Online Casinos Directory

Sure craps is fun, but have you ever wondered where it came from? It is one of the most popular table games around– just look at any land-based casino and see how popular the game is. Craps was adapted from the Old English dice game Hazard, which was popular in the 17^th and 18^th centuries.  Hazard was created by Sir William of Tyre, an Englishman who desired to create a game for his soldiers to play to pass time. Originally know as craupaud, which is French for ‘toad’, Craps was created as a less complicated and faster paced game than Hazard. In its early stages Craps was influenced by French and English gamblers who brought the game to New Orleans.  The game spread like wild fire throughout the country by the African American Slaves and eventually to all cultures.  The game went from the streets to the casinos quickly advancing to the most popular game available.  Over the last few decades Blackjack and Poker have taken more of the spotlight.

Many new variations and rules have developed over the 19^th century.  The original tables featured a much simpler layout to those found today and offered only the Big 6 and Big 8, Field, Win and Come bets to its players.  John H Winn was the creator of the modern (Philadelphia Layout) layout that we find today. Winn is often referred to as the ‘father of modern craps’.  He also introduced the play in which players can place wagers against the shooter, Right and Wrong, and the space for the Don’t Pass bets on the table plan. The popularity of craps has peaked throughout the 20^th and 21^st century and is recognized and played world wide.  Current day variations of the game include card based adaptations created in California on Indian Reservations.  Played both formally and informally, online, in-house, and privately craps remains on of the most popular games to date. If you are looking for a new game to test out, why not follow in the footsteps of millions of players who love craps? It’s a fun game with lots of variations to keep anyone entertained. Plus, you can win some good payouts with the game too.

On the look out for some a card game other than Blackjack or Poker?  Here are two alternatives: Red Dog and Baccarat. Each one is a great game to enjoy and they offer hours of fun. First there is Red Dog. It’s mostly found in online casinos due to its fast pace and varying odds.  Three cards are dealt to players who bet on whether the third card will fall in the number range between the first two cards.  Players place their ante before the first two cards are dealt, and you may choose to place a further bet equal to the ante prior to your third card being dealt.

In Red Dog, if the first two cards are consecutive in rank the players antes are pushed.  When the first two cards are equal in rank a third card is dealt and the players are paid 11 to 1 if the third card is as well equal, otherwise bets are pushed.  Any time throughout, the spread and payout of a win is declared before that third card is dealt and the players may choose to increase their bet or simply continue with their original bet.  When you win bets are paid according to the announced payout.

Next, there is baccarat was made famous thanks to its appearance in James Bond movies.  This is a favorite draw for high rollers in live casinos and is easy to play.  Two cards are dealt to both the banker and the player and everyone places bets on who will win.  Next the cards are truned over and their combined value, with any tens digit removed, is the point of value in the hand.  Ex-a 5 and 6 card hand would be worth 1 point. A third card may also be dealt to each hand dependant on the score of the hand.  If either 2-card hand is worth 8 or 9 points, both players stand.  Most of the decisions in Baccarat are pre-determined since the players betting on the action do not want to lose due to another player’s error.  Baccarat is a quick game since there is minimal decision making involved. Either game is a fun alternative to poker and blackjack. If you need something new, test out Red Dog or baccarat. You won’t be disappointed with either.

Millions of people love poker. It’s a fact that poker is growing in popularity throughout the world. Just look at the huge growth in the WSOP’s popularity over the years. It’s a huge ESPN-broadcast tournament now that hands out millions of dollars to lucky players. If you like poker, here are three additional types to look into:

Pai Gow Poker-This version has some similarities to Western Poker but requires extreme patience.  Due to the length of the game a small amount of bankroll can last a long time while playing.  Players are dealt 7 cards to play against the dealer.  From these you must make a 5-card hand and a 2-card hand.  Your 5-card hand must rank higher than your 2-card hand.  Ranking is the same as Western Poker with the exception that the 2-card hand can only be a high card or pair at best; Straights and Flushes do not count. Once your two hands have been decided the cards are compared against those of the dealers.  Tied hands go to the dealer.  A player who beats both dealer hands wins equal money; this may be reduced by 5% due to how long it takes to play.  If a player wins on only one hand they are pushed.  A player who loses on both hands looses their bet.  

