Casino nights have a way of turning any event into something special — the laughter, the suspense, and the little moments of celebration around the tables. But if you’re not familiar with casino games, the choices can sound a bit confusing. Do you go with roulette, blackjack, poker… or even games like craps and baccarat?
The truth is, while there are lots of casino games out there, three stand out as the most popular when it comes to casino games hire: roulette, blackjack, and poker. These are the tables that guests naturally gravitate to, because they’re fun, social, and easy to jump into — even for beginners.
In this blog, we’ll take a closer look at each of these top three games, explain why they’re favourites, and show how they can work together at a party. We’ll also touch briefly on other games you might see, but the focus here is on the ones that make the biggest impact at parties, fundraisers, and corporate functions.
Roulette Hire – The Classic Casino Favourite
There’s nothing more iconic than the spin of the roulette wheel. It’s the game everyone recognises, and it instantly draws a crowd. Roulette hire is a top choice because the rules are simple: place your chips on numbers, colours, or sections of the board, and wait for the wheel to decide.
Roulette has been called the “queen of casino games” and for good reason. The excitement builds as the ball spins and everyone leans in to see where it lands. Unlike some games that only involve the players, roulette is as entertaining for spectators as it is for those placing bets.
Why it works so well:
- Easy for beginners – anyone can join without knowing strategy.
- Social – people love to watch together and cheer each spin.
- Visually exciting – the wheel and chips create atmosphere.
Best occasions for roulette hire:
- Larger parties or weddings, where you want an inclusive game everyone can try.
- Corporate functions where you want staff and clients mixing.
- Fundraisers, because it’s easy to link spins to prizes.
Learn more about [roulette table hire] and why it’s always a party favourite.
Blackjack Hire – Fast, Fun, and Easy to Learn
If roulette is the spectacle, blackjack hire is the heartbeat of a casino night. It’s quick, it’s exciting, and guests can learn the rules in just a minute or two: get as close to 21 as possible without going over, and beat the dealer.
Blackjack has long been one of the most widely played casino games in the world, thanks to its simple rules, fast pace, and the balance of luck with just a little strategy. Pop culture has also given blackjack a special place in people’s minds — from James Bond scenes to the film 21, where MIT students famously cracked the game in Las Vegas.
Why it works so well:
- Fast-paced rounds keep the energy up.
- Croupier explains the rules, so even total beginners can play.
- Interactive and social, with players side by side against the dealer.
Best occasions for blackjack hire:
- End-of-year work parties that need energy and interaction.
- Birthdays and private parties where not all guests know each other.
- Club or social nights where you want quick, fun games.
If you want the full breakdown, check out our [Blackjack hire guide]
Poker Table Hire – Strategy Meets Entertainment
For guests who like a little more competition, poker table hire brings strategy into the mix. The most common format is Texas Hold’em, where each player combines two personal cards with five community cards to make the best hand.
Poker is more than just a game; it’s a global phenomenon. Its history stretches back hundreds of years, and today it’s played everywhere from casual home games to televised tournaments like the World Poker Tour. The mix of chance, skill, and psychology makes poker a fascinating choice for events.
Why it works so well:
- More strategic – perfect for guests who enjoy a challenge.
- Camaraderie – poker tables spark banter and friendly rivalry.
- Flexible length – people can play a few hands or settle in for longer rounds.
Best occasions for poker table hire:
- Corporate entertainment where you want team-building with a twist.
- Smaller private functions, stag or hen parties, where competition adds fun.
- Events with a mix of game styles, offering balance to roulette and blackjack.
For a deeper look, see our blog on [poker hire for events]
How These Games Work Together at a Casino Party
The magic of a casino night is that guests don’t just play one game. They move between tables, try new experiences, and enjoy both the thrill of playing and the fun of watching others.
Here’s how they fit together:
- Roulette pulls in the crowd and creates buzz.
- Blackjack delivers quick, addictive rounds that keep guests engaged.
- Poker adds depth and competition for those who want a challenge.
At a well-run casino event, dealers (or croupiers) explain the rules so even beginners feel included. Guests rotate freely, giving the evening a natural flow. The result is a balance of main entertainment (roulette, blackjack) and side entertainment (poker or other smaller tables), making sure there’s something for every type of guest.
What About Other Casino Games?
While roulette, blackjack, and poker are the most popular for hire, you may also hear about craps and baccarat.
- Craps is a high-energy dice game that’s perfect for big groups but less common in New Zealand events.
- Baccarat is elegant and simple, with a James Bond vibe, often chosen for gala dinners or formal occasions.
They’re great additions if you want more variety, but for most parties and functions, the top three tables will give you all the excitement you need.
Why Casino Games Hire Is a Winning Choice
From the spin of the roulette wheel to the fast action of blackjack and the strategy of poker, casino games hire adds atmosphere, entertainment, and fun to any event. The right mix of tables depends on your occasion, your guests, and the style of party you want to create.
Whether it’s a corporate function, a fundraiser, or a private celebration, choosing the right combination of casino tables is the simplest way to guarantee a great evening of entertainment.
