Blackjack live Table Game by playtech

Blackjack is a popular card game that has stood the test of time and continues to offer incredible entertainment to novice and seasoned players. Since the introduction of the online gambling industry, numerous software providers, including Playtech, have emerged. Thanks to modern technological innovations, we now have live dealer games that replicate the real casino experience, providing comfort and convenience to online players. To cater to the various needs of each player, Playtech has advanced the innovations further to create an extensive catalogue of intriguing live blackjack variants that offer cross-platform functionality. These titles are run by real-life dealers and streamed live in HD from the company’s specially designed studio in Riga, Latvia.

This article will give an overview of Playtech’s live blackjack user interface, delve into the rules of blackjack, give an in-depth guide on how to play the game online and highlight each bet’s different odds and payouts. Furthermore, the article will provide insight into some of the most popular live blackjack variants created by Playtech and offer tips and strategies to boost your winning odds.

Live blackjack card rankings

Similar to other table casino card games, all cards used in a live blackjack table during real money gameplay have different values assigned to them using a unique system. When playing blackjack for real money, these distinct card values are mainly used to calculate a hand’s (player’s or dealer’s) total value to determine the winner.

To begin with, depending on your playing variant, the game is played using one to eight decks. All Playtech live blackjack tables use eight standard decks of 52 cards. The King (K), Queen (Q), and Jack (J), i.e., face cards, are each assigned 10 points, while cards 2 through 10 are worth their face values. Additionally, depending on which value gives you the best winning odds, the Ace card can be 1 or 11. Thus, it is the most sought-after card in live dealer blackjack since it allows players to be versatile with their hands and form winning combinations easily. You should note that suits are irrelevant in a blackjack live gambling session since they have no impact on calculating a hand’s total value.

Types of hands in live blackjack

You can form different hands depending on the cards you’re dealt when playing blackjack live. For instance, a hand containing a 10-card and an Ace is referred to as a natural. Moreover, as earlier stated, the Ace card has two distinct values. Therefore, when a hand has an Ace, there are two possible scores. A hand with an Ace counted as 11, having a total value of under 21, is referred to as a soft hand.

Similarly, a hand with no Ace card has only one possible outcome and is referred to as a hard hand. In most cases, any player with a hard hand can quickly surpass 21 points and go bust with just one hit, leading to them losing their bets. Nevertheless, not only hands that don’t have an Ace card are considered hard. For instance, a hand containing an Ace that is worth only 1 point is considered hard.

Playtech live blackjack game interface

The Playtech live blackjack game interface is well-designed to create an authentic gaming environment similar to a real casino. It is user-friendly as you can easily access various gameplay features, and allows seamless cross-platform gambling experience through desktop and mobile devices.

Video feed and settings

Whether you’re playing on a desktop site or mobile casino, a live video feed from the company’s studio is fixed on the screen. Although the game is usually broadcast in HD, the video quality automatically adjusts itself to suit your internet strength. If you have a weak internet connection, the game will minimise the live feed window and offer a distant view of the studio setup. 

Nevertheless, if you have a poor or unstable connection, you can manually modify the video quality settings between Low and High using the slider under video settings. Unlike many live online blackjack interfaces, Playtech’s UI lacks the full-screen view mode feature. This is pretty disappointing for most players who prefer having a close-up view of the studio and every croupier’s actions, like shuffling and dealing cards as the game progresses.

Under the game settings tab, you can perform numerous actions, including hiding your bets from other players and allowing popup displays of each player’s decision. You can also change the sound settings by adjusting the main volume, game, and studio sound. If you feel the game’s audio is annoying or distracting you during your gambling session, you can turn off all sounds by moving each slider to 0%.

Studio setup

Depending on your playing variant, the studio background setup varies from one Playtech live blackjack to the other. With the classic 7-seat blackjack variation, the game is set on a stunning grey background that’s easy on the eye. A well-dressed and highly trained blackjack live dealer usually sits behind a massive semi-circular table with a grey edge. Some tables are covered with black cloths while others have grey, green, yellow, and brown.

On the croupier’s left side is a shoe filled with a shuffled deck of 52 playing cards, from which they draw and deal them to each player’s position. An empty transparent glass box where all the played cards are disposed of is set on the dealer’s right. The dealer’s rules and the game payouts (blackjack and insurance) are usually printed on the tablecloth, and you can see the accepted side bets in your betting position. If you wish, you can deactivate the side bets by clicking the Mickey Mouse button on the left side of the display.

Betting area and help menu

On the screen’s bottom area is the designated betting section with multiple sitting positions (7 in this case). All occupied spaces are marked with each player’s name, and you can take as many positions as you wish. If there’s a vacant seat on a table, the available spot will light up with a “Please take a seat” message at the top of the live feed. Various multi-coloured betting chips with different monetary values are activated and displayed in the middle of the window during the betting period. As a player, you must place your wager by clicking on the chip with your preferred bet value and setting it on your bet position.

