There are numerous reasons for blackjack’s popularity and longevity. Yet, while approaches to the game will differ depending on the person, it is undeniable that the perception that the odds can be in your favor through skill looms large as a reason for the game’s popularity.
The house edge for blackjack is small, perhaps the tightest margin of all casino games. As mentioned, the fact that a level of skill can be employed to determine the outcome means that many players believe there is no house edge at all.
However, that applies only to pure blackjack. Side bets don’t aim to beat the dealer with 21—they’re separate wagers. Many blackjack games offer side bets, although they are more prevalent with online blackjack games compared with land-based casinos. Are they worth playing? The answer is complicated.
The first thing to say is that, on paper, you can see the attraction of playing side bets in blackjack. They tend to offer big payouts, perhaps several hundred times your stake. Usually, the bets are placed on pattern-style outcomes, like making a pair, a perfect pair (2 cards of the same value and suit), or more elaborate poker-style hands. Usually, the side bet does not impact the outcome of the main blackjack game.
As mentioned, blackjack side bets are more prevalent at online casinos. Yet that offers another dilemma: Should you play software-based blackjack games with side bets or live dealer games? It is broadly up to individual tastes, yet you should always do some research before deciding which games to play.
Indeed, research is the key aspect here. The side bets will likely have a greater house edge than regular blackjack, but the question is, how generous is that house edge? Moreover, the house edge for side bets will differ in different games and various side bets within an individual game.
It becomes an issue of weighing up the value proposition. Calculate the real-world probability of winning the side bet, compare it to the payouts on offer, and then weigh those things together to see if it offers value. If the game is software-based, you can usually find the RTP (Return to Player) calculation for individual side bets within the rules page of each game.
Another aspect worth pointing out is that online casino blackjack games may sometimes carry progressive jackpots. In this case, the payout might run into several hundred thousand dollars, even millions. Progressive jackpots are usually decided randomly and may be tied to specific side bets or the main blackjack game itself. Again, it’s something worth analysing based on the value offered. However, be aware that the offer of a progressive jackpot may eat into the house edge/RTP of the main blackjack game to fund the prize.
Ultimately, it’s clear that side bets will not be for everyone. We opened this piece by discussing blackjack’s allure, which is based on the narrowest margins in the house edge. Side bets tend to remove that attraction. In saying that, you can view them as a shot at nothing, keeping it separate from your primary blackjack strategy. There are many options to explore online, so do your research first to get the whole picture.
