-
Select locationState
11 Biggest eSports Tournaments in 2024
Content Team
August 25, 2022
From the very modest beginnings, starting in 1972, when five players competed in the Intergalactic Spacewar Olympics and the winner received a one-year subscription to Rolling Stone, we’ve reached the point where the biggest eSports tournaments are on the brink of becoming Olympic sports. The crucial trial period could be during this year’s Asian Games. The eSports program will include eight medal events and two demonstration events, with competitions being held in:
- Dota 2
- League of Legends
- FIFA
- Arena of Valor
- Dream of the Three Kingdoms 2
- Hearthstone
- PUBG Mobile
- Street Fighter V
eSports Tournaments
The biggest eSports tournament on arcade games occurred in 1980 on one of the most famous arcade games in history, Space Invaders. The tournament had over 10,000 participants. In 1993, Doom’s four-player deathmatch created the groundwork for online multiplayer games like Halo, Call of Duty, and Overwatch. However, when we think about eSports in today’s terms, the starting point was Quake’s Red Annihilation online tournament in 1997.
The development of Twitch in 2011 was a game changer. It had 3.2 million visitors a month when it launched. A year later, that number exploded to 20 million. Finally, these tournaments had a platform where they could attract bigger crowds. From that point on, some of the biggest eSports events took place in quite well-known venues like:
- Arthur Ashe Stadium
- Staples Centre
- Wembley Arena
- Sang-am World Cup Stadium
The International
Without a doubt, the biggest eSports events are for Dota 2. And, the International has no match regarding prize pools, considering that last year, the tournament surpassed $40 million in awards. The International currently holds the top six positions for the biggest eSports Tournaments’ prize pools.
Originally hosted in 2011 as a promotional event for the game, the International has been held every year since, except in 2020, when it was postponed due to the global pandemic of COVID-19. Since 2013, the game’s battle pass system has crowdfunded the prize pool. In the first ten competitions, the tournament had either 16 or 18 teams participating, but the format expanded in 2022.
From the 8th to the 30th of October, the International 2022 will be the longest Dota 2 tournament to date. In addition, through the last chance qualifier, more teams will be added to the TI11 roster.
Through the Last Chance Qualifiers round, the second and third-place finishers in each region will be able to fight for a seat on the main stage in one last LAN event, increasing the total number of teams from 18 to 20. After the LCQ concludes, the group stage will begin, with all 20 teams competing for the 16 available playoff positions.
League of Legends World Championship
The League of Legends World Championship is one of the world’s most renowned and watched events. It’s also the video game that receives the most attention from viewers across the globe. The success peaked in 2018 when 99.6 million people saw the final, and the prize pool was 6.45 million.
More frequently referred to as Worlds, the Championship is the pinnacle of the annual professional League of Legends season. Teams battle against one another for the champion title, a Summoner’s Cup trophy weighing 70 pounds, and a multi-million dollar prize.
The 2022 League of Legends World Championship is the twelfth iteration of this championship, organized by the game’s developers at Riot Games. This year’s event will take place from September 29 through November 5. Four venues in:
- Mexico City
- Atlanta
- San Francisco
- New York City
Twenty-four teams from 11 regions earned a spot in the tournament through regional circuits in China, Europe, North America, South Korea, and Taiwan/Hong Kong/Macau/Southeast Asia. Twelve teams had to compete in a play-in round to get to the main event. The group stage will separate teams into four groups of four, and the knockout stage will start with the quarterfinals. The 2022 prize pool is over $2.2 million.
Call of Duty League
In the 2022 season, 12 teams will compete in four Majors using a combination of online and LAN formats. Each Major tournament will take place over the course of four weeks, with the first three weeks consisting of each team competing in online qualification matches against five other randomly chosen teams. Following these three weeks, the rankings will be used to seed the teams into the main tournament, with the four worst teams moving to the Elimination Bracket. The League started on January 21 and will end on August 7.
A Pro-am event will occur in the middle of the season, matching professional players against amateur players. In addition, a Call of Duty: Warzone tournament that will include Call of Duty League pro players, broadcasters, and other influencers will also be arranged.
The Call of Duty League (CDL) is an esports competition run by the game publisher Activision. In 2019, the League was announced, and the first season began in 2020. The prize pool for the 2022 World Title is $2.55 million.
You’ll recognize the format if you’re a fan of conventional North American professional sports leagues or the Overwatch League. Participants are city-based franchises financed by separate ownership groups. The League uses a tournament point system and playoff format, with players on the roster guaranteed a minimum annual salary and benefits, as well as a portion of winnings and revenue-sharing based on how well the team performs.
Fortnite World Cup
If there’s one game that skyrocketed in record time, from game release to the point of having one of the biggest eSports tournaments, then that is Fortnite. This year, for the first time since 2019, Epic is holding an in-person Fortnite competition. The creators announced the FNCS Invitational 2022, to be held in Raleigh, North Carolina, on the 12th and 13th of November. A total prize pool of $1 million will be up for grabs.
During ten weekly qualifying events, players will be divided into five groups depending on the region they play in. The top 100 solo and 50 duo players will qualify for the Fortnite World Cup finals.
There will be ten weekly Qualifier events. The top 100 solo and top 50 duo players will qualify for the Fortnite World Cup Finals. Namely, players will be divided into five groups depending on their region. The competition will begin with the Arena mode, where competitors must collect points to reach the Open event.
