Industry Explains the Odds with New Brochure
How much of an edge does the casino have in blackjack? If my skills are good, can the odds then be in my favor? If the roulette wheel has landed on red three times in a row, isn't it a good bet black will come up on the next spin? The answers to these customer questions and more can be found in the latest publication produced by the American Gaming Association (AGA), The House Advantage: A Guide to Understanding the Odds.
The publication, which satisfies a provision of the AGA Code of Conduct for Responsible Gaming, explains the house advantage - providing typical ranges for specific games - along with other factors that should be taken into account when betting on casino games, such as the amount wagered, the length of time played and, to a degree, a player's skill level. It also debunks common myths about gambling and provides an explanation of regulatory procedures in place to ensure that all the games in a casino are fair.
The AGA Code of Conduct for Responsible Gaming, which was approved by the AGA board of directors last September, takes effect Sept. 15, 2004. Among other provisions, it calls for AGA members to "make available to patrons and employees information generally explaining the probabilities of winning or losing at the various games offered by the casino." This odds brochure developed by the AGA is one tool that members can use to comply with this provision of the code.
The odds brochure will be available in September in AGA member company casinos. For more information, call the AGA at 202-637-6500.
