Take a Rest

26 September 2020

By Jerry Stickman

Casino gamblers have favorite games. They will play these games for hours, stopping only for a bathroom break, or sadly and far too often – when they run out of money.

Smart players pick games where the house edge is low, such as video poker, blackjack, or certain bets in craps (well under one-half percent for pass line with odds).

Advantage players also choose low house edge games, but they also work to minimize the house edge – or gain an advantage. This can be accomplished by learning the proper playing strategy for the best video poker games. Learning card counting in blackjack also can give the player the lowest house edge – or possible even a player edge. The same is true of mastering a controlled throw in craps.

The concentration required to maintain that low house edge or advantage does not last indefinitely. After a period of time fatigue will set in which causes a deterioration in the level of skill. To combat this, successful players have a plan for when they notice they are becoming tired, making mistakes, or losing their edge.

Mistakes are not the player’s friends. They allow the casino to get a larger edge than necessary.

What should a conscientious player do?

When mistakes are being made, it is time to get away from the table (or video poker machine), to rest up and recharge.

For some, this can be accomplished by simply taking a walk through the casino. But to be most effective, the player should focus on non-gaming aspects of the casino. Check out any artwork that may be present. Notice other details in the casino’s construction. Check out advertising for shows or other events. In short, if staying in the casino, forget about the games and concentrate on anything that is not about gambling.

For most players, however, leaving the casino is a much better option. Exit the casino entirely. Take a walk up the street or around the block – or several blocks. Breathe in the fresh air.

Take the time to observe the surroundings. Pause to look at the scenery. Look around at other buildings. Check out what makes them unique. Are there any interesting landmarks in sight? Spend some time soaking up the visual details.

Try to get as far away from the casino experience as possible. Check out license plates. How many different states or provinces can be found?

If the weather is not conducive to going outdoors, try sitting in the lobby or other area away from the casino floor and people watch. Imagine what is going through their minds. Try to guess where they are going. Try to make a game of it.

The main idea is to clear the mind of the in-casino experience. Getting totally away from the casino atmosphere allows for a more complete recharge.

Once the mind is rested and recharged, then it could be time to re-enter the casino and resume play. However, if mistakes continue to be made, it may be time to call it a session. Go to the room and take a nap or call it a day.

Remember, mistakes cost. When mistakes are made the casino wins and you lose. Don’t be a willing participant. Take a break.

May all your wins be swift and large, and your losses be slow and small.

Jerry “Stickman”

Jerry “Stickman” is an expert in craps, blackjack and video poker and advantage slot machine play. He wrote the video poker section of "Everything Casino Poker." You can contact Jerry “Stickman” at stickmanjerry@aol.com