Walking into Empire City Casino in Yonkers, the sheer number of flashing machines can be overwhelming. You're there to have fun and maybe walk out with more than you came with, but where do you even start? The key isn't just picking any game; it's knowing which games give you the best shot at a great time and a solid payout. Let's cut through the noise and focus on the specific slots, table games, and electronic options that are truly worth your time and bankroll at this New York hotspot.
High RTP Slots Where Your Money Lasts Longer
Forget just chasing jackpots. The smart play at Empire City is targeting slots with a higher Return to Player (RTP) percentage. These machines pay back more over time, meaning your $100 goes further. Look for titles like Buffalo Gold or 88 Fortunes—they're popular for a reason, often featuring RTPs in the 94-96% range. The casino floor is packed with multi-denomination machines; always play the highest denomination you're comfortable with (like $1 instead of 1¢) as these typically have better payback percentages built in.
Quick-Hit Progressive Jackpots
If you're dreaming of a life-changing win, you need a strategy for the progressives. Empire City links many machines into wide-area progressives. Don't just play any machine with a big jackpot. Focus on games where the minor and major jackpots have recently hit—the massive mega jackpot is statistically due. Games like Wheel of Fortune or Megabucks are classic picks. Remember, to be eligible for the top prize, you almost always have to bet the maximum number of credits.
Live Dealer Tables: The Real Casino Experience
While Empire City has electronic table games, the live dealer pits are where the atmosphere crackles. For the best odds, head straight to Blackjack. Use basic strategy—the casino provides cards—to get the house edge down to under 1%. Avoid the side bets like "Perfect Pairs"; they're sucker bets with a huge house advantage. Craps is another fantastic option if you stick to the pass line and come bets with odds. The energy at a busy craps table is unmatched, and your money can last a long time with smart play.
Video Poker: A Player's Best Friend
This is the unsung hero for savvy players. Video poker at Empire City, particularly full-pay Jacks or Better (9/6 paytable) or Deuces Wild, offers some of the best odds on the floor, with potential RTPs over 99% with perfect strategy. You'll find these machines often tucked away. The key is to find the right paytable displayed on the machine and to practice your strategy. It's a thinking person's game that rewards skill, and you can play at your own pace without a dealer or other players rushing you.
Electronic Roulette and Baccarat for Fast Action
Not in the mood for a live table's minimums or pace? The electronic versions of Roulette and Baccarat are perfect. You get the same rules, but with lower minimum bets (sometimes as low as $1) and the ability to play multiple hands or spots per round. For Roulette, stick to outside bets like red/black or odd/even for a near 50/50 shot. For electronic Baccarat, always bet on the Banker—it has a slightly lower house edge (about 1.06%) than the Player bet.
FAQ
What's the best slot machine to win money at Empire City Casino?
There's no single "best" machine, as slots are random. However, to maximize your chances, look for high RTP (Return to Player) video slots like Buffalo or Dragon Link series, and always play within your budget. Progressives are tempting, but your money typically lasts longer on non-progressive machines with bonus features.
Does Empire City have $5 blackjack tables?
It's rare to find a $5 live blackjack table, especially on weekends. Your best bet for lower stakes is the electronic blackjack terminals, which often have $3 or $5 minimums. For live tables, expect $15 or $25 minimums during peak hours. Weekday afternoons are your best shot at finding a lower-limit live game.
Can I use a players card on video poker for better odds?
Yes, absolutely. Always insert your Empire Rewards card when playing video poker. You'll earn points for free play and comps (like food at the buffet) based on your play, which effectively improves your overall return. The odds of the game itself don't change, but the rewards add tangible value back to you.
What's the easiest table game for a beginner at Empire City?
Roulette. The rules are simple: pick a number, a color, or a group of numbers. The dealer does all the work. Stick to simple outside bets like Red/Black or Odd/Even—they pay 1:1 and give you almost a 50/50 chance of winning each spin. Just avoid the tempting single-number bets unless you're just playing for fun.
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