What Is the Dead Man’s Hand? — History and References
Content Team
1 year ago
We can hear great stories surrounding combinations of cards over time because they have been part of our culture for centuries. One of the most famous legends is the dead man’s hand, which is made up of two black aces and two black eights.
Gamblers can be superstitious, and when it comes to gambling, we’ve all heard people talk about lucky dice and lucky cards. But what is the dead man’s hand? How can this seemingly unlucky hand be read as an omen of death, what part of this is historically accurate, and which part is mythological? Stay tuned to find out.
Bill Hickok (Wild Bill) and His Death
First things first, I’ll write about the man known for this hand combination.
Wild Bill Hickok
Wild Bill Hickok (1837-1876), the famous gunman and gambler, is at the center of the story. Wild Bill Hickok’s real name was James Butler Hickok, but “James” doesn’t sound quite as impressive when you’re a legendary gunman in the wild west. He was originally nicknamed Duck Bill for his long nose and large lips.
Wild Bill earned his reputation as a respected lawman and gunfighter in the American West due to his service in the Civil War. Namely, the press closely followed his gunfights and conquests due to his many heroic feats. In addition, he earned respect as a professional gambler.
There was often a mixture of fact and fiction surrounding Wild Bill, so we can’t determine how many men he killed. A respected biographer believes it’s probably closer to half a dozen than over a hundred, as claimed by several journalists at the time. He helped build Wild Bill’s legend by exaggerating his contemporaries’ accomplishments, exploits, and stories by contributing some outlandish reports about them.
Wild Bill’s Death
He was no longer the crack shot he was in his youth, and his health was also declining. One of his greatest passions was poker, which he indulged at Nuttal & Mann’s Saloon No. 10. As a skilled player, Wild Bill has amassed a large fortune throughout his life.
Unfortunately, Jack McCall, a drunken buffalo hunter, lost so much on this occasion that he needed Wild Bill to buy breakfast. McCall might have considered this gesture a grave insult, as the next day’s events would demonstrate.
After playing poker with the other gamblers at the saloon on August 2, 1876, Wild Bill again headed to the saloon. There was only one seat at the poker table, so he requested that another player switch places with him because he was looking forward to seeing the saloon’s entrance and exit from this seat.
Then, Jack McCall shot Wild Bill from behind in the saloon, saying, “Damn you! Take that!” as Wild Bill clutched two black Aces and two black Eights, he fell from his seat and died immediately.
What Is the Dead Man’s Hand?
Did Wild Bill hold a pair of Aces and an eight? According to some historians, the account is not authentic. Wild Bill and this particular hand became popular after a book about Hickok was published fifty years later. Its publication contributed to the spread of what had already become a legend.
There is little information about it before the 1920s. However, dead man’s hands were associated with a completely different hand of cards and a completely different individual during the nineteenth century. The original event occurred over 140 years ago. Regardless of whether Wild Bill’s death was historically based or not, his story has become a legend.
Wild Bill Hickok’s death is frequently associated with the dead man’s hand because he held a pair of black aces and eights at the moment of his passing. As a result, novels, movies, and even video games reference this hand countless times throughout popular culture.
There’s a small casino called Saloon 10 where Wild Bill was killed, on the site where he was shot. In addition to the Dead Man’s Hand exhibit, there are signs explaining the story behind the object.
Dead Man’s Hand References
It makes sense that given the popularity of Wild Bill Hickok and the dead man’s hand in Western culture, the hand is referred to in many Western films.
- John Ford featured the dead man’s hand in Stagecoach and The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance. Liberty Valance’s title character is the victim, while Stagecoach’s John Wayne holds the hand.
- In Frontier Marshal, released in 1939, Randolph Scott plays Wyatt Earp. After being shot in the back two years later, Wild Bill Hickok (Richard Dix) holds the dead man’s hand in the 1941 Western Badlands of Dakota.
