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Live Dealer Blackjack: The Best Way to Play

Are you looking to try your hand at live dealer blackjack? If so, you’re in luck! We’ve got all the information you need to get started. So read on for a comprehensive guide to this popular casino game.
Live Dealer Blackjack: The Best Way To Play

Introducing the game of blackjack

Blackjack is a casino game in which players aim to get a hand total as close to 21 as possible without going over. The game plays with one or more decks of standard playing cards. The objective is to beat the dealer’s hand by either having a higher total than them or busting (going over 21) while you have not.

Online casinos use between one to eight decks of 52 cards in blackjack, depending on your player’s blackjack variant. The player aims to get a higher total than the dealer without going over 21. If the player goes over 21, they automatically lose (bust), regardless of the dealer’s hand.

There are two main blackjack types: online and live dealer. In online blackjack, the player is playing against a computer algorithm. While in live dealer blackjack, the player is playing against a real dealer who is dealing the cards from an actual blackjack table in a land-based casino or a game studio. 

The blackjack table

A blackjack table usually has seven seats, with a designated area for the dealer. The blackjack table is rectangular, with a blackjack dealer on one side and players on the other. The blackjack dealer deals the cards to the players, and they can either hit or stand. There is also a bet area in front of each player, where they can place their chips.

What you need to know before playing online blackjack with live dealers

Before gambling on blackjack in an online casino, you should know a few things. For one, live dealer blackjack offers a more realistic experience, as you can see the table and dealers in real-time. Additionally, the same strategies in regular blackjack also work in the electronic version- so you don’t have to learn any new techniques! Plus, players have a better chance of winning than any other casino game, thanks to the low house edge in blackjack.

How to play live dealer blackjack

The first step to playing live dealer blackjack is finding a reputable online casino that offers the game. Once you’ve found a site, you can create an account and deposit money. Then, you have to choose a table and start playing! While playing, some things to keep in mind include always splitting aces and eights and never splitting fives and tens. Additionally, it would be best to always stand on a hard 17 or higher and hit on a soft 17 or lower. Finally, you should always hit if the dealer shows a seven or higher.

As we’ve mentioned, blackjack’s objective is to have a higher total card count than the dealer without going over 21. The best blackjack hand is when the first two cards dealt value precisely 21. You play against the dealer in the game, but there may be up to seven other players.

Most online casinos use eight standard 52-card decks. The numbered cards, 2-10, are worth their face value. Face cards are worth ten, and aces are worth 1 or 11. Assuming you have logged in and made a deposit at a reputable casino online, a round of live dealer blackjack will be similar to the following:

The game begins with each player making a bet. Then, the dealer will deal two cards to each player face up and two for themselves- one face up and one face down. If you obtain a blackjack (two cards equaling 21), you immediately win unless the dealer also has blackjack. In case the dealer gets a blackjack, too, it’s referred to as a tie. The dealer will push back your staked money to your balance when this happens. 

If you do not have blackjack, you can use either “hit” and ask for another card to be dealt or “stand” and keep the cards you have. You can hit as many times as you want until you either go over 21 (at which point you automatically lose) or decide to stand. Once all players have gone bust or chosen to stand, the dealer will reveal their face-down card.

If the dealer has 16 or fewer, they must hit. If they have 17 or more, they must stand when the dealer has finished taking their turn, any player that has not gone bust and has a higher total than the dealer wins. All players lose if the dealer has a higher total value.

And that’s all there is to it! Thanks to its simple rules and low house edge, blackjack is one of the most popular casino games in the world. And with live dealer blackjack, you can enjoy all the thrills of the game from the comfort of your own home.

How to beat the live dealer blackjack table

Now that you know how to play live dealer blackjack, it’s time to learn how to win. While there is no guaranteed way to beat the game, there are specific strategies you can use to increase your chances of winning. A common technique is always splitting aces and eights and never splitting fives and tens. Additionally, it would be best if you always stood on a hard 17 or higher and hit on a soft 17 or lower. Finally, you should always hit if the dealer shows a seven or higher. 

While these strategies won’t guarantee a win, they will give you a better chance of coming out on top. We will go further into blackjack strategies below in this article.

How to find the best live dealer blackjack sites

The first step to playing live dealer blackjack is finding a reputable online casino that offers the game. But with so many casinos to choose from, how can you find the best one? First, look for a site with a good selection of blackjack games and other casino games and slots. Additionally, ensure the site is licensed and regulated by a reputable authority such as the UK Gambling Commission or the Malta Gaming Authority. Finally, check out our reviews to see what the expert team behind Casino Yetis says about the site.