A help menu is usually placed on the top left of the screen, where you can access the game’s mechanics, including rules, betting and game flow, limit ranges, side bets, RTP, UI elements, etc. You can also view your bet history, change your nickname, open the cashier page, and access the lobby.

Bet limits

Whether you’re playing on a desktop site or mobile casino, the set Playtech live blackjack bet limits are pinned on the screen’s top left section. However, different fixed limits exist for the different types of bets allowed in the game. Nevertheless, depending on your preferred Playtech online casino and table, the minimum allowed betting amount ranges from as low as $1, $10, $25, and $50. Other variants have higher minimum bet limits of $100, $200, and $1000, or the equivalent in Bitcoin for crypto fans.

Similarly, the maximum bet limits vary from one live online blackjack by Playtech to the other. The maximum allowed betting amount in Playtech live blackjack casinos starts from as low as $500 and goes as high as $1500, $2000, $4000, $5000, and $10,000. Thus, Playtech live blackjack is ideal for both low-budget players and high rollers. A display of your current account balance and a Bet indicator showing the total wager you’ve placed in the current round is pinned at the bottom left of the screen.

Betting features

The Rebet button allows you to place your exact previous bets in the current round, while an Undo button on the chips’ left side enables you to remove the last bet you’ve placed before the betting period is over. If you have placed various bets, you can click the Undo feature repeatedly, deleting bets in the reverse order you set them. You can hold the button if you wish to delete all your current bets.

Furthermore, the x2 button on the right side of the chips allows you to double your current betting amount up to your desired amount. Notably, the Rebet button is only active before you place your first chip, and you must have a sufficient account balance to double your wagers. Lastly, clicking the Deal button confirms your bets and notifies the other participating players that you’re ready to proceed to the game round. Other betting features are activated as a game round progresses.

Golden chips

These are unique bonus chips that are activated depending on your preferred online casino. They are typically awarded to players in certain Playtech table games. Similar to the real money betting chips, each Golden chip has a specific value and can be used to place bets. The awarded bonus chips usually appear on the screen alongside the standard chips. If you receive chips of different values, they’ll be listed separately; if you’re awarded chips of the same value from different bonuses, they’ll be added up.

More than one Golden chip can be used during the betting period, and you can place them on different positions. However, depending on the online casino, this number may be limited. You can also mix Golden chips with regular ones on one betting position if enabled. If the Golden Chip bet wins, the value of the winning chip is deducted from your payout.

Live dealer blackjack rules

Although live blackjack is primarily a game of skill and not luck, it’s undoubtedly one of the most entertaining casino card games. The game also features straightforward rules that are easy to grasp and apply. Therefore, the more you play, the more proficient you’ll become. Since it’s a skill-based game, live online blackjack is an ideal choice for players who are good at formulating various betting and winning strategies. Despite the game’s thrilling gambling feel and simple rules, you must first learn its basic rules and gameplay mechanics before risking your hard-earned money or bonus funds.

Blackjack’s primary objective

To begin with, despite the variant, live blackjack online by Playtech is played with two hands, i.e., the player’s hand (can be played by unlimited players) against the dealer’s hand, which is played by a single dealer. The game is played with six to eight decks of 52 cards. During a real money game round, blackjack’s main objective is for one of the participating players to have a better hand than the dealer, i.e., beat the dealer by having a hand with a higher combined card value of close to 21 points (blackjack) but without going over (busting). Thus, the game round will be over if the player’s or dealer’s total card value exceeds 21 points.

Blackjack hand

A winning blackjack hand usually comprises a 10-point card and an Ace card valued at 11. Therefore, if either the player’s or the dealer’s hand has blackjack, the round will be over, and the winner will be paid as per the paytable, which is usually 3:2. Suppose both the dealer’s and the player’s hand have blackjack. In that case, the round’s outcome will be declared a push, and the player’s bet will be returned.

How to play Playtech live blackjack

To begin playing live dealer blackjack for real money, you must first choose an online casino that best meets your gambling preferences, such as an extensive collection of Playtech live dealer games, a diverse range of banking options, including fiat and crypto alternatives like Bitcoin, an exclusive welcome bonus for live dealer games, and effective customer support options such as live chat, toll-free contact numbers, etc. After selecting, register for a player account.

Deposit into your account

After signing up for a casino account, proceed to the cashier page and choose one of the available payment methods to fund your gambling account. Once the funds are credited into your account, claim the exclusive live welcome bonus (if any) and head to the live casino page, where you’ll find numerous live blackjack variants by Playtech. Click on one of the variations and launch the game.

Place your bets

To get the whole first-hand live casino blackjack experience, you should find a 7-seater table with vacant betting spots. If you find a game round in progress, you should take a seat, and your nickname will be displayed right below it. If you wish to leave the table, you can hit the “X” button on your seat. Notably, you’ll lose your sitting position if you’re inactive and don’t place a bet.