During Stage 2 of The Fortnite Open, players will have three hours and up to ten matches to score the most points they can. Afterward, a group of elite players will go to the Open Finals. In the final stages, top players from every region will again have the same time frame of three hours and ten matches to score as many points as possible. Epic will then decide who is eligible for awards.
Fortnite secured the largest individual prize win of any eSports athlete. Kyle Giersdorf, known as Bugha, was 16 years old when he won $3 million after a 10-week competition between April and June 2019.
Valorant Champions
The 2022 Valorant Champions is an impending eSports tournament for the Valorant video game by Riot Games. It’s the culminating event of the 2022 Valorant Champions Tour, the second iteration of this tournament. The competition is scheduled to take place in Istanbul, Turkey, between September 2nd and 18th, 2022. The total prize pool for the tour is $3.3 million.
- In November 2020, Riot Games announced the first ever Valorant Champions Tour.
- It was held in Berlin’s Verti Music Hall between the 1st and 12th of December.
- In 2021, the VCT attracted over 10,000 teams.
- In February of the same year, it was announced that the VCT Game Changers would be an additional tournament program for women and other marginalized communities.
As the lowest division, Challengers were to be divided into six zones. If a team makes it through Challengers, they will progress to Masters, where they will no longer be separated into regions, and the top 16 teams from Masters will continue to Champions, the final event of VCT.
The format of VCT was reworked for the second season. Namely, the number of stages in Challengers and Masters tournaments was lowered from three to two, although the basic structure of Challengers, Masters, and Champions remained the same.
Challengers and Masters tournaments contribute to teams’ overall circuit points. In stage two of Masters, 16 teams proceed to the VCT’s global championship tournament, which is held annually. There’s a Last Chance Qualifier tournament for the last four teams, and the winner of the Stage Two Masters qualifies automatically.
Honor of Kings World Champion Cup
The Honor of Kings is a multiplayer online battle arena for the iOS and Android mobile platforms. The tournament has yet to be announced, but it is expected to be at the end of 2022. For the first time since 2020, the Honor of Kings World Champion Cup 2022 will involve teams from outside the United States, where 16 teams will compete for the $10 million prize pool.
The tournament’s form of participation is also still up in the air. It may be held online or offline, depending on the general circumstances and travel limitations. However, since the Honor of Kings World Champion Cup is an S-tier event and so costly, it’s likely to be hosted offline like the majority of tournaments right now.
An unprecedented amount of $10 million in prize money will be awarded in this event, making it one of the most lucrative in the history of mobile gaming. The PUBG Mobile Global Championship (PMGC) has a prize pool of $6 million, which puts it in second place in the mobile gaming industry. In previous years, the Honor of Kings World Champions Cup already had big prize pools, ranging from 4.5 and 4.6 million dollars in 2019 and 2020 to 7.7 million in 2021.
EVO Championship Series
Maybe it isn’t among the biggest eSports tournaments, but not many will leave out EVO when it comes to historical significance. In the esports world, the Evolution Championship Series is a yearly competition devoted exclusively to fighting games. Like in Super Battle Opera, participants from across the globe participate in this event, mainly from Japan. The Battle by the Bay was the initial name of the inaugural Evolution, which included Super Street Fighter II Turbo and Street Fighter Alpha 2. In 2002, the event’s name was shortened to Evolution Championship Series or EVO.
The number of people attending each tournament has steadily increased over time.
- Since 2005, it has occurred at several Las Vegas Valley locations.
- Sony Interactive Entertainment and Endeavor esports venture RTS will control the event jointly starting in 2021.
- In 2022, the Evolution Championship Series will return to the Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino in Las Vegas for EVO 2022, which will take place between the 5th and 7th of August.
- Last year, the prize pool for 26 tournaments was $168,500.
In Sunnyvale, California, a 40-player Super Street Fighter II Turbo and Street Fighter Alpha 2 tournament called Battle by the Bay kicked off the competition in 1996. Since its inception, the competition has grown, with more than 1,000 players in 2009.
In 2004, the decision was made to switch from arcades to console versions. Other than official competitions, there’s a BYOC (Bring Your Own Console) section where many other games are played and side events are hosted.
PUBG Global Championship
The PUBG Global Championship is the culmination of the 2022 Competitive Season and is considered the World Championship for the game. The best 32 teams throughout the year will compete from November 1 until December 1. The PMGC 2022 boasts a $4 million prize pool, a decrease of $2 million from last year. With the PMWI in August and the addition of the game to the postponed Asian Games, the schedule is different than in earlier years.
- The PMGC 2022 will include the best teams from each Pro League (PMPL).
- Thirteen Pro Leagues are organized between June 20 and October 2.
- The top teams will participate in the Americas, Europe, Middle East, Africa, South East Asia, and South Asia PMPL Regional Championships.
From the PMGC launch in 2020, Tencent couldn’t host it as a LAN event due to the COVID-19 pandemic. For the first time ever, after the imminent PUBG Mobile World Invitational (PMWI) and a better COVID-19 situation, PUBG fans are hoping for an offline event for the biggest event of the year.
The PUBG Mobile World Invitational will be held in Riyadh from August 11 to August 20. Twenty teams will battle for $3 million in Saudi Arabia. Week one of the PMWI features the main event, where 20 teams will compete for $2 million. During the second week, The Afterparty Showdown will be played, where the top five teams from week one, six regional teams, and one special invite will participate.
