5 Exceptional Casino Mini-Games Found in Popular Video Games

Software developers and publishers must take many things into consideration if they want to produce successful video games. Of course, this includes graphics, game mechanics, and a few other things.

However, in some cases, relatively unusual factors, such as the introduction of casino mini-games in the gameplay, contribute to the popularity. This is especially true for open-world games, but players encounter these options for playing casino-style games in other types of video games as well.

If you are interested in learning more about this exciting topic, we invite you to read our article to the very end. We have compiled a list of the 5 best casino mini-games in popular video games through thorough research.

Final Fantasy XIII-2

Final Fantasy XIII-2 represents a direct sequel to Final Fantasy XIII. It’s one of the most interesting installations of the legendary Final Fantasy series. This is another thrilling role-playing video game by Square Enix, released in 2011.

When it comes to playing mini-games with a casino vibe, Final Fantasy XIII-2 offers a location known as Serendipity. This is the so-called Palace of Pleasure, a floating casino city where you can enjoy various mini-games.

Of course, one of the most notable is the slot machine. This three-reel slot machine promises payouts worth up to 500 times the player’s bet, featuring symbols, such as fruit icons, reminiscent of classic Vegas slots. Of course, you can expect wins that bring only virtual credits. Still, this is a realistic experience that can help you play online slots for real money whenever you’re ready, as it awards virtual credits while helping you advance your slot skillset.

The slot gameplay in this mini-game captures the excitement of real money slots quite authentically. You can bet higher or lower amounts per spin and use techniques like betting max credits for bigger payouts.

Saints Row 2

Another popular video game that deserves a spot on this list is Saints Row 2. This is the second installment in the Saints Row series. It’s an open-world action-adventure video game released in 2008.

This fun title includes the so-called Poseidon’s Palace, a building in the Stilwater Boardwalk, part of the Hotels and Marina District. Interestingly, you can access Saints Row: The Third and Saints Row IV casinos, but you can’t play games there. In Saints Row 2, players can play poker and blackjack.

By wagering $500,000 on blackjack and poker, you’ll get the I’m not addicted! Achievement. Both casino mini-games come equipped with standard rules, which means that if you know how to play the classic variants of poker and blackjack, you don’t have to worry about anything.

Grand Theft Auto V

Grand Theft Auto V is a game that doesn’t need a special introduction. Every video gamer is familiar with this iconic action-adventure game released in 2013. According to many experts, the GTA series is the main reason why many developers and publishers shifted their interest to open-world games.

As a title that doesn’t shy away from seemingly controversial topics, it’s no surprise that GTA V features gambling activities. Remember that we’re talking about the online component of GTA V, also known as GTA Online.

Once you locate the casino, you can play a wide range of fun mini-games. For example, you can spin the roulette wheel for a chance to win virtual money. Players can also enjoy a round of three-card poker based on the classic rules of this casino game.

In addition, you can play classic casino games like blackjack and roulette. The Diamond Casino also provides access to a wide range of slot machines. They have nine different themes promising variety in your gameplay.

Fallout: New Vegas

It makes perfect sense for a video game with a title like this to allow casino-style activities as part of its gameplay. Fallout: New Vegas is a role-playing video game with a post-apocalyptic theme. As the title suggests, the story takes place in Las Vegas, Nevada, but at a different time (year 2281).

In addition to the massive open-world environment and engaging storyline, this game is praised for its mini-games, including the ones related to casinos. Players will find six casinos in the Freeside, Sierra Madre, New Vegas Strip, and Primm, where they can play blackjack, roulette, and slots.

Winning at these games helps you earn chips. As you progress and gain more chips, you’ll receive various gifts, including beer, whiskey, absinthe, and even a dapper gambler suit. So, you can expect a mixture of consumable items and clothing.

Yakuza: Like a Dragon

Last but not least, we have Yakuza: Like a Dragon. This unique role-playing video game was released in 2020. Even though it’s part of the Yakuza series, this is the first one that uses turn-based RPG elements.

On the other hand, this is not the first video game of the series where you can enjoy various gambling activities. Still, these activities are more attractive than ever since it’s a relatively new game.

Yakuza: Like a Dragon lets you play five types of casino mini-games. Interestingly, you should expect two types of gambling facilities: Western casinos and Japanese gambling halls. You must purchase chips to start playing.

One of the most interesting mini-games is blackjack, which you can play in two locations. You can play with low, high, and VIP stakes and win up to 20,000 chips. Furthermore, many players are focused on playing poker, a classic card game where skills play a significant role.

If you prefer genuine games of chance, Yakuza: Like a Dragon lets you test your luck by playing slot machines.