Once the current round ends, the real-life croupier will announce that the betting time is open and ask you to place your bets. During this phase, you must place your bet within the defined table limits and set period (usually 15 seconds). Click on the betting chip with your preferred value and place it on your betting spot on the table. Please note that you can place several chips on different sitting positions simultaneously.

Bet Behind

Luckily, all live blackjack tables by Playtech have a “Bet Behind” feature. Therefore, if your preferred table is full, you can bet behind other players during the betting phase. Similarly, you can also bet behind multiple players simultaneously. Moreover, when participating in the game as a main player, you can play as a Bet Behind player on all other positions except your own. However, the downside of this feature is that you only follow the actions of the seated player unless they choose to Split or Double and you don’t have sufficient funds to cater for the expense.

Game round

Some Playtech live blackjack tables adhere to Vegas rules, while European guidelines govern other Playtech variants. But what’s the key difference? The Vegas rules variant adheres to the most popular gameplay rules where the dealer will scan and deal one face-up card to themselves, you, and other seated players on the table in rotation, starting from the dealer’s left and continuing clockwise. Afterwards, they’ll draw and deal another round of cards to the player (s) face up and a second face-down card (also known as a hole card) to themselves. Your combined hand’s value will then be displayed in your sitting position.

On the other hand, the European rules variant adheres to unique gameplay rules where the dealer will draw and deal one face-up card to themselves and all seated players on the table, starting from the dealer’s left and continuing clockwise. Afterwards, they’ll deal subsequent rounds of cards to the players’ hands until they all stand or bust. Once all players have played through, the dealer will deal a second card to themselves and keep drawing until they find a winner.

Player’s options and decisions

In both Vegas and European rules variations, your betting decisions after the second round will depend on the cards you have been dealt and the game rules, i.e., if neither you nor the dealer (in Vegas) has blackjack (21 points) with the first two dealt cards, you’ll be presented with several options to enhance your hand value. Similarly, in EU rules blackjack, you’ll have the same choices if you don’t have blackjack. Please note that you must wait for other players to decide before your turn arrives. Hit and stand are the two main choices, but other options exist depending on the cards you have been dealt. Below is an outline of your possible moves in a blackjack live casino.

Hit

This choice involves asking the dealer for an additional card to boost your hand’s value. You can hit as many times as you want, provided you don’t bust (hand value exceeding 21 points). If the extra card leads to over 21 points, you’ll lose your bet, and your cards will be put together and pushed back. You must click the + button to make this move.

Stand

If you are satisfied with your hand’s value, you can choose to stand and wait for the outcome. This means you’ll not receive any additional cards, and your turn will be over. To make this move, you must click the (/) button. If you don’t make a move, you automatically stand.

Split

If your first dealt cards comprise a pair of cards of equal rank, you can split the cards into two separate hands, each with an individual wager equal to your main bet. After you have split, a second card will be dealt to the new hands. Depending on each hand’s combined value, you can decide to hit or stand. However, if you split a pair of Aces, you’ll be dealt only one extra card per hand with no option to hit. If you have an Ace and a 10-value card in a split hand, it’s considered 21 but not blackjack. In this case, the payout will not be the standard blackjack payout of 3:2 but 1:1. To make this move, you must click the < > button.

Double

This move will allow you to double your principal bet amount by placing an equal stake to your initial wager. You can Double your bet if you think the third card will allow you to beat the dealer’s hand. Afterwards, you’ll be dealt only one extra card to your hand. In this case, you must click the x2 button.

Luckily, Playtech live blackjack allows you to Double on splits. Suppose you Double while the dealer’s first card is an Ace calculated as 11, and they get blackjack. In this case, you’ll lose both split bets. However, if the dealer’s first dealt card is 10 and they form a blackjack hand, your Double bet will be returned to you.

Insurance

When the dealer’s first dealt card is an Ace, you are allowed to place an insurance bet to compensate for the possibility of the dealer having blackjack (even when you have blackjack). Once you’ve placed an insurance bet, the dealer will peek at their face-down card (in Vegas rules) to check if they have blackjack. In the EU card dealing style, the insurance bet is still offered after you have received your second card, despite the dealer having only one card. 

However, in the European style, you’ll get an action round (hit, stand, split, or double) directly after the insurance round and continue playing before the second card is dealt to the dealer’s hand. If the dealer does have blackjack, you’ll receive a payout of 2:1, but only if you placed the insurance bet. Otherwise, you’ll lose your bet.

Please note that the insurance stake amount is equivalent to half of your main bet and is settled independently from the bet on your hand. In addition, you can only insure a real money bet but not a Golden chip wager.

Live blackjack dealer rules

Although the players have the freedom to decide on what moves to make after they’ve received their initial cards, the dealer, on the other hand, must adhere to predetermined rules. This ensures consistency when playing the game and secures the house edge in the long run.