Let It Ride-Also referred to as Let ‘Em Ride this game is played by betting on drawing a good hand.  Each player must place an ante bet with three dealt cards.  Two community cards are drawn face down.  Players are paid on hands that are a pair of 10’s or higher.  Prior to turning the community cards over players can place an additional bet equal to the ante. Players are paid based on the strength of their hand in Let It Ride.  Payouts tables vary, but generally a pair of 10’s or higher pairs equal money with a Royal Flush.  

Regardless of what type of poker you decide to try, you’ll have hours of fun. The good news is that there are tons of great websites that offer poker and specials for any player to enjoy. Whether you are a seasoned player or a novice, you’ll find some premiere websites to hone your skill.

Online gambling is growing in popularity due to its ease of accessibility.  You can play games in the comfort of your own home at any time of day or night.  Here are some of your most popular Poker games found both online and in house:

Caribbean Stud Poker: Based similarly to a 5: card stud poker, but you play against the dealer alone.  Players must place a bet to receive cards.  You must then put down twice the ante amount again to continue or fold and forfeit your ante bet. If the hand beats the dealer the player is paid even the ante bet and a special amount calculated on the play bet.  If the dealer hand does not have an Ace/King or higher the hand does not qualify and the player is paid the ante bet by having the play pushed back to them.  Typically tied to a jackpot that players may play a side bet on for as low as $1.  A Royal Flush will typically pay out the entire jackpot that can be upward of hundreds of thousands of dollars at some online casinos. 

Casino Hold ‘Em: This variation is based on the popularity of Texas Hold Em’ and has similar rules.  With Casino Hold Em’ players are dealt two cards each after putting down the ante bet.  The dealer is also dealt two cards.  There community cards are then dealt to the table.  Next the players may fold losing there ante bet and forfeit any stake in prize money, or you may call by putting down and amount equal to twice their ante bet. If a player calls, two more cards are dealt to the table and the players hands are then compared to that of the dealer.  If the dealer does not have a pair of 4’s or better, his hand is disqualified.  Players would get back their ante bet and their call bets would be pushed.  If the dealer qualifies players will be paid on their ante bet according to the strength of their hand and additional money on their call bet.  Loosing players forfeit their ante and call bets.

Many of the most popular card and table games are being found online.  Blackjack and its variations will always be at the top of the list.  Whether you are playing for money of for fun. Blackjack is easy to understand and cards on and off line are easily accessible.  Due to its popularity there have been many variations created over the years.  Here are the most common:

Blackjack: The goal with blackjack is to draw a higher total point value of cards than the dealer without your value exceeding 21.  If you draw your highest hand, an Ace and a 10:point card, worth 21, you have a blackjack or natural.  Blackjack is a fast paced game that uses quick strategic planning. 

Pontoon: With this version a 5 card hand that does not bust is second in value to a natural.  A tie with the dealer is considered a loss.  There are various rules for hitting after doubling down.  Most casinos will count a natural that is completed after splitting as a natural than a 21 point hand.

Spanish 21: With this version you use a 48 card Spanish deck that have no 10 pip cards.  Since this alone is a great disadvantage, many other rules exist to even the game out.

Australian Pontoon: This version is often thought of as the unlicensed version of Spanish 21.  The dealer has no hole card, so all hands are completed before it is known whether the dealer has a natural or not.  Most casinos have there own specialty rules as to which bets they collect when a player has split hands and then losses again against a dealer natural.

Double Exposure Blackjack: This version has one simple variation in which both of the dealers starting cards.  This allows players to know what they need to initially draw in order to win resulting in far more busted hands for players.  To even out this advantage ties loose except for ties on naturals, which are pushed.

Double Attack Balckjack: This is another version of Spanish 21, but allows players a chance to double their wager when they see the dealer up:card and also offers a side bet on whether the dealer will bust on drawing a third card.

Chinese Blackjack: This version has many similarities to the true Blackjack.  There are a number of specialty hands in Chinese Blackjack, but the general goal is still to score higher than the dealer without going over 21.

Riverboat casinos are a staple of Illinois. Illinois was the 5^th state admitted to the union in 1818.  At 12,910,409 residents Illinois is the 5th most populated state as reported in 2008 by the U.S. Census Bureau.  The state covers a sprawling area of 57,918 square miles.  Illinois in nicknamed the “Prairie State” for its commitment to preserving and reestablishing its natural prairies.  Also one four states that borders Lake Michigan, as well as Wisconsin, Indiana, and Michigan. It’s no wonder due to its popularity and vast area that it moved into the world of gambling. The state started its gambling riverboat industry and hasn’t looked back in terms of popularity and fun.

