What is Video Blackjack?

Also known as 21, blackjack is a favorite card game for many casino players, both online and offline. In this oddschecker guide, we’ll take a look at the video version. If you want to learn how video blackjack works, you’ve come to the right place!

Video blackjack is a digital version of the classic card game. The only difference is that you play it online against software, but all of the other rules and strategies are the same. Let’s take a closer look.  

Table of Contents

1. How to Play Video Blackjack
2. Types of Video Blackjack Games
3. What Are the Video Blackjack Odds?
4. What Strategy is Best to Play Video Blackjack?
5. What is the Difference between Video Blackjack and Live Blackjack?
6. What Online Casinos Offer Video Blackjack Games?
7. Bottom Line

How to Play Video Blackjack 

In blackjack your objective is to get a hand as close to 21 without going over, in order to beat the dealer. Because it’s digital, video blackjack can be faster paced than the live version. However, you can play at any speed you prefer by using the settings. 

Like other online casino games, this one uses a Random Number Generator (RNG) to determine outcomes. This means that your odds of winning largely depend on chance. However, it is worth noting that video blackjack differs from options like online slots and roulette because it’s not just about luck.

Instead, you can apply strategy to improve your chances of winning. We’ll look at these strategies soon, but here’s a simple step-by-step guide on how to play the blackjack video game: 

1. Place your bet

After launching the game, the first thing you should do is decide how much you want to stake. Your selection must be in line with the limits set by the software provider. Based on our checks, some video blackjack titles allow stakes ranging from $0.50 to $1,000 or higher.

To make your bet, you usually have to click on chips and place them on the digital table. DO NOT OVERLOOK THIS, as the chips are worth different values. Once you’re done, you can click "Deal".

2. Receive cards

Next, you’ll get two cards both face up. In addition, two cards will be dealt to the video dealer. However, one of the dealer’s cards will be face-down, which means you can’t see its value. 

3. Evaluate your hand

At this point, you’ll check your hand value and decide which action to take. Remember that the goal in the video blackjack online game is to have a hand close to 21 without going over. 

4. Make your move

Depending on your hand value, there are four main moves you can make: 

1. Hit: Request another card if you think you can get closer to 21 without going over.
2. Stand: Keep your current hand and end your turn.
3. Double: Increase your initial bet 2x and receive only one more card.
4. Split: If you have two cards of the same value, you can split them into two separate hands.

You’ll find buttons for each of these options on your screen. Note that this is where strategy enters the equation in video blackjack, as the option you choose can make or break your round.

5. Wait for the dealer’s action

When you’re done, the video dealer also gets a chance to make their own move. They can choose from any of the same four options: hit, stand, double, and split. However, most variants have a rule that the dealer must stand when they get a hand of at least 17. 

6. Find out if you win or lose 

The dealer will reveal their face-down card at the end of the game. Then, you’ll compare their hand value with yours to find out who wins. If your hand is closer to 21 than the dealer’s without going over, you win. Otherwise, you lose. 

If both hands are equal then the round goes into a push, and you get your bet back. 

Types of Video Blackjack Games

One of the best aspects of video blackjack is that it’s available in different variants, and you can choose the one that suits your preferences. Here is a look at the most popular options we encountered during our reviews at oddschecker.

Classic Video Blackjack

If you want a version that’s a replica of traditional blackjack, this is the one to choose. You just aim to beat the dealer by getting a hand as close to 21 as possible, without going over. The appeal of this option is its straightforward gameplay, although it can feature one or more decks.

Multi-Hand Video Blackjack

In this format, you can play multiple hands at the same time. Most multi-hand titles we found allow you to play three to five hands per round. Of course, this will increase the amount you bet but there’s also a chance of higher potential winnings.

Progressive Video Blackjack

You can already guess what this blackjack video game is about from its name. In short, it comes with a progressive jackpot feature that is similar to those on progressive slots. While playing, you usually have to make a side bet for a chance to win the prize pool and you’ll get it if you hit the required card combinations.

Side Bet Video Blackjack

With this version, you have the option to place side wagers beside the main stake. The popular side bets are Perfect Pairs, 21+3, and Royal Match.

They can offer bigger payouts if you win. For example, a Perfect Pair will get you more winnings if you receive two cards of the same rank or suit. However, it is important to keep in mind that the side bets also introduce a higher house edge. 

