Written by: Kim Birch | The review was last updated: 03 July 2024 | Fact-check by: Jasmin Williams
Card games, whether you're playing one-on-one or with a group, are a top choice for a bit of fun and a flutter. A standard deck of 52 cards opens up heaps of options for hours of entertainment. Games like Euchre and Blackjack are hugely popular and you'll find people playing them everywhere from house parties to the casino.
Given how common these games are, most Kiwis know at least one or two card games. But there's a whole world of popular card games out there that many people haven't heard of. Some punters don't even know the names of the four suits!
Collectible card games are also gaining traction, so this article is perfect for anyone after a quick intro to playing cards. We've put together some brief overviews of the most popular card games for gambling.
Whether you're matching cards, hiding them, or playing with a full hand, card games offer just as much strategy and skill as any board game you might play.
While the French standardised the classic 52-card deck with four suits back in the 1400s, card games actually originated in Asia centuries earlier. As time went on, heaps of classic gambling games emerged, and cards became a must-have for any betting session.
These days, there are loads of different card sets out there, and many games use unique decks rather than the classic 52-card set with spades, clubs, hearts, and diamonds. But the popularity of the standard deck is still unbeatable, and some of the most loved games like Poker, online Baccarat, and Blackjack all use it.
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Kiwi card games: Classic trick-taking and fresh online options
The classic 52-card deck is the go-to for most card games, whether you're playing online or at the local pub. It's pretty much the standard everywhere you look.
Let's break it down a bit. Your typical deck has 4 suits with 13 cards each. Chuck in a joker for each suit and you've got yourself 52 cards plus 4 jokers. Now, those jokers aren't always part of the action - some games use them, others don't.
Jokers are the wildcards in many games, including some casino poker variants. They're like the chameleons of the card world, stepping in for any card you need. Interestingly, jokers don't have a suit or rank of their own.
You've got your black suits - clubs and spades - and your red ones - diamonds and hearts. Each with its own symbol, of course.
Most card games you'll come across are based on rules around these 52 cards - their ranks, suits, and how they match up.
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Kiwis can enjoy Card Games online and at live tables too
Card game experts have sorted these games into different categories based on how they're played and what you're trying to achieve. Here are the 4 main types of card games you'll often see:
In these games, players swap cards with each other or from a deck in the middle of the table. Rummy games are classic examples of this type.
Most trick-based card games have you playing your cards face-up on the table, and everyone can see who wins each round. These are often the first card games kids learn, and they're usually a hit with the younger ones. Hearts, Spades, and Bridge are some well-known examples.
In these games, players compare their hands to see who's got the best one. Blackjack variants are prime examples of this type.
These card games are typically played by one person. The goal is usually to arrange the deck in a certain way using specific rules. Some solitaire games can also be played competitively.
Each card game has its own objective, but most fall into one of these categories:
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Player count impacts table manners in Kiwi card games.
Card games are all about playing fair and square. These games are for decent players, and cheating is a big no-no in every game.
Watch any old Western flick, and you'll see why manners matter in games. In those films, getting a hiding or worse is pretty common if you're caught cheating at Poker or other games.
So, the golden rule of card games is NO CHEATING. Full stop.
There are other unwritten rules you should pick up on too.
No one likes it when you zone out and slow things down. A bit of chat is fine, but not if it holds up play. When you're in a game, focus on the cards. If you want to yarn, catch up over a cuppa instead.
If you're hosting, make sure your gear like cards and chips are in decent nick. No one wants to use tatty stuff, so if you can't sort it, maybe let someone else host. It's a small thing, but it matters.
Unless everyone's careful, it's best to avoid eating or drinking while playing. You don't want to muck up the cards or other kit.
Stick to the usual card dealing routines in every game.
Don't peek at your cards until everyone's been dealt.
The dealer should time it right when asking a player to cut the deck. Cut with one hand only, towards the dealer, who then finishes up and puts the rest on top.
Deal clockwise, starting left. One card at a time to each player, then repeat if needed.
Don't have a go at how others play, and keep your thoughts to yourself on hands you're not in.
These are just some key points to remember when you're at the card table. Keep them in mind and you'll be sweet.
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This list covers popular casino card games you'll find in both online and brick-and-mortar casinos across New Zealand.
Better yet, many of these games are available in live formats, letting you play with real dealers and other punters.
Keep in mind that live casino games involve real money. Make sure you're comfortable before diving in. If you need to brush up on your skills, most sites offer free demo versions to practice without risking your hard-earned cash.