Illinois was the second state to allow riverboat casinos with the opening of the Alton Belle Casino in 1991.  Still operating today as the Empress Casino and Hotel located in Joliet, IL.  Anyone looking for riverboat fun will find nine total riverboat casinos in the state. Despite having the hightest tax rates in the nation, the casinos prove to be resilient. There are a lot of governmental restrictions on them and the state of Illinois currently is maxing out its limit for riverboat casino licenses. Although the rules are stiff, the state has managed to overcome. Casino operators work within the limits, but still create highly lucrative pastimes for millions of gamblers in any given month. Despite the recession, riverboat casinos have managed to survive. They did experience an overall decline in revenue due to the economic downturn, but now that things are turning around, there are signs that the riverboat casino industry too is on the rise. 

The minimum age for entrance to Illinois riverboat casinos is 21 and casinos are a great place to celebrate. Many provide specials for anniversaries and birthdays. In particular it can be lucrative to join the VIP programs as soon as possible to enjoy more savings. For anyone looking to enjoy gambling at its finest, Illinois riverboat casinos are some of the most enjoyable pastimes. Whether you are a fan of poker, slots, backgammon or any other table game, most likely the riverboat casinos have it. Plus the specials are usually excellent ways of giving yourself a chance to win more money. Check back with the riverboats frequently and see how much fun and how lucky you can get at a riverboat!

The Stratosphere Tower is a staple on the Las Vegas strip much like Dale Earnhardt was to racing. As a result, the Stratosphere will dim its lights today at 6pm PST to pay tribute to the fallen hero of the race track. Earnhardt was a racing legend and a 7-time NASCAR champion. He earned many accolades as a racer and was driven to iconic status by his outstanding vehicle handling and charismatic personality. The Las Vegas skyline will be changed as the Stratosphere Tower dims its lights for a full three minutes, in honor of Dale’s legendary car number 3. The Dale Earnhardt Foundation logo will be the only light displayed on the Tower during this time the hotel marquee will show a moving tribute to Dale Earnhardt. Dale Earnhardt died on February 18, 2001, in the last lap of the Daytona 500.

The tribute will occur simultaneously with a candlelight tribute at Dale Earnhardt, Inc., Highway 3, in Mooresville, NC. With the Stratosphere Tower joining Dale Earnhardt, Inc., this will be the first time that Dale’s memory will be honored by a coast to coast tribute. The Las Vegas casinos dimmed its lights before in rare tributes to Sammy Davis Jr, Frank Sinatra, President Reagan and President Kennedy. Over the years the Stratosphere has been picky with who it makes a tribute to but Earnhardt earned the accolade throughout his illustrious career and behind the scenes philanthropic intent. He was well liked and admired by millions of racing fans who not only viewed him as an outstanding race car driver, but also as an admirable person.

The Dale Earnhardt Foundation’s mission is to continue Dale’s legacy through charitable programs and grants that sustain his lifelong commitment to children, education and environmental/wildlife preservation. At 1,149 feet, the Stratosphere Tower is the tallest free-standing observation tower in the United States and the tallest building west of the Mississippi River. For anyone wanting to experience the Las Vegas area’s breathtaking views, the Stratosphere is the place to be. This moving tribute will be a rarity in the lifespan of the building that only honors a distinct few icons in the world today.

Fortune Affiliates are in for some good news. Many members of the program have already enjoyed the spoils of big wins through the program. The Fortune Affiliates PokerTime “Win a Rolex” Promotion has just seen Laurent B. win first prize in the final draw which took place on the last day of January. Matthew C., Jonas E. and Ivan V. placed in second, third and fourth respectively. The total prize payout for the promotion was valued at more than $10,000, which included Rolex watches for each of the leaders. There were also eight lucky winners who walked away with cash prizes totaling $1,000 and 100% revenue share deals each month.

