Handheld Casino Games

Sony PSP

• The Sony PSP has the edge over other handheld devices when it comes to visuals. In "Payout Poker and Casino," players create their own avatar with which to roam the casino and interact with the games. For players that need help learning these types of games, there's "Hard Rock Casino." This game comes with many tutorials to show new players the ropes. Experienced players might prefer "Stacked," where you can play poker against the computer or online against other gamers.

Nintendo DS

• The touchscreen on the DS makes it a popular handheld device for casino games. Titles like "Gold Nugget Casino" feature the usual assortment of casino games like poker, slots and blackjack, all of which can be played using a stylus. "Sega Casino" features a mode that lets you progress through the game, winning cash and opening up tables with higher betting limits. Not all casino games on the DS are good, as the review scores of "Vegas Casino" demonstrate. This game features voice control, but it does not always recognize words correctly, which can make gambling a chore.

Java Mobile

• Their small size and power make mobile phones a good platform for casino games. Titles like "Astro Slots" and "MobiSlot" simulate the type of jackpot slot machines commonly found on casino floors. For players that prefer blackjack, roulette and video poker, there is "Midnight Casino" by Gameloft. This game also has a career mode, where you are given $200 and sent out into the casino. Players that don't have the time for that can delve into the quickplay modes.

PDA

• For PDA devices with enough processing power, such as the Pocket PC, there are titles like "All Mobile Casino 3" This title features 14 different casino games, including craps, poker and baccarat. "Crosstec VIP Casino" has computer opponents that players can challenge in five casino card games. Another option is the "Monte Carlo Games Compendium" for Pocket PC, which has 10 casino games on offer.