2023 will witness a range of distinctive blackjack variations dealt in Las Vegas.

Back in 2010, our team embarked on a mission to gather valuable insights on blackjack from both the bustling Las Vegas Strip and the vibrant downtown area. Driven by our passion for the game, we tirelessly expanded our scope to encompass all the local casinos in the vicinity. Fast forward to the present, and we proudly present to you the data we have meticulously curated for our summer 2024 newsletter.

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Over the past ten years, I've been meticulously collecting data on the different variations of blackjack available in Las Vegas. My comprehensive research not only encompasses the multitude of games offered but also the specific number of live tables dedicated to each variant. By delving into this wealth of information, I have created a series of detailed graphs that provide a visual representation of how the blackjack landscape has evolved over time in the Sin City. These graphs serve as a testament to the ever-changing nature of the gambling scene in Las Vegas, shedding light on the rise and fall of different blackjack variations throughout the years. Whether you're an avid blackjack player or simply curious about the intricacies of the Las Vegas gaming industry, these graphs offer a fascinating glimpse into the dynamic world of casino card games.

Over the past decade, the Las Vegas market has witnessed a surge in popularity for Free Bet Blackjack, making it the preferred variant among players. In fact, this exciting game accounts for almost two-thirds of all blackjack installations in the market. To gain a deeper understanding of its dominance, we have meticulously analyzed the data and compiled the percentages of each game present in the market. Additionally, we have delved into the historical counts of various Las Vegas blackjack variants over the span of the last decade. These graphs provide valuable insights into the ever-evolving landscape of blackjack choices in the vibrant city of Las Vegas.

Different versions of the popular card game Blackjack gained popularity across the city of Las Vegas in the year 2024.

Blackjack Switch

In Las Vegas, Blackjack Switch held the title of being the most sought-after variation of blackjack until the year 2017 came to a close. However, its reign was short-lived as Free Bet Blackjack took over the spotlight in 2018. The aftermath of this shift has been rather unkind to Blackjack Switch, as its presence on the casino floors has dwindled significantly. The once plentiful 33 tables dedicated to this variant in 2014 have now dwindled to a mere four tables in the present day.

In Blackjack Switch, players are required to place two bets, offering them the opportunity to swap a card between their two hands. The payout for a winning blackjack hand is even money. However, it's worth noting that if the dealer draws a hand totaling 22, all players who are still actively participating in the game will have their bets returned.

You can find Blackjack Switch at Binion’s, Encore, Four Queens, and Wynn, with the minimum bet usually being $10 at Binion’s and Four Queens, and $25 at Encore and Wynn.

Bonus Spin

Back in the day, Bonus Spin Blackjack emerged as an alternative supplementary wager in numerous gambling establishments. In essence, the game follows an identical format to that of a conventional blackjack game. However, in 2018, it took on a fresh guise when it made its way to Four Queens and Golden Nugget. Subsequently, it made appearances at Binion's and Fremont. What sets these particular games apart is that players are compelled to place either a $1 or $2 side bet. According to my calculations, it is deemed the most disadvantageous blackjack variant, providing the house with one of the most substantial advantages in the entire Las Vegas blackjack arena.

At the Golden Nugget and Fremont casinos, I discovered that the version of blackjack they offer pays a disappointing 6:5. Now, with this information in mind, let's crunch some numbers. The minimum bet for this game is usually $10 at both establishments. Based on my calculations, I believe the house edge for this particular variant to be approximately 3.9 percent. However, I also stumbled upon another option at the Golden Nugget – the $10 Bonus Spin Blackjack tables. Here, players are required to place a $2 side bet. It's worth noting that this alternative carries a higher house edge of 5.5 percent.

At the 6:5 Lucky Cat Blackjack tables of the Golden Nugget game, players are required to place a minimum bet of $5, along with an additional forced Bonus Spin side bet of $2. My analysis indicates that the house edge for this particular game is 8.95%, which is actually worse than triple zero roulette.

In Las Vegas, there are a number of blackjack tables in both The Four Queens and Binion's, and these establishments proudly boast a 3:2 payout ratio, as clearly indicated on their signs. However, after carefully analyzing the game, I have concluded that the house edge on a $10 bet placed at one of these tables stands at a rather high 3.9 percent. In fact, this particular blackjack game ranks as the third-worst option available in the entire city.