To begin with, despite the governing rules, Playtech live blackjack dealers must hit if their hand’s total value is 16 or less and keep hitting until the value of their hand reaches at least 17 or until they bust. Furthermore, the dealer must stand on soft 17. Simply put, if they have an Ace worth 11 and a 6 card, they’ll not receive an additional card. Lastly, whether soft or hard, when the dealer’s hand value is between 17 and 21, they must stand, and no additional cards will be dealt.

Live blackjack outcomes

As mentioned earlier, the game’s primary objective is for you to have a better hand than the dealer by having a combined card value that’s close to 21 or 21. Therefore, a round is won by all participating players with a total hand value closer to 21 than the dealer’s. If the player’s combined card value equals the dealer’s points (17 and above), it’s considered a push or a tie, and the player’s bet is returned. In addition, suppose the dealer’s hand exceeds 21 (busts). In that case, all participating players in that round will have won except the ones who have also gone bust. Once a game round is over, the game will continue with the same deck of cards until the dealer reaches the cut card (usually after the fourth deck). After the cutting card is drawn, a new shoe will be introduced.

Playtech live blackjack side bets

Depending on your playing variant, live blackjack online by Playtech features numerous side bets that you can place when playing for real money in addition to the regular bets. These extra bets are ideal for seasoned players who prefer having an extra layer of excitement and flair during gameplay. Aside from the gambling thrill, these optional bets offer higher payouts than the main blackjack bets. However, side bets come with higher financial risks and are unlikely to boost your winnings over time. Below are the most popular side bets in Playtech live blackjack variants.

21+3

This side bet allows players to place bets based on the combination of the player’s first dealt cards and the dealer’s face-up card. The winning card combinations are similar to poker combinations, each with different payouts. Below are the winning combinations for this side bet.

• Suited Three of a Kind: This is a combination of three cards of the same suit and value. For example, a hand with 4 Kings of Hearts.
• Straight Flush: This is a hand that comprises three cards in numerical sequence and of the same suit. For example, a hand with a 6, 7, and 8 card, each of Clubs.
• Three of a Kind: This is a hand containing three cards of the same rank but of different suits. For example, a hand with any three 2s that don’t match (one of Clubs, one of Hearts, and one of Spades or Diamonds).
• Straight: This is a combination of three cards in numerical sequence but of different suits. For example, a hand with a 5 of Spades, 6 of Hearts, and 7 of Clubs.
• Flush: This hand consists of three cards of non-sequential cards of identical suits. For example, a hand with 3, 7, and 9, all of Spades.

The Suited Three of a Kind bet offers a 100:1 payout, while the Straight Flush and Three of a Kind offer payouts of 40:1 and 30:1, respectively. On the other hand, the Straight and Flush bets feature payouts of 10:1 and 5:1, respectively.

Pairs

Payouts on this side bet are made based on whether the first two dealt cards consist of a pair. For example, if your initial cards comprise two Diamonds, two 8s, two 4s of Spades, etc. There are three main types of Pairs in blackjack, each with a different payout, i.e., Perfect Pair, Coloured Pair, and Red/Black (mixed) Pair. To make their live blackjack titles more exciting, Playtech has introduced Player’s and Dealer’s Pair side bets, which combine the three main Pairs. For instance, the Player’s Pair bet pays out if the player’s first two dealt cards form a Perfect Pair, Coloured Pair or a Red/Black Pair.

• Perfect pair: This pair is formed by cards with the same suit and rank. For example, two Kings of Hearts.
• Coloured Pair: This pair consists of cards with the same rank and colour but of different suits. For example, a 3 of Diamonds and a 3 of Hearts.
• Red/Black (Mixed) Pair: This is a pair formed by cards of the same rank but of different suits. For example, a 2 of Spades and a 2 of Diamonds.

Winning perfect pair bet receives a 25:1 payout, whereas the coloured and mixed pairs offer payouts of 12:1 and 6:1, respectively.

Top 3

This side bet wins if you have a hand with a combination of three cards, comprising your first two dealt cards and the dealer’s face-up card. The winning combination must be Three of a Kind, Straight Flush, or Suited Three of a Kind. These are the same poker combinations discussed earlier but with much higher payouts. For instance, the Suited Three of a Kind bet features a 270:1 payout, whereas the Straight Flush and Three of a Kind offer payouts of 180:1 and 90:1, respectively.

Buster Blackjack

This is Playtech’s customised side bet that pays out whenever the dealer busts. However, the payout for this side bet depends on the number of cards in the dealer’s hand, i.e., the more cards the dealer has, the higher the payout. Moreover, some payouts will require you to have a Blackjack hand. For instance, if the dealer busts with eight or more cards, you’ll receive a payout of 250:1. Other payouts in Buster Blackjack as per the number of cards in the dealer’s hand include 50:1 for seven cards, 18:1 for 6, 4:1 for 5, and 2:1 for 3 or 4 cards.

