Casino Player Types: Whales and Casual Bettors

The Spectrum of Casino Players

Within any casino, you’ll find players with vastly different budgets and playing styles. Two of the most distinct player profiles are the low-stakes player and the high roller, often nicknamed a “whale.”. They approach gambling from completely different perspectives and have unique relationships with the casino.

Who is the Low-Stakes Player?

Most people who visit a casino are considered low-stakes or recreational players. For them, gambling is a form of recreation, not a source of income.

• Budget and Bets: Their goal is to get the most entertainment value for their money, casino so they stick to small bets and a pre-determined budget.
• Motivation: They are motivated by the excitement of the casino environment and the enjoyment of the games themselves. Winning is a bonus, not the sole objective..
• Casino Treatment: They are eligible for the casino’s standard loyalty program, earning points that can be exchanged for modest rewards like meal vouchers or free slot play..

Inside the World of the High Roller

This exclusive group of players represents the most valuable customers to a casino. They are players who consistently wager very large sums of money.

• Budget and Bets: A high roller’s budget can be in the tens of thousands, hundreds of thousands, or even millions of dollars for a single trip. They play in high-limit rooms, betting thousands per hand of baccarat or blackjack..
• Motivation: They are often successful individuals who enjoy the high-octane excitement and prestige associated with betting big.
• Casino Treatment: High rollers receive the ultimate VIP treatment. Casinos will do almost anything to attract and retain their business. This includes complimentary private jet travel, stays in luxury penthouse suites, personal butlers, lines of credit, and gourmet dining. They have a personal casino host who caters to their every need..

The high-risk, high-reward revenue from whales is balanced by the steady, predictable income from the masses of recreational players. Both are vital..