- Aces and eights were the winning hand in a poker scene in the 2001 film Along Came a Spider. Due to the dead man’s hand, a family shotgun changes hands. As the movie progresses, the shotgun plays a key role in solving a kidnapping.
- Video games such as Fallout: New Vegas’ Dead Money expansion have featured dead man’s hands. For example, the player can collect cards that make up the famous dead man’s hand from the ruins of the Sierra Madre casino in order to complete tasks in the game.
How Should You Play The Dead Man’s Hand In Poker?
Even though dead man’s hand isn’t the best in poker, it can be a solid hand combination if you play it correctly. It’s best to be aggressive when playing this hand and try to win as many chips as possible early on. If you do so, you’re more likely to win the pot when the final cards are revealed at the end of the round.
Can The Dead Man’s Poker Hands Increase Your Chances Of Winning?
You have an approximately 1 in 730,000 chance of being dealt a dead man’s hand, and you have even lower odds of winning the hand if you are dealt one. However, it’s possible to increase the chances of winning in a few ways:
- Make sure you don’t get into situations where you have to face more than one opponent at a time.
- When you play against a single opponent, make sure that you are the one deciding how to bet.
- Be aware of your opponents’ betting patterns and take advantage of them.
Conclusion
There’s no question that the dead man’s hand is one of the most famous poker hands. As a result, Wild Bill Hickok has become one of the most recognizable figures in both gambling and western history.
If players at your table are interested in poker history, they may even identify the hand during play if it occurs during a round of poker. Whether a 5-card draw, a 5-card stud, or No-Limit Texas Hold’em, the dead man’s hand often wins the pot and is a good hand combination.
FAQ
What is considered a dead man’s hand?
It’s described as a two-pair poker hand consisting of two black aces and two black eights, along with an unknown hole card.
Why is it called a dead man’s hand?
According to legend, Wild Bill Hickok was shot while holding the dead man’s hand, so it’s considered unlucky to hold the two pairs today.
What was the fifth card in the dead man’s hand?
In some situations, the fifth card in a dead man’s hand is the five of diamonds; in others, it might be either the nine or the jack of diamonds.
Which sites are frequented more, land-based or online casinos? Which games do players tend to prefer? We crunch the numbers, comparing the metrics of traditional casino visitors with their online counterparts.
The Most Important Indicators Through Numbers
The casino audience is evolving alongside the industry—as gambling expands, the demographic changes. Here's an overview of the latest trends in gambling, who are spinning the reels online against those doing the same in the bustling halls of traditional casinos, and which sector of online gambling takes the biggest piece of the pie.
The global online gambling industry is expected to grow by 8.54% YOY by 2027
(Statista)
The industry is expected to generate $95.05 billion in revenue by 2023. The profit is estimated to grow at an annual rate of 8.54%, resulting in a market volume of $131.90 billion by 2027.
The total casino industry is set to increase at a CAGR of 46.1% from $99.87 billion in 2022 to $145.92 billion by the end of 2023. It will continue to be on an upward trajectory, and it's anticipated to reach $163.71 billion by 2027, with a CAGR of 2.0%.
We can see that the online industry has surpassed land-based establishments in revenue, with a projection to account for an even bigger market share by 2027.
26% of the world's population has gambled at least once in their lives
(Gambling Industry News)
Note: Every year, approximately 4.2 billion individuals place some sort of bet. A recent study conducted in 44 nations found that 56% of polled individuals gambled at least once in 2023.
The global casino and online gambling industry has experienced a turbulent period from its peak in 2013, with revenues of $334 billion, to a pandemic-induced low of $193.3 billion in 2020. The estimated value of the industry stood at $249 billion in 2022, with an anticipated increase to $263.3 billion in 2023. Despite this recovery, these figures still fall short of pre-pandemic levels, highlighting the lasting impact COVID-19 has had.