Overwatch League
Blizzard Entertainment’s Overwatch League (OWL) is a professional eSports league for the video game Overwatch. The Overwatch League, like its Call of Duty counterpart, also follows the model of North American professional leagues. Twenty city-based teams, backed by ownership groups, began signing free agents to contracts for the 2022 season in October 2021. March 1 was the deadline for all teams to have a minimum of six players signed to season-long contracts.
- Like in the NFL or NBA, teams compete in the regular season to reach the playoffs.
- At BlizzCon 2016, it was revealed that its first season would begin in 2018, with a total prize pool of $3.5 million. Throughout the years, this amount remained in the same vicinity.
- Before the 2022 season, the maximum number of players on a team stayed at 12, while the minimum was six. Therefore, the players’ minimum salary was raised from $50,000 to $50,700.
The 2022 Overwatch League season is the fifth iteration. The season is played on an early version of Overwatch 2, unlike the prior four seasons, which were played on Overwatch. It began on May 5, and the champion will be known by October 22.
Apex Legends Global Series Championship
Electronic Arts and Respawn Entertainment announced the Apex Legends Global Series (ALGS) in 2019, with the first season beginning in 2020–21. The series uses a promotion and relegation format throughout the seasons, culminating in the ALGS Championship. The prize pool for the inaugural season was $2.58 million, and it was increased to $5 million for the second season.
EA and Respawn expanded for the 2021–22 season, allowing Xbox and PlayStation players to compete. The competition consists of three phases:
- Split One
- Split Two
- ALGS Championship
Five regional Pro Leagues constitute splits North America, EMEA, APAC South, APAC North, and South America. In each Pro League, 40 teams come through online qualifications and direct invitations based on prior performance. Then a total of 40 teams advance to the split Playoffs. Split Two playoff winners and Last Chance Qualifier event winners will proceed to the ALGS Championship match.
Counter-Strike Global Offensive
WESG had a $1.5 million prize pool in 2016 and 2017. After that, however, the primacy was taken over by PGL.
The PGL Major Antwerp 2022, also known as PGL Major 2022 or Antwerp 2022, was the seventeenth Counter-Strike: Global Offensive (CS:GO) Major championship.
In Sportpaleis, twenty-four teams competed in the event between May 9 and May 22, with the majority qualifying via their respective regional competitions. It had a prize fund of US$1,000,000, half of what it was in 2021. FaZe Clan, the first foreign CS:GO team to win a Major, took the trophy, finishing above 23 other teams. The format was set in three stages:
- The Challengers Stage featured a 16-team Swiss System Format, with the Buchholz system and initial seeds used to seed matches.
- The top eight teams advanced to the Legends Stage, while the bottom eight teams were eliminated.
- The Legends Stage used the same format and seeding system as the Challenger Stage.
- Finally, in the Champions Stage, eight teams battled in a Single-Elimination bracket, seeded using the final rankings from the Legends Stage.
FAQ
Is there a dress code at eSports competitions?
Competitors must wear official team uniforms during all on-site matches and interviews at major eSports championships. The logos must be visible at all times, and hoodies are not permitted. Other than approved headsets, they’re prohibited from wearing headgear or face masks.
What types of games do eSports include?
An eSport is any video game in which a player competes against another person. A few of the most popular esports game types are:
- Multiplayer Online Battle Arenas
- Battle Royales
- Real-Time Strategy Games
- First Person Shooters
- Fighting Games
- Sports Games
Which are the best channels to watch live eSports games?
The best place to watch the biggest eSports tournaments is probably Twitch.tv. This site is geared toward gamers who share their gaming experiences. YouTube Gaming users also have the option to broadcast their bouts.
Share it:
Do you know that there are a few types of Mahjong? In that case, let's look at what they are and how they work. Mahjong has a long history, so it's kind of logical that more than one way of playing the game exists.
Different types of Mahjong make this game even more fun. There are many variations, including adding or removing certain rules and differences in the equipment. Some games use fewer tiles, while others use slightly different tiles. Several versions have extremely complex scoring systems or limit the number of rounds.
Here's what you need to know to find the variation that suits you best.
Chinese Mahjong
There are different Mahjong games, but Chinese Mahjong is the official version. This version of Mahjong was recognized as the 255th sport by the State Sports Commission of China. A single official game was created to integrate the rules of many Chinese versions.
The following are other Chinese variants:
In Hunan Province, Changsha Mahjong is widely played. Like Wuhan Mahjong, players need to obtain a special Jong consisting of only two, five, or eight tiles. In Changsha Mahjong, winds are forbidden, and special tiles are removed. Every round, winners are drawn for bonuses, usually doubling their score.
Classic style Mahjong, introduced to the Americans through various names in the 1920s, is the oldest surviving variety of Mahjong. Despite its popularity in the West, few Asians play it. Players can score more than the winner.
Several Mahjong societies have adopted the Competition Mahjong standard, founded by the All-China Sports Federation in July 1998. The game emphasizes strategy and calculation abilities and has various scoring rules.
Fujian Mahjong includes 13 tile hands. Tiles can be wild in certain cases. There are no dragons, and the winds are considered bonuses.
