Are you already in love with blackjack but would like to stay at the table longer, wagering with confidence without the corresponding financial strain? Free Bet Blackjack is the game variant to consider.
Free Bet Blackjack launched in 2012 in the entertainment capital of the world (Las Vegas, downtown) at the Golden Nugget. Geoff Hall introduced it. Unlike other game versions, such as Blackjack Switch, which introduce a new gameplay style, the game maintains the standard mechanics and rules of traditional 21, but with attractive betting options.
In this casino guide, you get to know all the perks of playing Free Bet Blackjack and its rules.
Free Bet Blackjack? The What, the How, and the When
Free Bet Blackjack rules are identical to the standard 21-card game. They are:
- Six card decks are needed for a session to commence.
- You aim for a 21-card hand total value without going over.
- Face cards (Jack, Queen, King) are still worth 10 points each.
- Numbered cards (2-10) still count as their face value, and Aces still count as 1 or 11.
- The dealer still hits soft 17.
- Winning hands still pay 1:1, and natural blackjack pays 3:2.
The primary distinct rule in this game variant is that the wager for your double down or split comes from the casino’s pockets on eligible hands. Also, surrender is not allowed.
Features peculiar to Free Bet Blackjack include:
Free Bet
When you receive a qualified hand (a hard 9, 10, or 11 for doubling or a pair for splitting), the dealer gives you additional betting chips for a free bet, eliminating the need to match your original bet. This helps you play more aggressively without risking money, boosting your Free Bet Blackjack odds.
Push 22
There’s a trade-off in Free Bet Blackjack. It is a special rule called Push 22, where if the dealer hits exactly 22, all your remaining hands push instead of winning. This rule slightly gives the house a higher edge and helps the casino offset the cost of the free blackjack bet.
Payouts
If you win the hand, you still get a payout equal to that of your original bet. But if you lose, the dealer collects your original bet. That’s why you need to adopt an effective Free Bet Blackjack strategy. See how our blackjack strategy chart can enhance your gameplay.
Re-Splits Double After Split & Insurance
Some casinos allow free re-splits or free double downs after a free split. So always check the table rules. Insurance bets are also available, but it is best to avoid them when you play blackjack online for real money.
Optional Side Bets
Many casinos offer side bets, such as “Hot 3” or “21+3,” for players seeking additional potential payouts and who are willing to accept the associated volatility.
Gameplay Mechanics for Free Bet Blackjack
Below are the gameplay steps in Free Bet Blackjack. They are essential even if you know how to play Spanish 21.
- Place your initial wager.
- You and the dealer each receive two cards.
- Evaluate your hand and decide whether to hit, stand, double down, or split. You can utilize the Blackjack 21 cheat sheet.
- If your hand total happens to be 9, 10, or 11, the dealer offers you a free double down by placing a second bet on your behalf.
- If your hand is a pair (except 10s), the dealer offers you a free split and matches your bet for you.
- The dealer reveals their entire hand and plays it.
- Watch for Push 22.
- Process payouts following the rules.
Is Free Bet Blackjack Right for You?
With free splits and double downs, Free Bet Blackjack allows for bold play styles. Although the Push 22 rule somewhat dilutes the benefit, the game is not a bad choice. You only need a smart strategy to maximize your chances.
FAQs
Is Free Bet Blackjack better?
Free Bet Blackjack can be better due to free double downs and splits, though the slightly higher house edge requires strategic play for better rewards.
What is Free Bet Blackjack?
A blackjack variant where the casino offers free double downs and splits under the Push 22 rule, where the dealer’s 22 results in a tie rather than a win.
How to play Free Bet Blackjack?
Play follows traditional blackjack rules, except the house covers your bet when you double or split under qualifying hands.