🂡 What Is a Cardroom in a Casino?

A cardroom is a dedicated area within a casino where players compete in non-house-banked card games, such as poker. Unlike slot machines or blackjack, players typically play against each other, not the house.

Games Offered in a Cardroom

Cardrooms primarily focus on:

• Poker variants like Texas Hold’em, Omaha, and Seven-Card Stud
• Occasionally, player-banked games like Pai Gow Poker
• Tournaments and cash games with varying stakes

How the House Makes Money

Casinos or cardroom operators don’t gamble against players. Instead, they make money through:

• Rake: A small percentage taken from each pot
• Time fees: A set amount charged per hour per player
• Tournament fees: Added to buy-ins as administrative costs

Types of Cardrooms

• Casino-Based Cardrooms: Found in major resorts (e.g., Bellagio or WSOP rooms in Las Vegas)
• Standalone Cardrooms: Popular in regions like California, offering poker without traditional casino games
• Online Cardrooms: Digital platforms where players join virtual tables to play real-money poker

Cardrooms are hubs for skill-based gambling. Unlike games of pure chance, poker rewards experience, psychology, and strategy—making them popular with pros and hobbyists alike.

Tips for Players

• Know the rules and etiquette
• Start with low stakes to build confidence
• Understand the rake structure and how it impacts winnings

Cardrooms offer a social, strategic alternative to typical casino gaming. Whether online or in-person, they’re where skill and competition meet in the world of gambling.