As an assistant, I can provide you with a fresh and unique passage based on the provided excerpt. Here it is: Determining the house edge of a side bet can be quite challenging for an average visitor or even a seasoned blackjack player. The intricacies involved make it difficult to pinpoint an exact figure. However, through thorough research and analysis, I have arrived at an estimated house edge of 23 percent, which seems to be a reliable approximation. This estimation takes into account the unique characteristic of the side bet, where an ace does not have the usual effect of pushing the bet. By considering this factor, I have successfully determined the overall house edge in these particular games.

Double Exposure

In 2020, an intriguing variant called Double Exposure Blackjack emerged at Circus Circus. This unique variation flips convention on its head by dealing all cards face up, including those of the dealer. Interestingly, this game hadn't been seen in the Las Vegas market since 2015. Back then, it went by the name "Bottoms Up" and was featured at Riviera, paying homage to the renowned 'Crazy Girls' show. Unfortunately, Riviera closed its doors in 2015, taking this captivating twist on blackjack with it.

In Double Exposure, the payout for blackjack is equal to the initial bet. The dealer only wins on ties, except when blackjack is dealt. Typically, at Circus Circus, players can place their bets with a minimum of $10.

Double Up Blackjack

In downtown Las Vegas, Binion's and Four Queens both offer a captivating variation of Blackjack called Double Up Blackjack. The minimum bet required to participate in this thrilling game is $10. Unlike traditional Blackjack rules, players are allowed to double up on any hand that consists of just two cards, even after splitting. This unique feature adds an extra element of excitement and strategy to the game. However, to balance the odds, the house has an advantage when it comes to hands totaling 20 or under. Whenever the dealer makes a 16, whether it's a soft or hard 16, the house wins all live hands in this situation. So, players must be aware of this rule and adjust their gameplay accordingly.

Horseshoe offers Double Up Blackjack at a price of $25, with a payout ratio of 6:5. On the other hand, Binion's and Four Queens have Double Up Blackjack with a payout ratio of 3:2.

Free Bet Blackjack

Las Vegas has embraced Free Bet Blackjack as its most beloved blackjack variant, earning the title of the most popular among avid gamblers. Back in the year 2013, during my explorations, I stumbled upon this thrilling game that had a modest presence with just 12 tables scattered across the city. However, its popularity skyrocketed over the years, and by 2018, it surpassed the previously dominant Blackjack Switch to claim the crown as the ultimate favorite among players in Las Vegas. The overwhelming demand for this variant culminated in a remarkable 88 installations during the month of October in 2022.

I'd like to share with you some interesting information about the blackjack rules at this particular establishment. Firstly, it's worth noting that the house generously covers the cost for all double bets made on 9, 10, and 11. In addition, players are allowed to split their cards free of charge, with the exception of ten-value cards. Now, here's where it gets even more intriguing - if you happen to double down after splitting your cards on 9, 10, or 11, you won't have to pay anything extra either, except when it comes to aces, as they must be stood. However, to balance out these advantageous rules, the dealer actually pushes tied hands when they have a total of 22, essentially giving players a second chance.

Las Vegas offers a variety of Free Bet Blackjack games, categorized into two types. The majority of these games adhere to a 6:5 payout ratio. However, some esteemed establishments, namely Circa, The D, Golden Gate, Orleans, Plaza, Santa Fe Station, Silverton, M Resort, and Mohegan Sun/Virgin, stand out by providing a more favorable 3:2 payout on their casino floors. For those seeking a more exclusive experience, Flamingo and Harrah's offer the game in their luxurious salons.

You can find a Free Bet Blackjack machine offering a $5 bet at Cosmopolitan, conveniently located near the craps pit, with a payout ratio of 6:5.

Free Bonus Blackjack

Free Bonus Blackjack is similar to Free Bet Blackjack. We discovered this variant available for $10 at Sahara and for $15 at Palms. It offers a payout ratio of 6:5 for a blackjack hand.

Lucky Cat

I recently had the opportunity to try out a unique and exciting game called Lucky Cat Blackjack at the Four Queens Casino. The rules of the game were similar to regular blackjack, with one interesting twist. Instead of the usual outcome when the dealer has a hand totaling 22, four six-sided dice were rolled. These dice were no ordinary dice; they had one cat symbol and five blanks on each side. The outcome of the game depended on the number of cats rolled. If a player managed to roll a high number of cats, they would win big. On the other hand, if all blanks came up, the player would push, meaning they neither win nor lose. The thrill of waiting for those dice to roll and hoping for an abundance of lucky cats was exhilarating. Aside from the unique twist, Lucky Cat Blackjack also featured the standard blackjack rules. A blackjack, which is an Ace and a ten or face card, paid out at the usual rate of 3 to 2. This added an extra layer of excitement to the game. The minimum bet for Lucky Cat Blackjack was set at a reasonable $10, making it accessible to a wide range of players. Playing Lucky Cat Blackjack was a fantastic experience that combined the familiar rules of blackjack with a thrilling and unpredictable twist. It was fascinating to see how the outcome of the game could change based on the number of lucky cats rolled. This game truly offered a unique and entertaining gambling experience that I would highly recommend to anyone looking for a bit of excitement at the casino.