Bonus Video Blackjack

Playing bonus video blackjack gives you extra payouts for some specific scenarios. One example we came across is getting a hand with suited cards or consecutive wins. The percentage bonus you can receive varies depending on the game. 

Spanish 21 Video Blackjack

Here’s one of our favorite variants. In Spanish 21, the game removes 10 cards from the deck and adds unique rules. For example, you can score bonuses for five-card or six-card 21s. This is a good option to consider if you’re seeking better payouts. 

European Video Blackjack

The last type of video blackjack here is the European version. It sticks to European blackjack rules, where the dealer receives only one card until you complete your turn. Afterward, they can hit for more. This variant is only slightly different from the classic one. 

What Are the Video Blackjack Odds?

The odds for video blackjack range from 99% to 99.5%, depending on the title. This makes blackjack one of the casino games with the greatest potential profit. Such high odds mean the house edge is only 0.5% to 1%. From our experience, slot machines, roulette and poker do not offer these types of odds. The only option that comes close is video poker.

As you’d expect, the odds also determine your payouts. However, the method by which you win also plays a role. For example, you have lower chances of getting a blackjack (an exact 21 hand) than simply winning over the dealer with a hand close to 21. Therefore, the former pays more. You can get the full details from the table below:

Importantly, certain factors can affect your video blackjack odds based on the game you’re playing. These are the most critical ones to keep in mind: 

• Number of decks: With single-deck games, you generally have better odds as the house edge is as low as 0.17%. On the other hand, multi-deck games reduce the odds slightly.
• Payout for Blackjack: A 3:2 payout is more favorable than a 6:5 payout. With the latter, the house edge is significantly larger.
• Dealer Rules: It’s best when the dealer stands on soft 17 because it reduces the house edge. If they hit, you have lower chances of winning since they can easily improve their hand.
• Side Bets: These extra bets, such as Perfect Pairs or 21+3, carry a much higher house edge. In some cases, they’re up to 10%, so we don’t advise placing side bets in video blackjack. 

What Strategy is Best to Play Video Blackjack?

Card games often involve an element of strategy, and the same applies to blackjack. Therefore, it can be helpful to follow a video blackjack strategy while playing. This can improve your chances of winning by helping you make the right decisions each time. 

Usually, it’s ideal to follow the basic strategy chart. It tells you whether to hit, stand, split, or double based on the dealer’s facing-up card. At oddschecker, we studied the basic strategy chart and summarized the main instructions in the table below:

In addition to the information in the video blackjack strategy chart, here are five expert techniques we advise you to follow: 

1. Know the Rules

Video blackjack has different variants, and each one follows separate rules. To be specific, there can be variances in the number of decks, the payout for blackjack (3:2 or 6:5), or whether the dealer stands on soft 17. It’s important to understand these rules because they affect the house edge and your strategy.

2. Avoid Insurance Bets

All professional blackjack players insist that insurance bets are not worth it, and we agree. The bets will increase the house edge and are not recommended unless you’re card counting. Of course, card counting isn’t possible in online video blackjack. 

3. Manage Your Bankroll

For safety reasons, make sure you set limits on how much you’ll bet per round and stick to them. Progressive jackpots and side bets may be tempting in video blackjack, but you should only go for them with excess funds.

4. Play Within Your Limits

Our expert advice is to start with low stakes if you’re new. You can move to higher amounts gradually as you become more comfortable with your strategy. As you increase, however, you should still place bets that allow you to play comfortably for a longer period. That way, you can enjoy the game without unnecessary pressure.

5. Practice with Free Games

This fifth tip may sound cliche, but it helps a great deal. Based on our tests, many online casinos and gaming apps have free video blackjack in demo mode so you can practice it. Use it to perfect your basic strategy without wagering any money.

What is the Difference between Video Blackjack and Live Blackjack?

At US real money online casinos, you’ll find live blackjack in addition to the video version. Both are quite distinct in terms of the experience you get while playing. As we’ve already explained, video blackjack is a digital version where you compete against an RNG software. There’s no human dealer. 

In video blackjack online, you have total control over the pace and other settings, making this option ideal for players who seek quick and pressure-free sessions. However, you won’t get any social interaction, which can be a drawback — and that’s where live blackjack stands out. 

