PSXEWe have seen many videogames incorporate casino-style mini-games to add extra content to and depth to their titles. What is fascinating is the varying degrees to which these systems are implemented in video games, all of which depend on the developer’s goals and what they are trying to achieve through casino systems.
The said systems in video games range from simple diversions to complex, integral parts of the gaming experience. When implemented well, these systems can add depth, provide entertaining breaks from the main gameplay, and even enhance the overall narrative and world-building. Below, we will go over 5 distinct titles that all implement casino environments to varying degrees, and for varying goals. As we will see, there are plenty of options for both sides of gaming enthusiasts.
1. Grand Theft Auto V
While not part of the single-player campaign, this one is still easily worth mentioning. The Diamond Casino & Resort update for GTA V’s online component introduced a fully-featured casino to the game’s already vast open world. This addition brought a new level of excitement to the game, offering players a variety of slot gambling experiences.
Because of the nature of the game, and the modern environment, the casino in GTA V is impressively detailed, featuring realistic interiors and a wide range of slot games. The games are modeled after popular real-life establishments, namely, Bovada’s casino slots mechanisms, which rely on Random Number Generator (RNG) technologies to ensure fair play, randomness, and transparency.
In GTA V, this mechanism is faithfully represented, with the game’s slots mirroring the complex, chance-based elements of real-world machines. The slots feature detailed graphics, authentic sound effects, and various bonus features, enhancing the immersive experience of the casino environment.
Overall, the online mode of GTA V, as a whole, has been the target of a decent amount of criticism, and much of it is justified. However, the Diamond Casino update seems to be decently well received. The attention to detail in the casino’s design, including its slot machines, offers players quite a realistic gameplay.
2. Fallout: New Vegas
In contrast to the previous entry, Fallout: New Vegas is set in a post-apocalyptic setting. Despite this, it manages to incorporate the casino system quite well.
Also in contrast to GTA, a game in which the casino system was a part of the online mode exclusively, and was an element added later on through an expansion, the casino systems in New Vegas are well-integrated into the game’s overall theme and narrative. Players can visit various casinos on the Strip, each with its unique atmosphere and games.
While not as extensive as real-world casinos, New Vegas offers some of the most popular games in well-structured formats. Those include Blackjack, Roulette, and slots. The casino elements in New Vegas were well-received by players, adding to the game’s immersive post-apocalyptic Las Vegas setting.
As mentioned, unlike some games where casino elements feel tacked on, in New Vegas, they’re an integral part of the world-building and storyline. Players’ interactions with casinos can affect their reputation and relationships with different factions in the game.
3. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt
A very unique entry is CD Projekt Red’s Witcher 3. What makes it so unique is the fact that a mini-game was created from scratch to add to the world of Witcher.
Gwent, which is what the game is called, is seamlessly integrated into the game world, with many NPCs challenging the player to matches. Players can collect cards, build decks, and gamble on matches. While Gwent is the only casino-style game in The Witcher 3, it offers deep strategic gameplay with various factions and card types.
Interestingly, this game was so popular in the game that it spawned its board, and mobile games as additional variants and more direct ways of engagement. While the impact of Witcher 3 far transcends just this mini-game, it is still a fascinating piece of information on how relatively simple mini-games can be so well-received.
4. Red Dead Redemption 2
Another one of Rockstar’s games, this one also an extremely beloved, all-timer. RDR 2 is an interesting entry due to its Western Setting, which obviously requires a different set of games to not break the immersion and fit the world presented.
The gambling activities in Red Dead Redemption 2 are historically accurate and well-implemented, with each game featuring unique mechanics and NPC interactions. Players can enjoy a range of period-appropriate games: such as Five Finger Fillet, and Dominoes, as well as the popular games to this day, like Poker and Blackjack.
These mini-games add to the immersive experience of RDR2 and are popular among players looking to take a break from the main storyline. While not crucial to the main plot, these gambling activities contribute significantly to the game’s atmosphere and provide opportunities for character interaction and money-making.
5. Final Fantasy VIII
Speaking of a unique setting, we have Final Fantasy VIII. This classic JRPG features a card game called Triple Triad, which incorporates elements of collectible card games and light gambling. Triple Triad is available throughout the game world, with many NPCs willing to play and trade cards. The game uses a simple 3×3 grid system but offers surprising depth.
While it is the only casino-style game in FF8, it offers variety through different rule sets that change depending on the region of the game world. Triple Triad became one of the most beloved mini-games in the Final Fantasy series, even appearing in later games and similar to Witcher, spawning mobile versions.
Although not essential to complete the main story, Triple Triad is deeply integrated into FF8’s gameplay. Cards can be transformed into items and magic, making the game a useful tool for character progression.
