Vegas Survival School: The Comedy of How I Ended Up Teaching Tourists And Gambling Newbie's How Not to Go Broke!

 Years ago—back when the old Hilton Sportsbook still had that “vintage Vegas” aroma of cigar smoke, cheap cologne, and crushed parlay tickets—I ran a YouTube gambling show. Every week I’d sit there predicting sports scores like I had a crystal ball (I didn’t) and interviewing professional bettors who made me look like I was still learning how to shuffle a deck of cards!

Shockingly, the show did well. After a few seasons in, a major U.S. publication hired me to ghostwrite gambling content. That’s right—someone actually said, “Let’s pay this guy to talk about betting.” And I said, “Absolutely, before you change your mind.”

Fast‑forward to early 2024. I wandered back into writing about travel and casinos, mostly because I enjoy casino games a little too much. Slots, table games, poker—you name it, I’ll play it. At this point, I’m basically a gamble‑holic writer who loves the action, the stories, and the occasional miracle win that keeps you believing that the universe might actually like you!

I’d post pictures of my slot machine adventures—some wins, some losses, and a few “don’t ask” moments. My publisher saw the photos and said:

“Gary, it’s time you spilled the real secrets. Tourists need help. Beginners need help. Honestly, the casinos need help too.”

And they weren’t wrong.

After decades in Vegas, I’ve collected more insider tips, pit‑boss wisdom, and “you didn’t hear this from me” stories than any sane person should have. I’ve learned how the games work, how the players think, and how the casinos smile politely while taking your money.

So, I struck a deal with a publisher: I’m writing a weekly—or bi‑weekly if I’m not too busy losing at slot machines, 21, or poker—column called "A Gamble-Holic Writer's Guide To Casino Gambling 101." It’s for beginners, tourists, and anyone who wants to walk into a casino and walk out with at least some of their bankroll still alive.

Because at the end of the day, I’m just a guy who loves casino games, loves writing, and loves helping newbies avoid the classic “I lost my rent money, but the buffet was good” disaster.

If my advice helps you win a few chips—or at least lose them slower—then hey, I’ve taught you a thing or two! Maybe!

{My Take}

At the end of the day, I’m just a casino‑loving, slot‑spinning, card‑slinging gamble‑holic writer trying to help the newbies to gambling, and the rookies in Vegas keep their wallets intact. If I can teach even one tourist not to chase a slot machine like it owes them money or convince one beginner that blackjack isn’t played with “vibes,” then I’ve done my job. Stick with me, and maybe—just maybe—you’ll walk out of the casino with more money than you walked in with. Or at least with a good "should a' would a' could a' been a' win story!

Good Luck!

Gary England

Are There Better Days Of The Week Or Better Times Of The Day To Play Slot Machines In Las Vegas Casinos?

 I play slots and video poker, usually about four days a week. It's my little side hustle to help pay the bills. I've noticed that playing on certain days of the week or at specific times of the day seems to increase my chances of winning. I understand that luck plays a big role in winning. But is there something to my theory about what time of the day, or what days of the week that I play, may be making a difference in whether I win or lose?

I asked two of my friends who are slot machine techs in Las Vegas if my theory held any water that certain days of the week, or certain times of the day better my chances of winning?

This is what I learned from our conversations.

Here's a breakdown of whether certain days or times offer better chances of winning.

Odds/Returns: Are Some Days or Times Better?

Technically, no.
Slot machines in Las Vegas are governed by random number generators (RNGs) and are regulated by the Nevada Gaming Control Board. This means:

Payout percentages are set by the machine's software, not the time of day or day of the week.

Casinos do not “loosen” or “tighten” machines depending on crowds or schedules (this is a myth).

Changing a machine’s payout percentage requires physically swapping out hardware or reprogramming, which can’t be done on the fly.

So, in terms of raw odds:

No time or day offers better actual payout odds.

BUT—Some Times May Feel Better to Play:

While odds don’t change, your experience and strategy can be affected by when you play.

Good Times to Play (Experience-wise):

Early mornings (2–6 AM): Fewer crowds, more machine availability, quieter.

Weekdays (Mon–Thurs): Less busy than weekends, meaning less competition for your favorite machines.

Right after a machine has had a lot of play without a jackpot, some people chase "due" machines, although again, this is psychological, not statistically proven.

Busy Times (Weekends, Evenings):

More energy, people hitting jackpots, free drinks flowing faster.

Promotions or drawings are often held on Friday/Saturday nights.

If you're playing for social vibes or comps, weekend evenings may actually be the best time.

Comps & Promotions:

Some casinos offer slot tournaments, bonus multiplier days, or tier point promos that can make certain days/times more lucrative in terms of rewards, even if the odds are the same.

Local casinos (off-strip) tend to do more player reward promos.

Sign up for the casino’s loyalty card and check the calendar.

{My Take}

In the end, while the odds of winning on slot machines in Las Vegas don’t change based on the day or time, your overall experience can vary greatly. Whether you prefer the calm of early mornings, the excitement of weekend crowds, or the perks of player promotions, choosing the right time to play can enhance your enjoyment and potentially maximize your rewards. So while there's no magic hour for hitting the jackpot, finding the time that best fits your style and goals can make all the difference in your Vegas slot experience.

