There once was a time when visitors to the casino had limited resources available to help them learn to play the games. I started my casino education back in the "Stone Age". It was somewhere around 10 BC. That's BC ...as in Before Computers. I don't mean that computers weren't invented, (I'm not THAT old) however the personal computer was barely affordable and all of the software programs were business related. VCRs were also a luxury item (DVD's were not invented) and movies were the main fare for those wishing to view at home. The self-help and educational tapes weren't being produced. That left a few books about gambling for those who wanted to learn how to play casino games.

When I first learned basic strategy for blackjack, I used hand-printed flashcards that I made. I would put the player's hand on one side and the rule for the hand on the other side. I would sit and practice for hours until I knew all the strategy rules by heart and could recite them instantly. It was very efficient, but also very boring. Things have changed drastically since those days.

Over the last few years with the rapid growth of personal computers, more and more gambling software has been developed. The software ranges from fun games with no educational value, to some really powerful training programs. Games that require strategy and decision making on the part of the player can be practiced at home with the use of the software programs. These games include Blackjack, Video Poker and live poker. Even software for games such as craps, and roulette can be helpful in teaching you the mechanics of the game. Now learning to play a casino game can be as easy as sitting down in front of your computer in the comfort of your own home. Well, almost.