Casino War rules and house edge
Casino War is a simple house-banked card game based on the children's game War. You and the dealer each receive one card. If your card is higher, you win even money. If the dealer's card is higher, you lose. Aces are high.
What happens on a tie
If the two cards tie, you choose to surrender, losing half your bet, or go to war by placing a second bet equal to the first. The dealer then burns cards and deals one more card to you and to the dealer. Payouts on a war depend on the table rules, so read the posted rules.
House edge
The edge comes from ties. The Wizard of Odds lists, for a six-deck game, a house edge of about 2.88 percent if you always go to war under the standard no-bonus rule, about 2.33 percent where a tie-after-a-tie bonus applies, and about 3.70 percent if you always surrender. The optional tie bet, paying 10 to 1, carries a house edge of about 18.65 percent with six decks.
Play safely, or not at all
This guide is educational. We do not offer games, accept bets, or link to casinos. In the U.S. states that currently license online casinos, you must be at least 21 and physically located in that state. Every casino game on this page has a built-in house advantage or a fee, so treat any money you play with as money you may lose. Set a budget and a time limit before you start. If gambling is causing harm, call or text the National Problem Gambling Helpline at 1-800-MY-RESET (1-800-697-3738) or see our responsible gambling help page.
Frequently asked questions
Should I surrender or go to war?
Under the figures cited here, going to war has a lower house edge than surrendering.
Is the tie bet a good bet?
No. At 10 to 1 with six decks its edge is about 18.65 percent.
Sources
See also: all game guides, where online casinos are legal, and responsible gambling help.