If you’re a blackjack fan, you might be familiar with the game variant known as Free Bet Blackjack. While the rules of this unique table game remain largely similar to standard blackjack, there are some interesting features that set it apart. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at this popular land-based variation and offer some tips for playing it well.
Invented by casino game inventor Geoff Hall and currently offered exclusively at the Golden Nugget in downtown Las Vegas, Free Bet Blackjack is an exciting twist on the classic card game. This blackjack variant, which is played on standard tables and offers standard minimum bets and maximums, gives players the chance to make double-down and split pair wagers for free. While this feature doesn’t drastically change the house edge of the game, it can significantly increase your chances of winning if you use it wisely.
In this game, players can choose to double any two-card hard total of 9, 10 or 11 against the dealer’s up-card, as well as split pairs for free, except on fours (which should never be split unless you have a free double on offer) and tens. Similarly, players can resplit for free after splitting pairs, including on aces and eights. When a player doubles down on a hand, they also have the option to add another free bet to their original wager, meaning that the casino will pay out both their regular and free bets when the hand wins.
While the basic rules of Free Bet Blackjack are the same as standard blackjack, there are some key differences that should be considered. For one, the dealer must hit a blackjack on 22 to beat the player, which is different from traditional games where a dealer can push any hands that don’t have money at risk. The game also offers free bets on splits and on doubling after a split, except for splits on 10s or picture cards.
If you’re a player who uses the Martingale strategy to win at roulette, this is an excellent way to increase your bankroll without losing all of it. However, the best way to improve your odds of winning at roulette is to focus on even-money outside bets, such as those that cover 1-18, 19-36, Red, Black, and Odd. These bets have a 1:1 payout, which is far better than the 1:2 payout on the inside bets. With these odds, you’ll have a much higher chance of winning and be able to enjoy your favorite casino game with peace of mind.