.biography.com/people/bugsy-siegel-9542063

Part of the allure of gambling is the chance to win big, but also the thrill of a big risk. While we all know that the house is designed to win, some of these players were absolute whales. Despite heavy losses, they continued gambling. While some of them could take it in their stride, others did crazy things to try and cover it up. Either way, it definitely puts wins and losses in perspective.

Creating this ranking can be rather tricky, particularly because names are rarely revealed for big losses at leading casinos unless they make the news. At top casinos in Las Vegas and Macau, high rollers can easily win or lose tens of millions of dollars over the course of an evening or weekend, with names and losses rarely recorded.

That’s why these are just some of the more high-profile losses where the people have come forward to discuss what happened, or the circumstances became newsworthy:

1. Learn Something New: Chun Lei “Samrostan” Zhu ($15 million)

How much would you pay to learn how to play poker? Well, Chun Lei Zhu, also known as Samrostan, Patpatman and Patpatpanda, lost about $15 million while he learned the ropes playing high stakes poker online. Surely, he could have just hired a coach for a fraction of that!

2. An Unsolved Murder: Akio Kashiwagi ($19 million)

Japanese real estate investor and high roller Akio Kashiwagi was known for playing baccarat at $100,000 a hand for more than 24 hours straight. He would play high stakes games for marathon sessions, sleep and return right back to the action. But in 1992, he was found brutally murdered in his home near Mount Fuji, stabbed over 150 times.

At the time of his death, he was said to owe a variety of casinos, including the Las Vegas Hilton to the tune of $5 million and Trump Plaza Hotel $4 million. With an estimated total loss of $19 million, the mystery surrounding his death is still unsolved with no one found or punished for the murder.

3. Stick to Playing in Person: Gus Hansen ($21.7 million)

Gus Hansen is an intriguing figure because he’s a well-known professional poker player. He has won millions playing at live tournaments and also works as a brand ambassador for poker sites and other brands.

But it seems his wild play style doesn’t serve him as well when he plays online compared to offline. He has accrued $21.7 million in online poker losses at Full Tilt. While he says he’s still okay financially, he does admit that he can’t continue to lose at this pace. Perhaps he should just stick to playing in person!

4. Laugh It Off: Kerry Packer ($30 million)

In 2000, Kerry Packer was Australia’s richest man, and one of the world’s highest rollers. He went on rather famous gambling sprees, losing massive sums of cash. One story tells that he would place enormous wagers on the roulette wheels of London’s Crockford’s casino, only to lose on all of them. He also went on blackjack sprees, winning and losing tens of millions of dollars in the space of a couple days.

While his losses were incredible, his net worth was even more immense. Despite losing approximately $30 million in 2000 alone (the only time the reports were corroborated by dealers or casino goers), it was barely even noticeable for his overall assets. Business analysts compared it to the equivalent of a man with $3,000 losing $14.

5. Face an Unofficial Suspension: Michael Jordan ($?? million)

It seems there were a few basketball players in the 90s who got caught up in gambling. A perennial all-star and member of the Dream Team, Charles Barkley was a famous basketball player who has continued to work as a TV analyst. However, he has also confessed to rampant gambling sprees, including losing $2.5 million in six hours of playing blackjack. He quit gambling for two years, but is back to it now, although with more moderation.

Michael Jordan was also a notorious gambler, and it’s even rumored that his first retirement was actually a secret suspension from the NBA. He was the face of basketball and the league didn’t want to tarnish his image, but he needed to stay away from the sport for a while to serve a suspension due to gambling investigations. That’s why he spent that embarrassing period playing minor league baseball. Or so the rumor goes.

6. Cheating: Archie Karas ($40 million)

From 1992 to 1994, Anargyros Karabourniotis, also known as Archie Karas, went on a legendary winning streak. He reportedly turned $50 into over $40 million and defeated some of poker’s best players including Chip Reese, Doyle Brunson and Stu Ungar. Over the next two years, he proceeded to lose it all again.

Then, in 2015, he was caught cheating at a San Diego-area casino, marking cards. He was also caught cheating by fixing chips. This has led to some skepticism about his original rise in professional poker – and means that he is banned from all Las Vegas and California casinos.

7. Switch to Playing in Moderation: John Daly ($55 million)

Between 1991 and 2007, professional golfer John Daly would go on multi-million dollar gambling sprees to Las Vegas. But he kept careful tax records, writing off all his losses to counteract the tax implications of his wins. While he won an impressive $35 million, he lost and even more staggering $90 million, working out to a total loss of $55 million.

He now says he’s stopped playing the $5,000 slots at the casinos, opting instead for the $25 slot games. The high-roller doesn’t seem to regret his massive losses, still enjoying his gambling (albeit at a lower level than before).

8. Embezzle Millions: Omar Siddiqui ($121 million)

Once an executive at Fry’s Electronics, Omar Siddiqui was a sought-after Las Vegas whale. Even as he earned $225,000 a year, he once lost $8 million in a day. Between 2005 and 2008, he reportedly wire transferred $70.4 million to The Venetian. The casinos would send a private jet to bring him from California to Las Vegas, offer him suites and even free money to play with.

He supposedly spent about $121 million at The Venetian and MGM Grand in three years while also accruing multi-million-dollar debts at other casinos during that time as well. He eventually plead guilty to embezzling over $65 million from his company and filed for bankruptcy in 2011.

9. Go to Jail for Drug Trafficking: Zhenli Ye Gon ($125 million)

Chinese businessman Zhenli Ye Gon moved from Shanghai to Mexico in 1996 to work in the import/export business, and by 2002 he was running a chemical import company called Unimed Pharm Chem. However, he was also in bed with the Sinola drug cartel. With millions of dollars to play with, The Venetian was his playground.

Between 2004 and 2007, Zhenli gambled away over $125 million – in cash. He was among the largest up-front cash-only players at the Venetian and in Las Vegas in general. The casino was comping him rooms, private jets, meals, cars and other luxuries, and he was even granted $35 million credit to continue gambling.

But in 2007, his home in Mexico was raided, resulting in the largest amount of drug money ever discovered with a mountain of cash made up of $207 million, mostly in US hundred-dollar bills. Zhenli Ye Gon was extradited back to Mexico in 2016 to stand trial for producing and trafficking illegal drugs.

10. Ask for Help: Terrance Watanabe ($127 million)

Terry Watanabe said he bet more than $825 million, losing $127 million in Caesars Palace and The Rio casinos in 2007. The former owner of popular mail-order retailer, the Oriental Trading Company, was given a three-room suite and a $17 million gambling limit.

Special vodka was imported from Russia for him and he would often gamble for 24 hours a day, playing three $50,000 hands of blackjack at a time, losing up to $5 million a day. In fact, he was responsible for about 5.6% of the parent company Harrah’s Entertainment’s Las Vegas gambling revenue that year.

Watanabe was unable to pay his gambling debts to the casino, even suing them for plying him with drugs and alcohol. The case was eventually settled out of court. Watanabe now says he is broke, without insurance and unable to pay for his cancer treatments. He has even set up a Go Fund Me to ask for help.

Sources:
https://www.therichest.com/rich-list/the-biggest/5-of-the-biggest-gambling-losses-of-all-time/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v+aq1IFpx07wc
https://abcnews.go.com/GMA/gambler-dropped-127-million-vegas-blames-casino-losses/story?id=9272730
https://www.gofundme.com/terry-watanabe-my-story
https://www.celebritynetworth.com/articles/entertainment-articles/meet-meth-kingpin-blew-125-million-gambling-vegas-casinos/
https://www.bbc.com/news/world-latin-america-37699634
https://www.reviewjournal.com/news/questions-swirl-after-fraud-probe-targets-high-roller-who-lost-120-million/
https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/asia/1368368/Gambler-Packer-loses-13m-in-3-days.html
https://www.azcentral.com/story/sports/heat-index/2015/01/16/charles-barkley-lost-nearly-30-million-gambling/21871513/
https://bleacherreport.com/articles/131997-mjs-1st-retirement-was-it-a-secret-suspension
https://www.cigaraficionado.com/article/remembering-the-worlds-greatest-gambler-8722
https://www.nytimes.com/1992/01/12/us/a-top-gambler-is-killed-owing-casinos-millions.html

The Caribbean island of Jamaica has plenty of sporting pedigree. As a former territory of the British Empire and place from where immigration was actively encouraged in the post-war period, there’s been an increasingly Jamaican influence on UK sport.

This is typified by England’s national football team, where many players of Caribbean descent have worn the famous Three Lions jersey over the last 30-40 years. Some of those who blazed a trail for the handsomely paid pros of today were even born in Jamaica, including a 2018 World Cup squad member!

It got us thinking about the Caribbean connections in the England setup past and present. Does one of your favourite players possess Jamaican ancestry? Take a look at this combined XI of current and former internationals that trace their roots there:

Goalkeeper: David James

‘Calamity James’, as he was known on a bad day between the posts, was the son of a Jamaican artist and visited the island as an infant, before his parents separated and he was brought up with his mother in England.

