A complete Casino War guide explaining rules, gameplay, payouts, tie options, and how this simple card game works. Learn everything about one of the easiest casino table games.
Introduction
Casino War is one of the simplest and fastest casino table games, modeled after the classic childhood card game “War.” Because the rules are easy to understand—just comparing two cards—Casino War is popular among beginners and players looking for a low-effort, straightforward experience. Despite its simplicity, the game includes unique features such as the “Go to War” option, a tie bet, and fixed payout structures.
This guide explains all the rules of Casino War, how the game is played step-by-step, what the payouts are, how ties work, and what makes this game different from other casino table games.
What Is Casino War?
Casino War is a card-comparison game played with:
- Six standard 52-card decks
- No jokers
- Card rankings identical to poker (Ace is high)
Both the player and the dealer receive one card, and the higher card wins. The game is designed for speed and simplicity—no complex combinations, no decisions except what to do on a tie.
How Casino War Works: Step-by-Step
1. Place a Bet
The round begins with the player placing a wager in the main betting circle.
2. Cards Are Dealt
- Player receives one face-up card
- Dealer receives one face-up card
3. Compare Cards
- Higher card wins
- If the player’s card is higher → player wins 1:1
- If the dealer’s card is higher → player loses
4. Tie Situation
If both the dealer and the player have the same card rank, the player has two choices:
Option 1: Go to War
- Player must place an additional wager equal to the original bet
- Dealer burns several cards and deals one new card to both sides
- If the player’s new card is equal or higher, the player wins the War bet (1:1)
- If the player’s card is lower, the player loses
Option 2: Surrender
- Player forfeits half of the original bet
- Round ends immediately
Most players choose “Go to War” because it follows the spirit of the game, though it’s not mandatory.
Payout Structure in Casino War
Main Bet
| Outcome | Payout |
|---|---|
| Player’s card wins | 1:1 |
| Dealer’s card wins | Loss |
| Player wins after going to war | 1:1 on War bet (original bet pushes) |
Important Detail
If the player goes to war and ties again, the player wins both bets automatically.
Tie Bet (Optional Side Bet)
Before cards are dealt, players may place a separate Tie Bet, predicting that the player and dealer will draw the same rank.
Tie Bet Payout
Most casinos pay:
- 10:1 on a tie
Some casinos offer 11:1 or higher.
Probability of a Tie
With 6 decks, the probability of a tie is roughly approximately 1 in 13, or about 7.7%.
Card Rankings in Casino War
Casino War uses standard poker-style ranking for individual cards:
From highest to lowest:
- Ace
- King
- Queen
- Jack
- 10
- 9
- 8
- 7
- 6
- 5
- 4
- 3
- 2
Suits do not matter.
Only the rank determines the outcome.
How Going to War Works
Going to war is the defining feature of the game:
- Player matches their original bet with a second wager
- Dealer burns several cards (usually three)
- Dealer deals a second card to player and themselves
- If the player’s card is higher or ties, the player wins
- If the dealer’s card is higher, the player loses
What about the original bet?
The original bet pushes if the player wins the war.
Only the matching wager is paid out.
House Edge and Game Characteristics
Although Casino War is simple, the rules create specific mathematical outcomes:
House Edge
- Main Bet: ~2.88%
- Tie Bet: ~18–35% (varies by casino) — very high house edge
Why the House Edge Exists
The casino advantage mainly comes from:
- The dealer winning ties (unless the player chooses war)
- The structure of the war payout
- The tie bet’s low probability and low payout ratio
Gameplay Flow Summary
- Place your bet
- Dealer gives one card to you and one to themselves
- Compare card values
- Win 1:1 if your card is higher
- Lose if your card is lower
- If tied → choose to surrender or go to war
- Bonus Tie Bet pays separately
Why Casino War Is Popular
Casino War remains a favorite in casinos because:
- The rules are incredibly simple
- Rounds are fast and require no strategy
- It’s easy for beginners
- “Going to war” adds excitement
- Tie bet provides a bonus-risk option
It’s one of the most straightforward real-money games available.
FAQ
Is Casino War based on the childhood game?
Yes. It uses the same concept of comparing card ranks.
Do suits matter?
No. Only the rank decides the winner.
Do I have to go to war on a tie?
No. You can surrender and lose half the bet.
What happens if I tie again during war?
You automatically win both bets.
Is the tie bet worth it?
It offers a high payout but also has a very high house edge.