Ep 3. The House Always Wins

Angel season 4 episode 3, titled "The House Always Wins," is a thrilling installment that centers on the gang's investigation of a mysterious demon-run casino in Las Vegas. After receiving a distressing call from one of his contacts, Cordelia convinces the rest of the team to take a road trip to Sin City to check things out.

As soon as they arrive, they're greeted by a seemingly harmless dealer named Lorne, who guides them to the casino. Once inside, the gang quickly realizes that something is not right. The dealers are all demons, and the slot machines are rigged to give players a false sense of hope before draining their life force.

Their investigation takes a dangerous turn when Cordelia falls under the spell of the casino's alluring owner, a demon named Lister. He convinces her to stay and play, promising her everything she's ever wanted in exchange for her soul. Meanwhile, Angel, Wesley, and Gunn race against time to rescue her and shut down the sinister operation once and for all.

The episode is a thrilling mix of action, humor, and heart, showcasing the strengths of the show's main characters. We see Cordelia struggling with her desires and trying to resist the temptation of a better life, while Angel and company go all out to save her and protect the innocent victims of the casino's scheme.

The setting of Las Vegas adds an extra layer of excitement, with the neon lights and glitz contrasting with the dark supernatural themes of the show. The demon dealers are a creative and chilling addition, with their glowing eyes and sinister grins. Lister, the charming demon proprietor, is both seductive and threatening, adding to the tension of the episode.

Overall, "The House Always Wins" is a standout episode of Angel's fourth season, with strong performances from the cast, a unique setting, and high stakes action. Fans of the show will not want to miss this thrilling adventure in Sin City.