After coming through the ranks at Watford, James spent seven seasons with Liverpool before spells with Aston Villa, West Ham, Manchester City and Portsmouth. He went to three consecutive World Cups with England between 2002 and 2010 (as well as Euro 2004) earning 53 caps and even dropped down divisions to keep on playing with Bristol City and Bournemouth thereafter.

Right back: Kyle Walker

Man City defender Walker was born in Sheffield to a Jamaican father, and had played just two EFL Championship games before Tottenham bought him. Spurs did loan him back to the Blades, so the Bramall Lane Kop got to see a little bit more of one of their own.

Walker went on to establish himself at White Hart Lane after some loan spells before a big money move to the Etihad materialised over the summer of 2017. Under Pep Guardiola, he helped City win a Premier League and EFL Cup double. On England duty, meanwhile, Walker is a key player in the current setup and has been part of two tournament squads so far.

Centre Back: Viv Anderson

Wednesday, 29 November 1978. The date Viv Anderson – a Nottingham lad who was the son of Jamaican immigrants?– made England history. With Czechoslovakia at Wembley for a prestige international friendly, he became the first black footballer to start a game for the Three Lions.

At hometown club Nottingham Forest, Anderson would go on to win back-to-back European Cups and follow-up on Brian Clough’s First Division triumph that helped him gain recognition. He also went on to play for Arsenal, Manchester United and Sheffield Wednesday, as well as going to four major tournaments with England in the 1980s.

Centre Back: Sol Campbell

https://youtu.be/SfySV354Da8

The man who was bold enough to cross the North London divide between Tottenham and the Gunners has Jamaican parents, as Campbell highlights in his autobiography. His controversial Bosman switch from Spurs to Arsenal in the summer of 2001 stirred up very strong feelings.

Campbell was part of Arsene Wenger’s Invincibles vintage of 2003/04 when they brought the Premier League title to Highbury for the last time without losing a game. When it came to England, club (dis)loyalty was forgotten and he served a succession of managers from Terry Venables to Steve McClaren, amassing 73 caps and being picked for six consecutive tournaments in a decade from Euro ’96 to the 2006 World Cup.

Left back: Danny Rose

Doncaster-born Rose has links to Jamaica through his grandfather. His Yorkshire schoolboys league rivalry with Walker has transformed into firm friendship off the field when the pair became Tottenham teammates.

As another member of the current England setup, Rose has overcome personal issues to be selected for a second senior tournament after going to Euro 2016. His eye for spectacular goals when he was younger always marked him out as a bright prospect.

Central midfield: Ruben Loftus-Cheek

An encouraging loan spell across his native London at Crystal Palace was enough to get Chelsea-owned midfielder Ruben Loftus-Cheek noticed ahead of the World Cup. He’s another with Jamaican heritage and is also the half-brother of former Guyana internationals Carl and Leon Court.

That significant Caribbean ancestry and undoubted talent may not be enough to establish Loftus-Cheek at Stamford Bridge, as the Blues have a fairly poor recent record of bringing their academy graduates through into the first team. He will look to buck this trend, however, and aim for further England exploits.

Right wing: Raheem Sterling

You cannot get any more authentically Jamaican than Kingston-born Sterling, yet he was quick to nail his colours to the mast for England. After joining Liverpool from QPR’s academy, he became one of the hottest prospects in the Premier League.

Sterling quit Anfield for Man City, however, and has taken his form to a new level at the Etihad. He’s already something of a tournament veteran as Sterling has played at three for the Three Lions.

Attacking midfield: John Barnes

“You’ve got to hold and give but do it at the right time. You can be slow or fast, but you must get to the line. They’ll always hit you and hurt you. Defend and attack. There’s only one way to beat them: get round the back!” Barnes is legendary for his rap section on New Order’s Italia ’90 World Cup theme song for England.

He crossed the World in Motion – well, the Atlantic anyway – when leaving his native Jamaica aged 12 for London. Barnes’s father came from Trinidad, so there’s Caribbean heritage on both sides of the family.

Long after retiring as a player, he became coach of the Jamaica national team much to the delight of his mother. Barnes earned 79 caps and played at two World Cups and Euro ’88, and at club level established himself as a Watford and Liverpool legend.

Left wing: Laurie Cunningham

Like Anderson above, winger Cunningham was one of those pioneers in the late 1970s that saw black footballers in England gain international recognition. He had Jamaican heritage too with his father being a racehorse jockey!

Starting out at Leyton Orient, it was with West Bromwich Albion under Johnny Giles and Ron Atkinson where Cunningham shot to fame and it earned him a move to Spanish La Liga giants Real Madrid. His injury record, tragic early death in a car crash and just six England caps mean club and country were robbed of a real talent.

Striker: Andy Cole

‘Cole the Goal’ is another son of a Jamaican immigrant born and raised in Nottingham. He’s also third on the all-time Premier League top scorers list behind Alan Shearer and Wayne Rooney.

Best known for his trophy laden spell with Manchester United, Cole never quite made it with England as he was never selected for a major tournament. A sole goal in 15 caps for his country belied his prolific exploits at club level.

Striker: Luther Blissett

Our XI is topped and tailed with yet another Watford legend. Striker Blissett was born in Falmouth, Jamaica?(not England), and helped fire the Hornets from the bottom tier of the Football League to the First Division.

This rapid improvement brought 14 caps for the Three Lions and a move to AC Milan that didn’t work out with it. Blissett hit a hat-trick on his England debut against lowly Luxembourg and is both Watford’s record goalscorer and appearance maker.

Honourable mentions:

We couldn’t fit all the England internationals with Jamaican heritage into the XI, so here are some honourable mentions:

• Ashley Young
• Theo Walcott
• Andros Townsend
• Daniel Sturridge
• Chris Smalling
• Aaron Lennon
• Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain
• Mark Chamberlain
• Fraizer Campbell
• Darren Bent

Five on England World Cup roster could have played for Jamaica

Gareth Southgate selected five players in his 23-man squad for the 2018 FIFA World Cup finals in Russia that at least have a grandparent from Jamaica:

That means Sterling – who was born in Jamaica –?Walker, Young, Loftus-Cheek and Rose could all have chosen to represent the Reggae Boyz instead of pulling on the Three Lions shirt.

Top 5 players that chose Jamaica over England

Some footballers have decided to represent Jamaica at international level over England, despite showing similar promise and potential at one stage or another to the more illustrious names above:

Our top five includes former Manchester United and West Ham playmaker Ravel Morrison, who has switched allegiance?after playing at youth level for England. Former Derby County attacking prospect Giles Barnes is another to have done this, while ex-Leeds United cult hero Jermaine Beckford used his Jamaican heritage to play for the Reggae Boyz.

Leicester City’s Premier League title-winning captain West Morgan, meanwhile, fits into that tradition of Nottingham-born players with links to Jamaica like Anderson and Cole before him. Adrian Mariappa, who has plenty of Reggae Boyz caps, completes our top five and is yet another Watford stalwart with Caribbean connections.

Who is eligible for both England and Jamaica?

A similar decision, whether to choose England or Jamaica in senior international football, is something these five players and many more must make:

West Ham winger Michail Antonio has been called up by England before but never got on the pitch. Kingston-born wideman Leon Bailey, meanwhile, has caught the eye at Bayer Leverkusen and there’s plenty of speculation surrounding whether the will opt for Jamaica, the Three Lions or even other countries?that he’s eligible to represent.

Dwight Gayle, meanwhile, fired Newcastle United back into the Premier League, but could also play for either Jamaica or England. Also, in this category is England Under-21 international winger Demarai Gray of Leicester and namesake Andre, who is with Watford alongside Vicarage Road teammate Troy Deeney.

Darko Milicic, Center, Detroit Pistons, 2nd Pick (2003)

In 2003, Detroit Pistons were in the unusual position of having the second draft pick, even though they qualified for the Eastern Conference Finals the previous season. This was due to a 1997 trade that involved power forward/center Otis Thorpe making the move to the Vancouver Grizzlies.

Pistons fans still curse the team’s decision to pick center Darko Milicic over the highly-rated small forward Carmelo Anthony. Milicic failed to develop as quickly as the Pistons coaching staff had hoped. He still became the youngest player to play in an NBA Finals at just 18 years and 356 days old.

It could be debated until the end of time whether or not Milicic’s lack of playing time hampered his development. Some might say he needed to work harder to earn that game time. Nonetheless, the decision to pick Milicic over Anthony is still a sore topic for Pistons fans. Anthony going on to become a 10-time NBA All-Star. Ouch. It’s probably best not to mention that the Pistons also passed on power forward Chris Bosh and Dwayne Wade in that draft.

Adam Morrison, Small Forward, Charlotte Bobcats, 3rd Pick (2006)

The risk teams take on players that have had their fitness troubles in the past is one that can be wisely calculated but also massively misguided.

When the Charlotte Bobcats took a third pick punt on small forward Adam Morrison they were drafting a player they knew had diabetes that needed to be managed on a daily basis. In his rookie season, Morrison hit double points. Tearing his ACL before the start of his sophomore season only added to his health issues.

