Free Bet Blackjack is a fun twist on the classic game of blackjack. It offers players the chance to split and double down for free, meaning you don't have to place additional bets of your own money for those moves.
This variation is popular because it allows you to perform these common poker moves without staking more money. Instead of using your funds to receive just one extra card or forming an extra hand, these actions are free. However, it is not without caveats.
In this blog post from Bonanza Slots, we'll explore what makes Free Bet Blackjack different from the traditional game and discuss whether it's worth playing.
By the end, you'll have a good understanding of whether Free Bet Blackjack could be a good fit for you.
What Is Free Bet Blackjack?
In Free Bet Blackjack, the rules are mostly the same as standard blackjack. The main difference is the way you handle splitting and doubling down.
In a regular game, if you split your cards or double down, you would place an additional bet equal to your original wager. However, in Free Bet Blackjack, these do not cost extra.
For example, if you receive two cards of the same value, you can split them into two separate hands without paying extra. Similarly, if you want to double down, the casino waives having to bet the additional amount.
This makes the game appealing because it allows you to perform these actions without having to wager more, letting you explore more exciting moves without spending more of your money.
The trade-off is that if the dealer ends up with a total of 22, all remaining player hands push instead of winning - even if a player has a blackjack (2-card hand totalling 21). This is one way the house offsets the free bets they give you.
These features give Free Bet Blackjack its unique twist, adding a layer of strategy and excitement while keeping risk low.
Free Bet Blackjack VS Regular Blackjack
Splitting and Doubling Down
In regular blackjack, splitting and doubling down require you to place extra bets. For example, if you split a pair, you create two separate hands, each needing its own bet. Similarly, doubling down means doubling your initial wager to receive just one more card.
So, in Free Bet Blackjack, you aren't risking extra money if you decide to split or double down.
The Dealer Busts with 22
One major difference in Free Bet Blackjack is what happens if the dealer busts with a total of 22. In a regular game of blackjack, players win if the dealer busts.
However, in Free Bet Blackjack, if the dealer ends up with a total of 22, all remaining player hands push instead of winning. This means you don't lose, but you don't win either; you get your original bet back.
Risk and Reward
Free Bet Blackjack slightly reduces the potential financial risk for players since no additional bet is required for splitting or doubling down. However, the push rule if the dealer busts with 22 balances the game in favour of the house.
These differences make each type of blackjack unique, allowing players to choose based on their budget and playing preferences.
Is Free Bet Blackjack Worth It?
Whether Free Bet Blackjack is worth it depends on your personal preferences and playing style.
One of the main advantages is the removal of additional bets required for certain moves. So, you can make strategic moves like splitting and doubling down without spending more of your own money. This can make the game more exciting and accessible, especially for beginners.
However, keep in mind the rule where all remaining hands push if the dealer busts with a total of 22. This means you won't win, but you also won't lose your original bet. This rule gives a slight edge to the house, especially since it applies to hands of any strength, including a blackjack/natural.
If you enjoy a game that allows you greater access to more strategic moves without having to place additional bets and you don't mind the fact that a dealer's 22 results in a push for all, Free Bet Blackjack might be a great choice for you.
It could also be a good option if you're new to blackjack and want to practice without putting too much of your money on the line.
Overall, Free Bet Blackjack offers a great alternative to the classic game, making it a worthwhile option for many players. Consider your own risk tolerance and playing preferences to decide if it's the right game for you, and always gamble responsibly.
How Do You Play Free Bet Blackjack?
Playing Free Bet Blackjack is almost the exact same as playing regular blackjack, with a few key differences. Here's a step-by-step guide to get you started.
Place Your Bet
Like regular blackjack, you start by placing your initial bet. This is the amount you are willing to wager on your hand.
Receive Your Cards
The dealer then deals two cards to each player and two for themselves. One of the dealer's cards is left face down.
Decide Your Move
You can choose to hit (take another card), stand (keep your current hand), split (if you have two cards of the same value), or double down (double your bet for one more card).
In Free Bet Blackjack, there is no extra bet required for splitting and doubling down.
Special Splits and Doubles
You can split any pairs except 10s for free. If you have a pair of 10s, you need to place an additional bet as normal.
You can also double down on any two-card total without having to place an extra bet, except for soft 9, 10, or 11 - doubling down on these hands requires the standard additional wager.
Dealer's Turn
Once all players have finished their moves, the dealer reveals their face-down card. The dealer must hit until their hand totals 17 or higher. In this version, if the dealer busts with a total of 22, all remaining hands push, no matter the strength of the hand.
Payouts
If your hand beats the dealer's without going over 21, you win. If you tie with the dealer, it's a push, and you get your original bet back. If you lose, you lose your bet.
That's all you need to know about Free Bet Blackjack. Remember to always gamble responsibly.