Don't Play For Comps

The overall house edge remains one percent. Unfortunately, the $50 bettor never sees the lucky streak because he busts out. His bankroll isn't big enough to sustain his level of betting.

Mr. 50 wasn't satisfied with a free room. He wanted meal comps, too. The host told him what level of play was required. He played to that level and it cost him.

Ms. 25 paid $70 for her fun and had plenty of money left for gourmet meals and gifts for friends. She spent less and enjoyed more.

But what if the players had won? Mr. 50 would have been ahead. Yes, but that's a big "if." This is gambling. Anything can happen, but the casino has the edge. It's nice to hope for a lucky run; counting an luck is simply foolish.

Remember that Ms. 25 and Mr. 50 weren't lucky or unlucky. Their luck was exactly average over the long run. In fact, for the sake of simplicity, it was too average. A more detailed scenario might have Mr. 50 busting out on two or all three days.

Here is the bottom line: Don't play for comps.

the cost of comps

The overall house edge