If you’re new to online card games and wondering what Bonus Blackjack is, this guide will explain everything clearly and simply. Bonus Blackjack is a version of the well-known card game blackjack, but with an added feature called a “side bet”. These optional bets can offer extra potential payouts based on your first cards and the dealer’s visible card.
This blog will explain how Bonus Blackjack works, what makes it different from standard blackjack, and how to play it online. You’ll also learn the meaning of some common blackjack terms and understand how certain game rules may affect your chances.
Bonus Blackjack, like all casino games, is a game of chance. Outcomes are random, and there’s no way to predict or influence what cards will be dealt. The information here is intended to help you understand the game, so that you can make informed decisions if you choose to play.
What Is Bonus Blackjack?
Bonus Blackjack is a type of blackjack that includes optional side bets, which can potentially pay out based on specific card combinations.
In the main game, the aim is still to try to get as close to 21 as possible, without going over (this is called “busting”), and to have a higher total than the dealer. All number cards are worth their face value (for example, a 7 is worth 7 points). Picture cards (Jack, Queen, King) are worth 10 points. An Ace can be counted as either 1 or 11, whichever may be more helpful for your hand.
Bonus Blackjack is different from regular blackjack because it includes side bets. This is an extra, optional wager that you can place before any cards are dealt. It doesn’t affect your main bet and is based only on your first two cards, and in some versions, the dealer’s first face-up card as well.
For example, a common side bet might pay out if your two cards are a pair (such as two Kings), or if both cards are of the same suit (such as two Hearts). Potential payouts can vary depending on the combination and the specific rules of the game version you’re playing.
Side bets often offer higher potential payouts than the main game, but they also come with a much higher house edge. This means that over time, the chances of possibly winning on side bets are lower compared to standard blackjack play.
Bonus Blackjack Rules
Bonus Blackjack follows many of the same rules as traditional blackjack, with a few additions to support the side bet feature. Below is a breakdown of how the game typically works:
Objective: Try to get a hand total that is closer to 21 than the dealer’s hand, without going over 21.
Cards and Decks: Bonus Blackjack is usually played with several decks of cards, often 4, 6, or 8 combined. More decks can increase the house edge slightly. A game using just one or two decks may offer slightly better odds for players.
Card Values:
- Number cards (2–10): Worth the number shown.
- Picture cards (Jack, Queen, King): Worth 10 points.
- Ace: Worth 1 or 11, depending on which may be more useful to the player.
Main Bet: Before the cards are dealt, you place your primary bet. This is the amount you’re risking on the main game, which involves trying to beat the dealer’s hand.
Side Bet (Optional): At the same time as placing your main bet, you can choose to place a side bet. This bet does not affect the main game and is decided based on specific card combinations, such as pairs or suited cards. The side bet can pay fixed odds depending on the outcome, which can vary by casino or game version.
Blackjack Payouts: If you are dealt an Ace and a 10-value card as your first two cards, this is called a “blackjack”. At many tables, this pays 3:2. For example, a successful £10 bet would return £15 profit. Some tables pay 6:5, which reduces your potential return, and increases the house edge. It can be worth checking this before playing.
Dealer Rules: In many versions of Bonus Blackjack, the dealer is required to “hit” on a soft 17. A soft 17 is a hand that includes an Ace counted as 11, such as Ace + 6. This rule gives the house a slightly better edge. If the dealer “stands” on soft 17, the odds may improve a bit for the player.
How Do You Play Bonus Blackjack Online?
Playing Bonus Blackjack online works in a similar way to the version you’d find in a land-based casino. Below is a step-by-step explanation designed for beginners.
1. Find a Licensed Casino Site: To play legally in the UK, choose an online casino that holds a valid licence from the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC). Licensed sites follow strict rules for fairness, security, and player protection.
2. Set Up an Account: If you’re new to the site, you’ll need to register. This involves entering personal details and verifying your identity. This is a legal requirement for all UKGC-licensed casinos.
3. Add Funds (Optional): If you wish to play for real money, you’ll need to deposit funds into your account. Licensed casinos in the UK offer secure payment methods like debit cards, PayPal, or bank transfers.
4. Choose Bonus Blackjack: Once logged in, look for Bonus Blackjack in the casino’s game library. It may be listed under table games or blackjack variations.
5. Place Your Bets: After opening the game, place your main bet. You can also choose to place a side bet if you want. This is completely optional.
6. Cards Are Dealt: You will receive two cards face-up. The dealer will also receive two cards – usually one face-up and one face-down.
7. Make Your Decisions: After seeing your cards, you’ll need to decide how to play your hand. Common actions include:
- Hit: Ask for another card.
- Stand: Keep your current hand.
- Double Down: Double your original bet and receive just one more card.
- Split: If you have two cards of the same value, you can split them into two separate hands (this requires an additional bet).
The options available can vary slightly depending on the online game provider, so you may want to check the game and casino rules before playing.
8. Game Outcome: Once all actions are complete, the dealer plays their hand according to fixed rules. The outcome is then decided. If your hand is higher than the dealer’s (without going over 21), you win. If the dealer has the better hand, or you go over 21, the bet is lost.
