Blackjack is a beloved card game, known for its perfect balance of luck and strategy. But what if I told you that you could add a little extra excitement to this classic game? That’s exactly what the 21+3 side game offers. It gives you a unique twist by adding the thrill of poker to your blackjack experience.
So, what is the 21+3 side game in blackjack, and why should you consider playing it? Let’s dive in.
What is the 21+3 Side Game?
The 21+3 side game is optional for players to make alongside their standard blackjack game. This side game combines elements of blackjack and three-card poker, giving you an extra opportunity to win during your blackjack session.
Here’s how it works: You place an extra bet on the 21+3 side game before the cards are dealt. After receiving your first two cards and seeing the dealer’s face-up card, you use these three cards to try and form a winning poker hand. If your cards create a straight flush, three-of-a-kind, straight, or standard flush, you win!
The 21+3 side game is simple to play but can dramatically increase the excitement of your blackjack game, especially if you are a poker fan. Playing a side game also gives you the chance to walk away with a win even if your main hand isn’t going well.
How Does the 21+3 Side Game Work?
Participating in the 21+3 side game is straightforward. Before the dealer starts dealing the cards, you place an additional wager for the side game. Once the cards are dealt, check your first two cards along with the dealer’s face-up card. If these three cards form one of the qualifying poker hands mentioned above, you win the side game.
Here are the four main possible winning combinations:
- Straight: Three consecutive cards of any suit (e.g., 5, 6, 7 of mixed suits).
- Flush: Three cards of the same suit.
- Three of a Kind: Three cards of the same rank (e.g., three 7s).
- Straight Flush: Three consecutive cards of the same suit (e.g., 5, 6, 7 of hearts).
In multi-deck blackjack games, you can also win with three-of-a-kind of the same suit.
The prizes for the 21+3 side game vary depending on the casino or game variation. Here is an overview of the payouts you should expect to see at most sites:
| Side Game | Prizes |
|---|---|
| Three-of-a-kind in the Same Suit | 100:1 |
| Straight flush | 40:1 |
| Three-of-a-kind | 20:1 |
| Straight | 10:1 |
| Flush | 5:1 |
Why Play the 21+3 Side Game in Blackjack?
The 21+3 blackjack side game adds an exciting layer of unpredictability to your regular blackjack rounds. Here’s why it’s worth trying:
- Extra Chances to Win: The 21+3 side game gives you an additional way to win even if your main blackjack hand doesn’t go as planned. This can make every round more engaging and rewarding.
- Poker and Blackjack Combo: If you enjoy both blackjack and poker, the 21 plus 3 side game combines the best of both worlds. You get to enjoy the strategy of blackjack while chasing poker-style hands on the side.
- Simple and Fun: The 21+3 side game is easy to understand, making it accessible for both new and experienced players. It adds extra excitement without complicating the main game.
Conclusion: Exploring Other Side Plays
While the 21+3 side game is an exciting addition to blackjack in many casinos, it’s important to know that there are other great side plays to explore.
For example, if you’re playing live blackjack at McLuck, you can enjoy side plays like Pairs, Poker 3, Any 20 & Queens, and Dealer Bust. These side plays offer unique ways to enhance your game and add even more chances to win.
- Pairs: Wager on whether your first two cards will form a pair. If they do, you’re in for a win!
- Poker 3: Combine your two cards with the dealer’s face card to create a winning poker hand.
- Any 20 & Queens: Predict whether your cards will add up to 20 or if you’ll be dealt a pair of Queens for an extra prize.
- Dealer Bust: Bet on the dealer going over 21 and win extra if they bust!
These side plays bring unique excitement and can make your blackjack sessions even more thrilling!