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Kiwis flock to BlackJack as top online card game in 2022.
When it comes to popular card games, BlackJack always gets a mention. Recent polls and rankings show it's now the most widely played card game globally, even surpassing Poker.
Many Poker enthusiasts have a soft spot for BlackJack too. The game pits you against the dealer, not other players, as you compare cards.
The goal in BlackJack is straightforward: beat the dealer's hand. You can win by scoring 21 points with your first two cards (a BlackJack), ending up with a higher score than the dealer, or letting the dealer bust by exceeding 21.
Like most pokies, BlackJack comes in classic and modern flavours. Popular variants include Double Exposure BlackJack, Vegas Style BlackJack, and Pontoon.
Quick Facts:
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Pokerstars: Top choice for Kiwis keen on online Poker
Poker stands out as the only game where punters face off against each other rather than the house. The casino makes its dosh by taking a rake (a scaled commission) from each pot, but skilled players can still rake in massive winnings even after paying this fee.
Poker's a bit of a complex beast compared to other card games. Its rules and intricacies make it ideal for seasoned gamblers. You can craft various winning strategies and systems, outsmart your opponents, and choose your competition. Like any card game, there's no 'perfect' or 'optimal' way to play Poker - your approach depends entirely on who you're up against.
To stay on top, a Poker player needs to keep practicing and tweaking their strategy. There's always room for improvement, no matter how good you are. Even if you're the top dog, someone else might come up with a better way to counter your moves.
So, if you're keen on regular high-stakes gambling, you've got to keep your game sharp and your strategy fresh.
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Give Mini Baccarat a go and learn the ropes
Baccarat's a favourite among high-rolling punters, including Phil Ivey, the poker legend, and BETO's own Ricki Kristensen. In each round, hands are played between the Player and Banker, both aiming to get as close to 9 points as possible.
As a punter, you bet on either the Player's side or the Banker's side. Fresh bets are placed after each round, before two cards are dealt to both sides.
In Baccarat, 10s and face cards are worth zero, aces count as one, and 2-9 cards keep their face value. If the total exceeds 10, the first digit is dropped.
For example, ♠5 and ♥4 total nine points, while ♦8 and ♠8 equal 6 points (16 minus 10).
After dealing, the action kicks off. An 8 or 9 is called a 'natural' and ends the round immediately.
Without a natural, the Player draws on 5 or less, stands on 6 or 7. The Banker's action depends on the Player's moves and follows specific rules.
Player bets pay even money, while Banker bets pay even minus a 5% commission due to a statistical edge. Ties pay 8 to 1. Some casinos offer side bets like Banker Pair or Player Pair.
Give it a go - you might find yourself getting as hooked as the high rollers!
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Get stuck into thrilling Pontoon
Pontoon's a bit of a tricky one - it's actually two different card games, both often lumped in with blackjack. In most places, it's pretty much the same as your standard blackjack. But in some parts, they've got their own version that they call Pontoon.
The easiest way to spot Pontoon is to listen out for 'Stick' and 'Twist'. Online, it uses one 52-card deck, and 'Stick' means 'Buy', while 'Twist' means 'Hit'. If you're into blackjack, you'll pick it up quick smart.
For those new to it, we reckon you should give the free demo a go first. It's a good way to get your head around the rules before you start putting your hard-earned cash on the line.
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Casino War: A straightforward Kiwi favourite in the card game scene
If you're after the simplest card game in a casino, look no further than 'Casino War'. Anyone who's played 'War' as a kid will pick this up in no time.
Casino War kicks off with the punter placing a bet. Then, both the player and dealer get one card each from a six-deck shoe - that's standard for most games.
The goal couldn't be more straightforward: draw a card that outranks the dealer's. Two is low, Ace is high - unlike some other card games where Ace can be either.
It's dead simple. Beat the dealer's card and you win even money. Lose, and your bet's gone. If you tie, you can either 'go to War' by doubling your bet, or fold and lose half your original wager.
In the War round, three cards are burned, then you and the dealer each get another. Win this, and you get even money on your War bet, while your original bet's a push. Lose, and both bets are toast. Another tie? You can keep going if you fancy.
Some casinos offer bonus bets for consecutive War rounds, which can spice things up a bit.
Our resident card sharp at BETO.com, Kim Birch, reckons the house edge in Casino War sits at 2.88% if you always go to War on a tie. Always folding? That bumps it up to 3.7%.