Lucky Lucky

This side bet wins if a particular combination forms with your first two dealt cards and the dealer’s face-up card. There are eight possible combinations for the Lucky Lucky side bet, each with a different payout.

• Suited 7-7-7: As the name implies, this is a combination of 7s of the same suit, i.e., three 7s of Hearts, Diamonds, Spades, etc.
• Suited 6-7-8: This combination consists of the 6, 7, and 8 cards of the same suit. For example, 6 of Hearts, 7 of Hearts, and 8 of Hearts.
• 7-7-7: This is a straightforward combination that comprises three 7s of different suits. For example, 7 of Hearts, 7 of Spades, and 7 of Diamonds.
•  6-7-8: This combination consists of 6, 7, and 8 cards of different suits. For example, 6 of Hearts, 7 of Spades, and 8 of Diamonds.
• Suited 21: This bet pays any combination with three cards of different ranks but of the same suit. Additionally, the total value of the three cards must be 21 points. For example, 7 of Hearts, 5 of Hearts, and 9 of Hearts.
• 21: This bet wins if the three cards are of different ranks and suits, with a combined value of 21 points. For example, 8 of Clubs, 3 of Hearts, and 10 of Diamonds.
• Any 20: This combination comprises three cards of different ranks and suits with a total value of 20 points. For instance, 7 of Hearts, 3 of Spades, and 10 of Diamonds.
• Any 19: Like Any 20, this hand comprises three cards of different ranks and suits. However, the combined value of this bet must be 19 points. For example, 7 of Spades, 3 of Diamonds, and 9 of Clubs.

The Suited 7-7-7 bet features a 200:1 payout, whereas the Suited 6-7-8 offers a 100:1 payout. On the other hand, the 7-7-7 and 6-7-8 combinations feature payouts of 50:1 and 25:1, respectively. Furthermore, the Suited 21 bet offers a 15:1 payout, whereas the 21 (unsuited), Any 20, and Any 19 bets award payouts of 3:1, 2:1, and 2:1, respectively.

Live blackjack variations by Playtech

Blackjack is undoubtedly one of the most popular casino table games you can find in the most reputable online and land-based casinos worldwide. Thanks to its popularity and appeal, numerous providers, including Playtech, have employed modern technology and enhanced their game development process to create multiple blackjack variations that cater to different players. 

The company delivers a unique gambling environment with true VIP standards through numerous variations, providing low and high-roller players across the world with superior betting features, multiplier payouts, different bet limits, native-speaking dealers, and other personalisation functionalities. Furthermore, Playtech live blackjack variants feature numerous side bets with higher payouts, providing extra betting options alongside enhanced gambling thrill for players.

Some Playtech variants you can find in the best live blackjack online casinos include the classic 7-seater Live Blackjack, Unlimited Blackjack Quantum Blackjack Plus, All Bets Blackjack, Majority Rules Speed Blackjack, Grand Blackjack, Royale Blackjack, Soiree Elite Blackjack, etc. Below is an in-depth review of the most popular blackjack variations by Playtech.

Unlimited Blackjack

True to its name, Unlimited Blackjack is a variation that allows an infinite number of players worldwide to bet on the same hand simultaneously. However, this variant applies a unique gameplay mechanic similar to the standard 7-seater variation but with a slight modification. Unlimited Blackjack features five sitting positions that an infinite number of players can occupy. Each sitting position is dealt an individual hand, and you can choose to bet on any of the spots or all.

Unlimited Blackjack rules

Similarly, the game rules in this variant slightly differ from the ones applied to standard blackjack. For instance, the dealer splits specific pairs of cards in the player’s hand, i.e., the game has an auto split feature, which applies if the first two dealt cards are pairs of 2s, 3s, 6s, 7s, 8s, or Aces. The dealer then gives players the option to play with either one or both split hands. Like in a classic table, your bet will be doubled if you decide to play with two hands. Moreover, you can choose to Fold if you don’t want to split your pairs. If you Fold, your bet will be returned to you (minus 20%), and the round will be over for you. You can make similar moves after splitting as in a traditional blackjack table. Therefore, you can hit, stand, double, or split.

Bet limits and side bets

Unlimited Blackjack features a broad and friendly range of betting limits (a minimum of $1 and a maximum of $500 or the equivalent in cryptocurrencies) catering to all sorts of players, especially novices and low rollers. Other notable features in this Playtech live dealer variant include multiple optional side bets, which are offered along with the main blackjack bets. These unique bets include Player’s Pair, Dealer’s Pair, Perfect Pairs, Coloured Pair, Red/Black Pair, and 21+3.

