Vegas Q&A: Are New Blackjack Versions Worth It?
UPDATED: 9:28 a.m. EST January 19, 2004
Question: I've been hearing about new types of blackjack games. Can you tell me more?
Jerry in Orlando, Fla.
Answer: Blackjack is by far the most popular table game in the casinos; however, it isn't viewed as a terribly exciting game. Therefore some of the gambling houses have started adding twists to lure new players.
For instance, at some casinos you can place a side bet that will pay high odds if you get a blackjack with a certain suit combination (for instance, the ace and jack of diamonds). Although these bets can be lucrative when they pay off, they rarely do, so most of the time you'll lose.
More common, though, are the games that tweak the rules on doubling down. Doubling down is when you receive your first two cards and then double your bet for one additional card -- a bet usually placed when you have 9, 10, or 11. These new games allow players to double-down at any time during the draw, get more than one card in the draw, or place side and surrender bets based upon the draw.
There's also a game I played recently that paid automatic winnings if you drew five cards or more without busting, even if your hand didn't beat the dealer's.
The dealer will be happy to explain the rules of these new games to you when you sit down at the table and most have some sort of pre-printed literature that you can study before you join in the action.
Be warned, however -- most gamblers view these types of side bets and twists as ways to fleece you from additional money. If you are serious about good odds and better chances to win, stick with the original game.
Keep in mind that many of the single and double-deck games have gone to 6-5 payoff on a blackjack instead of the traditional 3-2. Some of these special blackjack games also have similar payoffs for blackjacks, and it really is a rip-off. Stick to the traditional blackjack and you'll have better payoff odds!
If you have a question you'd like to submit, click here.
Answer: Blackjack is by far the most popular table game in the casinos; however, it isn't viewed as a terribly exciting game. Therefore some of the gambling houses have started adding twists to lure new players.
For instance, at some casinos you can place a side bet that will pay high odds if you get a blackjack with a certain suit combination (for instance, the ace and jack of diamonds). Although these bets can be lucrative when they pay off, they rarely do, so most of the time you'll lose.
More common, though, are the games that tweak the rules on doubling down. Doubling down is when you receive your first two cards and then double your bet for one additional card -- a bet usually placed when you have 9, 10, or 11. These new games allow players to double-down at any time during the draw, get more than one card in the draw, or place side and surrender bets based upon the draw.
There's also a game I played recently that paid automatic winnings if you drew five cards or more without busting, even if your hand didn't beat the dealer's.
The dealer will be happy to explain the rules of these new games to you when you sit down at the table and most have some sort of pre-printed literature that you can study before you join in the action.
Be warned, however -- most gamblers view these types of side bets and twists as ways to fleece you from additional money. If you are serious about good odds and better chances to win, stick with the original game.
Keep in mind that many of the single and double-deck games have gone to 6-5 payoff on a blackjack instead of the traditional 3-2. Some of these special blackjack games also have similar payoffs for blackjacks, and it really is a rip-off. Stick to the traditional blackjack and you'll have better payoff odds!
If you have a question you'd like to submit, click here.
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