Benefits of playing live blackjack online over traditional land-based casinos

There are several benefits to playing live dealer blackjack online instead of in a traditional land-based casino:

  1. You can play from the comfort of your own home without having to travel to a casino.
  2. Online casinos offer more blackjack games than most land-based casinos. And with so many casinos to choose from, you’re sure to find one that suits your budget and playing style.
  3. Online casinos often offer bonuses and promotions that give you an edge over the house.

Understand the different terms and definitions of blackjack

Blackjack is a popular casino game that is easy to understand and fast-paced. In addition to the basic rules, you have a few different types of bets can you can do, as well as side bets. But as with any other game, a few nuances can make all the difference between winning and losing. So first, familiarise yourself with the terminology used in blackjack to know what everyone is talking about when you play.

What to Expect When Playing at a Live Dealer Blackjack Table

You can expect a few things while playing blackjack at a live dealer table. First, you’ll need to know the different types of bets available. There are three main bet types in blackjack: the ante, the blind, and the side bet. The ante is the initial bet that all players must make before the dealer deals out any card. The blind is a bet made after the cards are dealt before anyone has looked at their hand. Finally, the side bet is optional and can be made anytime during the game.

Another thing to be aware of when playing live dealer blackjack is the different types of hands you might encounter. These include:

Hard hand: In blackjack, the term hard hand refers to a hand that does not contain an ace. Alternatively, it can mean that the ace only can be counted as 1 in value.

Soft hand: This type of hand will always contain an ace. In blackjack, this card can have a value of either 1 or 11.

Split hand: A split hand contains two cards of the same value. The player can split two cards with the same value into two hands.

Double down: A hand that allows you to double your bet after seeing your initial two cards.

Surrender: A hand that allows you to give up half of your bet and quit the hand.

Finally, there are a few side bets that you might encounter while playing live dealer blackjack. These are bets on specific outcomes, such as whether or not the dealer will bust. They usually have high payouts, but they also come with a higher risk.

Familiarise yourself with the common terminology used in blackjack games

When playing blackjack, you’ll come across many terminologies that might be unfamiliar to you. Here are some of the most common terms that you’ll need to know:

Blackjack: When you get an ace and a 10-value card on your first two cards, it’s called blackjack. This hand is the best in the game and pays out at 3 to 2.

Bust: If your hand goes over 21, it’s called a bust. If you go bust, it means you automatically lose the hand.

Hit: If you want to receive another card, you’ll need to hit. You can hit as many times as you want until you either bust or stand.

Stand: If you are happy with the value of your cards and don’t want to hit another time, you’ll need to stand. Once you stand, you’re stuck with whatever hand you have.

Split: If you have two cards of the same value, you can split them into two hands. You’ll need to make another bet for your second hand.

Double down: If you’re confident in your hand, you can double your bet and receive one more card.

Insurance: If the dealer’s up-card is an ace, you can insure against them having a blackjack. This side bet pays out at 2 to 1 if the dealer does have a blackjack.

How to play blackjack in five steps

Blackjack is an exhilarating card game that is popular in casinos all over the world. However, if you’re new to blackjack or have yet to play blackjack online with a live dealer before, the Casino Yetis have written together a five-step guide on how to play!

Step one:

Join the blackjack table. The game will restart once all players are ready. You will be dealt two cards face up, and the dealer will receive two cards (one face up and one face down).

Step two:

Decide whether to Hit or Stand. To hit means to ask the dealer for another card, and to stand means to ask the dealer to move on to the next player without dealing you any more cards. You should hit if the value of your hand is 16 or less, and you should stand if the value of your hand is 17 or more. If you go over 21, this is called busting, and you automatically lose the round. The objective of blackjack is to get as close to 21 as possible without going over.

Step three:

After the players at the table have made their decisions, the dealer will reveal their facedown card. Then, depending on their cards’ total value, they either hit or stand. After that, they will draw another card from the deck if they have a total value below 17. If the dealer hits any value of 17 or above, they will not draw another card. 

Step four:

See who is closer to 21. You win if your hand is closer to 21 than the dealers. The dealer wins if they have a better hand, or you go over 21 and bust. Your payout amount will depend on the type of bet that you placed.

Step five:

Repeat! The game will start again with all players receiving two cards (one face up and one face down). You can choose to hit or stand based on the value of your hand. The dealer will then reveal their cards, and the round will be over. If you win, you will receive your winnings and can choose to continue playing or cash out.

Know the different types of live dealer blackjack tables 

Blackjack is one of the most popular casino games in the world, and there are many variations of the game. Each variation has its own set of rules, and it can be tricky to keep track of all the different types of blackjack tables available online. Below, we will explain the different kinds of live dealer blackjack tables available. We will also teach you the basic rules that govern each type of table.

