Unfortunately, close doesn't count in slots. Near misses on the reels are designed to keep players playing, and signing up for those Player's Club cards don't affect the odds.
A sour grape swelling in memory
Deal Me In: A gaming column for those who feel lucky

The secret to winning the slot tournaments is keeping the wheels in motion - fast fingers to rack up points. Read on for more sagely gaming advice from Deal Me In...
What do driving and video poker have in common?
Deal Me In: A gaming column for those who feel lucky

Speed kills, especially in a casino environment. Find the best paytables possible, Pilarski advises. Read on for more sage gaming advice.
'I told you so!' could cost you dearly
Deal Me In: A gaming column for those who feel lucky

This week, Pilarski tackles the tough questions of when and if you should ever take the side bets and 'Let It Ride' when playing five-card stud. Read on for more wisdom...
Like stepping stones across the creek
Deal Me In: A gaming column for those who feel lucky

What's with raising the table minimums on the weekends? What's an average Joe to do?
Hearing versus listening
Deal Me In: A gaming column for those who feel lucky

Pilarski lets one of his best tips slip this week - Western Village Steakhouse is one of the best-kept secrets in Reno...well, not anymore. Read on for gaming advice.
Skill, money, and reading the payback label – that’s all it takes
Deal Me In: A gaming column for those who feel lucky

When is it a good idea to play two blackjack hands? What should your video poker bankroll be? Is there any logic behind having a favorite machine? Read on to find out.
If I only held...
Deal Me In: A gaming column for those who feel lucky

The squabbling of spouses is something Pilarski probably can't solve, but he can tell players about the perfect strategy for video poker and how to win more over time...
Friend might try to shuffle Master's leg
Deal Me In: A gaming column for those who feel lucky

The only thing shuffle machines will save is time - and that means the dealers are making more money for the house. More hands, more of your chips disappear.
So just how smart is Lady Luck?
Deal Me In: A gaming column for those who feel lucky

Dear Mark: When it comes right down to it, isn’t lady Luck really the deciding factor when it comes to winning in a casino? Mark L.