Is the Double Exposure Blackjack Game the Best Option?

If you're looking for a free, no download variation of the timeless classic known as 21, then the Double Exposure blackjack game may be perfect for you. There are some twists on the rules that can help to improve your odds, though the pay scale has been adjusted somewhat to make up for the house's disadvantage here. For the most part, it is played just like its traditional counterpart, but there is one major benefit that draws people in.

What's the Difference

In traditional 21, the dealer will start out by handing each person at the table, including him or herself, two cards. While the players' first two will be face-up, one of the dealer's is typically turned face down in order to force the individuals to 'guess' at what is happening in the hole and what the total point value will be. This isn't the case with the Double Exposure blackjack game. Here, all of the dealer's cards are face-up and in full view of everyone at the table. This puts the house at a serious disadvantage, though.

What's Bad for the Player?

Now, in order to make up for the decreased house odds, there are a few other differences between the Double Exposure blackjack game and its traditional predecessor. First of all, while most variants will pay three to two for a natural, this one pays only even money - the same is true when an individual beats the dealer by any other means, as well. Similarly, when it comes down to a 'push', meaning that the rules of the house dictate that a hand ends in a tie, the house takes the money. This never happens in other versions but is integrated into this one to help even the odds.

House's Preferences

Something else to consider is the house's preferences, and this is usually only true when the title is being enjoyed in a land-based casino. In some places, the dealer may be required to hit on 17 while others may require a stand. Whereas some locations will allow you to double down or split your cards in an attempt to create the best possible hand, there are some establishments that completely forbid this practice. Last, but certainly not least, insurance bets are pointless here since both of the dealer's cards are in plain view.

Is It Worth It?

This is up to the individual and his or her preferences. In the long run, it's important to consider the regulations in an individual venue before determining whether or not the Double Exposure blackjack game is in your best interest. It may seem appealing at first, but some venues only offer it as a way to trick their customers into believing that they have better odds; in all actuality, changes to the basic rules have evened the playing field and the odds may actually be worse.

Overall, while it isn't a title for everyone, it is something that can help break up the monotony associated with the traditional game of 21.