Love playing blackjack, but would like to have more options for doubling and splitting?
That’s exactly what you’ll find in Vegas Strip Blackjack, among other differences to more common blackjack variants.
Continue reading to discover:
- Exactly what is Vegas Strip Blackjack
- An example of how it can unfold
- What to take into account when playing it
Next, let’s get to know this version of the game better.
What is Vegas Strip Blackjack?
As the name uncovers, Vegas Strip is a popular blackjack variation that was born in Sin City. The good news is that you can also enjoy it online now.
In Vegas Strip blackjack, there are 4 decks of cards (208 total). A key rule is when the dealer has an Ace or a 10 card, they check for blackjack right away. They will always stand on a soft 17 hand (17 with an Ace). You can double down on any two cards, even after choosing to split. Splitting is allowed on up to four hands, but only once on an Ace.
These basic gameplay rules make Vegas Strip a good option for both new and seasoned players.
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How to Play Vegas Strip Blackjack
You play against a dealer at the online table, aiming to reach 21. If your cards total more than 21, you “bust” and will lose the hand. Vegas Strip blackjack calls for a mix of strategy and luck.
Here’s how a game round works step by step.
- After you place Gold Coins on the table, you and the dealer will receive two cards each. One of the dealer’s cards gets placed face down. The dealer will check for blackjack when their upcard is an Ace or 10.
- If the dealer’s upcard is an Ace, you can take insurance (costs half your original coins). If you have a pair, you can split it into two hands. You could also double your play on your first hand or any split hands, except if you split Ace cards.
- Next, choose to either hit or stand (take more cards or keep your current hand) if they are near to 21.
- Then, the dealer’s second card is revealed, and they hit on card totals up to 16, or stand on soft 17.
If your hand is better than the dealer’s (nearer to 21 without going over), you would win at 1:1 prize ratio or 3:2 if you have blackjack.
Example of a Vegas Strip Blackjack Game Round
The following example uses theoretical card values. Just remember that every hand is unique from one round to the next.
To start, you place some coins and then get dealt a 5 and 6, totalling 11. The dealer receives an Ace face up, so the dealer checks their face down card for blackjack. It’s a 7, so no blackjack.
Based on your hand of 11 points, you choose to double down. You place an extra play, taking one more card, which is 10. Your cards now total 21.
Next up, the dealer’s second card gets dealt (a 7), increasing their hand to 18.
The dealer has no choice, they must stand on this 17-plus total.
Here’s how this game would play out:
- Your 21 trumps the dealer’s 18. Because you doubled down, your win is rewarded at twice your original coins.
Key point: The fact the dealer peeks makes double or split good options. Unlike European blackjack’s no peek gameplay, in Vegas Strip blackjack you can make plays after you’ve seen the dealer’s first couple of cards.
Useful Game Information & Tips
Consider these key factors in Vegas Strip blackjack:
- When you get blackjack, the game rewards at a 3:2 ratio.
- A total of 21 after you split Aces isn’t a blackjack, it offers a 1:1 ratio prize not 3:2.
Think about how much risk you’re comfortable with. Some Vegas Strip blackjack rules can offer you an advantage against the dealer:
- The opportunity to double down after splitting: With a strong hand after a split, you could make a confident play by committing more coins to boost your possible winnings.
- Dealer must stand on soft 17: This decreases the casino house edge, as the dealer can’t hit on soft 17 to possibly improve their cards.
With this in mind, this is how you can avoid mistakes:
- Don’t split too often: If you split pairs too often, you may get weaker hands and more risk. Only split when the basic strategy suggests it’s a sensible play.
- Beware doubling on risky hands: Doubling on poor hands could make you lose the hand. Refer to basic strategy and only double when the odds are favourable (like 11 against dealer 5 or 6).
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Vegas Strip Blackjack Alternatives
Fancy playing a different style of blackjack? Enjoy these 5 McLuck games, with different table layouts and ways to play:
- Single Deck Blackjack: Play with one deck of 52 cards, with standard blackjack rules, but blackjacks may occur more regularly.
- Spanish 21 Blackjack: Includes 6-8 48 card decks, and removes the 10 cards. Though you may double after splitting and take a late surrender.
- European Blackjack: A 2 deck game. The dealer starts with one card, their second card gets drawn after you stand.
- Blackjack Switch: Make plays with two hands at the same time. Also, switch your second card between both hands.
- Atlantic City Blackjack: Features 8 card decks. Dealer stands on soft 17. You may double on any card and after splits. Or use late surrender.
Wrap Up
Thanks to this blog guide, you are now ready to try this exciting variation of the blackjack game.
Knowledge is key to becoming a better player, so keep exploring our social casino game guides before heading out and making some memorable moves at McLuck social casino.
