The present invention comprises an intelligent gaming system that includes a game engine, simulation engine, and, in certain embodiments, a static evaluator. Embodiments of the invention include an intelligent, poker playing slot machine that allows a user to play poker for money against one or more intelligent, simulated opponents. The simulation engine generates actions for the simulated player(s). The simulation engine allows a real person, or user, to play against intelligent, simulated opponents. In addition, in certain embodiments a static evaluator offers another level of play in which the user can play against a predetermined criteria for winning. In one embodiment of the invention, the user plays against simulated opponent(s). In another embodiment of the invention, the user plays against simulated opponent(s) and against the predetermined criteria.