Ask the Slot Expert: Are player's cards worth it?

Many casinos offer special cards based upon play. Do you really get that much benefit from having those cards as what they cost in gambling to get?Just asking your opinion on this as I see how much some people spend to get these cards.

Jerry

Dear Jerry,

Let me answer your question in two parts.

First, do you get much benefit from the cards? Absolutely. Using a player's card is the only way for slot players to have their play recognized and to earn cash back and comps.

Now, let's move on to the second half of your question. Are the cards worth what they cost?

Using the card doesn't have to cost you a thing -- well, I should say that it doesn't have to cost you anything more than you were already prepared to spend (lose, that is). If you don't change your gambling behavior, any benefits you get from using your card are pure gravy. Sometimes just signing up for the card is enough to get offers for discounted rooms or meals.

That said, it's not worth gambling more just to get a particular perk. The math of comps is that the casino will return only a percentage of expected win in comps. It's built into the math that your expected loss will be more than the comp is worth.

Best of luck in and out of the casinos,
John

Send your slot and video poker questions to John Robison, Slot Expert, at slotexpert@comcast.net. Because of the volume of mail I receive, I regret that I can't reply to every question.