Casino Etiquette Guide
An Intro to Casino Etiquette
Casino etiquette is a set of mostly unwritten rules, traditions and expectations that players and dealers follow. It helps everyone to have an enjoyable experience whenever they play their favourite games.
You can pick up this etiquette by simply watching and copying other players at the table, but we’ve created this casino etiquette guide to help you look like a pro from the moment you sit down. We’ve covered what’s expected of you for top casino games like blackjack, roulette, and poker, as well as the general courtesies to show when engaging with dealers.
Why is etiquette important?
When you play casino games, be it online or offline, you’re almost always sharing the experience with others. Whether they’re friends, strangers, or casino employees, it’s important to be courteous to each other so that you contribute to a pleasant atmosphere for everyone involved.
Additionally, you certainly don't want to become the centre of attention for the wrong reasons among other players. Mastering proper casino etiquette not only prevents potential embarrassment but also boosts your confidence and enhances your overall gaming experience.
Blackjack etiquette
Whether you play online or offline, much of the casino blackjack etiquette is the same. It starts with choosing whether to take a seat. In online live games and land-based casinos, there is a finite number of places available at each table. Therefore, you should only sit down if you plan to play, and your bankroll will allow you to enjoy more than a couple of hands at the minimum bet. Otherwise, you could be preventing another player from sitting down and enjoying the game.
When playing online, you don’t need to worry about hand signals and you control the game through the buttons on the screen. However, in offline games, it’s important to use clear hand signals so the dealer is certain about your intentions.
You should also only place chips in the designated areas, so it is clear what you are betting. Once the cards are dealt, you should not attempt to add or remove any from the table. Additionally, never touch the cards at a blackjack table, the dealer will place your hand face up on the table for you.
Roulette etiquette
Casino roulette etiquette is similar to blackjack. For offline games and live casino games with a finite number of seats, you should only sit down if you’re going to play, and your bankroll matches the limits of the table.
Never attempt to touch the wheel or the ball. These are the exclusive domain of the dealer who will spin both of them and announce the winning number.
In online games, placing your chips is easy as you just need to click or tap the buttons on screen. However, in offline games, you’ll need to physically place them on the table. It can get crowded at busy tables, especially on popular bets like red and black.
Never interfere with anyone else’s chips. If you’re struggling to reach or you’re worried about knocking the chips already on the table, ask the dealer to help, they’ll be more than happy to oblige.
Poker etiquette
Poker casino etiquette varies, depending on whether you’re playing casino poker or player vs player games.
Casino poker rules and etiquette are similar to blackjack because it’s also played against the house. You mustn’t touch the cards, only place your chips in the dedicated spaces, and don’t try to alter bets once the dealer has started to hand out cards.
In player vs player games, there is more etiquette to follow. Be sure not to “angle shoot”, which is a catch-all term for unethical behaviours like hiding large denomination chips, acting out of turn, and declaring an action and then saying you didn’t.
Always make bets in one motion, pushing all your chips over the line in one single motion. It’s also important to pay attention, don’t hold up the game because you’re distracted by your phone or a conversation.
You should also refrain from talking about the hand while it’s live, the same goes for talking about other games you’ve played, especially when you got a bad beat.
Slots etiquette
Slots are one of the few casino games that don’t have a dealer and you’re playing alone. However, there is still some casino etiquette in slots you must follow to maximise your own experience and the experience of those around you.
It may be acceptable to chat with neighbouring players but watch for social queues. If they are not receptive to your attempts to converse, take the hint and focus on the reels. It’s also wise not to touch other players’ machines while they’re in use to avoid any confusion or disagreements.
If you’re an expert slot player, you may wish to play multiple machines at once. This is ok, provided the casino is not busy and your doubling up isn’t going to prevent someone else from getting a seat.
Dealer etiquette
Almost all casino games are played with a dealer present. These dealers are casino employees and are there to help you get the most from your time playing. That said, you don’t own them and you’re not their boss. Dealers are people who deserve respect, and you should treat them that way.
It’s encouraged to ask them questions if you need help or are unsure. It’s also ok to chat, laugh and joke with them. Just don’t monopolise their time at a busy table, respect that they will also need to help and speak to the other players.
Never blame the dealer for a loss, they’re just following the house rules, just as you should be.
When getting up from a table, be sure to thank the dealer for their help and their time. Also keep in mind that it’s customary to tip the dealer if you’re up, though there’s no obligation to do this if you didn’t win.
Player Etiquette
There is also etiquette that applies to how you deal with other players since they are going to form part of your casino experience if you’re playing offline or in online live casino games.
No matter where you’re playing, be polite. It’s ok to engage in conversation, in many casinos, it’s actively encouraged. However, the usual rules and etiquette of conversation apply here. Avoid controversial topics, be polite, listen at least as much as you talk, and respect everyone.
It’s ok to celebrate your wins, but don’t rub them in other players’ faces, especially if they’ve not enjoyed the same levels of success. Similarly, don’t be a sore loser, it’s not a good look.
