Free Bet Blackjack: Understanding Rules, Strategies, and Odds

Looking to make some of those extra bets at the blackjack table, such as doubling down or splitting, without having to risk as much of your finds? Free Bet Blackjack is an interesting variant on the traditional game that allows you to do just that – and still win the same amount as in the traditional game.

Free Bet Blackjack features some unique betting options and rule changes for those seeking a bit of a twist on the classic game. This version comes with some interesting game pay, strategies, and odds. Keep reading to learn all about Free Bet Blackjack.  

What is Free Bet Blackjack?  

Free Bet Blackjack was created by casino game developer Geoff Hall, who also invented Blackjack Switch. The game first appeared at the Golden Nugget in 2012 and is unique in that players can double down and split without making another bet.

Most games feature six decks with dealers hitting soft 17. The good news is that blackjacks pay 3 to 2 and doubling down after a split is also allowed (for free). Players can resplit up two four hands, including aces. However, surrender in blackjack is not allowed. 

Some of the above rules may vary a bit by casino, but these are some of the general rules found in many properties and when playing online. The game allows players to place double and split bets without risking any additional cash.

A community aspect may also develop at the tables as players hope for more free doubling and splitting opportunities, giving them more chances to cash in for free winnings. The game may not be as popular as other blackjack variants, but Free Bet Blackjack has attracted a following among players and can be found in casinos in Las Vegas and other popular gambling houses. Learn the basics of blackjack to master Free Bet Blackjack.

Free Bet Blackjack Rules

Players will find two major rule differences from traditional blackjack, including:

1. Free Doubles – A player can double down on 9, 10, or 11 without adding a second bet. On these hands, players can double for free using a “free bet” button to receive an extra card. You won’t be “charged” for this double down. The hand plays out as normal – winning or losing the original wager or getting back twice the bet if your double down is successful. It’s also important to remember that players can also double down as normal (adding a second wager) on other totals as well, but won’t get those bets for free.
2. Free Splits – Players are also allowed to split hands without making another wager as well, except for 10-10 (but you shouldn’t split these anyway). You can also make use of additional free doubles and free splits on these hands as well, using “free bet” buttons. If you win, however, you’ll be given real chips and can cash in on additional bets for that original wager.
3. Push on 22 – This is another key difference in Free Bet Blackjack. If the players have 21 or less and the dealer busts on a 22, then all hands are a push.

Other than the stipulations spelled out above, Free Bet Blackjack plays out as you might find at a traditional blackjack table. Here’s a look at what to expect.

1. Players place a wager in front of them and are dealt two cards facing up.
2. The dealer is also dealt two cards, one up and one down.
3. The action proceeds from the dealer’s left to right with players acting on their hands – hitting, standing, doubling down, and splitting.
4. Those doubling or splitting can make use of a “free bet” button for those additional wagers rather than using their own money.
5. When the action concludes, the dealer will pay out all winners and collect losing bets. If the dealer busts with a 22, all bets are a push.
6. The dealer then begins dealing another hand.

Free Bet Blackjack Strategy  

Because of the unique double down and split rules as well as the push on a dealer 22, there are some key differences when it comes to Free BetBlackjack strategy. Because of the free play aspects of the game, players will want to free split almost any pair. There are two exceptions at 10-10, which isn’t even allowed anyway, and also 5-5 because you instead would want to free double down on this hand.

There are also some different strategy considerations when it comes to playing the real money hand and free play hands after splitting. Players will want to free double on any 9, 10, or 11 no matter what the dealer’s upcard is. Hitting or standing depends on the dealer upcard and consulting a basic strategy card would be a good idea.

The same goes for the free bet hand, which comes with a more aggressive approach because of the prospect of winning free money. Using a basic strategy chart will help in this regard. 

** May want to insert strategy charts like those found here

Understanding Blackjack Free Bet Odds  

When practicing perfect basic strategy, understanding Free Bet Blackjack odds can be a great gaming option, with a house edge of about 1%. Blackjack already has one of the lowest house edges in the casino and this aligns with that.

The aspect of a free bet makes this an appealing option for many blackjack players seeking an alternative. This game is one of the better of these types of blackjack variants when it comes to player-friendly odds.

No Bust Blackjack: An Interesting Variant  

A similar alternative version of the classic game in No Bust Blackjack, which uses six 53-card decks with the joker included in each deck. Certain hands are known as a “natural” in this game including: two jokers, two aces, and an ace and a joker.

These hands win at 2 to 1 unless the dealer also has a natural. Jokers are wild and when dealt one of these cards, your hand immediately is counted as 21 and you must stand. The “no bust” aspect of the game applies when a player busts with a lower total than a dealer bust. In this case the player gets the wager returned. If you bust with a higher total than a dealer bust, then the bet is lost.

The game is often found in California card rooms and features a player-backed betting system to comply with the state’s varying casino gambling laws.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in Free Bet Blackjack  

There are some key things players want to keep in mind when it comes to playing Free Bet Blackjack and some common mistakes to avoid. Here is a look at a few of those.

• Not knowing the rules – The rules are different and it’s important to known them.
• Betting too much – Make sure you practice responsible gaming and play within your own gaming budget.
• Not practicing basic strategy – Basic strategy gives players the best chance at winning and reviewing a basic strategy chart gives you the best chance to win.
• Not taking advantage of free bets – It’s always a good idea to take advantage of a free wager with the chance to win more.

Conclusion  

Free Bet Blackjack is an alternative of the traditional game that gives players the chance to double down or split hands for free. Players can double for free on 9, 10, or 11 and split up to four times for free. This offers the chance at some added winnings without risking any extra player funds. Players instead use a “free bet” button when making these wagers.

The game also features a key rule change in which all players with hands of 21 or below push with any dealer hand of 22. This can be a fun game that still comes with a low house edge of right around 1% when using basic strategy. However, there are some key strategy differences in using basic strategy and looking at a chart can be a wise decision.

Those looking to hit the blackjack tables right from their own home may want to consider Lucky Block Casino. You’ll find an exciting, user-friendly platform that may be the next-best thing to playing in Las Vegas. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What is free bet blackjack and how does it work?

In this blackjack version, players can double down and split hands without having to make extra wagers. This offers the chance to win additional funds without having to risk more money.

How do the odds in free bet blackjack compare to traditional blackjack?

Blackjack is one of the best games when it comes to a low house edge, which can be below 1% on games with very favorable rules and when using basic strategy. Free Bet Blackjack is also a good game for players, with a house edge about 1% when using perfect basic strategy.

What strategies can I use for free bet blackjack?

Make use of basic strategy as there are changes from the strategy in traditional blackjack. This includes splitting all pairs except 10-10 (splitting not allowed and probably not wise with this hand) and 5-5 (instead take the free double down wager).

What is no bust blackjack? Is it the same as a free bet?

This is a different game found often in California. In this game players can still get their initial wager back even when busting if they bust with a lower total than the dealer. This is a distinctly different game than Free Bet Blackjack.