One of the greatest things about comic book characters is that they feel so close to us, despite how amplified or superior they are. Even though we may never be as strong or as brave as them, at the end of the day they are just regular guys and girls that we can always relate to.
But where they resemble us the most is that, just like half the world today, they love to get their gambling thrills on. And who can blame them? There are millions of people that turn to online casinos for lucrative bonus offers (just check out this review for proof) – why should comic book characters be any different?
And just like many of us, out of the dozens of characters who like the recreational poker game or two, there are some who’ve turned gambling into an integral part of their lifestyle. With that in mind, but also to honor their charisma, here are five comic book characters that share the same passion for gambling games as most of us do.
The Gambler
Aptly named, the Gambler might not be your favorite character, but he is one big fan of casino games. In case you’ve never heard about him, Gambler was born as Steven Sharpe III, the third in a long line of compulsive gamblers. To honor his gambling ancestors, Sharpe took on this memorable nickname which he later used to fight the Green Lantern.
Armed with his derringer gun and sharp cards, he was a classic comic book villain who also couldn’t resist the urge to join a card game. His passion for gambling was so big that even during his parole he couldn’t stay away from the Taj Mahal in Vegas – a trip that would have him lose all in a rigged game and commit suicide, passing the mantle onto his grandchildren.
Ace
Another classic character that will be remembered for his love of card games as much as for his love of action is Roland Hamilton, or as his enemies know him – Ace.
Hamilton was the son of an elite New York banker who grew up to become a passionate gambler and playboy, only to later enlist in WWII and become a member of the Deadly Dozen. His nickname was earned during the recreational card games with his fellow soldiers, which he truly “aced” every time. Yet, most remember him for his violent outbreaks rather than his impressive card skills.
Chance
Unlike many villains who show their love for gambling with their weapons or dress code, Chance actually turns everything he does into a gamble.
Before he adopted his alter ego, Chance was just a professional gambler/millionaire called Nicholas Powell who got tired of relying on his gambling for excitement and took on the life of a mercenary.
True to his gambling nature, he took on his missions under only one condition – if he completes them successfully, he would win “the bet” and get paid, if not, he would face the loss. So, instead of just getting his dose of excitement from being a hired hitman, he would up the stakes by turning his missions into a gamble. Talk about compulsive gambling, right?
Gambit
One of the best examples of card lovers in comic book history, Gambit is a gambling man through and through, from his choice of weapons to his mastery of every gambling game possible.
But the really great thing about Gambit is that he doesn’t really use his card skills as a front for his criminal activities. No. His love for gambling is his everything. Suave, loaded, and polished beyond compare when it comes to gimmicks and skill, Gambit is just so hard not to like, especially if you’re a gambling man yourself.
Harvey Dent
A Batman super-villain that’s only second to the Joker, Harvey Dent is one of the most memorable characters in both comic book history and the big screen. But apart from his split-personality and appearance, what most people remember him about is his two-faced coin.
By leaving his important decisions up to a flip on a coin, Harvey always relies on a 50/50 chance to make up his next move. But what makes him truly captivating is that whenever he flips that coin into the air, he not only gambles his criminal history, but also the two sides of his contrasting natures. And that’s what makes him the number one gambler on this list.
Originally published October 13, 2016. Updated November 14, 2019.
