How three gaming classics have evolved

Classics are called that for a reason, as they’ve all stood the test of time. Still, it’s only natural to start wanting something at least a little different to shake up the formula after so many years of the same thing.

It’s for this reason that so many variations exist for the classic games. Whether it’s through unique theming or by adding in extra mechanics, there are plenty of ways to breathe some new life into an old favourite.

From Texas Hold ‘Em to Slingo Bingo, let’s take a look at a few of the most popular variations on casino gaming classics and how they innovate on their original versions.

Texas Hold ‘Em

Poker is a card game that has spawned plenty of variants over the centuries. The simple core gameplay of comparing hands of cards makes it easy to create new twists on this classic.

When it comes to popularity, though, Texas Hold ‘Em takes the crown as far as forms of Poker go. This variation is probably what most people think of when they hear the name Poker, and the one you’ll have the easiest time finding a game of.

Rather than playing with just the cards in their own hand, players have access to the five community cards that are progressively dealt onto the table. When everyone is using those same cards to complete their hands this creates a new flavour of interplay for all the players around the table.

Blackjack

While it’s a card game staple in its own right now, Blackjack started out life as a variant itself. Blackjack was initially just a side-bet offered if a player was dealt a winning pair totalling 21 in their first two cards.

But, in terms of branding, Blackjack sounds a little catchier than continuing to call the game Twenty-One!

That said, casinos still offer a variety of side-bets across their Blackjack games which vary up the win conditions of the game. This gives players more options to consider when choosing whether to be dealt another card or not, rather than just going on the chances of whether they’ll go bust by hitting a total higher than 21.

Slingo

This last entry is less of a pure variation and more of a fusion. Rather than just being a spin on elements of Bingo, Slingo brings in features from the world of Slots in order to create a fresh experience.

With a 5×5 grid straight off a Bingo card and a set of spinning reels, Slingo pulls from these two classics in its quest to give players a game that’s both innovative but familiar.

Rather than waiting for a caller to give them numbers, players can mark off the numbers generated by each spin of the reels.

In another twist on the Bingo formula, courtesy of its Slots inspiration, it’s not just numbers but also special symbols that can come up on the reels. Jokers offer players the chance to mark off any spot of their choosing, while Devils ‘block’ off one reel for the spin they appear on.

In terms of variety, the gaming scene is thriving with many different versions of the same classics on offer. There are sure to be plenty more to come in the future too.


Disclaimer:

  • As per the Public Gambling Act of 1867, all Indian states, except Goa, Daman and Sikkim, prohibit gambling

  • Land-based casinos are legalized, with certain guidelines, in Goa and Daman, as per the Goa, Daman and Diu Public Gambling Act 1976  

  • Land-based casinos, Online gambling and E-gaming (games of chance) are legalized in Sikkim under the Sikkim Online Gaming (Regulation) Rules 2009

  • Only some Indian states have legalized online/regular lotteries as per and subject to the conditions laid down by state laws. Kindly refer to the same here

  • Horse racing and betting on horse racing, including online betting, is permitted only in a licensed premise in select states. Kindly refer to the 1996 Judgement by the Supreme Court Of India here and for more information

  • This article does not endorse or express the views of Qrius and/or any of its staff