Looking at individual countries, the United States leads with a staggering $600 billion in gambling revenue, a figure that eclipses the combined revenues of several other leading gambling markets. The United Kingdom comes second with a notable $18.6 billion, followed by France at $14.9 billion, Canada at $14 billion, Australia at $10.9 billion, Germany at $10.3 billion, and Macau at $5.24 billion.
Slot sessions from July 2022 to September 2023 dropped from 8 to 7.6 million
(UK Gambling Commission)
When we compare the revenues and other aspects of online slots and machine sessions in physical locations, we can see contrasting trends.
For online slot gaming, the average session length decreased slightly from 19 minutes in July 2022 to 17 minutes in September 2023. The number of sessions lasting over an hour remained in the same range of about 3 million monthly, but the total number grew from 43.4 to 45.8 million.
In contrast, for slot machine sessions in popular gambling cities and other locations, there was a general downward trend. Additionally, sessions lasting over an hour decreased from 215,262 in July 2022 to just 182,193 in September 2023.
Gross gambling yield (GGY) for online slots in the UK increased by 8% YOY between 2022 and 2023
(UK Gambling Commission)
This increase amounts to £589 million, which indicates substantial growth in this sector. The number of spins and the average monthly active accounts both saw an 11% increase, signifying heightened player engagement. Despite the overall increase in GGY, the GGY per active player decreased by 3%, suggesting that while more people played, individual spending dropped slightly.
Physical slot machines saw a marginal decrease in GGY of 0.4% year-on-year, holding steady at £280 million. The average spend per session remained consistent at £12.09, indicating that player spending habits didn't change significantly despite bigger market fluctuations. There was a slight decrease in the average number of spins per session by a single spin, which may reflect a minor decline in engagement or a change in player behavior toward more cautious spending.
Sports betting apps and websites have over 127 million users
(Gambling Industry News)
This is a massive increase from 60.3 million in 2019 and is predicted to reach 156.9 million by 2025.
Online casinos have the second-highest number of players, with 94.1 million, a 62% rise from 2019. By 2025, this amount is predicted to rise to 112 million.
In 2022, desktop devices had a 45% market share in online gambling.
The Factors Influencing Player Preferences for Casino Types
Navigating the choice between online and traditional casinos involves weighing various aspects. The following table presents a side-by-side comparison to illustrate the core differences that influence player preferences.
AspectOnline CasinosTraditional CasinosAtmosphereVirtual environment with graphical representations.The real, tangible atmosphere with sensory experiences.Accessibility & Convenience24/7 availability via the internet. Physical presence required; constrained by location and hours.Technological AdvancementsAdoption of VR and AR for immersive experiences; innovation in casino games and featuresIt may incorporate modern tech for specific games but is generally limited to traditional methods.RegulationsSubject to varying online gambling laws, which can be more flexible.Often more heavily regulated with stricter access control.RTPHigher RTPs due to lower operational costs. Transparency in RTP stats.Lower RTPs on average due to higher overhead costs.
When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, traditional casinos saw an immediate and sharp decline in visitations due to lockdowns enforced to prevent virus spread. The reduced foot traffic and operational limitations had a dire financial impact on many establishments, some of which could not recover and were forced to close permanently.
Online casinos experienced a surge in activity as they became a convenient and safe alternative for gamblers. The pandemic period saw a substantial increase in the user base as individuals who had never considered online gambling before turned to it out of necessity or curiosity.
Changing Preferences Indicate Continuous Growth For Online Gambling
The surge in online activity is not just a rebound from the pandemic lows but also an indication of changing player preferences. Convenience, tech innovation, and the comfort of remote access drive an increasing number of gamblers to online platforms. Comparative data on slots and betting patterns underscore this transition, with online slots experiencing increased engagement and GGY.
Traditional casinos, while still valued for their unique atmosphere and tangible experiences, must adapt to these changes to maintain their position in the evolving gambling landscape.
November 16, 2023
Posted by Ilija Jaksic
How to play Blackjack in online and brick-and-mortar casinos? What is a soft hand, and what is a hard hand? Here, you’ll find answers to all these questions and much more.