Morrison never recovered from that injury and will be remembered as one of the biggest wasted third round picks in NBA draft history. The decision to draft Morrison was compounded by a series of other dreadful decisions by the Bobcats hierarchy during this era.

Greg Oden, Center, Portland Trail Blazers, 1st Pick (2007)

Portland Trail Blazers shook the basketball world in 2007 in more ways than one when they bagged center Greg Oden as their first draft pick. Firstly, for the third year in a row, a team with less than 10% chance of sealing the first draft pick landed the slot. In 2005, it was the Milwaukee Bucks who drafted center Andrew Bogut and in 2006 it was Toronto Raptors who drafted forward Andrea Bargnani.

Secondly, the Trail Blazers made the outrageous decision of ignoring small forward Kevin Durant in favour of Oden. Now, we should state that at the time this didn’t seem an awful decision but in retrospect it’s clearly a terrible pick.

Hasheem Thabeet, Center, Memphis Grizzlies, 2nd Pick (2009)

Hindsight is a wonderful thing. That won’t help to make fans of the Memphis Grizzlies feel any better about the second draft pick of center Hasheem Thabeet. Thabeet in himself was far from an incompetent player.

In fact, it could be debated that there are dozens of worse second draft picks that have been and gone over the years. The real pain was not the quality of the player the Grizzlies picked but the quality of the players they shunned in favour of him.

Thabeet was chosen by the Grizzlies before three players that would go on to be All-Stars. Those three players? Only Stephen Curry, James Harden, and DeMar DeRozan.

Anthony Bennett, Power Forward, Cleveland Cavaliers, 1st Pick (2013)

The first pick in the NBA Draft has thrown up some legendary players of the game such as Shaquille O’Neal for Orlando Magic in 1992, Tim Duncan for San Antonio Spurs in 1997, and LeBron James for Cleveland Cavaliers in 2003.

Unfortunately, teams don’t always get it right. In 2013, 10 years on from the stroke of genius pick that was James, the Cavaliers recruitment tactics went slightly awry with the first draft pick of power forward Anthony Bennett.

Bennett was unable to play in the Las Vegas summer league due to a shoulder injury. He then set an unwanted NBA record of missing his first 16 regular season shots. Bennett might have been a trailblazer as the first Canadian number one pick but he will always be remembered as arguably the worst first draft pick of all-time.

Don’t worry, this playlist has all the songs that you should be listening to instead. Whether you’re a slot fan or a pro poker player, there’s an ideal gambling song for you.

1. Spin Me Round – Dead or Alive

If you’re a fan of the slots or roulette wheel, you’ll love to spin with Spin Me Round. Released in 1985, this pop song will stay in your head and even works well if you play it on repeat. Spin the reels or that roulette wheel right round and watch out for the big wins.

Hopefully you’re as successful as this song was when it released. It went to #1 on the charts and it’s a jackpot of a track to listen to and make your play session epic.

2. Poker Face – Lady Gaga

Whether you’re hiding your excitement in an epic poker tournament or playing it cool in real life, Lady Gaga’s Poker Face is the ideal anthem. Prepare to sing along when this song gets stuck in your head, and dance with joy as you get the cards you need.

Playing poker online means that you can enjoy the great music and not worry about maintaining your poker face if you don’t want to.

3. Ace of Spades – Motorhead

Whether or not you’re a card shark, you’ll have fun rocking out to this epic track. Great guitar riffs and fun lyrics made this a top hit when it was released in 1980.

The song is considered the definitive Motorhead anthem and these rock legends will really up the excitement of any game of cards. Combining blunt power and speed with vaguely card-related lyrics, you’ll be ready to play hard when gambling with this song playing in the background.

4. Shape of My Heart – Sting

Why do you play cards? What makes gambling appeal to you? Sting’s Shape of My Heart is more of a ballad, but it has some tough guy credibility, used at the end of the film Léon: The Professional, with Jean Reno and Natalie Portman.

The song tells the story of a gambler who doesn’t play to win, but to try to figure something out. Deep and meaningful, but also great lounge music with a stellar melody.

5. That Was a Crazy Game of Poker – O.A.R.

Are you a fan of wild rocking country music, a great beat and fun lyrics? That Was a Crazy Game of Poker could become your new card playing theme song. It makes sense why ESPN has used this song as an introduction to its coverage of The World Series of Poker – it’s upbeat and will at least make you tap your feet while playing another hand of cards.

Plus, the lyrics add an extra dimension of the crazy stories gamblers get to tell, possibly imagining they were actually playing against the devil.

6. Waking Up in Vegas – Katy Perry

For many, gambling is synonymous with a wild night out in Las Vegas. Partying, getting up to some crazy antics or maybe even getting married on a whim – anything could happen (especially after you win big).

Katy Perry’s pop song will make you want to dance, play and maybe win big so that you can have your own wild time. Plus, with some sound effects straight from the casino floor, this song definitely helps to set the mood.

7. Queen of Hearts – Juice Newton

Queen of Hearts is a pop-country song that has done extraordinarily well on the charts and in pop culture. You probably heard it in the background of Boogie Nights, GTA: San Andreas or even episodes of King of the Hill and South Park.

That’s because it’s catchy, fun and will make you smile. Enjoy this quick jaunt back to the early 1980s with Juice Newton.

8. Thrift Shop – Macklemore

In actual fact, this song has nothing to do with gambling, cards or spinning reels. But the hook is just so catchy and the idea of acting rich no matter how much you have feels like something that can appeal to any gambler.

Whether you play this while playing penny slots and dreaming of the high roller table, or you just enjoy the swagger that comes out while it plays, Thrift Shop will definitely take your gaming session to an epic level.

9. Money for Nothing – Dire Straits

This song might be all about making money just by being a famous musician, but the “money for nothing and your drinks for free” sounds just like a great night out at a casino. A fabulous beat, fun rocking riff and unique lyrics make this an epic song to listen to while you spin the reels or play some cards.

Besides, who isn’t looking for money for nothing while spinning the reels or going all in on a bluff?

10. I Wanna Be Rich – Calloway

Sometimes, gambling is all about wanting to hit that big payout and becoming rich, isn’t it? Hit that massive jackpot and become an instant millionaire, never to worry about anything again. Well, here’s the song all about that. Imagine all the things you’d have if you were rich along with Calloway with this fun song all about wanting lots and lots of money.

Sources:
https://www.telegraph.co.uk/music/artists/why-ace-of-spades-is-still-rocks-no-1-anthem-for-anarchy/
https://www.songfacts.com/detail.php?id=14160
https://www.songfacts.com/detail.php?id=2845

1. Ladders

We all know not to walk under them but did you know that in Ancient Egypt they were placed in the tombs of the dead to help souls find their way up to heaven? Led Zeppelin was definitely on to something! Because of this, and the triangular shape they create when propped against walls, ladders are actually considered a symbol of good luck. And the best thing? You probably have one in your garden shed.

2. Cat’s Eye

You don’t need to threaten one of the feline’s nine lives, no, we’re talking about the cat’s eye stone. The belief in India is that with one of these in your pocket you’ll have ever-lasting fortune. Easy to see why it’s often the good-luck charm of choice in the gambling world since it guards the carrier’s wealth from unforeseen business losses and promotes financial stability.

3. Tumi

The national symbol of Peru, a tumi is an ornate, sacrificial ceremonial axe that brings good luck. Before you get any ideas about raiding your toolbox you should know it’s not just any old axe. It’s distinctively characterized by a semi-circular blade and hangs on the wall or door to bring good fortune.

Its beauty hides its gruesome history where the Incans and earlier cultures used it in religious ceremonies. Celebrating the sun god meant one unlucky llama would have its heart cut out so that its entrails could be used to pave the way for a divine future. What a way to go.

4. Three-legged Toad

This good-luck charm ain’t pretty but in China the three-legged, red-eyed toad is considered a good fortune and prosperity magnet. Called the Jin Chan, this rather ugly-looking ornament is kept in homes and businesses to keep bad luck at bay and bring in the money. Beauty really is within the eye of the beholder after all and if this little critter gets you on a winning spree, who cares if it’s a bit aesthetically challenged?

5. The Fascinus

The Ancient Romans did a lot for society using sheer man-power so it’s no surprise that their lucky charm takes the form of a fascinus. Thought to protect from the Evil Eye this Roman amulet or sculpture is shaped like a divine phallus. To you and me, it’s quite simply a lucky penis.

6. Carp Scale

For all you fishing fanatics out there this one’s for you. In Poland it’s traditional to eat carp on Christmas Eve and the saying goes that if you keep the fish scales in your wallet it will bring prosperity and good fortune for the following year. Seems easy enough to cart around but we’re not so sure about the smell.

7. Rabbit’s Foot

Dating back to 600BC Europeans have been carrying around a rabbit’s foot for good luck. It’s popular across the Americas, China, and Africa too. Run, rabbits, run, it’s worldwide! Again, it’s all very specific. It has to be the left hind foot, as the left is supposedly the ‘evil’ side, so be sure to check which foot you’ve got hold of before you take one to the roulette wheel.

