Poker has long been a popular game, both in real life and as a mini-game in video games. The thrill of betting, bluffing, and winning big has made it a perfect fit for various games, adding depth and variety to the gameplay experience. Many video games, especially those with open worlds or RPG elements, include poker mini-games to offer players a break from the main storyline and a chance to test their luck and strategy.
Here’s a comprehensive list of video games where you can play poker as a mini-game:
1. Red Dead Redemption 2
One of the most detailed and expansive games of all time, Red Dead Redemption 2 allows players to engage in several side activities, and poker is one of the most immersive. Set in the late 1800s, the poker mini-game captures the essence of the period, allowing players to sit at tables across different towns and wager their in-game currency in games of Texas Hold’em. The detailed animations and realistic AI players make it feel like a genuine poker game, integrated seamlessly into the open-world experience.
2. Far Cry 3
In Far Cry 3, poker serves as both a distraction and a means of making money. Set in the tropical Rook Islands, the game’s poker mini-game is another version of Texas Hold’em. It’s a great way to build cash reserves while taking a break from fighting pirates and wildlife. The poker tables in the game are available in various locations, offering players a realistic poker experience.
3. Watch Dogs
In Watch Dogs, players can participate in poker games scattered throughout the city of Chicago. The game uses its signature hacking mechanics to enhance poker gameplay—allowing players to read opponents’ bluffs by hacking into their phones and surveillance cameras. This adds an interesting twist to traditional poker and integrates the game’s technological themes into the mini-game.
4. Grand Theft Auto V (GTA 5)
In the open-world chaos of GTA V, players can head over to the Diamond Casino & Resort and engage in poker and other table games. Poker adds a real sense of gambling to the game, and players can use in-game money to bet at poker tables. The game’s online mode also includes poker among other gambling activities, providing players with a more interactive and multiplayer experience. It’s worth nothing however, the game doesn’t let you gamble for real money. If you want to play poker online for real money, see this list here.
5. Hard West 2
In Hard West 2, a supernatural turn-based strategy game, poker is more than just a mini-game—it’s woven into the narrative and decision-making. The characters and atmosphere, set in a fantastical version of the Wild West, reflect the grit and luck required in poker. This game blends strategy, combat, and the thrill of high-stakes poker, making it integral to the plot and progression.
6. Tales of the Abyss
The Tales series is known for its rich storytelling and RPG mechanics, and in Tales of the Abyss, players can partake in poker as a side activity. While it’s not as central to the game as other activities, it provides a fun way to relax and earn in-game rewards, with a system that keeps players coming back for more.
7. Tales of Vesperia
Like Tales of the Abyss, Tales of Vesperia features poker as a mini-game. Players can visit casinos and try their luck at the tables. Winning poker games can lead to valuable rewards, making it an enticing distraction from the main quest.
8. The Legend of Heroes: Trails in the Sky SC
In this beloved JRPG, players can also experience poker as a mini-game in certain locations. This addition brings another layer to the gameplay experience, offering an enjoyable break from the turn-based combat and deep narrative.
9. Dead Rising 2
Known for its chaotic zombie action, Dead Rising 2 offers poker as one of its many side activities. Players can sit down with other survivors and take part in poker games. While battling zombies is the main draw, poker offers a lighthearted diversion where you can test your luck against human opponents.
10. Super Mario 64 DS
Surprisingly, Super Mario 64 DS features a poker mini-game as part of Luigi’s Casino. Players can indulge in a simple poker game alongside other mini-games, providing a fun addition to the platforming and adventure elements of the classic title.
11. Harvest Moon DS
Farming life gets a little more interesting in Harvest Moon DS, where players can participate in poker as one of the many mini-games. It’s a simple version of the game but adds variety to the peaceful farming simulator.
12. Dragon Quest
Dragon Quest games have been known to include casinos where players can try their hand at poker and other gambling games. These poker mini-games allow players to earn in-game currency and rare items, making them a popular pastime for players looking to boost their progress.
13. Leisure Suit Larry
The Leisure Suit Larry series is known for its adult humor, and in many entries, poker makes an appearance as a mini-game. Larry’s adventures often lead him to casinos, where poker is one of the many distractions he can indulge in.
14. Police Quest 1
An old-school adventure game, Police Quest 1 features poker in its storyline. Players must win at poker to progress at certain points, making it a key element of the gameplay.
15. Persona Series
The Persona series, with its blend of social simulation and RPG elements, includes poker in certain mini-games. While it’s not the main focus, it offers a fun break from the intense, strategic combat that defines the series.
16. Yakuza Series
In the Yakuza games, poker is one of many gambling mini-games available. The Yakuza series is known for its vast array of side activities, and poker is just one of the ways players can earn money and experience the rich, detailed world of modern Japanese cities.
Poker has found its way into countless video games, often providing a fun and strategic side activity that enhances the overall experience. Whether you’re playing a Western shooter like Red Dead Redemption 2 or exploring a fantasy world in Dragon Quest, poker offers players a chance to test their luck and skill. This long list of games shows just how versatile and entertaining poker can be, no matter the genre or setting.