If you’re interested in unique gambling games, Vietnamese games offer a new way to expand your gaming experience. There are several games popular within Vietnamese culture that might not be as well-known worldwide. Here, we’ll explore some of these traditional gambling games and why they’re worth trying out.
Gambling Laws in Vietnam
For Vietnamese citizens, casino gambling is mostly prohibited, though there are some exceptions. Currently, two casinos allow locals to enter: one in Phu Quoc and the other in Quang Ninh. However, there are restrictions; only those who earn a certain amount monthly, have no criminal record, and pay an entry fee can access these facilities. Tourists, however, can freely visit casino resorts with a foreign passport, with top spots like The Grand Ho Tram Strip catering to foreign visitors.
Despite these restrictions, gambling remains popular among Vietnamese communities worldwide. Playing traditional Vietnamese games can be a way for families and friends to gather and enjoy the thrill of the game together.
Popular Vietnamese Gambling Games
Whether you’re Vietnamese or simply curious, here’s a look at some of the most notable Vietnamese gambling games, starting with the most famous:
Bau Cua Tom Ca
Known as the most popular gambling game in Vietnam, Bau Cua Tom Ca, which translates to Gourd Crab Shrimp Fish, is a favorite during the Vietnamese New Year celebrations. The game is similar in style to Western games like roulette or craps, and Chinese gamblers also enjoy it, often calling it Hoo Hey How.
Here’s a quick guide to playing:
- The Setup: The game board features six symbols—crab, gourd, fish, rooster, shrimp, and deer—each corresponding to one side of a set of dice.
- Placing Bets: Players place their bets on any of these symbols, choosing which they believe the dice will show.
- Rolling the Dice: After bets are placed, three dice are rolled, each with these symbols on its sides.
- Winning Payouts: If a player’s chosen symbol appears once, they get their bet returned. If it appears twice, they win double, and if it shows up three times, they triple their winnings.
With straightforward rules and fast-paced action, Bau Cua Tom Ca is easy for anyone to pick up and start playing. It’s purely a game of chance, so it’s all about having fun with friends or family.
Betting Tips for Bau Cua Tom Ca
Since Bau Cua Tom Ca is random, there’s no way to guarantee wins. However, a good approach is to manage your bankroll, betting conservatively each round to stay in the game longer. Avoid chasing losses, as this game can be high-risk due to its volatility.
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Fish Fighting
While less common today, fish fighting is a traditional gambling practice in rural areas of Vietnam. Fish fighting rings aren’t legal, and authorities frequently shut them down, but the practice persists in some regions. The game involves specially bred fighting fish, typically male Siamese fighting fish or Bagan Betta fish, which have a natural inclination to fight. Some people still breed and train these fish, although they’re more often kept as pets today. It’s an unusual form of gambling that reflects a piece of Vietnam’s cultural history.
Conclusion
Gambling laws in Vietnam have been evolving, and the government is gradually allowing more casinos to welcome local players. As it stands, Bau Cua Tom Ca holds its place as the most iconic Vietnamese gambling game, offering a fun and fast-paced experience for anyone interested in traditional games.