8. Alligator’s Teeth

Not just a questionable fashion choice, wearing one of these around your neck is actually considered pretty lucky and may be a better money-spinner than your milk teeth after a visit from the tooth fairy.

In Africa, some cultures use them to bring wealth and good fortune when gambling. If you’re into your casino movies, you might have noticed sometimes gamblers are seen wearing a few teeth around their neck. Now we know what that’s all about.

9. Scarab Beetles

In Ancient Egypt, amulets shaped like scarab beetles kept its carrier protected from all sorts of evil. These insects are associated with the rising sun and sun god, Ra. Just like Ra, who maintains the rolling of the sun across the sky each day, the scarabs keep their larvae well-nourished by rolling dung across the grass. They represent rebirth and transformation, so reinvent yourself and your lucky streaks with one of these good-luck charms.

10. Vulture Heads

Not a bird you usually want flying around you given their scavenger status. But their keen eye has led people to believe that they can see into the future. Definitely a power you want to possess at the casino, right? South African lottery players definitely think so and a well-preserved vulture head can set you back as much as $1,000. The poor vulture population is taking a hit for the expensive trend.

Whilst these charms might not actually affect the outcome of your game, they’ll certainly boost your confidence. It’s all about your state of mind after all, and if you’re feeling unbeatable, you’ll make better decisions. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your charm of choice and hit the slots. It’s your lucky day!

For more articles on luck, check out our posts on lucky colors and lucky numbers.

Sources:
https://www.gemstoneuniverse.com/catseyegemstonebenefits/
https://www.ancientpages.com/2016/05/05/legend-of-jin-chan-the-golden-toad-money-frog-that-brings-luck-and-is-a-feng-shui-charm/
https://goodlucksymbols.com/egyptian-scarab/
https://www.todayifoundout.com/index.php/2013/12/rabbits-foot-considered-lucky/
https://people.howstuffworks.com/culture-traditions/body-art/5-bizarre-good-luck-charms3.htm
https://www.thelawofattraction.com/international-lucky-charms-symbols/
https://thechive.com/2018/03/14/good-luck-charms-from-countries-around-the-world/
https://inaciem.com/equipment/winged-phallus
https://www.discover-peru.org/tumi-knife-culture/
https://exemplore.com/misc/goodlucksigns

Singaporean Tycoon Loses S$100 Million

One local businessman gambling at two casinos based in Singapore lost an estimated S$100 million ($75 million) during play. It has been reported?that the billionaire, who appeared on the most recent Forbes list of the top 40 richest people in Singapore, lost his money at the Marina Bay Sands and Resorts World Sentosa.

It has also been alleged that another Singaporean businessman lost up to S$50 million ($37 million) playing at the same casinos at about the same time.

“Empress of Soul” $6 Million Blackjack Addiction

Iconic US soul singer Gladys Knight has carved an incredible singing career with hits including “When a Child Is Born”, “Licence To Kill”, and “That’s What Friends Are For”.

The six-time Grammy Award winner has shared her experiences of gambling $40,000 each night at the casino tables on blackjack and baccarat.?It is speculated that Knight potentially lost over $6 million over the years.

Kakavas Drops $1.5 Billion in 14 Months

Renowned high rolling gambler Harry Kakavas was rumored to have lost up to $1.5 billion gambling at casinos around the world over a 14 month gaming spree.

The Australian real estate salesman made his wealth by selling houses on the Gold Coast of Australia. At the peak of his gambling, Kakavas lost $164 million in just 5 hours back in May 2006. He was witnessed placing bets worth $300,000 per hand. During one trip to Macau, Kakavas gambled away $4 million in just a single day.

Kakavas attempted to claim $20.5 million of his losses back from Melbourne Crown Casino stating that the casino was aware of his problem gambling and proceeded to take advantage. Kakavas lost his case and the subsequent appeal.

Ivey Forced to Pay Back $10 Million to Borgata

One of the most high profile court cases relating to gambling to ever take place came when legendary poker professional Phil Ivey was involved in a legal dispute with the Borgata Hotel Casino and Spa in Atlantic City.

Ivey was accused of cheating to win approximately $9.6 million dollars playing baccarat at the tables of the casino. Even though the judge ruled that Ivey had not cheated and not act of fraud had taken place, the World Series of Poker bracelet winner was still required to return the winnings he earned from that lucrative session at the casino leaving him millions of dollars out of pocket.

Watanabe’s $127 Million Self-Destruction at Caesars and Rio

If you are in search of the greatest losing streak in Las Vegas history then you need look no further than notorious high roller and businessman Terry Watanabe.

The high stakes gambler went on an insane gambling spree during 2007 that saw him lose $127 million of his fortune playing on the blackjack tables at Caesars Palace and the Rio All-Suite Hotel and Casino. Eye witnesses stated that Watanabe’s play at the tables was so bad that it looked like he was actively trying to lose his money.

Packer’s $13.6 Million Baccarat Binge

Whale gamblers in Sin City don’t come much bigger than Australian billionaire Kerry Packer. The famous gambling fanatic became a hero of the working class across the city casinos due to his generosity at the tables. Stories of him tipping casino staff enough money to pay off their debts and putting arrogant big-spenders in their place when they got disrespectful made him a popular figure.

Sadly, even the best fall down sometimes. Packer’s weakness was a baccarat habit that saw him lose $13.6 million across three days of gambling during the year 2000.?Undoubtedly, a drop in the ocean for Packer but still an unbelievable sum of money to lose at the tables in just 72 hours.

Sheen’s $2.5 Million of Sheer Madness

Hollywood actor Charlie Sheen is well known for his excess living. The former Two and a Half Men star admitted to gambling $2.5 million on sports betting at a number of US sportsbooks back in 2006.

In the documents filed during his divorce with ex-wife Denise Richards it was stated that Sheen was spending $200,000 betting on sports each week for a three-month period during their short-lived marriage.

Barkley’s $20 Million Betting Bonanza

NBA Hall of Famer and former Philadelphia 76ers power forward Charles Barkley isn’t shy about admitting he’s got a love for gambling. The NBA TV analyst was named as one of the 50 Greatest Players in NBA History but openly confessed that spending his dollars at the casinos was a huge vice.

Figures are sketchy for Barkley’s gambling losses that have been estimated between $10 million and $30 million. Barkley himself admitted to one instance where he lost $2.5 million during a six hour blackjack session.

It’s even alleged that actual ghosts walk the walls of these monuments to the city’s past. Here are 10 of the most haunted places in and around Atlantic City.

1. Hard Rock Hotel and Casino Atlantic City

The first place on this list will be more widely recognized as the former Trump Taj Mahal. It closed back on 16^th October, 2016?but is set to re-open under the Hard Rock brand on 28^th June, 2018.

The casino is infamously haunted by a number of spirits. One particular ghostly fiend that stalks the corridors of the hotel at night is believed to be that of a man who threw himself from the 10^th floor of the building as he jumped to his grisly demise. Rumors of an orange-skinned, toupee-wearing, small-handed, and arrogant ghoul strutting the venue in the past remain unconfirmed. Maybe Atlantic City boasts more haunted casinos than Las Vegas?

2. Absecon Lighthouse

Not many haunted buildings match Absecon Lighthouse in terms of eeriness. Originally activated on 15^th January, 1857, there’s a lot of history surrounding this lighthouse. The reason for its construction was the wrecking of the Powhattan that saw 311 passengers and crew perish.

It was de-activated as a navigational beacon back in 1933. However, the light is still operational every night. Witness accounts of paranormal activity have occurred since 1905. A former lighthouse keeper claimed to have seen the Jersey Devil at the top of the tower one night. The specter of a pipe-smoking sailor has also been seen gazing out to sea. Footsteps on the stairs and the entrance door opening and closing by its own means has also been witnessed.

3. Ocean City Mansion

It may very well appear to be an idyllic retreat for loved up couples that want a break away from their hectic everyday lives but the Ocean City Mansion has a reputation for being one of the most haunted bed and breakfasts in New Jersey.

Guests have frequently spoken of items being moved when they have been staying in the Honeymoon Suite. There have also been claims of sinister voices and footsteps being heard.

4. The Flanders Hotel

Affectionately known as “The Jewel of the Southern Jersey Shore”, The Flanders Hotel?is unsurprisingly a popular tourist destination. It was initially built in 1923 and earned its name from the World War I battlefield Flanders Fields in Belgium.

The spirit that haunts this hotel is called Emily. She has also been named “The White Lady”. Eye witnesses have seen her glide through the Hall of Mirrors. A portrait of her hangs on the wall of the hotel for those that wish to see how she looked when she was a living soul.

5. Winterwood Gift Shop

A gift shop is one of the last places you’d expect to see an apparition from the other world. The property was originally built as Hildreth House in 1772 by Joshua Hildreth.

The resident spirit comes in the form of a spinster who once lived in the property called Hestor. She passed away in 1949 but her spirit is believed to have chosen to stay in the house. There is even a plaque displayed on the door telling guests to be mindful of the ghost.

