Live Blackjack at BetVictor New Zealand

At online casinos, Blackjack is the most popular table game by a considerable margin, leading the way in terms of active players on a yearly basis. The reason for this large player base can be attributed to a variety of reasons. However, the simplicity of the game is a standout factor for many. While Blackjack is an incredibly easy game to play, there are various ways to improve your odds of success, making it an appealing table game to beginners and experienced players alike.  

In this guide, we explain everything related to online Blackjack in our live casino, including what it is, the standard set of rules, and the different variations that can be found right here at BetVictor!  

Understanding Online Blackjack

To start this online blackjack guide, let's explain what the game is, while also looking at the rules and associated house edge!  

What is Online Blackjack?   

Online Blackjack is simply the digital version of the popular casino card game, Blackjack. It's a game of both chance and skill where you play against the dealer. Your goal? To have a hand with a value closer to 21 than the dealer's, without exceeding 21.   

With free online Blackjack games readily available, you can practise and hone your skills before playing for real money, if you wish.  

The Rules of Online Blackjack   

Just like traditional Blackjack, online Blackjack rules are straightforward. Each card has its own value, with the number cards (2-10) worth their face value, face cards (King, Queen, Jack) worth 10, and the Ace, which is worth either 1 or 11, depending on what benefits your hand the most.  

When the game starts, both you and the dealer receive two cards. One of the dealer's cards is visible to you. Based on your total and the dealer's visible card, you decide whether to:  

  • Hit - Take another card.  
  • Stand - Declare your hand as finished for the round.  
  • Double - Double your stake size and take one more card.  
  • Split - This is only valid when you have two cards of the same value. You can double your bet for the round and split them into their own separate hands.  
  • Surrender - Offered at only some online blackjack tables, surrendering will mean that the player forfeits their hand to be awarded with half of their initial stake.  

The House Edge when Playing Live Blackjack Online   

Understanding the online blackjack house edge is crucial to finding a favourable table. The house edge is essentially the advantage that the casino has over each player, which is how they make their money in the long run. Online Blackjack, much like land-based alternatives, offers one of the lowest house edges available, sitting at around 2%.  

How To Find the Right Blackjack Variation

There are more things to consider than whether you're playing a live or regular variation of Blackjack. Here are a few factors to take into account when selecting an online blackjack table:  

  • Online Blackjack Rules - Some online blackjack rules can be more favourable to players than others. The three main areas that many experienced blackjack players look for include the payout rate of a blackjack when splitting is allowed, and at which point the dealer must stand. In these instances, the optimal rules would be a 3:2 blackjack, splitting allowed at any time, and the dealer standing on a soft 17.  
  • Betting Limits - Another hugely important thing to consider is the betting limits at each table. Players should be looking for a minimum stake size that allows them to comfortably manage their bankroll throughout a session.   
  • Number of Decks - In a similar way that specific rules in online Blackjack can be favourable to the player, so can the number of decks. A general rule of thumb is that the fewer decks, the lower the house edge is likely to be, should all of the other rules be the same.   
  • Other Players - The number of other players sitting at the table can go a long way in influencing your session. For example, a crowded table may mean that you cannot sit in your desired position, while an empty table may lead to action that is too fast for you.  

Other Types of Blackjack Variations   

While the two main blackjack variations of Blackjack revolve around regular and live dealer alternatives, there are many other unique versions that players may find entertaining. Some may even have a lower house edge than other online blackjack tables!  

Variations that players can keep an eye out for when playing Blackjack online include:  

  • Mega Fire Blaze Blackjack - Mega Fire Blaze Blackjack is a live casino game offered by Playtech, one of the most popular providers in the world. It features an optional side bet, known as 'Mega Fire Blaze', where players are awarded with points for different outcomes on the table, such as the dealer having Aces. Accumulating enough points will then trigger the main bonus round!  
  • BetVictor Blackjack - Our exclusive BetVictor First Person Blackjack follows the traditional rules of the game, with an adjusted camera angle to keep things fresh for players!  
  • Free Bet Blackjack - This variation of online Blackjack allows the player to double down or split their hand for free in certain scenarios.  
  •  Lightning Blackjack - When playing Lightning Blackjack by Evolution Gaming online, random numbers can have multipliers added to them. Should players make that total and beat the dealer, the multiplier will be applied to the stake size and awarded.  

Conclusion 

The popular game of Blackjack being available online makes it easier to play than ever before. Players from all over the world can play a hand whenever they wish, with online Blackjack tables being available whenever. They can also play without the need to place a wager by picking a free online blackjack game!  

For those who do opt to play real money Blackjack online, there are various strategies that players could consider implementing into their game to increase the likelihood of success. Perhaps the most effective is basic strategy; however, evaluating the rules of each game, practising, and avoiding distractions can also be beneficial. Of course, it's important that no online blackjack strategy can guarantee a win.  

Here at BetVictor, we offer a comprehensive range of online Blackjack tables, including standard and live variations. All of the unique games mentioned in this article, such as Mega Fire Blaze Blackjack and Lightning Blackjack, are all included in our extensive catalogue. Before browsing through our range of blackjack tables, why not check out the range of BetVictor bonus offers?