Introducing the different types of blackjack games available online

You will notice that many tables are available when you play blackjack online. Some popular blackjack variations include American Blackjack, European Blackjack, and Pontoon. Each of these variations has its own rules, and it is crucial to learn the basic rules before you start playing.

American Blackjack

American Blackjack is one of the most popular variations and uses eight decks of cards. The game’s goal is to beat the dealer’s hand by getting as close to 21 as possible without going over. If you go over 21, you will “bust” and lose your bet. American blackjack is a fast-paced game with plenty of excitement and tension. Finally, the rules are relatively simple, making it an excellent choice for novice gamblers. So if you’re looking for a thrilling and rewarding gambling experience, American blackjack is the game for you.

European Blackjack

European blackjack is a beloved blackjack game that uses six decks of cards. The game objective is to beat the dealer’s hand by getting as close to 21 without going over, similar to other blackjack variations. If you go over 21 while playing European blackjack, you will “bust” and forfeit your bet.

European blackjack offers some advantages over other variations of the game. For one, the house edge is lower than American blackjack. A lower edge means you have a better chance of winning your bet. In addition, European blackjack allows players to split cards twice, whereas American blackjack only allows players to split cards once. The chance to split-up cards gives players more opportunities to win big payouts.

Pontoon

This popular online blackjack game is also known as Spanish 21. It is different from regular blackjack games in several ways. For example, there are no Tens in the deck, and Pontoon has special bonuses for some hands. 

Multi-hand blackjack

As the name suggests, this type of online blackjack lets you play multiple hands at the same time. Playing numerous hands is available in both regular and live dealer versions. Likewise, multi-hand blackjack is available in both traditional and live dealer versions.

Blackjack party 

A Blackjack party is a variant of live blackjack with a fun party atmosphere. It is perfect for casual players who want to socialise and chat while they play. A team of dealers and hosts presents the game, and you can bet behind other players if you’re going to play from behind instead of choosing to hit or stand.

Salon privé

Salon Prive blackjack is the perfect game for high rollers who want a luxurious and exclusive online gaming experience. The game offers enhanced control, high maximum bets, and a VIP Room Manager who is always on hand to provide top-level customer service. In addition, players can choose their dealer and control the shuffle and game speed. Salon privé makes for a unique blackjack experience that NZ high rollers should take advantage of and try out. 

Power Blackjack

In power blackjack, an infinite number of players can play at the same time and have the opportunity to win big. In addition, players can Double, Triple or Quadruple Down on any two initial cards, even after a split! The game plays out with a total of 8 decks. However, in power blackjack, 9s and 10s are removed from the deck while picture cards remain.

Removing these cards provides Blackjack players with 64 fewer cards in the shoe and allows them to try out new strategies. Power Blackjack has four different side bets that players can choose from (Any Pair, 21+3, Hot 3 and Bust It) but does not have the Six Card Charlie rule.

New Zealand gamblers should try out power blackjack for a few reasons:

  1. First, the game is exhilarating and provides plenty of opportunities to win big.
  2. It is a great way to socialise and chat with other players while you play.
  3. The game offers excellent odds for players who are looking to win big.

So if you’re looking for an exciting and thrilling online blackjack game, check out power blackjack!

Free bet blackjack

Free Bet Blackjack is a popular online game perfect for casual players. This game has six decks, and the player can ‘Double Down’ on any two-card hand with hard totals of 9, 10, or 11. In addition, the player can also ‘Split’ any pairs except for 10-value cards.

The main difference between Free Bet Blackjack and other blackjack games is that players can avoid risking their own money when they ‘Double Down’ or ‘Split’. If the player wins, they will receive their original bet back plus winnings. However, if they lose, they will not have to pay anything. This feature makes Free Bet Blackjack an excellent game for players new to online blackjack and who want to play without risk.

Players from New Zealand will enjoy Free Bet Blackjack. The game is simple, easy to understand, and offers plenty of chances to win. In addition, the game has a low house edge, which means that players have a good chance of winning. So if you’re looking for an online blackjack game that is easy to play and offers plenty of opportunities to win, check out free bet blackjack!

Lightning blackjack

Lightning Blackjack is an exciting new online blackjack game from Evolution Gaming. The game is played with eight decks of cards and offers players the chance to win up to 1000x their original bet. In addition, the game has a unique ‘Lightning Round’ where players can win up to 10x their stake.