6. Washington Inn

Just a short drive down the coast from Atlantic City, the Washington Inn is a great place to stop by and grab some food. Undoubtedly, this has provided one of the creepiest pieces of evidence of a resident ghost. One guest at the inn took a photo of her daughter sitting at a table. When the picture was developed there appeared to be the image of a little girl sat next to the photographer’s daughter.

This girl is apparently the spirit of a girl called Elizabeth. Little is known about her but she does frequently call out the names of those that work behind the bar.

7. Surf City Hotel

The name of this hotel doesn’t really ignite fear or a sense of anxiety as other haunted places might do. In fact, you’d more likely bump into Keanu Reeves donning his beach wear than a ghost striking terror into guests judging by the name.

That said, the history behind this building is very grim indeed. It is claimed that bodies of the victims of the devastating Powhattan ship wreck were stored at the Surf City Hotel in the days following the tragedy. It is said to be those restless souls that lost their lives that night that haunt the hotel even to this day because the owner at the time, Edward Jennings, robbed valuables from the corpses as they lay in rest.

8. The Southern Mansion

If you were to think of names for intimidating ghosts then “Esther” might not be the first name that springs to mind. That’s reserved more for the old lady next-door who you only see when she puts her rubbish out.

Still, it’s Esther who patrols the halls of The Southern Mansion laughing in a menacing tone along with a soldier who has been seen storming through the walls.

9. Hotel Macomber

This is a classic haunting case with the alleged spirit being a former guest of the Hotel Macomber?that regularly visited.

The paranormal activity is more aggressive than in most places so visitors should be wary when stopping by. Loud banging, doors slamming shut, and items moving erratically around the rooms have been witnessed firsthand. The focus for most of the spooky goings on can be found in room number 10. Enter at your own risk!

10. Windward House

We end this list with a trouble-making spirit. The employees at Windward House refer to this spirit as an Irish girl called Bridgette. She has garnered a cheeky reputation for stealing the jewelry of guests before returning it sometime later. The Wicker Room on the third floor is where Bridgette is most active but she has robbed guests all across the property so visitors should remain vigilante at all times.

Here are the top x riverboat casinos in Louisiana for tourists and locals to check out.

5. Amelia Belle

500 Lake Palourde Rd, Amelia, LA 70340, USA

If you were going to name a riverboat casino then it would have to follow the lead of the Amelia Belle.

This docked riverboat casino is operated by Boyd Gaming and offers a vast array of classic casino games, including three-card poker, blackjack, roulette, craps, Mississippi Stud, and Ultimate Texas Hold’em. There is also a selection of slot machines for players to enjoy.

This casino is not only about the gaming though – the all-you-can-eat Cajun Buffet has become the stuff of legend. For those who can’t handle the mammoth task of gobbling down huge quantities of food, there is also the Bayou Cafe.

The Amelia Belle casino boat also offers a range of regular promotions, like the $10,000 cash giveaway and Guest Appreciation, where players can win up to $777 on their favorite slots.

4. Hollywood Casino Baton Rouge

1717 River Rd, Baton Rouge, LA 70802, USA

Hollywood Casino Baton Rouge combines the glitz and glamor of Hollywood itself with the razzmatazz of Las Vegas. If you can handle that amount of decadence, you can enjoy the 1,100 slot machines that are available to play, as well as classic casino table games including blackjack, three card poker, craps, Cajun Stud, 21 + 3, roulette, and royal match 21.

Just like in Vegas, this casino boasts entertainment on another level. Jazz brunch is popular on the first Sunday of every month and on every other Sunday of the month, it’s your standard Sunday champagne brunch. Music acts are regularly booked to perform during the week and there’s also a choice of three different dining options with the Take Two Deli, Epic Buffet, and Celebrity Grill.

3. Isle of Capri Casino Lake Charles

100 Westlake Ave, Westlake, LA 70669, USA

One of the finest riverboat casinos can be found at the Isle of Capri Casino Lake Charles. The wide selection of rooms to stay in overnight include the Tower King, Tower Queen, Parlor Suite, and Inn Standard King. Pet friendly rooms, Wi-Fi internet access, and valet parking services are all available.

The casino also has a fitness center with a sauna, gift shop, and seasonal pool with a hot tub.

On the gambling front, over 1,100 slots, 13 poker tables, and 30 classic casino table games ensure that all tastes are catered for.

A range of promotions including the $2,500 Slam Dunk Slots Tournament and the $50 50+ Club are always popular. And that’s all before we even touch on the dining and entertainment options – Otis and Henry’s Bar and Grill, Farmer’s Pick Buffet, and The Lone Wolf Express.

2. Sam’s Town Hotel and Casino, Shreveport

315 Clyde Fant Pkwy, Shreveport, LA 71101, USA

Any casino that is open 24 hours deserves some recognition. Sam’s Town Hotel and Casino in Shreveport is a unique venue with an atmosphere that is relaxed yet buzzing.

The casino games are the main pulling factor here. The table games available include blackjack, single deck blackjack, craps, craps no more, mini baccarat, roulette, Let It Ride, three card poker, and Mississippi Stud. Progressive slots can also be played here.

The dining opportunities to tuck into include William B’s Steakhouse as the fine dining option. Casual dining can also be enjoyed with the International Buffet or Smokey Joe’s Cafe. If you simply want a quick bite to eat then there is also Java’s Deli. Every angle is covered.

1. Treasure Chest Casino

5050 Williams Blvd, Kenner, LA 70065, USA

This lakeside casino has a classic feel to it due to the lavish interior design. It also doesn’t close until 5am, so you can get your gambling on until the early hours without any interruption.

A huge number of slot machines are spread across the casino floor and The Treasure Chest Casino boasts 36 table games, like blackjack, craps, roulette, mini baccarat, Mississippi Stud, flop poker, three card poker, four card poker, and Fortune Pai Gow.

The Vista Buffet and Cafe Pontchartrain offer sublime dining, while dance bands, live music acts, and a weekly trivia night provide the entertainment. It might be considered old-fashioned to some but others would call it vintage.

How Did South Korea Become So Obsessed With Computer Games?

South Korea is often called the birthplace of eSports. Professional gaming has grown in popularity around the world, but it all started in the 1990s in South Korea. The country was actually struggling financially, so the government decided to invest in technology, particularly internet infrastructure.

Broadband internet became the norm, as did smartphones and other technology that would eventually spread worldwide and this led to a rise in gaming. At the same time, there was a surge in new TV networks and stations, thanks to the cheap technology and government support.

With gaming becoming more popular, a few television networks took a chance and started broadcasting some of the gameplay and tournaments. This was aired in the same way that you might see football or other sports on TV, making it more and more mainstream.

It really grew into eSports thanks to a partnership between the government and game developers at Blizzard. They worked together to organize events centered around the popular game of StarCraft. Starting in gaming rooms and growing to hotel ballrooms and even stadiums, soon thousands of people were coming together to watch these championships.

Since then, gaming has continued to be more than just a pastime in South Korea – it can also be a dream job and path to celebrity status.

People talk about professional gamers the same way that they do about major actors or politicians. They are celebrities, household names in most South Korean homes. Kids might have posters of their favorite eSports players or teams on their walls, and players can even have groupies or stalkers.

Just How Popular is Gaming in South Korea?

South Korea is now home to 25.6 million gamers, making it the 6^th biggest gaming market in the world. With a total population of 51.26 million, that means almost half of the country’s population is playing games, with 43% of the gamers in South Korea women.

What makes South Korea unique is that a large portion of society also watches video gaming content. So, even people who aren’t playing are watching other people play video games.

In fact, going to gaming clubs to watch tournaments is just as common for couples as going to the movies on dates.

Since the heyday of StarCraft, other games have grown in popularity in South Korea. Currently, the PUBG craze has swept over South Korea, getting 40% of the player base in the country.

League of Legends continues to be very popular, although Blizzard titles, particularly Overwatch, have also grabbed a lot of gamers’ attention. This is particularly interesting because traditionally, South Korean gamers have snubbed first person games, preferring instead the real time strategy titles like StarCraft or the MOBA titles like League of Legends or Dota.

Thanks to the popularity of other Blizzard titles like World of Warcraft and StarCraft, as well as MOBA like Dota and League of Legends, it’s actually been a perfect storm for Overwatch’s recent success.

Pro Overwatch player Ji Soo found the diverse gameplay, characters and teamwork reason enough for her to master the new genre. Plus, with tons of lucrative tournaments popping up around the country and the world, it’s a worthwhile game for professional gamers to start playing.

Where People Play

In other countries, people are increasingly playing from their own homes, thanks to fiber internet connections and improved infrastructure. In South Korea gaming continues to be something that people do in gaming clubs, called PC Rooms or ‘PC Bangs’. These internet cafes offer gamers of all ages the chance to play on high-powered PCs, playing their favorite games on fast internet connections.

PC Bangs can also be host to smaller competitions and tournaments, as well as being a venue for gamers to talk about the latest events and debate which players are best.

