Who would have thought that one day it would be possible to play games themselves? You are not dreaming, many video games now include in-game casino mini-games. Their importance lies in their ability to take a break between the different main sequences, while allowing players to explore game mechanics – it must be admitted – that are sometimes unexpected. In this article we will explore some of the best casino mini games integrated into video games, which do more than just fill gaps in the gameplay.
Poker in Red Dead Redemption
Arthur Morgan could not have known Cresus Casino, but that never stopped him from playing poker! In Red Dead Redemption, it's a captivating mini-game which faithfully simulates the games in the era of the Wild West. Players can sit at the table with virtual opponents and participate in wild Texas Hold'em games.
The impact on immersion and player experience is significant. By immersing players in the authentic atmosphere of the saloons of the Wild West, poker becomes a way to relax and immerse yourself even more in the world of gaming. This mini-game brings real added value to the Rockstar Games title, with players appreciating not only the quality of the gameplay, but also the realism and atmosphere that it brings to the overall game experience.
Slot machines and roulette games in Final Fantasy VII
In Final Fantasy VII, the mini-games take place at Gold Saucer, a colorful amusement park. Players can spend their Gil and GP – the local currency – there to try their luck on a variety of casino games, with different themes and rewards.
The integration of the mini-game into the universe of Square Enix's title is consistent with the eccentric atmosphere of Gold Saucer. The arcades and mini-games add a fun dimension to this emblematic location of Final Fantasy VII, offering players a welcome break in their epic quest. In terms of influencing the game's narrative and progression, mini-games can provide useful rewards such as rare items or additional GP.
Blackjack in Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas (Rockstar Games)
Rockstar Games definitely likes to integrate casino mini-games into its titles! GTA San Andreas is no exception: the blackjack mini game offers players the opportunity to indulge in this classic card game in the various casinos scattered across the game's open world. Players bet virtual money and attempt to beat the bank by achieving a highest card score. as close as possible to 21, without exceeding it.
This mini-game fits perfectly into the context and general atmosphere of San Andreas, which features a protagonist evolving in a world of gangsters. Casinos and games of chance are an integral part of this environment, reinforcing the player's immersion in the GTA universe.
Gwent in The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt
Let's move away from well-known games and focus on innovative creations, like Gwent, which is a competitive card game played across the world of The Witcher 3. Players collect cards representing characters and creatures from the game universe and compete in strategic games to conquer the game board. This subtlety of gameplay provides a deep and immersive gaming experience, adding a dimension of strategy to the adventures of Geralt of Rivia.
Player reception to Gwent has been overwhelmingly positive, with some gamers even treating this mini-game as a real game in its own right. Its success was reflected in the creating standalone versions of the game and strengthened CD Projekt RED's reputation as an innovative and creative developer.
Casino games in Fallout: New Vegas
In Fallout: New Vegas, casino games are not only a distraction for the inhabitants of the Wasteland, but also a vital source of resources and progression for players. These mini-games of chance offer survivors a welcome respite from the harsh reality of their post-apocalyptic environment.
What makes these experiences unique is their subtle integration into the overall game economy. By winning blackjack games or winning poker tournaments, players accumulate casino credits which have very real value. These credits can be exchanged for objects essential to survival in the unforgiving desert, such as weapons, ammunition or even crucial information for the progression of the protagonist.
Pazaak in Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic (BioWare)
Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic features Pazaak’s game – popular card game played across the galaxy – which offers players an experience comparable to that offered by blackjack, but with some distinct nuances. The basic rules are based on aiming for a total of 20 points without going over, while using an initial hand of four cards numbered 1 to 10.
However, what really sets Pazaak apart are the special “+/–” cards that allow players to modify the values of their cards or add new ones in their hand. This mechanic adds an additional strategic dimension, requiring players to carefully evaluate the risks associated with each decision.
Conclusion
Casino mini-games have undeniably enriched the player experience in many video games, offering moments of entertainment, strategy and sometimes even tangible reward. But these games are not only there to offer a moment of respite in games that are often very dynamic and rhythmic... Their skillful integration in varied game worlds demonstrates their flexibility and their ability to adapt to different narrative and stylistic contexts. Finally, these mini-games contribute to the depth and richness of virtual worlds, reinforcing immersion and allowing players to explore side activities that are often as captivating as the main plot.