Harbin Mahjong is one of the popular Mahjong games played in northeastern China. It comprises only 108 suits and four red dragon tiles. In order to win, the player's hand must meet a few requirements and be declared "ready" to earn points, with a bonus tile revealed when they win.
A more common form of Mahjong, Hong Kong or Cantonese Mahjong, differs in minor scoring details from the Classical Chinese variety. For example, Hong Kong Mahjong rules imply that multiple players can't win from a single discard.
Shenyang Mahjong uses 13 hands in a game, and it's played fast. Shenyang Mahjong requires bamboo, characters, circles, and numbers 1 or 9. Even if some players win the first time they hold their hands, there is no chance of winning since they must pong before they chow.
Sichuan Mahjong disallows chi melds and uses only the suited tiles. Especially in southern China, Sichuan Mahjong is becoming more popular. The game continues until a winner or a draw is reached.
Taiyuan Lisi Mahjong is a game where the first four blocks drawn are placed separately in front of the others to win. The blocks can't be touched until a player has a ready hand.
Unlike other versions of Mahjong, Taiwanese Mahjong games feature 16-tile hands, bonuses for dealers and recurring dealerships, and multiple players can win from a single discard.
Tianjin Mahjong has special scoring options, including joker-free, joker-waiting-pair, catch-5, dragon, and joker-suited dragon.
The popularity of Wuhan Mahjong has grown rapidly in southern China. A unique feature is that a tile can be used as everything called Laizi, and the player must have a set of two special tiles, namely two, five, or eight, to win. Furthermore, special tiles must be discarded in another variation that has become the new trend.
There are three players in Xiangyang Mahjong. It's played without winds, seasons, flowers, dots, bamboo, or characters. Any handcrafted item using a 5-tile receives extra points.
Other Mahjong Types
In the following section, you'll read about American, Japanese, Korean, and South African mahjong
American Mahjong
This form of Mahjong has been standardized by the American Mah Jongg Association and the National Mah Jongg League. This game features jokers, the Charleston, and five-tile melds. American Mahjong is therefore considered a separate game by purists. Mahjongg and mah-jongg (with two Gs) are other game variations that are only slightly different in their scoring.
Japanese Mahjong
In Japan, this game is a standardized version of Mahjong that can also be found in video games. In addition to the scoring changes, this variant has unique ready-hand and bonus tiles rules. The Japanese version is called Riichi.
Korean Mahjong
The Korean version of the game is unique and suited for three players. The bamboo set is usually omitted. As a result, scores are simpler and the game is faster. No melded chows are allowed, and hands are often hidden.
Singaporean Mahjong
It's similar to Hong Kong Mahjong. In addition to the four animal tiles (cat, centipede, mouse, and cockerel), the game also features a set of scoring rules that provide payouts after certain conditions are met (for example, a kong).
South African Mahjong
Playing this game is very similar to playing Cantonese Mahjong. Scores differ slightly. For example, house rules determine how many points can be awarded per hand. Chicken hands (gai wu) are generally considered value hands. You may also use flowers to increase your score based on the house rules.
Three-Player Mahjong
Depending on the Mahjong game type, it can use jokers and involves hands of 13 tiles (with 84 tiles on the table). Many rule sets can be adapted for three players, most commonly found in Korea, Japan, Philippines, and Malaysia. Usually, it eliminates one suit or tiles 2–8 in one suit, leaving only the terminals.
Japanese vs. Chinese Mahjong
There is a vast difference in strategy. In addition to the basic rules of Mahjong, which require building a hand with at least four sets and a pair, more difficult hand patterns score more points. Japanese Mahjong has several defenses and depths that make it more feasible to play defensively. A strong, fast hand is the best defense in Chinese Mahjong. There are other ways to defend in Japanese Mahjong as well.
Ii-han shibari and furiten make this possible. In Japanese Mahjong, a special rule prevents a player from winning on another player's discard if they've discarded a tile they could've won.
Second, there is a requirement for a score. The second element of the game is also present in some Chinese variants, but it's more strictly enforced in Japanese Mahjong since many hands can't be opened or their value is greatly diminished when they are. Most open and closed-hand elements in Chinese Mahjong score the same.
Finally, Japanese Mahjong uses Dora tiles. Each round, this tile will flip, indicating which tile will earn bonus points if it's in your completed hand. Chinese Mahjong uses eight flowers, two for each player. Getting your flower gives you points and collecting sets gives you bonuses. In some Chinese variants, riichi is also prevalent but not as prevalent as in Japanese Mahjong.
By betting 1,000 points, you let everyone know you're ready to win. You also get some neat benefits, such as flipping more Dora upon winning and getting an extra point if you win within the first turn.
Conclusion
Mahjong is not a simple game, but it can be mastered. So, if you're up to it check this article to learn the gameplay of Mahjong. It has evolved over time, resulting in many variants. It's not only found in mainland China but also outside its borders, as the game has become popular in other regions outside China. Furthermore, the game can vary a lot between countries. For example, you could be an expert in China but not Japan. Knowing the differences between the Mahjong variations will make you an expert, though, so keep learning.
FAQ
Is Japanese and Chinese Mahjong the same?
Riichi Mahjong or Japanese Mahjong is a version of the well-known Chinese game, so they're not the same. A maximum of four players can play this game. Players compete against each other by completing their hands to win points.