Part social club, part internet cafe, part gaming venue, these PC Bangs can be found in the largest cities and smallest towns, with over 40,000 of them spread across the country.

The PC Bangs culture also promotes a more intense approach to gaming than you’ll find in other countries. Seth King, an eSports shoutcaster in Seoul, explained how they breed an “environment for competition and gaming”.

“Getting access to games you wouldn’t normally be able to play is fairly addictive and when you’re spending money to play them, you’re more likely to take them seriously and try to improve quickly,” King explained.

How Much Can Professional Players Earn?

Even a decade ago, big brands started investing in esports. Much like traditional professional sports, players and teams had a direct line into people’s homes, with spectators tuning in to watch players compete in tournaments or even train using live streams. As a result, brands like Samsung, Red Bull and Coca-Cola sponsor teams who live together in team houses and often train for 12 hours a day.

It’s worth training like that when the prize pools are in the millions of dollars, though. Dota 2’s The International frequently has multi-million dollar prize pools, with the 2017 edition breaking all the eSports records with a total prize pool of 24,687,919!

Beyond the fact that tournaments can end up giving teams and players huge payouts, the real money comes from other forms of sponsorship.

Just like other sports, eSports organizations have team owners and partnerships that often provide professional players with housing, water and electricity, coaches and trainers, as well as food and gaming hardware.

eSports teams will often work with sponsors by letting them advertise on player jerseys, or even create social media campaigns. Players might use certain keyboards or headsets depending on their sponsors, making certain peripherals seem like the best products for any gamer looking to go pro.

Many eSports professionals are paid salaries by their teams, but there isn’t the same transparency in eSports as there is in football, so it’s hard to know exactly how much the players are paid.

Some articles have sited tournaments or teams promising a minimum of $12,500 during a match season, or $2,000 – $10,000 during playoffs. Best guess estimates seem to place average player salaries in the $25,000 – $30,000 range, excluding all benefits like free food and housing, as well as bonuses and payouts that come from winning tournaments.

The Social Cost of Gaming

According to experts, the celebrity status of gamers as well as the constant availability of technology has led to internet addiction. One in ten Korean teenagers are considered addicted, with many being sent to government-run addiction centers for treatment. Some of the treatments can even include something similar to shock treatment.

This can sound rather extreme, but the reality is that gaming in Korea can be equally extreme.

There have been a few cases of teens and young adults dying after spending more than 12 hours playing video games. There was even a horrifying case of a three-month-old baby dying of malnutrition because of gaming:

“Her death attracted international attention once police revealed its cause: Sarang had slowly starved due to negligence. Her parents, both unemployed and living in relative poverty, would leave her alone for six to twelve hours at a time while they visited local PC cafes to play Prius, a massively multiplayer online (MMO) role-playing game that was popular in the country at the time.”

According to the addiction experts in South Korea, anyone playing video games for more than two hours a day could be considered to be addicted. Meanwhile, across South Korea and the rest of the world, many gamers choose to play for much longer than that without displaying the signs of addiction, compulsion or self-harm.

Addiction in any form is largely a personal matter and can’t be diagnosed or identified in such sweeping generalizations.

Gaming is much more than a simple hobby in South Korea. It’s a passion for half the population, and a potential career for those who excel at it. For some, it might lead down a path of destruction, while for others it can become a dream job or a path to success.

Homelessness is a problem across the nation, but in Las Vegas it takes a particular slant thanks to the use of storm drain tunnels originally built in the 90s by the Hydro Conduit Corporation. With hundreds of homeless people literally living in tunnels underneath the strip, it’s quite a jarring situation in the opulent city of Las Vegas.

How It All Started

This phenomenon came to light in 2002, when Timmy “T.J” Weber used these tunnels to run from the police after he murdered his girlfriend. The homeless people living inside the tunnels are not murderers or killers – they’re just people who have hit rock bottom due to addiction or some other hardship.? According to Matthew O’Brien, who works with the homeless and is the author of a book about Vegas’ tunnel people called Beneath The Neon, the causes of homelessness aren’t typically the reasons presented in the media.

He says, “Homelessness, in my experience, is not caused by drug use, gambling, loss of employment or something like that. Typically there is a bigger problem or issue at the core: a mental illness, disease, traumatic event, etc. Drugs and gambling and things like that are a way to cope with the bigger problem.”

The city did little to help them, so they formed a community underneath the tunnels instead.

Who Are the Tunnel People?

Most of these homeless people seem to have lost their way after a traumatic event. Some are? veterans with post-traumatic stress, others have lost their jobs or been affected by drug or alcohol abuse. The easy access to casinos often adds further temptation, with many of the tunnel people reporting that they continue to gamble their money away.

While some people are completely unemployed, others earn very little money which means they don’t have enough to live on. Being so close to temptation, they end up misusing the little money they have. They go down to the tunnels usually as a last resort, a last place where they might survive.

Living in the tunnels is not an easy life. Documentaries show that the tunnel people have to strategically decide how to place their bedding and belongings so that their things are not flooded, the actual purpose of the tunnels is to direct storm water flooding, after all..

Because of the sprawling nature of the tunnels, as well as the transient nature of the population, it’s impossible to know exactly how many people are living in the tunnels at any given time. However, best estimates put the number between 200-300, depending on the weather, season and other factors.

Help Is On Hand

Matthew O’Brien, a reporter, discovered the tunnel people when he was diving deeper into the case of TJ Weber. He wanted to understand what Weber must have experienced when he hid out in the tunnels while avoiding the police, but never expected to find a community of homeless people living there.

He set up the Shine a Light Foundation to help them out. The Shine a Light mission is to:

“Help the hundreds of men, women and children who live in the underground flood channels of Las Vegas. The program prides itself on going into the depths of the storm-drain system and engaging this undeserved, hidden population on a personal level.”

The foundation offers services such as housing, drug counseling, case management, job training and GED program. It also gives out supplies like bottled water, food, socks, underwear, flashlights, headlamps, and batteries. According to O’Brien, addiction is a big problem in the tunnels, although dealing is less common than implied by previous reporting.

O’Brien says, “More than 90 percent of the people in the tunnels are addicted to drugs, alcohol, or gambling, or some combination of the three. Big-time drug dealing down there is pretty uncommon, though, I think. But many of the inhabitants may serve as runners or middlemen and stuff like that.”

O’Brien also helps people to connect with HELP, an organization that deals with the worst situations. The organization is in charge of placing desperate people into single-occupancy housing and aids them in cases of drug and alcohol abuse, guiding them towards counseling.

The Situation Today

A recent report in 2017 shows that Las Vegas is the smallest American city to make it onto a list of 10 cities with the largest homeless populations. This study shows that 6.490 homeless people resided in Las Vegas, making it the 8^th largest homeless population in 2017. This also marks an increase of 282 people from the homeless population count that was done in 2016.

The government and charities have struggled for years to try and find a solution and decrease the number of people living on the streets or in the tunnels under Las Vegas. A new initiative is said to be launching this March and is modeled after the Haven for Hope in Texas.

The aim of this project is to connect homeless people to a wide range of services such a security, portable restrooms, shade structures and so on.

There are also various homeless shelters in Las Vegas, including Family Promise of Las Vegas, Las Vegas Rescue Mission and the Catholic Charities of Southern Nevada.

The Las Vegas Rescue Mission is there to provide help and hope to the homeless and hurting men, women and children of Las Vegas. The Catholic Charities of Southern Nevada offers services such as child & family services, senior services, food & nutrition and housing & shelter. The Shade Tree is a shelter for women and provides safe shelter to homeless and abused women and children in crisis.

However, Matthew O’Brien explains that there really isn’t enough help for the homeless in the city. Las Vegas’ housing is too expensive, so even those working low paying jobs or people who are down on their luck could end up unable to afford rent.

Once they become homeless, there aren’t enough organizations dedicated to solving the core problems. The city simply isn’t focused on those in need.

He says, “People come here for the American dream, but often find one of the pitfalls. It can be a good place to be homeless, I hear, as it never gets too cold and there is a lot of money floating around. But it can also be mean and selfish and absolutely degrading. It is here for the tourists, not for the homeless, and that is made clear to them on a daily basis.”

Why Choose The Tunnels In The First Place?

There are a range of reasons why people continue to live in the tunnels. For some, there is a reason why they can’t go to the shelters named above. Perhaps they have pets that won’t be welcome, while others are married or engaged and won’t go to a shelter without their partner.

Still other people simply can’t get a bed at a shelter as people need to get in line early in the day to secure their bed for that night. If you can’t be in line early, you’ll probably be turned away due to a lack of beds. If you’re working at that time, either in a normal job or a hustle such as checking slot machines for extra money left behind (a common way tunnel people support themselves), you won’t have a bed in the shelter and might as well make yourself comfortable in the tunnels.

Finally, most shelters have the understandable rule of denying access to people who are drunk or high, which can mean that those with addiction problems have nowhere else to go but underground.

