The Earliest Forms of Casino Games

Many Kiwis enjoy the thrill of online casino games today, from the strategic depths of Blackjack to the spinning excitement of online pokies. But have you ever paused to consider just how old these beloved pastimes truly are? The games we play on our smartphones and computers have roots stretching back centuries, evolving from simple pastimes into the sophisticated entertainment we know and love.

The popular casino games you encounter in 2025, whether at a land-based establishment or an online casino, carry with them a rich tapestry of history. Join us as we delve into the fascinating origins of some of the most iconic casino games, revealing their ancient beginnings and remarkable journeys through time.

Blackjack

The exact birth of Blackjack, or “twenty-one,” remains a subject of historical debate, with theories pointing to Roman, French, and Spanish origins. The most widely accepted theory traces its lineage to 17th-century France, where a game called “Vingt-et-Un” (meaning twenty-one) was popular in royal courts. This game shared the core objective of modern Blackjack: to reach a hand total of 21 without exceeding it. Spanish variations, like “One and Thirty,” aimed for 31 with at least three cards, showcasing similar numerical goals.

As “Vingt-et-Un” travelled across the Atlantic to North America, it gained popularity, particularly during the Klondike Gold Rush. It was here that the bonus payout for a hand consisting of an Ace and a ten-value card (a “blackjack”) gave the game its enduring name. Today, Blackjack remains a cornerstone of both land-based and online casinos, including those popular with New Zealand players. You can even enjoy the authentic casino experience with live blackjack from the comfort of your home.

Baccarat

Baccarat, a game synonymous with elegance and high stakes, also boasts a rich and somewhat mysterious past. Its origins are often attributed to medieval Italy, with the name “Baccarat” itself meaning “zero” in Italian, referring to the value of face cards and tens. Legend credits an Italian gambler named Felix Falguierein with its invention, initially played with Tarot cards.

The game made its way to France around 1490 AD, where it quickly captivated the French nobility and became known as “Chemin de fer” (railway), a nod to the speed of the game. Over centuries, Baccarat evolved, spreading across Europe and eventually reaching the Americas. Modern variants like Punto Banco (American Baccarat) and Mini-Baccarat emerged, making the game accessible to a wider range of players, including those enjoying the thrill of live baccarat online in New Zealand.

Poker

The history of Poker is a captivating blend of various card games from different cultures. Many historians believe its roots lie in the 17th-century Persian game “As-Nas,” which involved a 25-card deck with five suits and betting rounds similar to modern poker. This game was brought to New Orleans by French settlers, where it began to evolve.

Another significant influence is the French game “Poque” and the German game “Pochspiel,” both involving bluffing and betting. By the early 19th century, a distinct American version of Poker began to take shape, played with a 52-card deck. The introduction of the “flush” and “straight” hands further refined the game. Poker truly exploded in popularity during the American Civil War, as soldiers played it to pass the time, spreading its rules and appeal across the nation. From riverboats to saloons, and now to global online tournaments, Poker's blend of skill, strategy, and chance continues to fascinate players worldwide.

Slots (Pokies)

While card games have ancient lineages, the slot machine is a relatively modern invention, yet its impact on the gambling world is undeniable. The precursor to the modern slot machine emerged in 1891 in Brooklyn, New York, created by Sittman and Pitt. This device was a poker machine with five drums holding 50 card faces. Players would insert a nickel, pull a lever, and hope for a good poker hand. Payouts were informal, often drinks or cigars from the bar.

The true “slot machine” as we know it was invented a few years later, around 1895, by Charles Fey in San Francisco. His “Liberty Bell” machine simplified the game, using three spinning reels with symbols like horseshoes, spades, diamonds, hearts, and a Liberty Bell. It featured an automatic payout mechanism, revolutionising the industry. These mechanical marvels evolved into electromechanical machines, then video slots, and finally the digital “pokies” that are incredibly popular with New Zealand players at online casinos in 2025.

Roulette

The iconic spinning wheel of Roulette, meaning “little wheel” in French, owes its existence to an unexpected source: the brilliant 17th-century French mathematician, physicist, and inventor, Blaise Pascal. Pascal was not trying to invent a casino game; rather, he was attempting to create a perpetual motion machine. While his grand scientific endeavour didn't succeed, the mechanism he designed laid the foundation for the roulette wheel.

The game as we know it truly took form in 18th-century France. The single-zero wheel became popular, but when the game travelled to the United States, a double-zero pocket was added to increase the house edge, creating the American Roulette variant. From the opulent casinos of Monte Carlo to the bustling floors of Las Vegas, and now to the immersive experience of live roulette online, this game of pure chance continues to captivate players globally, including many in New Zealand.

Conclusion

The next time you're enjoying a hand of Blackjack, spinning the reels of your favourite online pokie, or placing a bet on the roulette wheel, take a moment to appreciate the incredible journey these games have undertaken. From ancient civilisations and royal courts to the digital screens of 2025, their enduring appeal is a testament to the universal human desire for entertainment, strategy, and a touch of luck. These historical foundations are what make today's online casino experience so rich and engaging for players across New Zealand. Remember to always gamble responsibly and within your means.