It's happening at last — next week, the Diamond Casino and Resort opens its doors in Grand Theft Auto Online, allowing players to enter and interact with the building that has stood locked up ever since the game was released.
Today though, we've finally got more information about the gameplay additions and how Rockstar plans to handle gambling in this long-awaited DLC.
The casino building itself has got one hell of a makeover, transforming the generic-looking, everyday building into a lavish architectural wonder befitting its name. The new complex is massive, incorporating both the casino and a luxury hotel with penthouse apartments. No doubt it will serve as a gathering point for Los Santos' elite.
You'll find plenty of opportunities to spend your hard-earned, or bought, GTA$ in the casino. We finally know how Rockstar plans to navigate the legal minefield of gambling in the game — all gambling is only ever done against the house, meaning no other players are ever involved. Essentially, it seems to be the equivalent of a loot boxes mechanic.
Players can try their luck at Three Card Poker, Blackjack, Roulette, a wide variety of slot machines, and the lucky wheel. You can win GTA$, more chips to play with, clothing items, or a luxury vehicle on weekly rotation — starting with the all new Truffade Thrax. The Inside Track offers opportunities to bet on Horse Races.
Rockstar has also pre-emptively indicated that some of these features won't be available worldwide, or at all times. A support article indicating what the reasons behind unavailable features may be, including regional regulations, has been provided. If you happen to live somewhere where Poker was an issue in Red Dead Online, don't expect to see all of these minigames.
A large selection of new character customization items will be available in the Casino Store. Make sure you stock up on the newest in elegant designer clothes so you can dress the part as you brush shoulders with Los Santos' other high rollers.