What is the difference between Chinese Mahjong and American Mahjong?
The Chinese version of Mahjong has 144 tiles, while the American version has 152 tiles. As a result, Mahjong sets vary in the American market. American Mahjong also has a specific gameplay, such as the Charleston. Because of the differences, it's important to familiarize yourself with the types of Mahjong to win the game.
1st DEPOSIT BONUS
Up to BCD 220,000
Over 10,000 games
Offers native BCD coin
Casino and sportsbook
January 19, 2023
Posted by Content Team
The Monty Hall problem, a brain teaser rooted in probability theory, has baffled many with its counterintuitive solution. Originating from a game show scenario, it has become a classic example of how our instincts about chance and probability can often be misleading.
Here, we investigate this puzzling paradox and its surrounding controversy. We look at how similar principles can be applied to gambling and finally, whether or not applying them can potentially improve betting strategies.
The Monty Hall Problem Explained
In the intriguing Monty Hall problem, named after the famous host of "Let's Make a Deal," players encounter a compelling probability challenge.
The game show contestants face three doors. One door hides a coveted prize, such as a car, while the other two hide goats. When they pick a door in the hopes of discovering the car, Monty Hall, who is aware of what is behind those doors, opens one of the remaining doors and reveals a goat.
Now, he offers them a choice—switch to the other unopened door or stick to their original selection. What would you do?
The Historical Background
This scenario, first posed in a 1975 letter by Steve Selvin, gained notoriety in 1990 when Marilyn vos Savant claimed in her Parade magazine column that switching doors increase your chances of winning. This assertion caused an uproar with thousands, including those with PhDs, contesting her solution. It brought to light our often flawed grasp of probability.
An Illustrative Example
Imagine you pick Door 1. The chance of the car being behind this door is initially 1/3. Monty then opens, say, Door 3, revealing a goat. Intuition might suggest an equal chance of the car being behind Doors 1 and 2. However, the probability is not evenly split. Instead, it skews in favor of the door you didn't choose, making switching a statistically better choice.
Understanding the Odds in the Monty Hall Dilemma
When you first choose a door, there's a 1/3 chance of it hiding the car and a 2/3 chance that the car is behind one of the other two doors. Monty's action of revealing a goat behind one of these doors doesn't change this initial probability.
Therefore, when he offers the chance to switch (even subtly nudging toward it), the probability of the car being behind the other unopened door is actually 2/3.
The Common Error in Staying Put
The common mistake in the Monty Hall problem lies in overlooking how the host's actions influence the odds. The decision to switch doors effectively bets against your initial choice. Given that there's a higher probability of initially picking a goat (2/3), switching doors capitalizes on these odds, turning the tables in your favor.
A Contradictory Conundrum
The Monty Hall paradox is thought-provoking because it challenges our innate approach to probability. Even hardcore mathematicians initially struggled with its counterintuitive nature. The puzzle lies not just in math but in understanding how new information—the revealed goat—shifts probabilities, a concept that often ticks off even the sharpest minds.
Applying Monty Hall Principles to Gambling
The intriguing Monty Hall problem naturally raises the question—can its logic be applied to gambling, particularly at online casinos? At first glance, the appeal of using a proven mathematical strategy is tempting. However, gambling, with its myriad of games and scenarios, doesn't always align neatly with the conditions of the Monty Hall dilemma.
Complexities in Casino Games
In the controlled environment of the Monty Hall strategy, the host's actions directly influence the probability outcomes. In contrast, most casino games operate on independent event principles. Each spin of the roulette wheel or roll of the dice is separate from the last, unaffected by previous outcomes.
Because of independent events, the beneficial strategic switch in the Monty Hall paradox doesn't have a direct counterpart in many casino games.
The Connection Between Roulette and Monty Hall Betting
Of all casino games, the roulette wheel might seem to come closest to mimicking the three-door scenario of Monty Hall. Players choose from various outcomes (numbers, colors), akin to selecting a door. However, this is where the similarity ends.
The probability of landing on red or black, for example, remains constant with each spin, regardless of previous outcomes. This independence contrasts sharply with the Monty Hall problem. In roulette, there's no equivalent to this intervention that alters odds mid-game.
Using Monty Hall Logic to Predict Sports Betting Outcomes
Applying the Monty Hall logic to sports betting would require events with three equally likely outcomes. This scenario is rare in sports, making the application of Monty Hall principles more theoretical than practical.
Unlike the Monty Hall problem, where the host's intervention is a controlled variable that shifts the odds in a predictable manner, sports betting involves too many variables (team performance, injuries, and even weather conditions), making it difficult to apply the Monty Hall strategy effectively and get better odds.
Monty Hall vs. Gambler's Fallacy
The Monty Hall problem and the gambler's fallacy are both fascinating concepts within the realm of probability, yet they operate on fundamentally different principles.
What Is the Gambler's Fallacy?
The gambler's fallacy is the erroneous belief that if something happens more frequently than normal during a given period, it will happen less frequently in the future, or vice versa.
The misinterpretation of independent events, such as coin tosses or roulette spins, as being influenced by previous outcomes is central to the gambler's fallacy.
Key Differences
Event dependency: While the gambler's fallacy arises from a misunderstanding of independent events, the Monty Hall problem revolves around strategically reacting to dependent events.