I’ll provide insights regarding betting strategies you can utilize, Blackjack etiquette, differences between a hard and soft hand, card values, and everything else you’ll need if you want to start playing the Blackjack card game.
What Is a Blackjack Card Game?
Blackjack, also known as Vingt-Un or Twenty-One, is a card game played with a 54-card deck where the goal is to get as close to 21 points as possible without exceeding it. Unlike some other casino games, Black jack or Blackjack is played against the dealer, no matter the number of opponents.
If you already know some of the basics of this card game, you can try playing it online for free (or for real money) or in land-based casinos. There are many various versions of Blackjack you can try.
However, if you want to learn more in-depth about how does Blackjack work, stick to the end, and you'll be ready.
Blackjack Rules You Should Know
In blackjack, there are a variety of rules and deck counts that need to be followed. There are several ways to play blackjack, but one of the most common ways is to use a shoe (a plastic device that distributes cards). Currently, there are still single-deck and multi-deck blackjack games in casinos. This article will illustrate how to play blackjack with six decks of cards, which is the most common game. The step-by-step process is as follows:
A player purchases chips
A player places a wager
A player receives cards from a dealer
A player plays a hand
A dealer plays a hand
Payouts
Buying Chips
As a requirement for playing the game, chips must be used. You'll have to exchange cash for casino chips at casinos that no longer accept cash. It's as simple as walking up to the table and putting your money on the felt. The dealers will never touch your money. There's a rule that prohibits dealers from taking items from players.
You can see the amount of money on the table as soon as the dealer lays it out. A pit boss will verify it. After you buy in, a dealer counts out chips and pushes them toward you. Once you have the chips in your hand, you can begin betting. Your dealer will arrange the buy-in amount on the felt so cameras can see it. For $1,000, this is what buying in looks like.
Placing a Wager
At the start of a round, you first place a bet in the betting circle (sometimes a square or just the casino logo on the felt). There will also be a small sign that tells you what your betting limit is on the far right or left side of the table. On most US poker tables, a minimum wager of $5 per hand needs to be placed. This may vary depending on the casino and its regulations.
Dealing Cards
As soon as players place their bets, the dealer deals one card face up to each player and themselves. Another round of cards is dealt face up to every player, but the dealer's second card is dealt face down.
Deciding How to Play a Hand
In blackjack, you can decide to hit, stand, double down, split, and surrender, depending on the cards you're dealt.
If you like your cards, the dealer will move on to the next player. That means you've decided to stand. The hand signal, in this case, is waving your hand horizontally over the cards.
If you wish to hit, the dealer will give you more cards, one after another, until you reach 21 or decide to stand. There's no limit to the number of cards you can take as long as you stay under 21. Tap the felt with your finger to signal to the dealer that you want another card.
In blackjack, you also have the opportunity to double down or increase your initial bet. If your hand total is favorable to you, but you need one more card to make it a winning combination, doubling your initial wager will allow you to take only one more card. To take more cards, you must place your initial wager on the left side of your original wager. Technically, you can "double for less," but it isn't a good idea most of the time.
You can also place a second wager if you have an equal-value pair of cards, and the dealer will divide them so that each becomes the first card in two new hands. It's also possible to deal with a face card this way. If, for example, you have a King and a Jack in your hand, you can split them because they both have the same value, even though they're not a pair in reality.
To indicate that you wish to split rather than double down, make a "peace sign." You will receive a second card when the dealer makes two hands out of your first.
Finally, can surrender your initial hand in exchange for half of your original wager if you don't like it. Using your finger, draw a line across the felt behind your bet to indicate that you want to surrender. It's common for dealers to confuse this signal with the hit signal. If you want to be safe, just utter the word "surrender" and make a hand gesture for the cameras to see.
Payouts
You and the dealer have played your hands according to the 21 card game rules. Therefore, there are two possible outcomes.
