Looking to add an extra layer of excitement to your blackjack experience? The Buster bet is your ticket to a thrilling ride at the blackjack table.
By placing this side bet, players have the opportunity to capitalise on the dealer’s trouble with avoiding the bust, creating a unique dynamic in the game.
To discover the ins and outs of this enticing feature, check out our in-depth discussion on how to beat the dealer with the Buster bet.
SPECIFIC BUSTER BLACKJACK SIDE BET
The Buster blackjack side bet was created for players who find side bets attractive, so do note that the house edge will increase should you happen to place this bet.
Should you wish to learn more about side bets, you can count on EnergyCasino’s dedicated post to fill you in on the must-knows.
This side bet focuses on the dealer’s potential bust, allowing players to wager on whether the dealer will exceed a total of 21.
BUSTER BLACKJACK BET RULES
To make the most of your Buster Blackjack experience, it’s crucial to understand the rules governing this side bet.
If you’re still not sure how to bet money on a side bet in blackjack or how their rules work, check out our post on precisely that topic here!
Here are the general rules that typically apply to the Buster Blackjack bet:
- Placement of the Bet: Before the cards are dealt, players have the option to place a Buster Blackjack bet in addition to their regular blackjack bets. The Buster Blackjack bet is usually an optional side bet, and players can choose whether or not to participate.
- Dealer Busting: The primary objective of the Buster Blackjack bet is to predict whether the dealer’s hand will bust, i.e., have a hand value exceeding 21 points. If the dealer’s hand busts, the Buster Blackjack bet is won. If the dealer does not bust, the Buster bet will lose and players will lose their wager.
- Payouts Based on Dealer’s Bust Cards: The payout for the Buster bet is often determined by the number of cards it takes for the dealer to bust. Different casinos may have varying payout structures, but commonly, the more cards it takes for the dealer to bust, the higher the potential payout.
- Dealer Blackjack vs. Buster Bet: The dealer’s blackjack (an Ace and a 10-value card) does not affect the outcome of the Buster bet. The bet is solely based on the dealer’s total exceeding 21.
- Independence from Player’s Hand: The Buster bet is independent of the player’s hand in the main blackjack game. It doesn’t matter whether the player wins or loses the standard blackjack hand; the Buster bet stands on its own.
- Specific Card Combinations: Some variations of the Buster bet may include specific card combinations for different payouts. For instance, there might be a higher payout if the dealer busts with three or more cards.
WHAT IS A BLACKJACK DEALER BUST?
In blackjack, a dealer bust occurs when the total value of the dealer’s hand exceeds 21 points. When this happens, the dealer loses the round, and all remaining players who haven’t busted themselves win, regardless of their individual hand values.
The concept of the dealer bust is central to the game’s strategy, as players aim to achieve a hand total closer to 21 than the dealer without going over.
For many blackjack players, there’s no better feeling than seeing the dealer bust and lose, rendering their standard bet a win.
That said, seeing the dealer bust is even greater for players who’ve placed the Buster side bet since they’ll see a greater win.
HOW TO PLAY BUSTER BLACKJACK?
Assuming that you know how to play a traditional blackjack game — if you’re still not sure, we’ll explain that below — here are the standard rules to place buster bets at a blackjack table:
- Placing the Bet: Before the cards are dealt, players have the option to place a Buster bet in addition to their regular blackjack bets. To do that, they will have to accept to pay more money.
- Dealer Busting: The Buster bet pays out if the dealer busts. The payout depends on how many cards the dealer uses to bust. For example, if the dealer busts with several cards, the payout is higher.
- Payouts: The specific payout ratios vary between casinos, but the concept generally remains the same. The more cards the dealer busts with, the higher the potential payout.
Now come the standard blackjack moves that you can play to win the game. These have no outcome on whether the dealer busts; all you can do is give yourself the greatest probability of beating the dealer with a hand as close to 21 as possible.
HIT
Knowing when to hit in blackjack is a fundamental skill. Our article on blackjack hit or stand provides valuable insights into the decision-making process. Learn when to take that extra card and when to stand your ground for a well-rounded Buster Blackjack strategy.
STAND
Choosing to stand in blackjack is as critical as deciding to hit. Our guide on blackjack hit or stand explores the concept of standing and when it’s strategically advantageous. Arm yourself with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions at the Buster Blackjack table. Keep in mind that there are specific rules that dictate when the dealer stands.
DOUBLE DOWN
Doubling down in blackjack can be a game-changer. Our article on double down in blackjack delves into the nuances of this strategic move. Discover when to double down to maximize your winnings and increase your win rate. For more details, click here.
SPLIT
Knowing when to split in blackjack can significantly impact your Buster Blackjack gameplay. Our guide on when to split in blackjack breaks down the decision-making process. Equip yourself with the knowledge needed to make the most out of splitting pairs. Check out the full details here.
BUSTER BLACKJACK PAYOUTS
The pay table with regard to the Buster side bet will vary from one game to another. As we’ve mentioned earlier, the bet will pay depending on how many cards it takes for the dealer to bust.
Assuming that the dealer busts with the usual three or four cards, you can expect an even-money payout.
If you want a better look at how much money can be won through this side bet, consult the table below — these payouts can differ depending on the game being played.
| Number of cards dealer busts with | Payout |
|---|---|
| 3 to 4 | 1:1 |
| 5 | 2:1 |
| 6 | 4:1 |
| 7 or more | 18:1 |
COUNTING CARDS IN THE BUSTER BLACKJACK BET
Counting cards can be less effective when playing the Buster side wager compared to its effectiveness in the main blackjack game. The Buster bet primarily focuses on the dealer’s hand and whether it will bust with a certain number of cards, rather than the specific card values.
Speaking of which, consult this post to learn more about card values in blackjack.
BUSTER BLACKJACK AT ENERGYCASINO
Ready to try your hand at blackjack with some Buster bets? We at EnergyCasino offer a great range of blackjack games where you can test cool side wagers and strategies.
Visit our selection of blackjack games by clicking on this link!
CONCLUSION
In conclusion, the Buster Blackjack side wager adds a good twist to the traditional game of blackjack. Whether you’re a seasoned player or a newcomer, understanding the rules and strategies associated with the Buster Blackjack bet can really step up your gaming experience.
With that said, be aware of the house edge whenever you play Buster bets, and also keep in mind the number of decks used in the game — be it two decks and even six decks.