Any online or physical casino has a wide choice of games. That diversity is one of the reasons why casino play is so popular, and the selection is increasing all the time.

From long-established options such as roulette, blackjack, and slots, casinos also provide unusual titles, with lottery and Slingo starting to enter the equation.

The popularity of casinos means that they are embraced by popular culture. We see them in many films, but the continual rise in play means they have also been featured in various video games.

Essential Plot Angles

Video games want to be true to life, so casinos can sometimes provide an essential part of the landscape. They won’t be a natural fit for every title but will offer a realistic and logical location in many popular releases.

Out in the physical world, casino players are looking for those wins, and it’s the same in the digital world, with various top high-paying casinos available online. In the associated video game, the characters often frequent casinos with the same aim.

That’s the backdrop to casinos in video games, but which titles carry the best and most realistic gambling establishments?

GTA San Andreas

Casinos often play some form of role in Grand Theft Auto releases, but they are prominent in the San Andreas title. In the city of Las Venturas, there is a choice of establishments with the Four Dragons, Caligula’s Palace, and the Casino Floor in operation.

The best casinos in video games have to meet certain criteria. Ideally, they should be an important part of the story, and that’s the case here. Former gang member CJ is the main protagonist, and his activities take him right into the casino rooms.

Sound and graphics are essential, too, and the detail should be as realistic as possible. On all of those counts, GTA San Andreas hits the mark.

Red Dead Redemption

Casino play is a big part of the Red Dead Redemption series and can also be found in Red Dead Online. On this occasion, we are stepping back in time, so don’t expect to see the glitzy establishments of the modern day.

Red Dead Redemption allows players to transport themselves back to the Wild West, where they can be outlaws or law enforcement.

As anyone who has watched a top Western will testify, card games are an important part of many plots, and that’s the case here.

The casino play within Red Dead Redemption offers great sound and graphics but can also play a more critical role in the video game. One false move at the table could be game over for your character.

The Sims

As a game that is supposed to emulate true life, the Sims will stand and fall on its realism. The sequel has developed since its initial release, and in Sims 3, there is the option to play at the Lucky Simoleon Casino.

While the dealer may be a robot, everything else about the graphics and sounds is closer to real-life play. The many different gaming options available in Sims 3 mean that online casino players may head here to try something new.

Alongside classic titles, it’s possible to enjoy unique games, including Dead Man’s Hand Poker, Hit ‘Em Harder Blackjack, and Let it Ride Roulette.

Watch Dogs

It’s true to say that the casino element in the Watch Dogs game isn’t an essential part of the plot. However, it’s worth inclusion on this list simply for the realism and the stunning graphics employed.

Poker is the main focus here, and there are many mini-games that you can play in each episode. The concept of the series sees the main character upholding the law by taking on criminal bosses and the underworld. To do this, he has to enter their domains, and the casino crops up regularly.

Fallout: New Vegas

Post-apocalyptic games are popular as players look to rebuild civilization. In Fallout: New Vegas, much of the action occurs on the iconic strip, which has fallen to global destruction.

As the action unfolds and society looks to recover, top casino locations such as Tops and Lucky 38 feature. This is another example of great graphics and sound quality, and, in this game, the casinos and the Las Vegas strip are central to the story, which is a bonus.

Many other video games feature mini-casinos within the gameplay. We expect more releases incorporating roulette, blackjack, slots, etc.

It’s an enduring theme that will continue to play a part in many titles, but for now, these are the best casinos seen in current video games.