Methods for winning the optional 21+3 Blackjack side bet
In the world of casino games, the 21+3 side bet has grown to become one of the most popular side bets in the past two decades. This simple, fun wager, introduced in Las Vegas in 2001, adds excitement to the traditional game of blackjack by offering a chance to win based on the combination of your initial two cards and the dealer's upcard forming a three-card poker hand [1].
The payout structure and house edge of the 21+3 side bet can vary significantly across different online and land-based casinos due to differences in the paytables implemented by game providers. The 21+3 side bet is based on whether your two initial blackjack cards plus the dealer’s upcard form a winning three-card poker hand, such as a flush, straight, three of a kind, straight flush, or suited three of a kind [1].
Different casinos and providers offer different payouts for these hands. For example, IGT’s version pays 35:1 for a straight flush, while Evolution Gaming’s live dealer blackjack with 21+3 pays 40:1 for a straight flush [1]. Since the paytable directly impacts the payouts for the various three-card poker hands, the potential winnings you can receive vary by casino and software provider [1].
The house edge on the 21+3 side bet depends strongly on the payout table used. Higher payouts on rare hands (like suited three of a kind) can reduce the house edge, while lower payouts or more conservative paytables (e.g., paying 35:1 or less for the straight flush rather than 40:1) increase the house edge [1].
Online casinos may use different software providers or customize paytables, causing house edges for 21+3 to fluctuate from one platform to another. Land-based casinos also vary in their payout structures, sometimes favoring slightly lower payouts to increase house advantage [1].
To illustrate, let's consider a simplified summary table:
| Provider / Casino | Straight Flush Payout | Notable Features | |------------------------|----------------------|-------------------------------------| | IGT | 35:1 | Standard payout, common in land-based | | Evolution Gaming (Online Live Dealer) | 40:1 | Higher payout, potentially lower house edge |
This variation means players should check the side bet paytable before playing, as it can significantly affect expected returns [1].
In conclusion, the 21+3 side bet's payout structure and house edge vary across online and land-based casinos mainly because of differing paytables, particularly the payout for the straight flush and other poker hands formed by your cards plus the dealer’s upcard. Online casinos using providers like Evolution Gaming may offer slightly better payouts than traditional IGT-powered land-based games, affecting the house advantage accordingly [1].
Players should be aware that the casino's advantage is more than twice as much if you play the 21+3 side bet on the double-deck game vs. an eight-deck shoe. The 21+3 side bet is placed in a small circle off to the side of the main wager [1]. Even on the IGT and Evolution payout tables, the difference between a six-deck shoe and an eight-deck shoe is almost a whole percentage point [1].
Remember, the critical thing to remember is that all 21+3 games play basically the same. By understanding the variations in payout structures and house edges, players can make informed decisions and maximize their gaming experience.
[1] Source: [CasinoMath.co.uk](http://www.casinomath.co.uk/21-3-blackjack-side-bet/)
- The 21+3 side bet, a popular wager in casino-and-gambling, offers different payouts across various online and land-based casinos due to the unique paytables implemented by game providers.
- In the casino-culture, online casinos using providers like Evolution Gaming may offer higher payouts for a straight flush, potentially lowering the house edge compared to traditional IGT-powered land-based games.
- Players should be diligent in checking the side bet paytable before participating, as the paytable significantly affects the expected returns in blackjack games with the 21+3 side bet.
- It is essential to understand that the house advantage of 21+3 games can fluctuate based on factors such as the number of decks used and the specific paytable, with the 21+3 side bet being more advantageous for the casino in double-deck games compared to eight-deck games.