Adjusting odds: In the Monty Hall problem, the odds are logically adjusted based on the host's actions, whereas the gambler's fallacy stems from an incorrect belief about how random events work.
The Impact of Monty Hall Solutions on Gambling Success
In the casino world, the Monty Hall problem is more a riddle than a roadmap. Its unique twist of changing probabilities doesn't quite shuffle the deck in gambling, where chance reigns supreme over controlled conditions. Yet, it sharpens our wits, teaching us that sometimes a less obvious choice is an ace up our sleeve.
While it might not be the secret key to a jackpot, the Monty Hall problem reminds us to question the odds and think outside the box—or behind the door, in this case.
November 27, 2023
Posted by Bojana Grozdanic
Currently, you can insure anything, including your car, boat, home, and even your life. If you choose, you can also get insurance for a blackjack game at a casino.
Things are a little different when it comes to the latter insurance. Many individuals dispute the idea of insuring bets, yet few can deny the importance of insuring assets. The more time you spend around gamblers, the more you realize that insurance is unquestionably a contentious topic in blackjack. That implies it's time to dig deeper and find out what is insurance in blackjack.
What Is Insurance in Blackjack?
During a blackjack game, players can buy blackjack insurance if the dealer's up-card is an ace. The insurance bet is, in fact, a side bet. The insurance bet is typically offered at a payout of 2:1 if the dealer's second card is a 10-value or picture card, resulting in a blackjack. In other words, if the dealer has a blackjack, the player will receive twice the original insurance bet. If the dealer doesn't have a blackjack, the insurance will be lost, and the game will continue as normal.
Opinions on blackjack insurance are divided in the gambling community, as many experienced gamblers believe that it's better to rely on a solid blackjack strategy. It's mostly because blackjack insurance odds aren't usually in the player's favor. Let's go into detail below to learn more about blackjack insurance.
How Does Blackjack Insurance Work?
The purpose of the insurance bet is to protect the player in case the dealer has a blackjack. Here's how blackjack insurance works:
When the dealer's face-up card is an ace, the dealer will offer the players the option to take insurance before they continue playing their hands.
To buy insurance, the player must place a bet on the insurance line that is located on the blackjack table. The insurance bet can be up to half the player's original bet.
If the dealer has a blackjack (a hand totaling 21 with only two cards), the player who placed an insurance bet will win 2:1 payout, which means the player will receive twice the amount of their original insurance bet.
If the dealer doesn't have a blackjack, the player loses the insurance bet, but the game will continue. The player can still win or lose their original bet based on the outcome of the game.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Insurance Betting
Before you make a decision, it's important to consider the advantages and disadvantages of blackjack insurance. Let's take a closer look.
Advantages of blackjack insurance:
Protects against dealer's blackjack. The main advantage of blackjack insurance is that it protects the player's original bet if the dealer has a blackjack.
Additional payout. If the dealer doesn't have a blackjack and the player has insurance, the player will receive a double amount of their insurance bet, offsetting the loss of their original bet.
Disadvantages of blackjack insurance:
Negative expected value. The odds of the dealer having a blackjack are less than the odds of the dealer not having a blackjack, so taking out insurance on every hand will result in a net loss over time.
Higher house edge. By offering insurance, the casino increases its overall edge, meaning that players who take insurance are effectively giving the casino more of an advantage.
Distraction from basic strategy. Many experienced blackjack players consider insurance to be a distraction from the strategy. If players focus on their own hand based on the basic strategy, they have more chance of winning over time.
When to Take Insurance in Blackjack
Let's say that your strategy is to get blackjack insurance. In that case, knowing the best circumstances for that strategy to pay off is vital.
For instance, if you know how to count cards and have a high count, you may have a better chance of determining if the dealer has a blackjack. Insurance is a good idea if you think the odds are in your favor.
Furthermore, if you play high-stakes blackjack and bet a large sum of money, you may want to buy insurance to protect your investment.
Finally, if you play in blackjack tournaments, you may have to take risks to increase your chip stack and advance to the next round. Taking insurance in specific scenarios may be a calculated risk you're willing to take.
What Are the Odds for Insurance Bets?
The probabilities of winning an insurance bet in blackjack are determined by the number of decks used and the specific rules of the game being played. When the dealer's up-card is an ace, the dealer's odds of having a blackjack are around 9:4, or approximately 31%. This means that around 4 times out of every 13 times the dealer displays an ace, they will have a blackjack.
The reward for an insurance bet, on the other hand, is normally 2:1, which means that if the player bets $10 on insurance and the dealer has a blackjack, the player will receive a $20 payout. The expected value of the insurance bet can be determined by multiplying the likelihood of the dealer having blackjack by the insurance bet payoff. In this situation, the anticipated value of an insurance bet would be negative, implying that the player would lose money over time on this form of wager.
For example, if only one deck of cards is utilized, the dealer's probability of having blackjack is 4.83%. If the insurance payment is 2:1, the expected value of the insurance bet is -8.75%. This indicates that the gambler will lose 8.75 cents for every dollar wagered on insurance.
Conclusion: Is Blackjack Insurance Worthwhile?
There's no doubt that casino gambling can be profitable in a single night. However, if you want to find out what is profitable and what isn't, it will take time and effort to figure it out. Therefore, it's also important to keep in mind that blackjack insurance will cost you money in the long run.
