Truth or legend? Top 5 myths about casinos 

In the fascinating world of gambling, myths die hard. Whether they are supposed tricks or urban legends, these persistent beliefs can influence players’ behaviour. We separate fact from fiction with this top 5 list of the biggest myths about casinos.

1. Casinos inject oxygen to keep you awake

‘They want you to stay awake and spend more…’

This is one of the most persistent myths in the collective imagination. According to this belief, casinos pump oxygen into the rooms to keep players alert, preventing them from feeling tired or sleepy.

The reality: this practice is not only technically absurd, but also illegal in most jurisdictions for fire safety reasons. In truth, establishments use a conventional air conditioning and ventilation system. There are no magic molecules in the air.

2. Slot machines always pay out after a long period without a win

‘It hasn’t paid out in hours, it’s bound to happen soon…’

This is a common mistake among slot players. Many believe that the longer a slot machine goes without paying out, the more likely it is to deliver a jackpot.

The reality: This idea is based on cognitive bias, not the mechanics of the game. Slot machines operate using a random number generator (RNG). Each spin is completely independent of the previous one. There is no memory or programmed cycle: even after 1,000 games without a win, the probability of winning on the 1,001st remains unchanged.

3. Online casinos are rigged, unlike physical casinos

‘Online, it’s always the casino that wins, it’s fishy…’

Many players prefer traditional casinos, believing that online platforms are rigged to offer fewer chances of winning.

The reality: online casinos are subject to the same certification requirements as physical establishments. In Belgium, online casinos must have a licence issued by the Gaming Commission and undergo regular audits. They use software certified by independent laboratories (such as eCOGRA or iTech Labs).

The only difference between a legal online casino in Belgium and a physical establishment is the hourly loss limit. There is no hourly loss limit at an online casino; instead, there is a deposit limit (which does not exist in a land-based casino). The idea that online games are systematically rigged stems from a lack of understanding of modern regulatory mechanisms.

4. Casinos have no clocks or windows to trap you in time

‘You lose all sense of time so you play more…’

This myth is partly based on a past reality: many traditional casinos were indeed designed without windows or wall clocks to encourage immersion.

The reality: This is no longer the case. More and more establishments, particularly in Las Vegas and Macau, offer large windows, well-lit areas and even notifications on the machines to remind you of the time.

5. Casino games are based solely on luck

‘Everything is random, nothing depends on you…’

This is both true and false! Some games, such as roulette and slot machines, are 100% random. However, other games require a good level of knowledge and rely largely on strategy and decision-making. This is the case for games such as poker, blackjack and sports betting.