Side Bets IN BLACKJACK GAMES

The world of online blackjack has evolved significantly, offering Canadian players an array of exciting variations beyond the classic game. One of the most intriguing developments in recent years has been the introduction of online blackjack side bets. These additional wagers have added a new dimension to the game, attracting both novice and experienced players alike. As more users choose to play blackjack online in Canada, understanding these side bets becomes crucial for anyone looking to maximize their enjoyment and potential winnings.

Blackjack in Canada has always been popular, but the online version has opened up new possibilities for players. Side bets, in particular, have become a significant draw, offering the chance for big payouts alongside the traditional game. However, like any aspect of gambling, they come with their own set of advantages and disadvantages that players should be aware of.

Understanding Side Bets in Online Blackjack

Side bets in blackjack are additional wagers that players can make alongside their main bet. These bets usually relate to specific outcomes or combinations of cards and often offer higher payouts than the standard blackjack game. However, they typically come with a higher house edge.

Advantages of Side Bets

  • Potential for large payouts: Some side bets offer payouts as high as 1000:1.
  • Added excitement: Side bets introduce new elements of anticipation to each hand.
  • Variety: They provide different ways to win, even if your main hand loses.

Disadvantages of Side Bets

  • Higher house edge: Most side bets have a significantly higher house edge than the main game.
  • Can increase losses: Making side bets increases the total amount wagered per hand.
  • Potential distraction: Focus on side bets might lead to suboptimal play in the main game.

How To Choose Blackjack Side Bets

Common Side Bets in Blackjack and Strategies

This section delves into popular side bets such as Perfect Pairs and 21+3, exploring effective strategies to maximize your chances of success.

Perfect Pairs

This popular side bet wins if the player's first two cards are a pair. Payouts in Perfect Pairs vary based on the type of pair:

  • Mixed Pair (same value, different suits and colors): Usually pays 5:1
  • Colored Pair (same value and color, different suits): Usually pays 10:1
  • Perfect Pair (same value and suit): Usually pays 30:1

The house edge on Perfect Pairs is typically around 6%. It's best used sparingly for added excitement rather than as a consistent strategy.

Perfect Pair 21+3

This side bet combines the player's first two cards and the dealer's up card to form a three-card poker hand. Payouts vary but often include:

  • Flush: 5:1
  • Straight: 10:1
  • Three of a Kind: 30:1
  • Straight Flush: 40:1
  • Suited Three of a Kind: 100:1

The house edge can vary from 3% to 8% depending on the specific pay table. It's more favorable than some side bets but still not as good as the main game.

Insurance

While not always considered a true side bet, insurance is offered when the dealer's up card is an Ace. It pays 2:1 if the dealer has blackjack. Insurance has a high house edge of around 7%. It's generally not recommended unless you're a skilled card counter.

Super Sevens

This bet wins if the player's cards include one or more sevens. Payouts increase with more sevens and if they're suited:

  • One Seven: 3:1
  • Two Sevens (different suits): 50:1
  • Two Sevens (same suit): 100:1
  • Three Sevens (mixed suits): 500:1
  • Three Sevens (same suit): 5000:1

The house edge is typically over 10%. It's a high-risk, high-reward bet that should be used sparingly.

Blackjack Games offering Special Features and Side Bets at Bodog

Bodog offers a variety of blackjack games, some of which include side bets. Let's explore these games and their specific features:

  • Double Deck Blackjack: This game allows doubling down, splitting pairs, and taking insurance.
  • Perfect Pairs: As already mentioned, this game includes the Perfect Pairs side bet.
  • 22 Blackjack: This unique variant doesn't offer side bets but introduces a push on dealer 22.
  • Zappit Blackjack: This innovative variant allows players to "zap" certain hands but doesn't offer additional side bets.
  • 21 Burn: This game doesn’t offer any specific side bet, but players can "burn" (discard) their first card for a fee.
  • Perfect Pair 21 + 3: As mentioned above, it offers Perfect Pairs and 21+3 side bets.
  • Dragon Blackjack Guarantee: Offers a "Dragon Bonus" side bet that pays for certain hands.
  • Pirate 21: It may offer a "Pirate Bonus" side bet, but details can vary.
  • Pontoon 21: Typically doesn't offer side bets. However it has a special feature the "Five Card Trick" rule, which often pays out at 2:1.
  • Super 7: The Super 7 side bet pays out based on how many sevens you receive.

Standard, Classic, Single Deck, European and Classic Single Deck Blackjack variations don’t offer side bets.

General Tips for Playing Blackjack with Side Bets

Understand the odds: Before making any side bet, know its house edge and how it compares to the main game.

Don't neglect basic strategy: Side bets can be exciting, but the core blackjack game should remain your primary focus.

Set limits: Decide in advance how much you're willing to spend on side bets and stick to it.

Be aware of variations: Side bet rules and payouts can vary between casinos and even between tables at the same casino. Always check the specific rules.

Consider the impact on game speed: Making side bets can slow down the game, potentially reducing the number of hands you play per hour.

Understand the risk: While side bets offer the allure of big payouts, they also come with a higher risk of losing money faster.

Final Thoughts about Side Bets

Online blackjack side bets offer an exciting twist on the classic game, providing Canadian players with new ways to engage with one of the world's most popular card games. While they can add thrill and the potential for large payouts, they also come with increased risk and a higher house edge.

For those looking to explore side bets, Bodog offers several blackjack variations that cater to different preferences. Whether you're a fan of Perfect Pairs, interested in the unique twist of 22 Blackjack, or prefer the potential advantage of Single Deck games, there's likely a variation that suits your style.