Double Exposure Blackjack is an intriguing variation of the traditional blackjack game that offers a unique twist to the classic rules. In this version, both of the dealer’s cards are dealt face-up, giving players more information to make their decisions. However, to balance the advantage provided to the players, certain rule changes are implemented. In this article, we will explore the features, rules, and strategies of Double Exposure Blackjack.
Finally a game that favors the player! Or maybe not? Find out below!
Double Exposure Blackjack is a variant of blackjack in which both the dealer’s cards are revealed to players at the start of the hand. Knowing the dealer’s hand provides significant information, and without the rules modifications it would be advantageous to the player.
The main rules changes to provide the casino with the advantage are even money payouts on blackjack (compared to 3:2 at normal tables) and ties losing (compared to pushing in standard blackjack).
Other rules changes also exist to the detriment of players. Certain tables restrict doubling down and splitting, and do not allow doubles after splits.
The game was invented by Bob Stupak, former owner of Vegas World and Stratosphere casinos.
The basic strategy for this game is different, both because the player can see dealer cards 11 to 20 and because the player loses all ties except blackjacks. For examples, two ten-value cards are split whenever the dealer has 13 through 16, and a hard 20 must be hit if the dealer has a 20.
Features of Double Exposure Blackjack
- Dealer’s cards face up: In Double Exposure Blackjack, both of the dealer’s cards are exposed from the beginning, allowing players to make more informed decisions about their moves.
- Modified blackjack payouts: To compensate for the increased player advantage, blackjack pays even money (1:1) instead of the traditional 3:2 payout.
- Dealer wins ties: In most cases, when both the player and the dealer have the same total hand value, the dealer wins the tie, except for tied blackjacks, which typically result in a push.
- Dealer stands on soft 17: In most Double Exposure Blackjack games, the dealer stands on a soft 17, which can be beneficial for the player.
- No surrender option: The surrender option, which allows a player to forfeit their hand and receive half of their bet back, is usually not available in Double Exposure Blackjack.
- Double down rules: In most versions of Double Exposure Blackjack, players can double down on any two cards, but some variations may limit this option to specific hand values.
- Splitting rules: Players can typically split pairs, but the rules for splitting may vary. Some games may allow multiple splits, while others may restrict players to a single split.
Strategies for Double Exposure Blackjack
- Adjust basic strategy: Since the dealer’s cards are exposed, players can adjust their basic blackjack strategy to account for the additional information. For example, if the dealer has a weak upcard, players can be more aggressive with their moves.
- Be cautious with doubling down: Although doubling down can be a profitable move, players should be more cautious in Double Exposure Blackjack due to the modified payout for blackjack and the dealer winning ties.
- Take advantage of dealer’s weak hands: When the dealer has a weak hand, such as a 12 to 16, players can capitalize on this situation by standing on lower hand values than they normally would in traditional blackjack.
Double Exposure Blackjack offers a unique and exciting twist on the classic game, providing players with more information to make their decisions. While this version of blackjack can be more challenging due to the modified rules, it offers an engaging and strategic gaming experience for players who are looking for a fresh take on the traditional game.