One last tip: Check the player's club desk or app for daily slot promotions—that’s where you might really find a “better” time to play in a practical sense.

Good Luck ..

GE

My Tricks Of The Trade On How To Pick The Best Slot Machines In A Las Vegas Casino

One of my major passions in life is playing adult video games, slot machines! 

If you're one of my Facebook friends, it may look like I win pretty much anytime that I play. The truth is that I play a lot. So, the odds catch up with me because I'm a daily player. 

My Take Yesterday.

There are tricks of the slot machine trade. 

Hopefully, some of these tricks will help you win next time you play.

Choosing the best slot machines in a Las Vegas casino can feel like a mix of strategy, superstition, and luck. While slot outcomes are always random, there are ways to improve your experience and potentially boost your chances of winning. Here are a few of the tricks that I've learned over the years.

Understand the Machine Types

Not all slots are created equal:

• Classic Slots – Simple, 3-reel machines. Great for beginners.

• Video Slots – 5 reels with advanced features, themes, and bonus rounds.

• Progressive Slots – Jackpots grow with each play. Huge wins are possible, but the odds are lower.

• Loose Slots – Machines with higher payout percentages. The holy grail!

Know the RTP (Return to Player)

• RTP is the percentage of money bet that a machine will pay back over time.

• Look for machines with an RTP of 95% or higher.

• You won’t see the RTP displayed in casinos but ask staff or research online (some games have known RTPs by title).

Location, Location, Location

Casino myths say:

• Slots near high-traffic areas (entrances, shows, buffets) might be “looser” to attract players.

• Avoid machines tucked away in corners or by table games—they’re often tighter.

Pick a Machine That Fits Your Budget

• Low Denomination (1¢ - 25¢) = More spins, smaller wins.

• High Denomination ($1+) = Bigger wins, higher risk.

• Progressive machines often require max bets to qualify for the jackpot, so make sure your bankroll can handle it.

Play for Fun, Not Just Profit

• Choose machines with themes you enjoy (movies, music, pop culture).

• A machine that entertains you will make your experience more enjoyable—even if you don’t hit big.

Bonus Tips

• Sign up for a player’s card. Earn comps, free play, and rewards.

• Set a win/loss limit. Know when to walk away.

• Watch before you play. See how a machine performs for others—it may help you avoid a cold machine.

• Avoid chasing losses. Every spin is random, no matter what just happened.

{My Take}

My Biggest tip: I play as much as I can at the same two casinos. So, I know the lay of the casino. Which slots pay, and which slots seem to be tighter?

While there’s no guaranteed formula for winning at slots, understanding the types of machines, seeking out higher RTPs, and playing smart with your bankroll can give you an edge. But above all, the real jackpot is having fun. Whether you’re chasing a big win or just soaking up the Vegas vibe, pick a machine that keeps you entertained—and remember, every spin is a new chance to hit it big. 

Good luck out there, and may the reels be ever in your favor!

Good Luck!

GE

Vegas Slot Machines What Are The Odds?

 On my way to the poker room, I stopped by the penny machines and this happened.

Nine hundred bucks. Nice hit I thought to myself. Now I'm playing on the casino's money.

By the way. I never made it to the card tables. I took the money and ran.

Wouldn't it be nice to see this more often!

What Are The Odds Of Hitting A Bonus Or A Jackpot On Slot Machines?

The odds of hitting a bonus or jackpot on a slot machine depend on several factors, including the machine’s Return to Player (RTP) percentage, volatility, and random number generator (RNG) settings. Here's how I see it.

Odds of Hitting a Bonus Round

Many modern slots have bonus rounds triggered by landing specific symbols (e.g., three scatters).

The odds vary, but generally, bonus features hit every 50 to 200 spins on average.

High-volatility slots may have rarer but bigger bonus wins, while low-volatility slots hit bonuses more frequently with smaller payouts.

Odds of Hitting a Jackpot

Fixed Jackpots (set prize amounts) generally have better odds than progressive jackpots.

Progressive Jackpots (which grow over time) can have astronomical odds—often 1 in 10 million or more for major prizes like Megabucks or Wheel of Fortune.

Some machines require max bet to qualify for the top jackpot.

RTP & House Edge

RTP (Return to Player) is the long-term payout percentage (e.g., 96% RTP means the machine returns $96 for every $100 wagered over time).

A lower RTP means worse odds of hitting significant wins.

Slot Myths vs. Reality

MYTH: "Hot" and "Cold" machines exist.

REALITY: RNG ensures every spin is independent—previous spins don’t influence future ones.

MYTH: Playing at a certain time increases chances of winning.

REALITY: Jackpots and bonuses are randomly determined.

Best Strategies for Better Odds

Play higher RTP slots (above 96%).

Check the game’s volatility (low for frequent small wins, high for bigger but rarer wins).

Bet wisely—some games require max bet for jackpot eligibility.

Set a budget and stick to it—slots are for entertainment, not a guaranteed win.

As for me, I'll take Luck over Skill when it comes to winning at slot machines!

GE