When the dealer busts, each hand still in play on the table will receive even money (1x the wager).
The dealer will deal cards (17 through 21). It's just a matter of who has a better hand if your hand is still in play. The dealer sweeps your wager in that case. The dealer pays you a one-time bet if you have the higher hand. If your hand total equals the dealer's hand total, it's considered a push, so you keep your money but don't receive your wager as a reward.
We have now reached the end of the round. Therefore, the cards are swept, and you start over.
Basic Blackjack Strategy You Can Employ
As you make your decision based on the cards you hold and the cards that the dealer shows, you employ the basic strategy to help you make the right decision. It's possible to calculate the most advantageous strategy for every possible combination of a hand and the dealer's up card. This strategy was developed by a computer based on millions of blackjack rounds to determine the best way to play each hand combination. For this reason, blackjack will never be a guessing game.
Player Hand Resolution
You can expect different outcomes depending on the situation.
When dealt a hand where the basic strategy dictates that you shouldn't take any cards, you made the right move by standing.
In order to make a hand, you must take more cards (hit, double, split) and reach 21 or under without busting.
If you bust or surrender your hand, you're out of the game. When your hand busts, you immediately lose the wager you placed. This is beneficial to casinos. Since the player busted first, they still keep their money despite the dealer busting.
As long as your hand hasn't busted and you haven't surrendered, the dealer has the option of playing their hand. The dealer then turns over their hole card and adds two cards. There is an automatic requirement that dealers stand when their hand totals 17 or more. If the dealer has a hand total of 16 or under, they will take additional hit cards. Unlike players, dealers can't double, split, or surrender and must play their hand the same way every time. The only exception is when the dealer has a 17 consisting of an ace and a 6.
Depending on the casino, the dealer may decide to hit this hand because it counts as a 7 (since the strength of an ace can be determined in various ways), which will give them a chance of getting a better hand. The casino has an advantage when the dealer stands on all 17s in a row. The dealer usually indicates whether a soft 17 will be hit on the felt, so you know what to expect. Furthermore, dealers aren't allowed to deviate from the casino's rules.
Blackjack Card Values
Fortunately, it's very easy to figure out the total value of your cards at any given moment, which is good news.
The value of cards 2 through 10 is the same as their number. In addition, all picture cards (i.e., jacks, queens, and kings) carry a value of 10. So that leaves us with the ace, which may be worth 1 or 11, making it a valuable card to receive because it gives you a variety of options.
As a result, your blackjack card value chart should look something like this:
Ace: 1 or 11
2: 2
3: 3
4: 4
5: 5
6: 6
7: 7
8: 8
9: 9
10: 10
Jack: 10
Queen: 10
King: 10
In blackjack, 52 cards are used as part of the standard deck. Depending on the number of players at the table and the preference of the casinos, the game can be played with up to eight decks. After most rounds, the dealer would have to stop and shuffle a single deck.
Hard vs. Soft Hand in Blackjack
When it comes to blackjack hands, there is only one card that makes the difference between a hard hand and a soft hand—an ace.
Soft Hand
As soon as the player is dealt two cards at the beginning of the game, the player is considered to have a soft hand if one of those cards is an ace. That's because the ace can either be a 1 or an 11. It all depends on the other card. Having a soft hand implies more liquidity and that the player has more choices.
Hard Hand
In contrast, in blackjack, a hard hand is when there is no ace in the hand. Therefore, a hard hand leaves the player with no options in certain situations.
Betting Rules for Blackjack
As with any other casino game, blackjack tables have a set of bet limits that all players must adhere to. A game's minimum and maximum bets vary based on whether it's designed for high rollers or low-stake gamblers, but they generally range from $2 to $1,000 for the minimum and maximum bets, respectively.
In blackjack, players must make their wagers before any cards are dealt. The game begins after that.
Even Money Rules
If a player has blackjack and the dealer's up card is an ace, the dealer may offer even money. The player accepts a 1:1 payout on their original bet before the dealer checks for blackjack. Generally, this bet isn't recommended since players are statistically better off not taking it.
