The Top Prison Gambling Games To Pass The Time

Posted: November 12, 2023

Updated: November 12, 2023

Prisoners behind bars often have lots of time to kill, and boredom is always close at hand. So it's no surprise that gambling adds some much needed excitement to the mundane day to day. However, the problem is that all gambling activities are strictly banned as they can cause tension amongst the prisoners, leading to difficult and maybe hostile situations.

Participating in card gambling games has become a common pastime within the confines of prison. Life in prison can be challenging, with limited entertainment options, and gambling offers inmates a way to pass the time and alleviate boredom. It provides a means of relaxation and enjoyment in an environment where pleasurable activities are scarce.

Some of these prison card games maintain high authenticity, complete with a designated live dealer and specific rules and etiquette. However, gambling is strictly prohibited in all correctional facilities, so participants always need to play discreetly. Any prison gambling games that might attract the attention of guards risk being shut down, leaving only a handful of casino games that allow for a suitable degree of discretion while incarcerated.

Gambling Is Forbidden In Prison

Naturally, the games played by inmates not only remain discreet but also employ signals and code words, making it challenging for guards to catch them in the act. The simple truth is that individuals who enjoy casino games will always find a way to play, especially when like-minded individuals are nearby. Because coins and banknotes are prohibited within prisons, the prevailing currency employed for a bankroll behind bars consists of confections, chocolates, or various food items acquired from the canteen.

In addition to these, cigarettes, narcotics, challenges, and sexual favours are also subject to wagers. The following casino prison gambling games have gained popularity in prisons around the world due to their ease of use, low profile, and the potential to win money.

Kaluki – A Prison Gambling Games

Kaluki, also known as Jamaican Rummy, is a relatively recent addition to the lineup of popular prison gambling games. It is a variation of rummy where jokers serve as wild cards, and the objective is to get rid of your cards before your opponents do.

As the name suggests, the game has its origins in the Caribbean and requires strategic thinking to emerge as the victor, engaging players with the need for subtle tactics and forward-thinking moves.

Blackjack

Blackjack is one of the most popular card games at any of the world’s top online casino sites in the UK like Bet365 Casino. But in prison, due to its easy-to-learn nature and low visibility, it serves as an effective format for quick, fuss-free games.

As such it offers entertainment without attracting unwanted attention from the guards. Interestingly, gambling with money is not a common feature of blackjack games in prison; instead, inmates often play purely for the enjoyment of the game.

Poker – Popular Prison Gambling Games

Poker stands out as the most played prison gambling games, reflecting its popularity among inmates. It caters to beginners and veterans alike, with strategies applicable to players of all skill levels. In the absence of online poker capabilities, prisoners have devised code words, hand signals, and clandestine betting techniques. Each prison has its own unique poker language, a common theme among all card games in jail.

Pai Gow

Originating in China, Pai Gow has become a global favourite among prison populations. It is a straightforward casino game based on classic dominoes, with a significant degree of flexibility in how the game is played.

Some prisoners use table markings to keep track of scores and player positions, while others prefer to leave no physical evidence. Furthermore, actual dominoes are not necessary to play Pai Gow; a deck of cards is sufficient, adding to the game’s convenience.

Sports Betting

Card games are not the only form of gambling in prison; sports betting is also highly prevalent. However, sports betting requires information about the odds for the week, which usually comes from an individual outside the prison. Once this information is passed to an inmate, it spreads rapidly throughout the prison population. While it can be risky due to the potential for discovery, informal agreements often exist between prisoners and guards to maintain the smooth running of sports betting activities.

Challenges Of Prison Gambling Games

A recent study revealed that half of all prisoners in an English prison admitted to playing prison gambling games, with two-thirds viewing gambling as a normal prison activity. Common motivations include entertainment, excitement, and the thrill of a challenge. However, unregulated gambling in prison can pose risks, particularly for those with addiction issues and financial troubles.

High-stakes games often lead to conflicts, which can be detrimental for inmates. To address this issue, prisons need to provide meaningful alternatives for mental stimulation, such as education, media entertainment, and recreational activities. Regulating gambling in prison may indirectly help control inmates’ compulsive gambling habits during their incarceration.

Can Prison Gambling Be Prevented?

While gambling is officially banned in prison, it remains challenging to completely prevent inmates from engaging in prison gambling games. There will likely always be individuals willing to place bets on sports events or purchase lottery tickets for fellow inmates, and authorities have limited means to monitor and control such activities. Prison phone calls are closely monitored to prevent the organisation of additional criminal activities, making it difficult for inmates to access gambling opportunities through this avenue.

According to online gambling news in the UK, legislation in the United Kingdom prohibits placing wagers for others, but enforcing this rule can be challenging. Similar to individuals placing bets at a bookmaker for others, prisoners may request someone outside to place bets or buy lottery tickets on their behalf.

Gamble Responsibly With Bet365 Casino

Ultimately, prison gambling games serve as a source of entertainment and a means of combating boredom. However, if you’re not behind dars, and you’re looking for online casino entertainment, consider registering with Bet365 Casino for access to a wide range of casino table games, live sports betting, and exciting online slots.