Popular Asian Casino Games to Play in 2021

Gambling and casinos have been a source of entertainment for Asian people for centuries. In fact, Macau, a tiny coast of China, is now considered the world's gambling capital, thanks to its high-roller activities. Like other casino players worldwide, Asian players like to enjoy casino games such as roulette, baccarat, blackjack, craps, poker, and slots. However, what's popular in Europe or America may not be popular in Asia. So, let's discuss some popular Asian casino games to play this year.

Baccarat

Although not specifically an Asian game, baccarat remains the most famous casino game in Macau. Whether you want to play baccarat online or in a land-based casino, baccarat is widely popular in Asia. Previously, this casino game was a special reserve for gamers with fat wallets. However, things have changed today, as the game is available to all manner of players.

It's vital to remember that there is no winning strategy for baccarat. That's because the odds are usually 50/50, much like tossing a coin. But I have a trick for you; always wager on the banker's hand. This bet has the lowest house advantage (1.06%) on the table, compared to the player's hand, which has more than 1.24% house edge. Another thing, never bet on a tie, which has a house advantage of 14.36%.

Sic Bo

Sic Bo is a true reflection of the Chinese gambling culture. In Chinese, 'Sic bo' means 'dice pair.' Like baccarat, winning this game is mostly down to luck and a few strategies here and there. Apparently, this game is fast-becoming familiar among most western gamblers and on some casino floors in Nevada.

Sic Bo has two primary game aspects. You need to roll the dice and place bets on the Sic Bo table, similar to the popular roulette table. The sum generated from the triple dice determines who wins the bet. Interestingly, players can place up to 50 varying bets. You can also wager on the total of all three dice outcomes. Overall, it remains one of the most profitable Asian gambling games with odds up to 180:1.

Pai Gow

Pai Gow is another fan-favorite among Chinese casino amateur and professional players. In Chinese, 'Pai Gow' means 'Make Nine,' which is true considering the maximum score is nine. Surprisingly, the dealer is allowed to give players guidance when they are struggling during gameplay.

Quickly moving forward, Pai Gow features a set of up to 32 dominoes or tiles. Each participant gets four tiles, separated into pairs of high and low hands. There is a strict ranking order consisting of Wong, Gong, pair, and 9 to 0. Here, you win if you outrank both dealer's hands. You can play a maximum of 30 hands per hour.

Mahjong

I'm pretty sure you know a thing or six about this one. If you don't, Mahjong is a much-loved casino game in the big continent. The game is played with a maximum of four players and features up to 136 titles. Before dividing the tiles between players, they are placed on the table and thoroughly shuffled. Each player receives 13 dominoes.

After receiving the tiles, you can turn them face-up and begin pairing them into sets of 3 x 4. The main aim is to build a wall and place bets before dealing tiles. You can also place bets after every round and select an additional tile. If the chosen domino completes the 14-tile hand, you win the game. If not, wait for the next round.

Conclusion

Of course, there are many other popular gambling games for Asian players to enjoy. You can play Keno, Yee Hah Hi, and more. Don't forget standard casino games like video slots, poker, blackjack, and scratch cards are available, as well. And yes, feel free to add to our list!