All Bets Blackjack

This is a single-handed blackjack variant that adheres to the same gameplay mechanic as Unlimited Blackjack. However, this variant allows an infinite number of players to play on one position and hand, unlike the Unlimited variant, which has five different hands. Nevertheless, All Bets Blackjack offers five unique side bets alongside the main ones, making it an intriguing variant full of thrills.

Game interface

All Bets Blackjack features an easy-to-use interface that’s appealing to the eyes. The game is broadcast live from Playtech’s studio in Riga, Latvia, and a real-life dealer sits in the middle of a semi-circular table. Like in the classic 7-seater, a shoe where the dealer draws and deals cards to themselves, and the player’s hand is placed on the dealer’s left side. A unique scanner is placed in the middle of the table where the dealer sets the player’s cards. Furthermore, a single betting position for the main blackjack bets is placed at the screen’s middle bottom section, and the side bets are on its left and right sides. A virtual representation of the dealer’s and player’s cards is displayed on the screen during gameplay.

Gameplay

Like in a traditional blackjack game, All Bets Blackjack is played with eight decks of 52 cards. During the betting phase, all interested players must place their bets within the set time by selecting their preferred chip and putting it on the main betting spot on the table. Once the betting period is over, the dealer will start dealing cards. The croupier places the cards on the unique on-table feature for the player’s hand. Instead of leaving the cards on the table, this feature scans them, virtually displays them on the screen, and discards them in a tray below the table. Notably, during gameplay, the game will show your hand and the moves you’ve played but not how others have.

Bet limits and side bets

All Bets Blackjack features an accommodating range of betting limits, with the minimum limit starting from as low as $1 and the maximum going as high as $5000. With such a range of low minimum limits and high maximum limits, All Bets Blackjack is an ideal choice for both low-budget and high-roller casino players.

In addition to the main blackjack bets, this Playtech variant offers five unique side bets with individual payouts. These include Pairs (Player’s, Dealer’s, Perfect, Coloured, and Red/Black), 21+3, Lucky Lucky, Top 3, and Buster Blackjack.

Majority Rules Speed Blackjack

To begin with, Majority Rules Speed Blackjack is the super-fast choice to Playtech’s standard live blackjack game for players looking for exciting betting opportunities and adrenaline rush in their playing sessions. The table features two seats for the player’s hand, but each seat can host an unlimited number of players. The true appeal of Majority Rules Speed Blackjack is that the game offers two playing modes (Majority vote and Best strategy). These playing decisions are invoked per seat depending on the number of players on the position. Moreover, the game offers the most popular side bets (Player Pairs and 21+3), delivering a fresh blackjack gambling experience and thrill.

Gameplay

When you join the game, you’ll receive a notification asking you whether to automatically Split or Double your hand during the two playing modes (Majority vote and Best strategy) or turn them off and decide manually. If you don’t deactivate, these settings will be enabled by default once you click “Play Now.” If you have not agreed to the automated actions or lack the funds, you’ll automatically follow the right hand in case of a Split and automatically Hit and then Stand in case of a Double. 

During gameplay, indicators on each seat show how many players have placed the main bets and whether the requirements to invoke the Majority Vote mode are met. If enabled by your online casino, the Insurance bet is not decided by the Majority vote or Best strategy flow. Instead, it’s offered to each player separately, and they can decide on their move individually. Additionally, if every player at the table busts, the game round will be over, and the dealer will not draw additional cards.

Majority vote

In Majority Rules Speed Blackjack, you can make all the decisions like in traditional blackjack but with a slight twist, i.e., when you play for real money, all the players on each seat get to vote on which move should be made. You’ll get to choose whether to Hit, Stand, Double, or Split. After voting, The most popular decision will be immediately applied to all players on the seat. Suppose there are two or more moves with equal votes. In this case, the action round will be automatically resolved using the Best strategy flow. The voting process continues until all the players on the seat stand or go bust.

Quantum Blackjack Plus

This is a first-of-its-kind and innovative live blackjack variant that features various multipliers up to x10 assigned to each card, giving a more immersive and exciting gambling experience. If you receive one of these cards and beat the dealer, your payout will be increased by the assigned multiplier. Quantum Blackjack Plus features a unique rule where the player’s main bet is pushed or returned if the dealer busts with three cards and your hand doesn’t exceed 21. If, in this case, you have a winning multiplier card or blackjack, your main bet will win, and you’ll be paid as per the paytable.

Gameplay

Unlike most Playtech live blackjack variants, Quantum Blackjack Plus is played with six decks of cards. The game has a gameplay mechanic similar to All Bets Blackjack, with a single seat that can host an infinite number of players worldwide. During the betting phase, you must first place the main bet and then the side bets afterwards. After all bets have been confirmed, three to five cards are randomly selected from a single deck of digital cards. Upon selection, a random multiplier is revealed and combined with the cards to form the multiplier cards. These multipliers include x2.5, x3, x5, and x10. Afterwards, the game adheres to the standard Vegas rules, with the croupier dealing two face-up cards to the player and two cards to themselves (one face up and one face down).

