Video games are an incredible source of entertainment on their own, but some titles also come with exciting mini games that make the whole experience even more thrilling. And as the popularity of online gambling continues to rise, casino-themed elements are becoming a common addition to the world of video gaming. Mini games inspired by wagering are a great way to pause the usual gameplay and try out something new, and if wish to learn more about their development, continue reading.
The History of Casino-Themed Mini Games
Casino-themed mini games started appearing in popular video games in the 1980s, but back in that time, they only appeared once in each title. Basically, you would come across an amusing fruity slot at one point, and that used to be a great chance to pass the level in a fun and easy way. In the 90s, video games continued to feature such elements, which helped online gambling rise from a small niche to a mainstream practice. During the decade, fruity slots were still the most commonly used theme. And even though mini games saw a decline in demand in the early 2000s, they managed to get back on track in recent years, and now they are included in some of the most iconic game titles out there.
The Popularity of Gambling As a Theme?
Gambling has been one of the most popular pastimes of the modern world, and thanks to the rise of online casinos, it is now more accessible than ever. Today’s players can choose from a wide variety of online casino games, and they can enjoy all of them from the comfort of their homes. As such, wagering is a theme loved by many, and it has entered different parts of mainstream culture including music, films, and of course, video games.
Game developers were among the first ones to recognize the appeal of gambling, and by incorporating casino-themed sections, they managed to keep their users both engaged and intrigued. Even when the titles of the video games are seemingly unrelated to gambling, the addition of mini games makes complete sense, as it gives players a suitable downtime from primary missions, and a chance to win exciting bonus items or even some in-game cash.
Best Examples of Casino-Themed Mini Games
Let’s go over some of the most popular titles that feature amazing mini games inspired by gambling:
Super Mario 64 (1996)
Super Mario has been a household item back in the 1990s and the early 2000s, and the demand for the game is still pretty high. Even though some people find it surprising that Super Mario involves gambling fixes, even though they are far from the standard interpretation of table games, the majority of players find it pretty amusing. In fact, the majority of users love the Mario-inspired twist that transforms the gambling aspect for the better. Once you access Luigi’s casino, you will get to enjoy table games that are unique and incredibly entertaining. On top of that, you can also choose from a selection of slots, and all of them will feature elements inspired by Super Mario.
Final Fantasy VII (1997)
Final Fantasy has been around for decades, and during that time, it captured the hearts of players from all over the world. The game is set in The Gold Saucer – a now legendary towering amusement park that was built over the ruins of Old Corel. The excitement of the park is the core element of the game, and it is exactly what keeps users coming back for more. The Gold Saucer offers a number of fun activities, including a variety of mini games where some also involve gambling. For example, users are particularly fond of the Triple Triad, a colourful game with a 3×3 grid that resembles a slot machine. The goal here is to collect all card variations on the board in a single colour of your choice before your opponent beats you to it.
The Sims 3 (2009)
This famous life-simulation game allows you to create your own Sim (a virtual person), and take charge of all aspects of its life. As such, the Sims does not involve and wild adventures and explosions, but it surely involves lots of excitement. As a player, you get to buy additional content at the game’s marketplace, and this is exactly where you can unlock the casino experience. The additional features include a virtual casino known as the Lucky Simoleon, and in order to enable your Sim to play, you will need to level up its ability to gamble. Once you do so, you will get access to a variety of online casino games. Besides all the fun that you are bound to have, your Sim will benefit from all that practice, especially when it’s all paired with the Lucky characteristic.
Fallout New Vegas (2010)
Fallout New Vegas is one of the most remarkable role-playing games, and its appeal is boosted by attractive casino bonuses. The gameplay is set in a post-apocalyptic world where the futuristic atmosphere is paired with some classic elements of modern Las Vegas. The storyline features a major global conflict between China and the United States that culminates with the use of nuclear weapons. The world as we know it is veiled in a catastrophe, and as a player, you get the role of the Courier who needs to deliver an important package to New Vegas. Of course, the road to delivery is tough, especially if you choose Hardcore as the setting. And as the events are set in Vegas, gambling is one of the core elements of the game. There are several casinos you can find throughout the gameplay, and each of them offers its own set of titles to play, including variants of roulette, blackjack, and slots. You’ll be playing in low-deposit casinos, and besides money, you can also win food and drinks that will help the protagonist’s recovery.
Red Dead Redemption (2010)
Red Dead Redemption has been a hit ever since it was launched in 2010, and the game is particularly loved for its spectacular open-world environments, gripping narrative, and varied gameplay. It follows the adventures of Arthur Morgan, a gang member involved in robberies, heists, hunting, horse riding, and of course, gambling. In fact, out of six mini games involved in this title, four are inspired by wagering. When players wish to take a break from shootouts, they can engage in dominoes, blackjack, and five-finger filet. However, as time went by, it became clear that RDR offers a particularly fun experience when it comes to Texas Hold’em Poker. In fact, this title’s implementation of the iconic casino game is among the most authentic and immersive ones in the world of console gaming. In order to have success, players need to learn to read the moves of their opponents, and if they do everything right, they can win sizeable amounts of cash.
Grand Theft Auto Online (2013)
Grand Theft Auto Online is one of the most iconic video games known to today’s players, and a large portion of them agrees that the title’s addition called Diamond Casino & Resort was worth the initial anticipation. While some see it only as a fun mini game, if you get into it, you will discover a fully-fledged blend of the well-known GTA atmosphere and the exciting world of gambling. As they enter the Vinewood resort, players can engage in table games, bet in-game chips on horse racing, and try their chances with a lucky wheel. But besides being a top-notch gaming centre, the venue is also the setting of some carefully planned heists. And as players make progress, one way or another, they get to buy VIP memberships and on-site penthouses and enjoy perks that include access to high-limit tables and concierge services.
The Witcher 3 (2015)
The Witcher 3 is one of the finest RPGs ever made, thanks to its engaging plot and captivating gameplay. Once you launch the game, you take the role of a mighty swordsman that has the power to control crowds. You get to go on adventures, kill enemies, rescue the kidnapped, and much more. However, when you’re in need of money and other resources, you can either go bounty hunting or simply get involved in a card game. This is where Gwent comes into play. It is an exciting card game that serves as an excellent diversion from all the monster slaughtering and other gruesome activities. Not only it was welcomed by Witcher 3 players, but it became so popular that it inspired the development of Gwent: The Witcher Card Game as a stand-alone release that was almost as well-received as the original title.
There has always been a strong connection between gambling and video games, and software developers have been using it for decades to boost the level of entertainment offered by their products. Thanks to that, today you can engage in exciting video games with fun casino-themed mini games that can help you take a step back from the demanding gameplay, and maybe even win some cash in the process.
