In games like poker, your money is matched against money from other players instead of against the casino's money. The casino or card room makes its profit by taking a percentage of the pot, called the “rake.” Parimutuel systems, like those used in horse and dog racing, also pool the wagers of all bettors; the track or betting parlor takes a cut from the pooled bets to cover its expenses and profit, and divides the remainder among the winners. Other games in which you compete against other gamblers rather than the house include bingo, keno, and state lotteries.

There is no house edge to consider when your opponents are other players. Instead, your level of skill and experience — as well as some luck — determine your win rate. Because the house takes the rake from the total pot, in which all the players' money is pooled, you can think of it as a service fee for the house. The house is hosting the game, providing space, equipment, and personnel, and you and the other players are paying the house for that service.