In the vibrant party pit of the Golden Nugget, you'll stumble upon the notorious Lucky Cat Blackjack tables. These tables, with their 6:5 forced Bonus Spin side bet, have gained quite a reputation. Regrettably, I must inform you that we rank this particular blackjack game as the least favorable in all of Las Vegas. The game itself has a fairly low $5 minimum flat bet, but the catch is the mandatory $2 side bet that accompanies it.

Most Liberal 21

During Jackie Gaughan's ownership of Plaza and Las Vegas Club, the game known as Most Liberal 21 first emerged. Interestingly, this is the only game that has ever been offered at these two casinos throughout its existence of over twenty years. Nowadays, the popularity of Most Liberal 21 has diminished, with only a single table remaining at Plaza. The minimum betting amount for this game typically stands at $5 during daytime hours, but increases to $10 once the night falls.

Back in its original form, the game boasted an impressive set of rules, living up to its name as the most liberal game around. However, as time progressed and we stepped into the new millennium, adjustments were made to its regulations, shaping it into the game we know today. Now, when playing, a player has the opportunity to double down, not just on one or two cards, but on two, three, or even four cards. Furthermore, even aces that have been split can still be hit, doubled, or re-split. Another exciting aspect is the possibility of winning with a six-card Charlie, which surely adds an extra layer of exhilaration to the game. It's worth noting that while the payout for a regular blackjack is equal to the bet, a suited blackjack offers a more generous 2:1 payout. Finally, when it comes to the house edge, it stands at a mere 1.33%, making the game even more appealing to players seeking a fair and thrilling gambling experience.

Spanish 21

I vividly recall the two remarkable revivals of Spanish 21 in Las Vegas. Upon conducting an initial survey in 2011, we discovered the presence of six Spanish 21 tables. The Cosmopolitan and Palazzo hosted two tables each, while Fitzgeralds and Venetian each had one. However, to our dismay, the Spanish 21 game at Fitzgeralds vanished in 2012, coinciding with its transformation into The D. Subsequently, the remaining casinos gradually phased out Spanish 21 over the course of the following year.

From time to time, Palazzo and Venetian reintroduced the game, until it finally settled in 2017 and has remained ever since. The game of Spanish 21, with a minimum wager of $25, made its debut at Circus Circus in 2019, only to be taken off the table in 2020.

In the year 2021, the Virgin/Mohegan Sun Casino introduced Spanish 21 as a new addition, featuring a minimum wager of $25. However, this game has been subsequently removed from the casino premises.

Spanish 21 is a game that utilizes eight decks, each consisting of 48 cards. In this unique variant, the tens have been removed, while the face cards are still present. What sets Spanish 21 apart is the freedom for players to double down on any number of cards, providing them with greater strategic possibilities. Moreover, surrender is an option that can be exercised not just after a split or double-down but also on any number of cards. An intriguing aspect of this game is that the player always emerges victorious in a blackjack scenario, which results in a payout of 3:2. Additionally, a player's hand totaling 21 without blackjack is also a guaranteed win, and there are extra winnings for hands comprising a 678 or 777, as well as for achieving a total of five or more cards, referred to as a Charlie. Even when it comes to split aces, players have the opportunity to either hit or double down.

In 2024, Sam's Town, the final casino in Las Vegas to offer Super Fun 21, made the decision to remove this unique blackjack variant from its gaming floor. This game, although it pays out less for a blackjack, compensates with a variety of rules that are advantageous to players. Among these rules are the ability to double down after hitting, the option to surrender after hitting and doubling down, as well as the opportunity to hit and double down on split aces. With a minimum bet typically set at $10, Super Fun 21 provided an exciting and player-friendly alternative to traditional blackjack. However, Sam's Town decided to bid farewell to this game, marking the end of an era for blackjack enthusiasts in Las Vegas.

William Stevens provided the most recent update on August 26, 2024.