Blackjack has long been a favourite of casino-goers, both seasoned and novice. Its combination of strategy and chance makes it one of the most engaging and popular table games.
An aspect of Blackjack that adds an additional layer of excitement is the numerous side bets available. In this article, we'll delve into the concept of 'Perfect Pairs' in Blackjack, their odds, and the potential payouts they offer.
What Is Perfect Pairs In Blackjack?
'Perfect Pairs' in Blackjack is a side wager that can be made in addition to the main Blackjack game. It involves betting on the possibility of the first two cards dealt to you forming a pair. A 'Perfect Pair' is a pair of cards that are identical in both value and suit. For instance, if you're dealt two 7 of spades, that's a perfect pair.
This side bet is placed alongside the standard bet before any cards are dealt and is separate from the main bet. The perfect pair side is settled before playing the main Blackjack game. Then the game still follows the regular rules of traditional Blackjack.
There are three types of pairs that can be made: perfect pairs, coloured pairs, and mixed pairs. A perfect pair consists of two cards of the same rank and suit. A coloured pair is a pair of cards of the same rank and colour but different suits. A mixed pair is a pair of cards of the same rank but different suits.
If making a perfect pairs bet, you're betting on your first two cards forming a perfect, coloured, or mixed pair. If you are correct, you receive as outlined below. If incorrect, you lose the side bet.
Odds Of Getting Perfect Pairs In Blackjack
Getting a perfect pair in Blackjack is a rare occurrence, with the probability of it happening being around 1 in every 521 hands. This is only possible in Blackjack games where the table uses more than one deck, as there is only one of each rank in each suit per deck.
In an 8-deck game of Blackjack, the chances of getting a perfect pair are slightly over 1 in 59. However, the odds of getting a coloured pair are slightly better, and the odds of getting a mixed pair are even better, as you have all suits available.
What Is The Payout For Perfect Pairs In Blackjack?
The payouts for the perfect pair side bet vary depending on the type of pair, but they are fairly standard across most casinos and blackjack variants. They are as follows:
- Mixed Pair: A mixed pair typically has a payout of 5 to 1.
- Coloured Pair: A coloured pair typically has a payout of 12 to 1.
- Perfect Pair: A perfect pair typically has a payout of 25 to 1.
It's important to remember that some casinos may have different payouts than the ones above, and others may not offer this side bet at all. Also, it’s worth noting that the perfect pair side bet has a higher house edge than the main Blackjack game.
How Do You Get Perfect Pairs In Blackjack?
Predicting the outcome of any Blackjack bet is impossible, so it’s difficult to say how you get perfect pairs. However, to even have a chance to win this side bet, you have to place it. You win this bet if the first two cards you are dealt make a pair as outlined above.
You have to make this side bet alongside your standard bet. The rules can vary depending on the casino, so it's crucial to check the rules before playing. As for actually getting a perfect pair? That's down to chance. The dealer shuffles the decks before drawing from the shoe, making getting a perfect pair entirely random.
Conclusion
To sum up, the perfect pairs side bet in Blackjack can add an extra layer of excitement to the classic casino game, offering you the opportunity for a payout independent of the main blackjack game.
However, while the payout for this side bet can be high, the odds of getting a perfect pair are extremely low. Therefore, it's best to carefully consider whether you wish to place this side bet. Remember, the result of this side bet is independent of the main blackjack round. So, if you win or lose this side bet, it has no bearing on the standard game of 21.
Always play responsibly and within your means.
*All values (Bet Levels, Maximum Wins, etc.) mentioned in relation to this game are subject to change at any time. Game features mentioned may not be available in some jurisdictions.