Beyond that, shelters aren’t always an ideal solution. Contagious diseases are known to spread rapidly in shelters, and shoe theft is a major problem in shelters as well. Some people have even been known to die in shelters due to poor ventilation, and women have reported numerous instances of sexual assault in shelters to the point where they feel safer on the streets.

In fact, the tunnels are usually dry and pretty clean, and O’Brien explains that despite the isolation that can mean that those in trouble can’t get help, there are unspoken rules that are followed. He says, “They include not entering someone else’s camp without permission and not going to the bathroom or leaving trash in or near the living spaces. The people also bond together down there in times of need. “

It’s also important to note that people who choose to live on the street don’t always end up in the tunnels. It’s a specific kind of person who can live in the tunnels under the strip, and O’Brien says he’s interviewed many people with as many reasons for choosing the tunnels. He says, “The people I have interviewed in the tunnels say they live in them for various reasons: privacy, shelter from the weather (e.g., the extreme summer heat), out of sight of the tourists and cops, etc. However, not everyone is willing to live in dark, spiderwebbed tunnels that can fill a foot per minute with floodwater. People who are afraid of water, the dark, and spiders stay away from them.”

Some people also feel like they have formed a community underground. It might not be their ideal living space but it’s the best option available. Since there are a lot of people living in the tunnels, they are not lonely in their situation and it’s often safer and even healthier than what’s available at some shelters.

A documentary by The Guardian claims that the people living under the tunnels forget that there is an outside world. It’s like they have their own world.

It’s heartening to see the number of homeless people in Las Vegas has come down significantly since its peak of 9,949 in 2010.? A large portion of that decline is in the form of homeless people in families, with 2017 showing the lowest count of 300 people in families living homeless on the street. That’s down from a whopping 1,909 in 2008. There is still a lot of hard work to be done to help the thousands of homeless people in Las Vegas, and it appears that the tunnels will continue to be home for many of them for years to come.

Ultimately, everyone does their best to survive in the only way they know how.

Here’s a selection of the most interesting urban myths and legends of Sin City.

1. The Ghosts of the MGM Grand Fire

On 21^st November, 1980, the MGM Grand Hotel and Casino was the scene for one of the most devastating tragedies in the history of the city. A blazing fire ripped through the resort claiming the lives of 85 souls.

At the time, hotels in Las Vegas were not required to have sprinkler systems installed. Faulty wiring caused the fire and it could not be stopped in time to save the lives of those that were eventually lost. Bally’s Las Vegas now stands on the site of the old hotel.

It is rumored that the ghosts of those that died on that fateful night roam the halls of the new hotel.

2. Decomposing Bodies Under the Bed

This urban legend is one that has done the rounds across the US.

The general story is that guests will stay at a cheap hotel for the night. They will enjoy a great night’s sleep before waking up in the morning to smell a pungent stench coming from under their bed.

Upon investigating the foul smell, the guests will discover the decomposing corpse of a murder victim rotting right under where they lay their head that previous night.

It is alleged that this myth started in Las Vegas after gangsters would leave their murder victims under the beds in hotels.

3. The Dell H. Robison Middle School Spirit

Middle schools are always a great place for urban myths to circulate. Children love to gossip and especially when their imaginations get the better of them, the rumor mill can go into over-drive.

This myth appears to have far too many witnesses to be simply dismissed as a creative tale though.

Students at Dell H. Robison Middle School have reported seeing a man dressed as a janitor walking around the school premises with blood-stained hands. Some students have even claimed the man will follow them home after school, before mysteriously disappearing into thin air.

In a minority of cases, it has also been claimed that the man will appear in the nightmares of students to threaten their lives.

The strange slant to this myth is that all witnesses have claimed their sightings of the man have ended as soon as they have attended church in the city.

4. The La Palazza Mansion Hauntings

La Palazza Mansion is one of the most notorious haunted buildings in the US and has appeared on a number of ghost TV shows.

A former owner of the property claimed to be haunted by an evil spirit. One night, the owner decided to confront the spirit, only to have the spirit attempt to choke him to death. The man luckily escaped with his life.

After investigating the history of the house, the owner discovered a secret room that was covered in dry blood. It was speculated that the house used to be owned by the Las Vegas mob and was a place gangsters would take victims to be killed.

The house remains vacant of any residents. Nobody dares live there, nobody dares tear it down.

5. Dead Bodies in the Hoover Dam

This particular urban myth has become so popular that it is almost considered fact.

During the construction of the Hoover Dam between 1931 and 1936, it was confirmed that 96 construction workers lost their lives. The more disturbing statistic is that it is alleged that seven of those bodies never made it out of the Dam and remain buried, after falling through gaps in the stone, in amongst the 4.4 million cubic feet of concrete.

6. The Kidney Black Market

This classic urban myth ticks all the boxes. It goes like this – tourists going on a night out, meet some locals in a bar, have their drinks spiked, and wake up in a nightmare situation. If you’ve watched Hostel then you’ll have a rough idea.

Well, in 1991 one specific rumor started doing the rounds that an individual was spiking the drinks of unsuspecting drinkers on nights out in Las Vegas and stealing their kidneys to sell them for money.

Victims would be sharing drinks with a charismatic stranger one minute and the next minute they would be waking up in a hotel bath tub covered in ice with stitches on their lower back. The perpetrator would leave a simple note stating, ‘Call 911 or you’ll die!’.

7. Siegfried and Roy… Or Not Roy

Siegfried and Roy are one of the all-time great performing duos in Las Vegas. The pair of German entertainers performed their Siegfried and Roy at the Mirage Resort and Casino show for 13 years before Roy’s career-ending tiger injury in 2003.

Here’s the most interesting part – it was claimed that the original Roy had actually died and had been replaced by an imposter.

Journalists have requested for Clark County medical examiners to release verification of Roy’s death but it has remained a claim that has been denied.

Despite the claims being denied by several sources, the rumors continue to spread. Is there ever smoke without fire?

8. The Megabucks Curse

In March 2000, Cynthia Jay-Brennan won the life-changing Megabucks jackpot at the Desert Inn. It was a total of $34.9 million. Tragically, Jay-Brennan was then involved in a horrific car accident just days after the win.

The accident left her quadriplegic and ignited rumors that the Megabucks prize was cursed.

The flames of this legend were fanned even more in 2003 when it was claimed that an anonymous winner of the $39.7 million Megabucks jackpot at the Excalibur Hotel died after a drug overdose.

Even though no official confirmation has come from winners losing their lives after winning the Megabucks jackpot, many still believe in the ‘Megabucks Curse’.

Previous winners have allegedly been killed in plane crashes, murdered in Los Angeles gang fights, and suffered heart attacks. The jury is still out.

Should we still be calling Macau the Vegas of the East? Or has it actually surpassed what you can find in the desert of Nevada?

Your Home Away From Home

Whenever you travel to a new city, you probably look to book a home away from home at a hotel. Interestingly, almost everyone who travels to Las Vegas stays in a hotel, typically for a minimum of 2-3 nights, while in Macau, people tend to only visit for 1-2 days, with only half of the visitors even spending the night.

As a result, Macau has 113 hotels with a total of 37,634 rooms, along with 47 budget motels or hostels ?with 1,513 rooms.

That sounds pretty impressive until you compare that with the 148,690 hotel rooms in Las Vegas, of which ‘only’ 93,359 are at hotels on the strip. Each hotel averages 2 000-3 000 rooms, which is why it’s easy to ?believe the MGM Grand when they say they wash an average of 15 000 pillowcases a day.

Also, remember these numbers don’t even include the hundreds of rooms available if you use an alternative service like Airbnb.

The average hotel room will set you back $130, although obviously there are suites and rooms that go for much, much more than that as well as plenty of budget deals available, even at high end hotels.

In Macau, you’ll find hotels are pretty similarly priced, with a 3-star hotel costing you anywhere from $90-161. You can find a spot to sleep for as little as $30, or lay your head on a more luxurious pillow for upwards of $350.

The Casino Floor

When you get to Las Vegas or Macau, you’ll probably want to enjoy some time gambling. In Las Vegas, of the 42.9 million people who visit each year, 69% of them ended up gambling, even if that wasn’t the primary reason for the trip.

In comparison, Macau attracts over 30 million visitors, of which 74% gamble. Strangely, the average gambling budget in Las Vegas is $619 compared to Macau’s $250, yet the gaming revenue in Las Vegas per year is $11.1 billion, which is easily dwarfed by Macau’s $28 billion.

James Carry is Principal?Regional Managing Director at interior architecture firm?Wilson Associates’ Dallas studio, part of the firm behind the design of the MGM Macau and The Venetian Las Vegas, and he told us, “Overall, casinos in Asia are double the size compared to those in Las Vegas.”

You’ll be spoiled for choice in Las Vegas, with over 100 casinos to choose from. Macau has less than half of that, with 49 casinos. Macau is still seen as the place for more serious gamblers though.

Macau isn’t the place for partying like Las Vegas as you aren’t even allowed to drink at the casinos in Macau and smoking is only allowed in certain lounges. James Carry, continued “Las Vegas casinos are like one huge entertainment venue, and they aim to keep you inside by layering different types of zones. Often, restaurants, bars, show kitchens, retail shops, theaters, and other entertainment spaces, are integrated around or within the game floor. This is not the case in China, so the space is designed solely for gaming.”

