Gambling is all about chance, right? Well, try telling that to the player rubbing a lucky coin before every hand, or the one who refuses to sit at seat number 13.

Across the world, gamblers follow strange rituals, carry charms, and obey unwritten rules — all in the hope of improving their luck. Let’s take a look at some of the most common (and bizarre) superstitions from the casino floor.

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1. Wearing Red Brings Luck – Especially in Asia

In many Asian cultures, especially in China, red is the color of prosperity, luck, and happiness. It's common to see players wearing red shirts or accessories when gambling — especially during Chinese New Year. Some even believe it boosts their odds at the slots or baccarat table.

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2. Blowing on Dice (Thanks, Hollywood)

You’ve probably seen this in movies: someone blows on the dice, makes a wish, and rolls the perfect number. While it’s purely symbolic, this ritual has become iconic — especially in craps games in Vegas. Fun fact: some casinos even hand out mini sanitizers because of how common this move is.

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3. Don’t Count Your Chips at the Table

"Don’t count your money while you’re sittin’ at the table” — that’s not just a line from a Kenny Rogers song. Many poker players believe that counting your chips brings bad luck, or worse — it signals insecurity to your opponents.

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4. Crossed Legs = Crossed Luck

Some gamblers believe that crossing your legs while betting “crosses” your luck, blocking positive energy or flow. It's especially common in South American gambling circles — and even some Vegas regulars swear by it.

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5. Lucky Charms, Personal Rituals, and Objects

From rabbit’s feet to four-leaf clovers, lucky socks to specific coins — gamblers are creative. Some have entire routines:

Always enter through a specific door

Bet in specific orders

Tap the machine three times before spinning Does it work? Probably not. Does it make them feel in control? Absolutely.

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6. Avoiding the Number 13 (Unless You're Rebellious)

It’s well known that 13 is considered unlucky in many Western cultures. In fact, many casinos skip the 13th floor entirely in their elevators. Some players won’t sit at seat 13 or bet on 13 in roulette — while others love it because it’s considered unlucky.

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What’s Luck Got to Do With It?

At the end of the day, gambling is a mix of math, chance, and psychology. But for many, these rituals and beliefs are part of the experience — a way to feel empowered, focused, or simply have fun.

As long as you’re not betting your rent based on your lucky underwear — go ahead and believe in the magic.

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