While the main objective is to beat the dealer's hand by getting as close to 21 as possible, many casinos offer side bets to add excitement to the game. Two of the most common blackjack side bets are Perfect Pairs and 21+3. These bets are separate from the main blackjack hand and have their own payout tables. It's essential to understand how these side bets work, their payouts, and the importance of checking the specific game rules before placing a bet.
Perfect Pairs is a side bet that wins when the player's first two cards form a pair. There are three types of pairs in this bet:
- Perfect Pair: Two identical cards with the same face value and suit, which is possible in a multi-deck game. For example, two Kings of Hearts. A common pay table pays 25 to 1.
- Coloured Pair: Two cards with the same face value but different suits of the same colour. For instance, a King of Hearts and a King of Diamonds. A common pay table pays 12 to 1.
- Mixed Pair: Two cards with the same face value but different suits of different colours. Like a King of Hearts and a King of Spades. A common pay table pays 6 to 1.
For 21+3, the side bet uses the player's first two cards and the dealer's face-up card to form a three-card poker hand. The following hands, in descending order of rank, are those that win:
- Suited Three of a Kind
- Straight Flush
- Three of a Kind
- Straight
- Flush
The payout for each hand depends on the specific game rules, but a common pay table might look like this:
- Suited Three of a Kind: 100-1
- Straight Flush: 40-1
- Three of a Kind: 30-1
- Straight: 10-1
- Flush: 5-1
It's crucial to note that payout tables can vary between games and casinos. Always check the specific game rules before placing a bet on Perfect Pairs, 21+3, or any other side bet.
In conclusion, Perfect Pairs and 21+3 are two of the most common blackjack side bets, each with their own set of rules and payouts. Before placing a side bet, always check the specific game's rules to ensure you understand how the bet works and what the payouts are. Side bets usually carry a higher house edge than the main blackjack hand, so they cost more to play over time.
18+. Gambling can be addictive: the National Gambling Helpline is free on 0808 8020 133.