You should note that the multiplier will not be applied if the dealer receives one of the multiplier cards. If you have two or more identical cards in your hand that match the suit and rank of the multiplier card, the multipliers will be added together.

Grand Blackjack

Like most providers, Playtech has created a unique variant with a luxurious atmosphere for high-roller players worldwide, raising the gambling heights higher. Offering an exquisite VIP live gambling experience online, Grand Blackjack is an elegant blackjack title that provides a world-class VIP environment. The game is set in an opulent background with a golden theme to provide high rollers with a lavish and high-class ambience throughout the game. Participating players can also occupy multiple seats and make separate bets on each position in this variant. Aside from this, Grand Blackjack adheres to the standard traditional blackjack rules.

Bet limits and side bets

In Grand Blackjack, the most picky and high-roller live casino players can have the best online gaming experience with high minimum bets of $100 and high maximum bets of $10,000 that fit their gambling budget. The game also features numerous optional side bets, which are offered along with the main bets. These unique bets include 21+3, Top 3, and Player and Dealer Pairs.

Other variants similar to Grand Blackjack

Playtech has released multiple variants with high minimum bets and high maximum limits to take the live gambling experience to the next level and provide online players with grandeur and thrill like Grand Blackjack. These unique titles include Royale Blackjack, Soiree Blackjack, Soiree Elite Blackjack, and Soiree Elite VIP Blackjack.

To begin with, Soiree Blackjack variants appeal to high-level value clientele as it’s live streamed in a gold setting and provides enhanced VIP-level services, delivering the same experience VIPs get in any high-end land-based casino. The game offers gameplay control between the player and the dealer, i.e., participating players can decide to retain the dealer after their 30-minute session is over, request a shoe change, or ask for a deck reshuffle anytime. 

Soiree Blackjack features a wide range of bet limits, with some tables having minimum limits of $100 and $200 while others have higher minimum limits of $500 and $1000 (Soiree VIP Elite Blackjack). The maximum bet limits for these tables usually range between $10,000 and $15,000. With Royale Blackjack, the minimum bet limits go from as low as $15, $25, and $50, whereas the maximum limits range between $5000 and $15,000.

Cashback Blackjack

This unique blackjack variant provides players a cash-out option even when the cards aren’t in their favour. Cashback Blackjack provides an immersive gambling experience through its advanced gameplay options and various functions. In this variant, players are given a Cashback option alongside the other moves (Hit, Stand, Split, Double) during an action round. However, the Cashback move only affects the main bet, and the amount you can cash in on your hand is calculated based on the cards on the table. Therefore, the cashback amount is flexible as it may change for each action round. Luckily, this option is offered for both hands if you Split during the decision round unless the hand comprises a pair of Aces.

Cashback Blackjack is designed for both low and high-roller online players as it features low minimum bets of $1 and high maximum bets of $5000 or the equivalent in Bitcoin for crypto fans. Despite the unique feature, the game adheres to traditional Vegas card dealing rules. It is played with eight decks and features numerous side bets, including Pairs (Player’s, Dealer’s, Perfect, Coloured, and Red/Black), 21+3, Lucky Lucky, Top 3, and Buster Blackjack.

Mega Fire Blaze Blackjack

The standard Vegas rules govern this thrilling live blackjack variant by Playtech. The game features a unique bonus round known as the Mega Fire Blaze. The bonus game is triggered when a combination of one or more Fire Blaze events occurs. After activation, all players with active bets for the bonus game can potentially win massive multiplier payouts ranging between x1 and x1000.

Three types of achievements can trigger the bonus round in every main game round. These include the number of cards in the dealer’s hand, the number of Aces in the dealer’s hand, and if the total value of the first dealt cards in the player’s hand is 14. Furthermore, there are five levels of the Mega Fire Blaze bonus round, i.e., Minor, Mini, Major, Grand, and Mega. 

The bonus game will be triggered if the required achievement points are collected, and your Mega Fire Blaze bet will qualify you for the round. Nevertheless, you’ll watch others play and receive their multipliers if you didn’t place the bonus bet. Notably, the minimum required achievement points to activate the first bonus game (Minor) is 5.

Despite the unique bonus round and massive payouts, Mega Fire Blaze Blackjack adheres to the standard blackjack rules and is played with eight decks of 52 cards. The game features two individual player hands, which an infinite number of players can play. Moreover, the game includes some of the most popular side bets (21+3 and Pairs).

Live blackjack odds

There are two possible outcomes when playing any game online, i.e., you might win or lose. The likelihood or probability of the two outcomes (win or loss) occurring is usually expressed as a percentage in the gambling industry. However, these odds depend on many factors, including the player’s skill level and winning strategies. Furthermore, slight rule variations affect the player’s payoff to some extent and change the basic approach that should be applied to make effective betting decisions. Nevertheless, the standard odds in a live casino blackjack online game are calculated based on a traditional game round, assuming the cards are dealt from an eight-deck shoe.

