Blackjack side bets are gaining popularity among players as online casinos offer more options than traditional brick-and-mortar establishments. While the basic game has a low house edge and rewards patient, methodical play, side bets like Blazing 777 Blackjack and Perfect Pairs provide bigger, quicker payouts for those willing to take on higher house edges.
Perfect Pairs Side Bet
Perfect Pairs is a simple side bet that pays out if a player’s first two cards are the same denomination. The pay table varies, but a common one pays 30-1 for a perfect pair (same denomination and suit), 10-1 for a same-color pair, and 5-1 for a mixed color pair. With a house edge of 3.4%, it is one of the better deals for blackjack side bets.
Poker and Pairs Side Bet
Poker and Pairs is actually two side bets in one. The Pairs side bet pays out if a player’s first two cards are the same denomination, while the Poker side bet is a three-card poker variation based on the player’s first two cards and the dealer’s up card. The pay table for the Poker side bet varies, but a common one pays 100-1 for a suited three of a kind, 35-1 for a straight flush, and 5-1 for a flush. The house edge is 10.9%, which is on the steep side.
Blazing 777 Blackjack Side Bet
Blazing 777 Blackjack is a side bet that is based on Bally Technologies’ three-reel progressive Blazing 7s slot machine. The side bet involves a progressive jackpot that can reach tens or hundreds of thousands of dollars. A common pay table pays 200-1 for three mixed 7s, 500-1 for three same-color 7s, and the entire jackpot for three suited 7s. The house edge is variable and depends on the size of the progressive payoffs.
Side bets like these offer players the chance to win big, but at a higher risk. It’s important to understand the pay tables and house edges before placing any blackjack side bets.
Understanding the Odds of Blazing 777 Blackjack
In a common six-deck game, three same-suit 7s are not possible, making the most significant payout for three same-color 7s. The pay table and the number of decks used affect the odds and potential payout for each side bet.
To achieve a 100% average return, the jackpot for a $1 bet would need to reach $100,216.92, while a $5 bet would require a jackpot of $500,084.62. However, even with a large jackpot, the volatility of the side bet remains high, and the odds of winning are low.
Card counting can improve a player’s odds in live casinos by tracking the number of 7s dealt. However, online play typically uses fresh shuffles for every hand, making card counting impossible.
Conclusion
Overall, Blazing 777s Blackjack is a high-risk, high-reward bet that is not recommended for players seeking a steady, low-risk game. While some may be tempted by the potential for a big payout, the odds and volatility make it a risky proposition. Blackjack side bets can be an exciting addition to the game, but players should be aware of the risks involved and make informed decisions about whether or not to participate in these bets. By understanding the pay tables, house edges, and odds associated with each side bet, players can make more educated choices and potentially increase their chances of winning.