Let’s Play a Game

The gambling cultures in Las Vegas and Macau couldn’t be more different. This is shown most clearly in the differences in popular games. As James Carry says, “In the U.S., slot and machine games are more popular and are usually integrated or side-by-side with table games. For Asian gamblers, the table games are more popular than machines, so the space needs to accommodate more of this type of play. Additionally, in Macau, there are private VIP gaming rooms integrated throughout the casino.”

While Las Vegas is best known for its slots, which are the most popular form of gambling in the city, Macau is all about Baccarat and Sic Bo. In fact, Baccarat accounts for 90% of gaming revenue in Macau, mostly played in luxurious private VIP rooms.

While many people come to gamble in Las Vegas, Macau has the range of local and international visitors. Perhaps this is due to the beneficial tax laws. If you win a jackpot in Las Vegas, the government will take between 25-30% of that. In Macau, you won’t lose a cent of it because gambling winnings aren’t taxed at all.

Out On the Town

The majority of people who visit Macau do so with the casinos in mind, mainly because these casinos aren’t also major performance halls or conference centers.

While Las Vegas might be best known for its casinos, the reality is that many visitors actually choose to make the journey to Nevada for a conference or to see a show, with the casinos simply adding an extra incentive.

Both cities feature incredible restaurants run by some of the worlds’ top chefs?. If you head to Macau, you really shouldn’t come home without trying an egg tart, their term for the Portuguese pastry known as Pastel de Nata. Truly delicious.

Similarly, you simply won’t be allowed to leave Las Vegas until you’ve indulged in a classic Las Vegas buffet, eating the best food in truly ridiculous quantities. With both cities serving as host to some of the best restaurants worldwide, you might want to book your reservations in advance.

Don’t forget to leave the lavish restaurants, casinos and hotels behind for a while though.

When you visit Macau, it’s worth checking out the historical cathedrals, churches and fortresses. Thanks to European settlers and Asian locals, this city has a unique blend of cultures that you won’t find anywhere else?.

Meanwhile, Las Vegas is ideal for tourists looking to drive down Route 66, head to the Hoover Dam or even take a helicopter ride over the Grand Canyon. And don’t miss out on the Atomic Testing Museum that makes it clear just how explosive Las Vegas’ history has been.

The Legend of Kakegurui

Kakegurui has been a well-received series in the Square Enix publication Gangan Joker since 2014.

It was then adapted into a television series directed by Yuichiro Hayashi. It first aired in Japan last year and the English language first season is set to be shown on Netflix in 2018.

News of the second season being commissioned was revealed at a Kakegurui-themed event on January 6^th this year. It took place at the Shinjuku Bunka Center in Shinjuku, Tokyo in Japan.

The air date for the first episode of the second season has yet to be confirmed.

Fans of the show were left wanting more of the anime series after the climactic original finale. The show protagonist, Yumeko Jabami, faced off against the President of the Student Council, Kirari Momobami, in a high stakes game of tarot in the last episode.

The Plot

The plot of Kakegurui revolves around students who attend the Hyakkaou Private Academy. It is a school for the most wealthy and privileged individuals. The social hierarchy of the school is determined through a series of games where the students must wager their fortunes against one another.

The poorest students are then seen as the slaves and the richest students become their masters.

Shockingly, one day everything is turned upside down when a new student arrives at the school. She is an individual that loves to gamble for the pure thrill of it.

Soon enough she begins to bring chaos to the hierarchy by failing to abide by the rules of the school’s social structure. As she continues to wreak havoc across the school, the student council attempts to silence her before she becomes too big of a problem.

Content Concerns

The decision to commission a second season has left fans of the show torn. Despite the first season receiving rave reviews, there are doubts about whether there is enough source material for the second season to thrive.

Season one of the show used five volumes of the written content. That means there are only three remaining volumes to use for season two.

Critics of the decision to release season two so soon are suggesting a large amount of filler content could be used to give the season more body. Although supporters of a second season have pointed to Game of Thrones as an example of a television show flourishing after it has overtaken the written content.

Reddit user MetaThpr4h said, “S1 was fun to watch so I’m definitely in for more. Time for more gamblergasms!”

However, fellow Reddit user fishboy0099 stated, “As of right now, I’d say there’s enough content for around 8 or 9 episodes. If another volume of material has already been written, but not released, they could go off that. You’re most likely correct though. We’ll probably have to wait another year.”

Hitting the Movie Market

In addition to the news of a second season being announced, a live action movie has also been confirmed for the Kakegurui franchise. The movie is scheduled to premiere in Japan on MBS on 14^th January and TBS on 16^th January this year.

Directed by Hanabusa Tsutomu, the highly-anticipated movie will star actress Hamabe Minami playing the lead role of Jabami Yumeko, Morikawa Aoi as Saotome Mary, and Takasugi Mahiro as Suzui Ryouta.

Confirmation of a second season of the anime series and the movie adaptation has also led to speculation that the prequel spin-off manga series called Kakegurui Twin could soon be put into development as a new anime series.

A True Story

Based on the memoir of Molly’s Game: From Hollywood’s Elite to Wall Street’s Billionaire Boys Club, My High-Stakes Adventure in the World of Underground Poker by Molly Bloom, the movie has thrust the book into the spotlight. It follows how one individual went from helping to run a weekly low-key poker game to organizing the most exclusive high stakes poker game in the world.

Some of the world-famous names to allegedly have graced Bloom’s secretive tables over the years include Oscar-winning actors Leonardo Di Caprio and Ben Affleck, and Hollywood star Tobey Maguire.

At its peak the game attracted some of the wealthiest and most famous men on the planet. The games were also operating illegally with Bloom not licensed to take a cut of the house winnings.

It might sound like a work of fiction but every detail shared by Bloom is based on fact. This makes the plot from the movie even more spectacular.

A Woman of Many Talents

Bloom is clearly an attractive, innovative, and astute businesswoman. Her ability to identify the opportunity to move from simply helping out with an average weekly poker game, to offering a unique lucrative high stakes poker game to those rich enough to play, was a stroke of genius.

It would be very unlikely that anyone would be able to guess that Bloom had aspirations to represent the US in the Winter Olympics as an accomplished skier too. In fact, she was once ranked as the third best female skier in the country.

Bloom was not the only gifted sporting person in her family. Her mother, Char, was a professional fly-fisher and her brother, Jeremy, was a two-time US Olympic skier and NFL wide receiver for the Philadelphia Eagles and Pittsburgh Steelers.

Plundering Millions

One of the most startling facts shared by Bloom herself was that she once witnessed a player lose $100 million in one night. The games hosted in New York would require a buy-in of $250,000 with no limit. Players would often go through these sums within a matter of 30 minutes before boosting their bankrolls.

Bloom spoke about how this high level of gambling was not good news for her. It made her see that these games were a breeding ground for unhealthy activity. It was an environment that was unsustainable.

Mobbed

Unfortunately, in any area where there is money, there is soon unwanted interest. Bloom’s games in Los Angeles and New York might have attracted Hollywood A-listers, sports stars, business moguls, and musicians but they also caught the attention of the Russian Mafia.

Bloom was unaware of the involvement of the mob members until it was too late, because they penetrated her games without her knowing. She recounts the time a Mafia hit man put a gun in her mouth, smashed her face into the wall, and threatened to kill her.

She said, “At first it was exciting, but at the end I was in ruins. I lost myself. I let greed and power become my gods.”

She added, “It became unsustainable. The mob got involved and at this point I was addicted to drugs. But instead of throwing in the towel, thinking, ‘I have had years of great experience, I have a lot of money in the bank and it’s time to do something different’, I stayed.”

Caught in The Net

In 2011, Bloom became embroiled in a bankruptcy investigation into an alleged Ponzi scheme that was run by Bradley Ruderman.

The gambling industry was reeling from the FBI raids on PokerStars, Full Tilt Poker, and Absolute Poker. The authorities were keen to continue their work against money-laundering. Ruderman had regularly played in Bloom’s poker games and due to receiving money from Ruderman, Bloom was sued by the bankruptcy trustee to the tune of $473,200.

However, bank records could only show that she received $57,500 from 19 transfers between 2007 and 2008. She was deposed from the investigation.

Just two years later, on 16^th April, 2013, Bloom was once again at the centre of controversy. She was arrested along with 33 other individuals as part of an alleged $100 million money-laundering operation using illegal gambling in New York.

US Attorney for the Southern District of New York, Preet Bharara, charged 12 of those people with racketeering offenses. Bloom was potentially looking at 10 years in prison, a $1.5 million fine, and $200 special assessment.

In May, 2014, Bloom took the decision to plead guilty to a lesser charge. This meant she was sentenced to a year on probation, forced to pay a $1,000 fine, and was required to carry out 200 hours of community service.

When it comes to Molly Bloom, the truth really is stranger than fiction.