All affiliates were invited to take part in the promotion that began back in July of 2009 and lasted until December of that same year. The only prerequisite for the program was to find poker players throughout the period who fit the eligibility to compete. The success of this program will open the door to new programs that are even more exciting. It is still without a doubt however that all Fortune Affiliates are already winners by simply joining the program, as not only will they all be entitled to a lifetime earnings potential but will also have access to a world of possibility through exclusive promotions and marketing material at their disposal.

Some of the associated brands the Fortune Affiliates represent within the Fortune Lounge Group of Online Casinos include Platinum Play Online Casino, 7Sultans Online Casino, Vegas Palms Online Casino and Royal Vegas Online Casino and a poker room, PokerTime. It’s great news for all Fortune Affiliates and the possibilities for 2010 are endless. For anyone who loves being an affiliate, this is one of the best websites to start at.  Joining the program has never been more rewarding than it is right now, so it comes highly recommended that all prospective affiliates join and earn the benefits the website program has. If you are interested in affiliate work, this is a great website to take a chance at. There are more than a few lucky participants who know how lucrative this website can be.

The Latin American Poker Tour is heading off to Uruguay this month where Punta del Este will be the focus for poker players. It all starts in just a few days—February 24^th to be exact and this is an exciting time for Latin American players. The tour is headed by PokerStars.net and if that is any indication it should be an outstanding gaming experience for any fan of poker. This is the third time the LAPT has been to Punta, a town in the midst of summer, known for its striking location and exciting nightlife, and now for top quality tournament poker.

PokerStars.net is hoping for over 400 players to join in on the Uruguayan fun. Last year 327 people were in attendance and the country is hoping to make it even more dynamic this year. Team PokerStars Pro Andre Akkari said: “Punta del Este is one of the best places to play poker in Latin America. The Mantra Hotel is incredible, especially the spa! I always spend hours having a massage to prepare my mind to play my best poker. I’ve been playing really well lately, making final tables every day online, so I’m really excited to be playing again in the most important Latin American poker series.”

Karl Hevroy from Norway walked away $283,500 when he won the event in season two. In season three, with a new structure in place and a bigger prize pool expected, this year’s winner is likely to take home even more. Among those players will be the best from Latin America, including Team PokerStars Pros Alex Gomes, Angel Guillen and Leo Fernandez. As well as the $3,700 buy-in main event there will be numerous side events with varying buy-ins as well as satellites to the main event and cash games. The LAPT is shaping up to be somewhat like the WSOP. It too began conservatively with a group of people who just loved poker. Now, it’s grown to a worldwide event that is watched by millions, broadcast on ESPN and gaining corporate sponsorship. The LAPT is building itself up in the same way and hopes to be the next big thing in the world of poker.

The great thing about online gaming is that it’s highly competitive. That means that anyone who loves online gaming has a great shot at finding some awesome specials and games in the online arena. Development and marketing in virtual casinos has been widespread and thanks to technology it will continue to grow as the market evolves. Developers and programmers are working hard to continuously bring new games and new bonuses to the market. They have to to remain relevant. Especially with the doors of gambling opening due to legalization, companies have to be more aware of competition.

One of the ways the market is evolving is by online casinos making extra efforts to put out a great product and create a great gaming experience for their customers. Casino Club is one of those casinos that is pushing the envelope in terms of development and gaming. The website recently added seven new Instant Games to its already large collection. Starting February 11^th the popular slot game Lucky’s Diner, Roman Empire, and Maya Gold are now available as Instant Games –with no software download required. That’s great news for players who don’t want to always down a hefty program to their computers. Even for well known websites there is still a danger of downloading. That’s why websites that offer both the download and no-download options are gaining more popularity in the market. Though the no-download versions tend to be more limited in graphics, sound and overall gaming, they still are advanced enough to offer great gaming.

Lucky’s Diner transports players back to the 1950s. Roman Empire makes ancient Rome come alive. Maya Gold sends players on an exciting treasure hunt in Latin America. New additions to the Instant Games also include: Bonus Poker, Showdown Poker, 100 Reel Bonus Slot Track Day, and Triple Chance Hi Lo.  Casino Club, one of the best websites for online gaming, offers a wide variety of casino games in an authentic club atmosphere. They take their cues from the real Las Vegas casinos where lights and visual appeal draw in a wider variety of customers. For great online gaming akin to the real thing, check out Casino Club for yourself. You won’t be disappointed at all you find at the website—gaming, customer service, funding, promotions and bonuses.