A quick map of the main online casino game categories — and why the built-in edge is very different from one to the next.
The main categories
- Slots — software-driven reels; the most common games, with a wide range of RTP and volatility. See how online slots work.
- Table games — blackjack, roulette, baccarat, poker variants. Played against software (RNG) with fixed rules; blackjack can have one of the lowest house edges.
- Live dealer — the same tables run by a real dealer and streamed to you. See live dealer casinos explained.
- Video poker — draw-poker on a machine; strategy matters and good-pay-table games have low edges.
- Game shows & instant games — money-wheel formats and scratch-style games; usually higher house edge, built for entertainment.
Why the category matters
The house edge is set by the game, not by luck on the day. Table games with skill (blackjack, video poker) can be far cheaper to play over time than slots or game shows. Whatever you pick, the maths still favours the operator — treat it as entertainment and set limits (see responsible gambling).