The dealer must either have a 10 or a picture card in their hand for you to win your insurance bet. A single deck contains 16 of those, so there's only about a 30% chance of hitting one. If you do, you get a 2:1 return, so your 30% shot doesn't seem so bad.
However, it still means you'll lose this type of bet most of the time. Therefore, in most cases, buying insurance is not worthwhile if you want to maximize your chances of winning. Instead, you should focus on basic blackjack strategy and making strategic decisions based on your own hand and the dealer's up-card.
FAQ
Is insurance a good bet in blackjack?
Taking insurance at a blackjack table is almost always a bad idea. It is preferable to stick to a simple blackjack approach.
What's the point of taking blackjack insurance?
Although purchasing insurance at a casino appears to be a good idea, there is more to it. Casinos have a bigger house edge in this scenario, making it a poor decision for most players.
In blackjack, how much may you wager on insurance?
The amount you can bet on insurance in blackjack is usually limited to half of your original bet.
What role does insurance play in blackjack?
Insurance is a side wager in blackjack that a player can make when the dealer's face-up card is an ace. Taking insurance protects the player's original bet in the event that the dealer has a blackjack. If you want to know more, see our article "What is insurance in blackjack?" above.
February 27, 2023
Posted by Content Team
When the exciting world of high-stakes gaming collides with Hollywood's cinematic magic, the result is often unforgettable. Suspenseful movies about gambling are a unique blend of excitement and drama. From the glitzy charm of Las Vegas to nerve-racking poker games, these films transport us to a universe where luck can change in the blink of an eye.
In this article, we explore the top 10 best casino movies of all time, providing you with cinematic gems that captivate both gambling aficionados and film lovers alike.
10. Casino Royale (2006)
Our list begins with a modern classic, "Casino Royale," where the world of espionage intersects with the equally risky poker realm. Daniel Craig's debut as James Bond redefined the character, bringing a gritty realism to the franchise. The film's gripping central scene takes place at Montenegro's luxurious Casino Royale, where Bond must outplay the sinister Le Chiffre in a nerve-racking game of Texas Hold'em poker.
High on suspense and complete with all the casino trappings—tumbling chips, stylish tuxedos, and martinis (shaken, not stirred)—this Bond film illustrates just how high the stakes can get at the casino table.
9. The Gambler (1974)
"The Gambler" presents a haunting exploration of addiction that strips away the bright lights and glamor from a poker game. James Caan plays an English professor with a dangerous penchant for betting who's consumed by his obsession.
Gambling, like in other gambler movies, isn't just a game for him. It's an insatiable need and a journey toward self-destruction. The film takes viewers through the dark underbelly of the casino world, depicting the devastating aftermath of the gamble.
8. The Cincinnati Kid (1965)
This iconic film takes us back to the time of the Great Depression when poker wasn't just a game but a way of life. Steve McQueen delivers a stellar performance as an up-and-coming poker player seeking to establish his reputation by challenging a seasoned pro.
Featuring intense scenes around the card table, the movie combines risk, reward, and personal ambition. This is not just a gambling movie but a character study of a man betting everything to stake his claim in the world.
7. Molly's Game (2017)
"Molly's Game," one of the best movies about poker (in our humble opinion), is a compelling journey into the clandestine world of high-stakes poker, showcasing the rush and pitfalls of hosting the world's most exhilarating casino game. Jessica Chastain embodies the real-life Molly Bloom, an Olympic skier who reinvents herself as the "poker princess" of Hollywood.
The film provides insight into the complexities of this underground world of power and wealth. This Aaron Sorkin directorial doesn't just revolve around poker; it encapsulates the compelling tale of one woman's resilience, ambition, and grappling with alluring yet perilous casino culture.
6. Croupier (1998)
Clive Owen delivers a riveting performance in "Croupier," portraying a struggling writer who starts working as a croupier. We get to see what gambling's like from a dealer's perspective while gaining insight into the manipulations, calculations, and human drama unfolding at the casino table.
Just like many other good casino movies, Croupier emphasizes the psychological toll of juggling luck, chance, and avarice.
5. Uncut Gems (2020)
In "Uncut Gems," Adam Sandler takes on a non-comedic role to embody a character consumed by the thrill of gambling. Sandler portrays a frenzied jewelry store owner whose gambling addiction puts him in a financially difficult situation. He has to retrieve an expensive gem to pay off his debts.
This rollercoaster ride of a film showcases the downward spiral of gambling addiction and the desperate lengths one will go to chase euphoria.
4. The Card Counter (2021)
Starring Oscar Isaac, "The Card Counter" is about the exploration of personal redemption set against the backdrop of poker tables. Isaac portrays an ex-military interrogator turned gambler whose haunting past is continually at odds with his present. The world of casinos and the act of counting cards become a part of his new life while trying to prevent a young man from seeking revenge on a mutual enemy.
This film is one of our top movies about poker because the world of gambling can serve as both a refuge and a battlefield for personal demons. It's not just a movie about gambling; it's a story of regret, penance, and the search for forgiveness.
3. Rounders (1998)
"Rounders" sucks viewers into the world of underground poker, where the rush of the bluff and the allure of the win reign supreme. Matt Damon gives a memorable performance as a talented poker player who, despite his attempt to turn his life around, returns to poker to help a friend pay off his debts.