Using the parameters above, the dealer has the highest statistical likelihood of winning, with 49.1% odds. On the other hand, the probability of the player’s hand winning is 42.22%, whereas the probability of a Tie outcome is significantly low with odds of 8.48%.

Playtech live blackjack payouts and RTP

Depending on the type of bet you place and your playing variation, Playtech live blackjack titles feature an RTP percentage range of between 91% and 99.57%. To begin with, the optimal theoretical return to player (RTP) percentage in all variants except for Quantum Blackjack Plus (99.57%) and Mega Fire Blaze Blackjack (99.55%) is 99.46% for the main blackjack bets. The RTP variation is due to the additional Mega Fire bonus game and multiplier payouts in Quantum Blackjack Plus. 

For the side bets, the Pairs RTP is 95.9%, whereas the 21+3, Top 3, Lucky Lucky, and Buster Blackjack side bets feature RTPs of 96.3%, 91%, 96.1%, and 93.87%, respectively.

The payouts for a winning blackjack hand is 3:2, while the payouts for the player and insurance wins are 1:1 and 2:1, respectively.

Live blackjack tips

There are a few aspects that you should consider to help you increase your winning odds and returns in the long run before joining a real money live dealer blackjack table. For example, you should familiarise yourself with basic blackjack strategy to understand when to hit, stand, double, or split based on your hand and the dealer’s face-up card. 

You should always pay attention to the dealer’s face-up card, as it will influence your playing decisions during the action round. Therefore, you must adjust your strategy depending on whether the dealer has a strong or weak initial hand. Furthermore, avoid taking the Insurance bet when the dealer shows an Ace, as the odds are not favourable in the long run. Most importantly, it would be best to always look for a variant with table limits that align with your gambling budget.

Live blackjack strategies

Blackjack is mainly a game of skill with pretty straightforward rules and unpredictable outcomes. Therefore, you can significantly reduce the game’s house edge if you apply the right strategy. Numerous blackjack experts have created various betting systems to provide a gambling structure by instilling discipline and effectively minimising losses to the maximum extent possible. Although some of these systems have proven to work efficiently, you should note that no strategy can guarantee constant success in the long run since they only work over short periods of playtime. Below is an overview of various live blackjack betting systems you can use to manage your bets and potentially enhance your overall winnings.

Martingale

Although originally devised for the roulette game, the Martingale system can also be applied to a live blackjack table. It’s a negative progression system that recommends doubling your bet after every loss and resetting it to your initial amount after every win. For instance, suppose you start by placing a bet size of $10, and your bet loses. In that case, you should double the size of your next unit to $20. Then, if you win with your second bet, you should return to your initial bet size and place a $10 bet. The primary idea behind this strategy is that the probability of losing too many hands in a row is low.

Parlay system

This is a positive progression betting strategy that recommends doubling your original betting amount whenever you win and decreasing it if you lose. This system mainly increases your chances of accumulating more money through your winnings. Therefore, you don’t risk depleting your gambling account balance. For instance, suppose you begin a round by placing one betting unit of $100, and your bet wins. In that case, you should double the size of your next bet to $200. If your winning streak continues, you should keep on increasing your successive bets until you start losing. Once you lose, you should return to your original bet of $100.

Paroli

This system follows a similar principle as the Parlay system but with a minor twist. The Paroli system recommends you increase your bet after every win and continue with the same approach until you get three consecutive wins. However, if you lose a hand, you should return to your initial bet size and start over. For instance, suppose you place an initial betting unit of $100, and you win. In that case, you should double your bet size and place a $200 wager in the next round. If your winning streak continues to your third bet, you should consider taking your profits and starting over with a $100 bet since you have now won three hands consecutively.

Conclusion

Since its inception in 1999, Playtech has maintained a stellar track record and reputation in the iGaming industry for creating world-class live dealer games. Since blackjack is a popular classic casino table game, the company has employed modern technology to create live dealer variants, allowing infinite players to enjoy the game from the comfort of their location through desktops and mobile devices. With numerous exciting variants, such as Quantum Blackjack Plus and Mega Fire Blaze Blackjack, Playtech has proven its devotion to players worldwide by incorporating unique gaming functionalities with massive payouts and top-tier entertainment. With its outstanding popularity and immersive gameplay, Playtech live blackjack delivers a thrilling gambling experience similar to that in a land-based casino.

This Playtech live blackjack article has shed some light on some relevant details, including an in-depth overview of the standard game interface, rules and gameplay, live blackjack variants by Playtech, the various side bets provided in the titles, and the game’s RTP and Payouts. Furthermore, the review has provided some helpful tips and strategies you can apply to increase your winning odds when playing live blackjack for real money in a low-budget or high-roller online casino.