Live blackjack is a real-time version streamed directly from an actual casino or studio. It features a human dealer, and multiple players can join the table in some cases. As a result, playing live blackjack is much more realistic. You can communicate with the dealer and other players using the on-screen chat. The pace is typically slower, however, because you have to wait for the dealer to bet. 

What Online Casinos Offer Video Blackjack Games?

We reviewed many online casinos in the US and found some high-quality video blackjack titles. Here are our top 10 picks: 

1. Caesars Palace
2. BetMGM
3. Borgata 
4. FanDuel
5. DraftKings
6. BetRivers
7. PokerStars
8. Hard Rock Bet
9. JackpotCity 
10. Bally Casino 

What are the most popular video blackjack games?

After testing different video poker titles, we settled on these five as the trending options to play: 

Multihand Blackjack

We found this title on nearly all of the gaming sites we tested. It allows you to play multiple hands simultaneously — up to five, in some cases. Each one has a different bet and payout if you win.

Although Multihand Blackjack is available on many gaming platforms, we prefer Bally Casino for this variant. The site offers up to a $100 bonus in cash back if your initial bets don’t win. 

Classic Blackjack

You already know what to expect from this popular video blackjack option. It’s the classic version, which is also the reason it’s trending. Clearly, many American players prefer this simple gameplay without additional rules. While playing, you just focus on getting a hand closer to 21.

The renowned Jackpot Casino is our recommended platform for this title. During our reviews, we were impressed by its collection of traditional games. Plus, a deposit match welcome bonus of up to $1,000 is currently available after registration. 

Premium Blackjack Pro

If you’re a high roller, this premium video blackjack game may catch your interest. It’s not very different from classic gameplay, but what makes it stand out is its sleeker design with improved graphics. Plus, the betting limits are wider to accommodate bigger wagers. 

We came across Premium Blackjack Pro while analyzing Borgata Online Casino. You can play the game on the site on PC or mobile. Additionally, Borgata offers a 100% sign-up bonus of up to $1,000, plus $20 on the house. 

Blackjack Player’s Choice BetMGM

This is an exclusive video blackjack game available at BetMGM Casino. As the name implies, it’s a "Player’s Choice", which is why it’s popular. BetMGM is the right platform to play it, but you’ll also find the game on the operator’s sister site.

When you sign up with BetMGM, you get a welcome offer of up to $1,500 for a $10 minimum deposit. You can use the reward to enjoy Blackjack Player’s Choice, along with more than 2,900 games. 

Blackjack With Surrender

In this game, you have the option to reduce your losses. More specifically, Blackjack With Surrender allows you to forfeit your hand if you think the dealer is going to win. Then, you’ll lose only half of your wager instead of everything. 

Blackjack With Surrender ranks among the best video blackjack options at DraftKings Casino. Joining the site to play is worthwhile when you factor in the $100 in bonus credits promotion, they currently offer new players.

Bottom Line

We believe our extensive guide explains everything you need to know about video blackjack. With odds of up to 99.5%, the game is quite favorable to play. You can get started by choosing any of our recommended real money casinos in the US. Don’t forget to leverage the basic strategy chart and our expert tips to make the right decisions and play responsibly. 

Other Slots Guide Chapters   

• Chapter 1: How To Play Slot Machines 
• Chapter 2: Slot Machine Symbols and Values: a comprehensive guide 
• Chapter 3: Slot Machine Strategy: How to Win at Slots 
• Chapter 4: What Type of Slots Exist 
• Chapter 5: What RTP and Volatility mean in Slots 
• Chapter 6: The Most Popular Slot Games: a Complete Guide 
• Chapter 7: What is a Progressive Slot Machine, and how to Win on Them? 
• Chapter 8: What are Video Slots and How to Play Them? 
• Chapter 9: What Slot Machines Pay the Best? 
• Chapter 10: Free Slots with Bonus and Free Spins 
• Chapter 11: Free Slots to win Real Money: No deposit required 
• Chapter 12: Slots Apps that Pay Real Money 
• Chapter 13: What is Video Poker?
• Chapter 14: What is Video Blackjack?
• Chapter 15: What is Video Bingo?
• Chapter 16: What are Bonus Buy Slots?
• Chapter 17: What are 5-Reel Slots?
• Chapter 18: What are 3-Reel Slots?
• Chapter 19: Top 10 Strategies and Tips to Play Slots