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Enjoy laid-back card games with your mates and whānau
Looking for a simple card game to play with a mate, family, or on a first date? There are heaps of easy-to-learn options that'll keep you entertained for hours. Here are some top picks for two players:
This classic game is all about making pairs. You ask your opponent for cards, and if they have what you're after, they hand them over. If not, you're told to "go fish" and draw from the deck. The player with the most pairs at the end wins. It's dead simple and works for more than two players too.
Crazy 8 is a shedding game where you're trying to get rid of all your cards. In the two-player version, you each start with 7 cards. You can play cards that match the suit or number of the top card on the discard pile. 8s are wild and let you change the suit. If you can't play, you draw until you can. First to ditch all their cards wins the round.
Duel is a memory game that'll really test your noggin. You each lay out a full deck and take turns flipping cards. If you make a pair, you keep it. The game goes until someone nabs 27 pairs. It's all about remembering card positions and using a bit of strategy to outfox your opponent. Simple rules, but the gameplay can get pretty intense!
These games are perfect for a quick round at the pub or a lazy arvo at home. Give them a go and see which one becomes your new favourite!
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Kiwi Card Games: Simple Yet Packed with Fun
These card games are dead simple but pack a real punch when it comes to fun for two players.
There's a card game for every occasion. You've got your friendly games, ones that give your brain a workout, puzzle types, classic casino favourites, and easy games that are brilliant for breaking the ice.
Just a heads up, you can play loads of these card games for free right here on BETO.com. We've linked up demo versions of heaps of popular card games. Give them a go and you'll be a card shark in no time!
Have at it!
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Card games are a classic way to have a good time. Grab a deck and you're sorted for hours of entertainment. While they're pretty straightforward, some folks still have a few questions about card games that might stop them from giving it a go.
We've put together this comprehensive FAQ to clear up any confusion and get you playing.
A typical deck of cards has 52 in total. You'll find four suits with 13 cards each, plus a joker for every suit. Keep in mind that the joker isn't always part of the standard deck, as not every game uses it.
Card games have been a top choice for entertainment for yonks. Heaps of different games have sprung up using these cards, with some of the most popular being Poker, Baccarat, and BlackJack. Whether you're keen on a casual game with mates or hitting the casino, these card games offer a good mix of skill and chance for Kiwi punters.
Card games come with a variety of winning methods. Some require you to play all your cards, while others focus on collecting high-value hands. These different approaches split card games into a few main types: Swapping, Trick-Taking, Solo Play, and Comparing. Each style has its own unique strategies and appeal for Kiwi punters.
A typical deck has 52 cards split into 4 suits. Each suit contains 13 cards: numbers 1 to 10, followed by the Jack, Queen, and King. The cards usually follow this order for ranking, with higher numbers trumping lower ones. It's a straightforward system that forms the basis for heaps of popular card games played in Kiwi homes and pubs alike.
You don't always have to put money on the line when playing card games. Plenty of Kiwis enjoy a friendly game without any stakes. Just grab some mates, deal out the cards, and play for bragging rights. If you're keen on poker, for instance, you could use chips without any cash value attached. It's a great way to have a laugh and brush up on your skills without risking your hard-earned dollars.
Card games are a big hit at online casinos. You'll find pretty much every card game you'd play in person available online too - Baccarat, BlackJack, Pontoon, Bridge, the lot. Just pop into an online casino that offers card games and take your pick.
Good manners are crucial when playing card games. If you're keen on joining a serious table, you'll need to follow the rules and etiquette. The golden rule? Don't cheat. It's not just frowned upon - you could cop a lifetime ban from casinos or even end up in the slammer. Keep distractions to a minimum during play, and make sure the cards and chips are up to scratch.
Keen on card games? Online casinos now bring the real deal to your living room with Live Card Games. You can play your favourite games with actual dealers, all from the comfort of your couch. These games happen in real-time at a studio, and you get to watch it all unfold on your screen. It's like being at the casino, minus the hassle of getting there.
Looking for some easy card games to play with a mate? Duel, Crazy 8, and Go Fish are top picks. They're dead simple to learn and you can get stuck in straight away. Perfect for a quick game night or when you're keen for a bit of friendly competition without the fuss.
Keen to up your game? Just like anything else, you can sharpen your skills in card games by putting in the practice. The good news is that heaps of online card games offer demo versions you can try without spending a cent. These demos are brilliant for honing your gameplay. Here at BETO.com, you'll find demo versions of all your favourite card games ready to go.
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