Push 22 Side Bet Explained

The classic game of blackjack is fairly simple to understand and comes with some key strategic decision-making as part of the fun. As the game has grown in popularity, some game designers have added different blackjack versions and side bets to offer players something a bit different.

Blackjack Push 22 is one of these variants that features an interesting side bet to add to the fun. Keep reading to learn all about this unique blackjack alternative.

What is Blackjack Push 22? 

Push 22 is a side bet found in some blackjack games, such as Blackjack Switch and Free Bet Blackjack. The game is played much the same way as a traditional game, with numbered cards counting for that number, face cards counting as 10, and aces counting as 1 or 11.

In Blackjack Push 22 all bets are considered a push (excluding blackjacks) if the dealer draws exactly to 22. However, players have the option to make a Push 22 Bonus side bet that pays out at 11 to 1 if the dealer does hit 22 when busting.

Special Rules for Push 22

There are a few rules to remember when playing the Push 22 Blackjack variation. Here are a couple of reminders:

• Because all blackjacks are paid out before the dealer draws any cards, these hands win even if the dealer draws a 22.
• In many casinos, the Push 22 Bonus pays when the dealer hits 22 and a player’s total doesn’t exceed 29. Players then earn a payout of 11 to 1.
• If all players have busted or had blackjacks, the dealer will draw cards to settle any players’ Push 22 Bonus bets.

How Blackjack Push 22 Affects Gameplay

There are some gameplay considerations when heading to a Blackjack Push 22 table.

Dealer’s 22 Hand

There is obviously a downside to Blackjack Push 22. A player doesn’t collect any winnings when the dealer busts on 22 as one would expect in a normal game. However, those who made the side bet are rewarded with a nice payout of 11 to 1, so while you may have pushed on your main wager, a $2 wager on the side bet would pay out $22.

Player Strategies

There are no major strategy adjustments and players should follow basic strategy on knowing when to hit, stand, double down, and surrender. However, the Push 22 Blackjack odds add to the house edge slightly by not paying out winners on 22. Also players involved in blackjack alternative games that feature this side bet will want to make sure they know the correct basic strategy for that specific game.

The odds of the dealer hitting a 22 are around 0.073%, depending on the game rules and number of decks. Adding the side bet allows for a player to win when the dealer hits a 22 but that is infrequent and players will have to weigh this option when playing.

Advantages and Disadvantages of the Push 22 Side Bet

Considering playing Blackjack Push 22? Here’s a quick look at some pros and cons.

Player Advantages

• Rules are easy to understand and follow.
• Blackjacks are still paid out as normal.
• The Push 22 Bonus adds a fun twist to the game and a nice payout when players otherwise push.

Player Disadvantages

• No player payouts when the dealer busts with 22.
• Push 22 Bonus side bet can sap a player’s bankroll over time.
• The side bet has a negative expected value over the long run.

Strategies for Playing Push 22 in Blackjack

Here’s a look at a few more strategy considerations when playing Blackjack Push 22.

Basic Strategy Adjustments

Following basic strategy is still your best bet when playing this game, depending on the blackjack alternative you’re playing. That includes taking advantage of player favorable rules like splitting, doubling down, resplitting, and surrender.

Betting Strategies

In general, most blackjack side bets are considered bad bets with higher house edges – that’s why casinos like these wagers. This means the house edge goes up for a push on 22 and also for the -EV for the side bet over the long term. Players would be advised to play the side bet minimally.

Bankroll Management

Solid bankroll management is always recommended with any trip to the blackjack table. Don’t wager money you can’t afford to lose. Gambling should be seen as entertainment and it’s important not to wager money that is needed for other critical daily expenses.

When wagering on the Push 22 Bonus, it may be best to bet smaller amounts and consider this bet only when winning so that it doesn’t quickly deplete a large portion of your bankroll.

Conclusion

Blackjack Push 22 is an interesting alternative to traditional blackjack. While players only push when the dealer’s hand reaches exactly 22, non-blackjack hands are a push. Blackjacks are still a win as they are paid out before the dealer draws any cards.

The game also features a Push 22 Bonus side bet to make up for not winning the initial bet when the dealer hits 22. This bet pays out at 11 to 1.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What happens when the dealer has 22 in Blackjack Push 22?

All bets are a push, except for players who have blackjack. Players with a blackjack are paid out before the dealer takes a hit.

How does Push 22 affect my winnings?

Players no longer win when the dealer busts with a 22. This adds to the house edge despite the Push 22 Bonus side bet that pays out at 11 to 1. Most blackjack side bets have a negative expected value over the long run.

Is Blackjack Push 22 better for players or the casino?

While this may be a fun blackjack option with an interesting side bet, these blackjack alternatives usually come with a higher house edge. That goes for games like this with -EV side bets. The classic version of the game has one of the lowest house edges in the casino and offers players a decent chance to win when using basic strategy.

Can I use standard blackjack strategies in Push 22?

Make use of traditional basic strategy and bet small on the Push 22 Bonus side bet if you wish to make this wager. There is no real need to alter basic strategy, but make sure you are using the right strategy for the blackjack alternative game you’re playing.

Where can I play Blackjack Push 22?

This game can be found in casinos that offer alternative versions of traditional blackjack. This game may also be found at some online gaming platforms as well.