What Are Casino Games? A Complete Guide for Kenyan Players

What Are Casino Games?

What Are Casino Games?

Casino games are gambling games where you place a wager and the outcome is decided either by random chance (usually through software) or by a mix of chance and limited player decisions. This is different from sports betting, where results depend on real-world events, teams, injuries, and form. On online platforms, casino games typically rely on a Random Number Generator (RNG) to keep results unpredictable and fair over the long term.

If you’re asking what are casino games in a practical sense: they’re fast, easy-to-access games that you can play on your phone, with stakes that can start small and scale up depending on the title and your bankroll.

What is a casino game? Definition and basics

So, what is casino game at its core? It’s a game designed around probability, where the casino has a built-in statistical edge, but the player can still experience wins (sometimes big wins) in the short run.

Most casino games fall into these categories:

  • RNG games (slots, many instant games): results are generated by software randomness.
  • Table games (blackjack, roulette, baccarat): can be RNG-based online, but rules are fixed and transparent.
  • Live dealer games: you watch real tables streamed live, while bets happen digitally.

Key basics to remember:

  • The game’s “fairness” is usually expressed via RTP (Return to Player).
  • Short sessions can swing wildly, even when a game has a high RTP.
  • You’re playing probabilities, not guarantees.

Why are casino games popular in Kenya?

In Kenya, casino games have exploded largely because they fit local habits: mobile-first usage, quick transactions, and fast entertainment. Many players prefer casino formats that feel “instant” compared to waiting 90 minutes for a football result.

What drives popularity most:

  • Mobile convenience: play anytime, anywhere (even on 3G/4G).
  • Easy local payments, especially M-Pesa for deposits and withdrawals (many betting/casino platforms highlight M-Pesa as the fastest option).
  • Bonuses and promos: platforms advertise welcome offers such as deposit matches. BetFM, for example, promotes a “150% for your first deposit” style offer on its main site experience.
  • Quick game cycles: slots and crash-style games can resolve in seconds, which many players find more exciting than long events.

Main Types of Casino Games

When people search types of casino games, they usually mean three big groups: slots, table games, and live/instant games. BetFM’s interface is built around those categories (Slots, Instant Games, Live Casino).

Here’s the short version of what you’ll see most often:

  • Slots: simple mechanics, many themes, different volatility levels.
  • Table games: clearer rules and often better odds if you play smart.
  • Live casino & instant games: “real casino” feel + modern fast titles (including crash games like Aviator).

Slots: most popular in Kenya

Slots are the most accessible casino games: you pick a stake, spin, and outcomes are decided by RNG. On platforms like BetFM, slot libraries can be huge, and you’ll also see “Top” or “Top Winners” sections that change frequently.

Common slot types Kenyan players run into:

  • Classic slots (simple, fewer lines)
  • Video slots (more features: free spins, multipliers)
  • Megaways/cluster slots (different reel mechanics)
  • Jackpot slots (fixed or progressive pools)

Why players like them:

  • Easy to learn (no strategy pressure)
  • Very wide range of stakes
  • Feature rounds can create “big moment” wins

Table Games: Blackjack, Roulette, Baccarat

Table games feel more “structured” than slots because the rules don’t change. Many Kenyan players prefer them for the perception of control, especially in blackjack.

Quick appeal factors:

  • Blackjack: decision-making matters; house edge can be low with basic strategy. 
  • Roulette: simple bets; European roulette is usually better for odds than American roulette due to the single zero.
  • Baccarat: straightforward; banker bet is typically the best mathematical choice (though commission rules vary by game).

Live Casino & Trending Games

Live dealer games stream real tables, so you get the casino vibe without leaving home. BetFM also highlights “Instant Games,” which often includes crash titles and quick RNG formats like Mines, JetX, Rocket Dice, etc. 

Popular “trending” formats:

  • Live roulette / live blackjack (real dealers)
  • Crash games (Aviator-style): cash out before the crash
  • Video poker (RTP can be excellent with the right paytable)
  • Dice/instant RNG games for fast rounds
Live Casino & Trending Games

Casino Games with the Best Odds for Kenyan Players

If your goal is value, look for games with high RTP and low house edge. In general, blackjack (with correct decisions), certain video poker variants, European roulette, and baccarat tend to rank well.

Quick tips for better odds:

  • Choose European roulette, not American.
  • In blackjack, avoid side bets and focus on basic strategy. 
  • For video poker, paytable matters more than “gut feeling.” 
Game (typical rules)Typical RTP / House EdgeWhy it’s good for odds-focused players
European Roulette~97.3% RTP (2.7% edge)Single-zero wheel is mathematically better 
American Roulette~94.74% RTP (5.26% edge)Double-zero increases casino advantage
Blackjack (basic strategy)edge can be ~0.5% (varies)Player decisions can reduce the house edge 
Jacks or Better (full-pay)~99.54% RTPStrong RTP when the paytable is right

Games with highest RTP and lowest house edge

In plain terms: if you want the best mathematical chance over time, start by learning the “efficient” games:

  • Blackjack (basic strategy)
  • Video poker (good paytables)
  • European roulette
  • Baccarat (typically banker bet)

But odds aren’t everything—volatility and discipline matter just as much.

What is RTP and house edge?

RTP is the theoretical percentage a game returns to players over a very large sample. If RTP is 97.3%, the implied house edge is 2.7%. That doesn’t mean you get 97.3% back in a short session—short-term results can be way above or below that.

Games with highest RTP and lowest house edge

How to Start Playing on BetFM in Kenya

BetFM presents itself as a combined platform for slots, instant games, live casino, and sports betting.

To begin, Kenyan players typically follow a simple flow: create an account, verify details if needed (especially for larger withdrawals), deposit via a supported method, then choose a game category.

