Online Gambling
The American Gaming Association has estimated that there are currently well over 2,000 web sites on the Internet devoted to online gambling. They offer a full variety of wagering options, from sports betting and casino games to poker, lotteries and bingo.
In 1999 it was stated in a National Gambling Impact Study conducted in the United States that, “the high speed instant gratification of internet games and the high level of privacy they offer may exacerbate problem and pathological gambling”.
Another report has put annual online gambling revenues at $26.9 billion as of 2008. That is roughly four times the gross revenues of the entire Las Vegas Strip during that same year.
Clearly, online gambling has come of age—a phenomenon that shows no sign of slowing down as it delivers the thrill of playing and winning directly to computer users worldwide.
Casino Games and the History of Gambling
Where the law permits, casino games such as Blackjack, Roulette, Baccarat, Craps, Poker, Pai Gow Poker and Slots such as the ever popular Video Poker are commonly available in gaming establishments around the world.
Casino games allow players to gamble on various outcomes. Ultimately, the casino will enjoy a long term predictable advantage on all it’s casino games called the House Edge or House Advantage.
Some casino games do offer an element of skill to give the player some level of considered choice to lower or combat the house advantage.
Gambling is not a science, just mathematical odds and the willingness to take risks in the hope of substantial gain, an integral part of human nature.