The lighting feature in Evolution Gaming’s lightning blackjack is a particular bonus round that offers players the chance to win big. The game is activated when players achieve a blackjack hand with an ace and a 10-value card. When this happens, the player will enter the lightning round and have the chance to win one of four progressive jackpots.

In the lightning round, players will receive six cards face-up. They must choose two cards to keep and discard the other four. If they can create a blackjack hand with their two cards, they will win the corresponding progressive jackpot. If not, they will still receive their original bet back plus any winnings from the round.

The lightning round is an exciting addition to lightning blackjack and offers players the chance to win big payouts. In addition, the game frequently activates, so players have plenty of opportunities to win. So if you’re looking for an exciting online blackjack game with plenty of chances to win big payouts, try out lightning blackjack!

Understand the rules that govern each type of table before you start playing

As we’ve seen, many online blackjack games are available to Kiwi players. However, each game has its own set of rules and regulations that players must follow. Therefore, before playing any online blackjack, you must take the time to understand the terms governing the game. Understanding the rules will ensure you know what to expect and help you avoid making costly mistakes.

So if you’re ready to start playing online blackjack, check out the available games. Choose the game that best suits your needs, and ensure you understand the rules before playing. With so many different games, you’re sure to find one you’ll enjoy!

What game you should play will depend on your goals and preferences

Now that you know about the different online blackjack games available, you might wonder which one is right for you. The answer to this question depends on your goals and preferences. Many online blackjack games are available to Kiwi players, and each game has rules and regulations. It’s consequently pivotal that you comprehend the guidelines of each game before gambling. In doing so, you’ll avoid costly mix-ups and guarantee that your experience playing is fun and lucrative.

If you’re looking for a game with a low house edge and plenty of chances to win, Free Bet Blackjack is a great choice. Lightning Blackjack is a good option if you’re looking for an exciting game with the opportunity to win big payouts. And if you’re looking for a game with simple rules and a relaxed playing environment, Classic Blackjack is a good choice.

No matter your goals and preferences, there is an online blackjack game that is right for you. So take your time, research, and choose the game that best suits your needs.


There are many benefits to playing online blackjack, including convenience, a wide variety of games to choose from, and the chance to win big payouts. Online blackjack is a great way to improve your skills and learn how to play the game properly.


As with any gambling, there is always the risk of losing money when you play online blackjack. However, you can minimise losses by understanding the game’s rules and choosing a reputable online casino to place your bets. Plus, if you set a budget and stick to it, you can ensure that you only spend what you can afford to lose.


If you need help deciding which game to choose, we recommend researching and reading reviews before making your decision. It would help if you also took the time to understand the rules of each game before you start playing.


Blackjack is a relatively simple game to learn, but it does take some time and practice to master. We recommend starting by reading through this article thoroughly and reading through our blackjack strategy guide. Once you have read, we advise you to practice by playing free online blackjack games. Then, once you feel confident in your abilities, you can start playing for real money.


No, you don’t need to download any software to play online blackjack. Most online casinos offer instant play versions of their games so that you can access the blackjack tables directly from your web browser.


Yes, you can play online blackjack on your mobile phone. Many online casinos offer mobile-friendly versions of their games so you can enjoy blackjack from your phone’s web browser.

Table of Contents
FAQ about live dealer Game Shows
The ante is the initial bet that all players must make before the dealer deals out any card.
A split hand contains two cards of the same value. The player can split two cards with the same value into two hands.
If you're confident in your hand, you can double your bet and receive one more card.
When you get an ace and a 10-value card on your first two cards, it's called blackjack. This hand is the best in the game and pays out at 3 to 2.
The house edge is the percentage of each bet the casino expects to keep over the long term. For example, if a game has a house edge of 5%, the casino will make an average profit of 5% on every bet.
While there is no guaranteed way to win, you can improve your chances by using blackjack strategies such as always splitting aces and eights, never splitting fives and tens, and hitting on a soft 17 or lower.
Many high-quality casino sites offer solid blackjack tables and games. The top live dealer blackjack casino sites offer the best selection of blackjack games. In addition, they have obtained licenses and are under the regulated bodies of a reputable authority.
The benefits of playing live blackjack online include playing from the comfort of your home, having access to more blackjack games, and often receiving bonuses and promotions.
Online blackjack is played against a computer program, while in live dealer blackjack, you may play with an actual human dealer. Live dealer blackjack offers a more realistic and authentic experience.
There are many different types of online blackjack games available, including classic blackjack, free bet blackjack, and lightning blackjack. Each game has rules and regulations, so you must take the time to understand them before you start playing. Understanding the rules will help you avoid making costly mistakes and ensure a fun and enjoyable playing experience.