Key Insights
Quick Answer
New table game variants are created by modifying existing rules, adding unique features, or combining popular elements from different games—then undergoing a regulatory approval process before reaching casinos.
Best Way To Get Better Results
If you’re trying a new table game variant, read the rules carefully. Some variants can have subtle changes that affect your betting strategy or game flow.
Biggest Advantage
You’ll understand the design process behind new table games, how to assess a variant’s appeal, and why some variants succeed in casinos while others fail.
Common Mistake
Not knowing how the rules have changed in a variant. Even a small rule tweak can completely change how the game plays.
Pro Tip
If a new table game variant seems too complicated, test it with small bets before committing to a full session.
The Evolution of Table Games: Why Variants Are Constantly Released
Table games like blackjack and roulette have been staples in casinos for centuries. So why do providers continue to release new variants?
- Player demand: Players love variety, and casinos need new content to attract attention and keep their offerings fresh.
- Customization: New variants can offer unique betting options or rules to appeal to niche players.
- Streamlined play: Some variants are designed to speed up play and reduce downtime, especially in live dealer formats.
Ultimately, table game providers create new variants to offer something that feels familiar yet fresh—enough to attract interest but still based on proven gameplay.
How Game Designers Start Creating New Table Game Variants
The process of designing a new table game variant often starts with a few simple goals:
- Innovate while keeping the core game intact: For example, introducing a side bet in blackjack or adding a progressive jackpot to roulette.
- Make it easy to learn: Players are often familiar with the base game (blackjack, roulette, etc.), so the new variant must be easy to grasp without requiring too much explanation.
- Balance novelty with familiarity: A new variant shouldn’t stray too far from what players know and love. Too many changes could lead to confusion or pushback.
The Process of Creating a New Variant
- Identify the game base: Start with a familiar game like blackjack, baccarat, or roulette.
- Introduce a unique element: This could be a new rule, side bet, bonus feature, or betting structure.
- Prototype the variant: Create a mock-up to test how the variant plays and whether it’s fun or engaging.
- Test the variant: Test it internally with small groups to see how it feels and adjust accordingly.
- Gather feedback: Present the variant to players in controlled environments (like focus groups or beta tests) to gauge reaction.
Why Some Variants Succeed and Others Fail
A successful variant usually brings something new and exciting while maintaining the core gameplay. An unsuccessful variant often feels like a gimmick or doesn’t offer a satisfying player experience.
For example:
- Success: Casino War, a simplified variant of blackjack with a fun “war” element, became popular because of its fast pace and easy rules.
- Failure: Some roulette variants that introduce too many side bets or new rules may confuse players, leading to low adoption.
Regulatory Approval: How Table Game Variants Get the Green Light
Before a new table game variant can hit the casino floor, it needs to go through a regulatory approval process. The steps typically include:
- Initial design approval: The provider submits the game rules and mechanics to the relevant gaming authority to ensure it meets regulatory standards.
- Testing and auditing: The game is tested for fairness, compliance, and consistency. This may include simulations of gameplay and verification of random number generation (RNG) systems.
- Certification: Once the game passes testing, it is certified for use in specific jurisdictions.
- Casino adoption: Casinos may choose whether to adopt the new variant, often influenced by market demand, player interest, and the casino’s overall strategy.
This regulatory process is essential to ensure that new variants are fair and transparent for players, and to maintain the integrity of the casino environment.
If you want to understand how certification and compliance work for new games, read The Impact of Regulation on New Game Mechanics (Article #50).
How Casinos Decide Which New Table Game Variants to Feature
Once a new table game variant has passed regulatory approval, casinos must decide whether or not to offer it on their floors. Here’s what casinos consider:
1) Player Demand
- Is there interest in the new variant?
- Are players asking for it, or is it just something that the casino thinks will work?
2) Ease of Play
- Is the variant easy for players to understand without a lot of explanation?
- Does it add to the casino experience or complicate it unnecessarily?
3) Profitability
- Does the variant have a higher house edge that will be profitable for the casino in the long run?
- Are there side bets or progressive jackpots that could increase the casino’s take?
4) Pacing and Flow
- Does the game flow well with the casino’s other offerings?
- Does it speed up or slow down the action compared to the base game?
5) Casino Branding
- Does the new variant fit with the casino’s brand identity or overall gaming experience?
- Does it appeal to the casino’s target audience (high rollers, casual players, etc.)?
How New Table Game Variants Are Marketed to Players
Once a table game variant is available, marketing plays a key role in getting players to try it. Here are some common ways that new table games are marketed:
- Banners and Promotions: Casinos will often feature new variants with banners in the lobby or offer free play promotions to get players interested.
- Live Dealer Integration: New variants may be promoted through live dealer games, where the excitement and interaction of the dealer can help players get engaged with the variant.
- Tournaments and Side Bets: Many casinos host special tournaments or side bets tied to new table variants, offering additional incentives for players to try them out.
Player Tip
Check out the rules before trying a new variant, especially if there are side bets or progressive jackpots involved. These can drastically change the betting strategy.
A Simple Example With Numbers
Imagine a new blackjack variant where players can place a side bet on the dealer’s hand.
In this variant, the odds are:
- Side bet pays 10:1 if the dealer’s hand is a pair
- Blackjack payout is still 3:2, but the side bet is now a key feature
When players engage with the side bet:
- The casino’s house edge increases on that side bet, but the base game remains the same
- Players may be drawn in by the new opportunity to win bigger
This small change can make a familiar game feel exciting without radically changing the base gameplay.
Common Traps To Watch For
Common Traps To Watch For
Trap one
Assuming a new variant is “better” because it’s new. More complexity doesn’t always lead to more enjoyment. Sometimes simpler is better.
Trap two
Chasing bonuses or side bets without understanding the odds. Side bets often come with a higher house edge, so make sure you know what you’re getting into.
Trap three
Assuming the game is the same across all casinos. Not all casinos will offer the same table variants, so check availability before playing.
Quick Checklist
Step 1: Understand the core mechanic and how it differs from the base game.
Step 2: Check the rules, especially for side bets or additional features.
Step 3: Test with smaller bets to see if the variant fits your style.
Step 4: Look for promos and tournaments to make the experience more exciting.
Step 5: Keep your sessions short and adjust your strategy if necessary.
FAQs About Table Game Variants
Why Do Casinos Release So Many Blackjack Variants?
Blackjack is hugely popular, so casinos release variants to keep the game fresh, introduce new features, and appeal to different types of players.
Are All Table Game Variants Fair?
Yes, but they must go through regulatory testing to ensure fairness. Always look for licensed and certified games.
What Makes A New Table Game Variant Successful?
Successful variants are easy to understand, add excitement without overwhelming players, and align with player preferences.
How Are Side Bets Different From Main Game Payouts?
Side bets are optional wagers that usually have higher payouts but also higher house edges. They add more excitement but can be riskier.
Should I Try A New Table Game Variant?
If it’s a game you enjoy (like blackjack or roulette), trying a new variant can be exciting. Just make sure you understand the new rules before diving in.
Where To Go Next
Now that you understand how new table game variants are designed and approved, the next step is learning how game developers use AI to refine gameplay—because AI is playing a bigger role in game development and testing.
Next Article: How Developers Use AI to Create New Casino Games (Article #14)
Next Steps
If you want to start with the basics, read The Complete Guide to New Casino Games (Article #0).
If you want to go one step deeper, read How New Slot Mechanics Are Invented (Article #6).
If your goal is to understand why new games are tested, use How Developers Test New Casino Games Before Launching (Article #4).
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