The film not only showcases the intricate tactics of poker but it takes us on a journey into the depths of the human psyche. It's a riveting story about risk, obsession, friendship, and loyalty. Furthermore, Turturro's character was inspired by underground poker player Joel "Bagels" Rosenberg!
2. The Sting (1973)
Next on our casino movies list is an evergreen classic called "The Sting," which brings together Paul Newman and Robert Redford in a brilliant story about elaborate cons and cunning wit, all centered around a dangerous betting plot. Set against the backdrop of a complex horse race gambling operation, the film ingeniously weaves a tale of deception and redemption.
It showcases the crafty schemes and daring gambits of the con artists, illustrating the tantalizing danger and intrigue that underpin the gambling world. The masterful storytelling and memorable performances make it a timeless portrayal of the gambler's daring spirit.
1. Casino (1995)
Martin Scorsese's "Casino" stands unrivaled as a cinematic masterpiece that explores the seductive yet brutal world of the gambling industry. Robert De Niro and Sharon Stone deliver exceptional performances in this tale of greed, deception, power, and betrayal.
Set in the heart of Las Vegas, the film portrays the rise and fall of a casino empire, unraveling the darker realities behind the glittering façade. It's a whirlwind journey that navigates the dazzling highs and devastating lows of the casino and mobster world, making it one of the best casino-related movies of all time.
Honorable Mentions
While our top picks showcase the very best of the casino genre, there are a few more films that didn't make our list but offer compelling portrayals of the casino world and the multifaceted characters who inhabit it.
These films give further insight into the complex, often tense relationship between people and their wagering habits. Let's delve into these noteworthy mentions that deserve their moment in the spotlight.
California Split (1974)
Directed by Robert Altman, "California Split" follows the friendship between two gamblers played by George Segal and Elliott Gould. The film is an insightful exploration of the gambling lifestyle and the different forms it can take.
It's lauded for its realistic portrayal of the rollercoaster of emotions associated with gambling, oscillating between euphoric wins and soul-crushing losses. Altman brilliantly captures the hazy, frenetic energy of the casino floor, crafting a slice-of-life narrative that highlights the turbulent path of the perpetual gambler.
Ocean's Eleven (2001)
No list of gambling and casino heist movies would be complete without "Ocean's Eleven." In this modern heist classic, George Clooney as Danny Ocean leads a charismatic ensemble cast that includes Brad Pitt and Matt Damon in a daring robbery of three Las Vegas casinos owned by a ruthless businessman played by Andy Garcia.
The film shines not in its depiction of the glitz and glamor of the casino floors but of the meticulous planning that goes into pulling off a successful heist.
Hard Eight (1996)
Paul Thomas Anderson's movie "Hard Eight" follows the story of a seasoned gambler who takes a young man under his wing, introducing him to the casino scene. The mentorship slowly evolves into a complex relationship as they navigate the unpredictable world of gambling.
The film offers a profound look into the mentoring aspect of gambling, where experience meets raw ambition, set against the moody ambiance of casinos and race tracks. The nuanced performances by Philip Baker Hall and John C. Reilly add depth to the movie.
21 (2008)
Based on a true story and one of the MGM casino movies, "21" portrays the thrilling account of a group of MIT students who become experts in blackjack card counting and subsequently win millions in Las Vegas. Led by an unorthodox math professor, the team navigates the high-pressure environment of blackjack, dealing with the extravagant lifestyle, the excitement of big money, and the watchful eye of casino security.
The film is an exciting ride through the highs and lows of living a double life; one as studious college students and the other as high rollers.
Mississippi Grind (2015)
"Mississippi Grind" tells the story of two gamblers on a road trip, playing risky games in the American South. This film delves into the psychological aspect of gambling, portraying the superstitions, fallacies, and the thrill of the game that keeps players coming back for more.
With compelling performances by Ben Mendelsohn and Ryan Reynolds, the film is a poignant examination of the compulsive gambler's psyche, presenting a somber yet authentic depiction of the self-destructive tendencies that come with compulsive gambling.
Summary of the Best Gambling Movies
Whether it's a gritty depiction of a gambler's descent into obsession or an exhilarating ride with card-counting geniuses, each film on this list offers a unique perspective on the alluring yet dangerous world of gambling.
These cinematic gems are a must-watch, not just for the gambling connoisseur but for anyone who appreciates powerful storytelling that deals with the high stakes of life and the risks we take.
FAQ
What movies are about beating casinos?
"21" (2008) is a well-known film about beating casinos. The film is based on a true story of the MIT blackjack team, a group of college students who win millions of dollars from Las Vegas casinos by using their math skills and a card counting system.
What gambling movie is based on a true story?
The best movies about poker include the 2017 movie "Molly's Game," which is based on a true story. It follows Molly Bloom, a former Olympic skier who runs an underground poker game that attracts the FBI's attention. Her memoir of the same name inspired the film.
What is the movie about the first Vegas casino?
"Casino," directed by Martin Scorsese and widely regarded as one of the best casino movies ever made, tells the story of the early days of the Las Vegas casino industry. It's important to note, however, that while the film is set in Las Vegas, it doesn't focus on the first Vegas casino.
What is the movie about slot machines?
"Jackpot" is a 2001 film about slot machines. The plot revolves around a pair of aspiring musicians who travel around Nevada playing slot machines in the hopes of winning the lottery.
July 7, 2023
Posted by Content Team
Recommended for you