Practical “start smart” checklist:

  • Set a budget for the week/month and stick to it
  • Start with small stakes to learn the game rhythm
  • Read bonus terms before opting in (wagering rules matter)

Is online casino legal in Kenya?

Kenya regulates gambling through a national authority. Recent legal/regulatory updates reference the Gambling Regulatory Authority established under newer legislation, replacing the older BCLB framework.
In practice, players often access both locally licensed operators and offshore platforms; the key is to prioritize safety, clear terms, and responsible play.

Is online casino legal in Kenya?

Safe payments: M-Pesa, cards, crypto

In Kenya, M-Pesa is the dominant method because it’s simple and fast. Many Kenya-facing guides note that withdrawals can be quick—sometimes minutes, often within 24 hours—depending on verification and operator checks.

Safe payment habits:

  • Use a phone number/account name that matches your profile
  • Don’t deposit money you can’t afford to lose
  • Keep screenshots/records of transactions for support follow-ups
FAQ: Common Questions About Casino Games

Are casino games fair and random?

Most online casino games rely on a Random Number Generator (RNG), which produces outcomes that are statistically random over time (especially for slots and many instant games). Fairness usually depends on a mix of factors: licensing oversight, reputable game providers, and independent testing. When choosing where to play, look for clear terms, visible security indicators (like HTTPS/SSL), and a platform that explains its rules and policies transparently.

Can I play casino games on mobile in Kenya?

Yes. Mobile play is one of the main reasons what are casino games searches keep growing in Kenya: you can open a browser on your phone and play without needing a heavy app. Many BetFM-facing pages market mobile-friendly casino access and quick onboarding for Kenyan users.

What is the minimum bet on casino games?

Minimum bets depend on the game type and the specific table/provider. In Kenya, common entry points are: Slots: often 10–50 KES Table games: often 50–100 KES Live dealer games: often 100 KES+ Always check the game panel before you bet, because limits can change by provider and time of day.

What is the difference between European and American Roulette?

European roulette has one zero (0), while American roulette has two zeros (0 and 00). That extra zero makes American roulette worse for players. Typical RTP values used in roulette comparisons are about 97.3% for European versus 94.74% for American, meaning European roulette gives you better long-run value.

How to win at Blackjack? Basic tips

Blackjack isn’t “beatable” in the casual sense, but you can improve your odds by reducing mistakes: Stick to basic strategy decisions (hit/stand/double/split) Avoid side bets (they usually raise the house edge) Be cautious with insurance (often a poor-value bet) If your goal is the best odds, blackjack is one of the strongest answers to what is casino game with skill influence—because decisions matter.

Are bonuses available for casino games on BetFM?

Yes—BetFM markets welcome offers and ongoing promos on Kenya-facing pages (deposit boosts, reloads, etc.). The important part is not the headline number, but the terms: wagering requirements, max cashout rules, eligible games, and time limits. Always read the bonus conditions before opting in. Bonus checklist (quick and practical): Minimum deposit to qualify Wagering requirement (x-times playthrough) Which games contribute (slots vs live vs instant) Max bet while wagering Deadline to clear wagering

How fast are withdrawals on BetFM?

Speed depends on method and verification. In Kenya, guides consistently describe M-Pesa as the fastest route, sometimes near-instant after approval, while cards/crypto can take longer depending on checks and network processing. A common benchmark you’ll see in Kenya-oriented withdrawal guides is M-Pesa within minutes to 24 hours, and other methods up to a few days.

Can I play demo versions of casino games?

Often yes for slots—many platforms allow demo/free-play modes so you can test mechanics and volatility before wagering real money. Demo play is great for learning types of casino games, but remember: demo results don’t “predict” real-money outcomes because each spin is independent.

What is a progressive jackpot slot?

A progressive jackpot slot collects a small portion of wagers into a growing prize pool, so the jackpot can become huge over time. These games usually come with higher volatility—meaning fewer big wins, but the chance of a massive payout. Pros and cons (progressives): Pros: life-changing potential, exciting “big moment” value Cons: higher volatility, bankroll swings, sometimes lower base-game hit rate

Is “Aviator” a casino game or a crash game?

Aviator is typically described as a crash-style game: the multiplier rises, and you choose when to cash out—if you wait too long, it “crashes” and you lose the stake. This format is popular in Kenya because rounds are fast and feel interactive, especially with mobile play and quick payments. How to approach crash games responsibly: Decide your cashout plan before the round Use small stakes until you understand volatility Don’t chase losses—crash games are designed to swing

Do I need to pay taxes on casino winnings in Kenya?

Tax obligations can depend on how winnings are treated and your overall financial situation. Kenya has evolving gambling regulation, so for larger wins it’s sensible to keep records and, if needed, consult a qualified local tax professional. Also remember regulation has recently shifted toward a new national authority framework.

How do I know if BetFM is safe and licensed?

Do a quick safety audit: Check the site uses HTTPS/SSL Read Terms/FAQ and look for clear rules on verification and withdrawals Search for consistent third-party reviews and red flags (complaints about non-payment, unclear bonus rules, etc.) Independent review pages often highlight game variety, verification requirements, and usability as key factors when assessing platforms like BetFM.

What should I do if I have a gambling problem?

If casino play stops being entertainment, take action early: Set deposit/time limits Take breaks (cool-off) or self-exclude if available Talk to someone you trust and seek local support resources Quick self-check: You gamble to recover losses You hide play from family/friends Gambling affects bills, sleep, or mood

Can I play casino games without registration?

You can often play demo slots without signing up. But to play for real money—deposit, withdraw, and claim bonuses—registration (and sometimes verification) is usually required.