How to Play Blackjack: Step-by-Step Instructions
Now that we've discussed blackjack rules, let's see what strategies you can employ to maximize your winnings.
Number of Decks
Blackjack can be played using one or multiple decks of cards. The number of decks affects the house edge. In other words, the house edge increases as more decks of cards are included in the game. Also, the more decks are used, the higher the complexity of the game.
In modern blackjack played in most land-based casinos, six to eight decks of 52 cards are typically used. When playing online blackjack, up to eight decks of cards are normally used. Live dealer blackjack, on the other hand, is streamed online, but it feels like a real casino. Typically, eight decks of cards are used in live dealer blackjack, but it's possible to play with six decks of cards.
Hitting
In order to receive another card, a player must "hit." No additional wager is required, and you can hit as many times as you like. Depending on the dealer's up card, you'll have to decide whether to hit or stand. It's generally recommended that players don't hit if the dealer's up card is a 6 or lower unless their hand is an 11 or lower.
Splitting
In the event that a player has two cards of equal value, they can split their hand and play them separately. A player must match their original bet to cover their new second hand.
Among all moves, splitting has the most variations in rules. It's possible for players to split up to three times per round in casinos, resulting in four hands per round. If players are uncertain of the casino's betting rules, they should always ask the dealer or check the blackjack variation rules.
As long as the dealer's up card is 7 or lower, pairs of aces and 8s are always worth splitting in Blackjack.
Standing
In order to end a turn, players should stand if they're satisfied with their hand. All players (including the dealer) draw cards until they've completed all their hands.
After a player stands, their turn is over, and the rules state that they can't make any more bets. Players generally tend to stand when their hands have a value of 17 or more and 13–16 unless the dealer has an up card of 7 or higher.
Doubling Down
Doubling down can double a player's bet, but it's risky. In order to receive one extra card, players must match their original wager; they can't hit afterward. Dealers will give players face-down cards and must wait until all wagers are settled before the dealer flips them.
In some blackjack games, you can only double down once per round if their hand value is 9, 10, or 11. Doubling down in Blackjack is a good idea on most hands containing 10 or 11 and can pay off on many hands containing aces and 2–7, but only if the dealer's up card is low.
Surrendering
In some blackjack variations, players can return their cards and receive half their original bet if they have a bad hand. Players who wish to surrender must do so before drawing any further cards. Surrender rules at casinos are generally divided into two categories:
Early surrender: Before a dealer checks for blackjack, a player can surrender and pay only half of the initial bet.
Late surrender: After a dealer checks for blackjack, a player can surrender and take half of the initial bet only if the dealer doesn't have a blackjack.
Blackjack games with early surrender are rare. However, early surrender is available in a few RNG-powered PlayTech games, for instance.
It should be noted that some blackjack variations don't offer surrender as an option. As a result, the odds for players are generally worse in these blackjack games.
Blackjack Etiquette
If you're wondering, "how do you play blackjack?" it's important to understand and learn the basic rules of the game.
Blackjack etiquette is also important to follow to play the game effectively. Those new to the game who don't know the rules might get confused. It's essential to know what to do and what not to do to avoid embarrassment and enjoy the game. These blackjack table etiquette tips will help you avoid being a nuisance at the blackjack table.
Don't hand your money to the dealer
Never give cash to the dealer. In a Las Vegas casino, it's never allowed for a dealer to take the money out of your hand. It's not personal, but it's a casino rule. Before placing your cash on the table, wait for the current round to end. The dealer will spread out the equivalent chips before sliding them to your side of the table. If you wish to purchase chips of a particular denomination, tell the dealer.
Keep your cards in one hand
Make sure that you only use one hand when you are holding cards. In order to prevent the switching of cards, this rule is in place. It's easier for a player who uses two hands to switch cards than a player who uses only one hand.
Table cards should never be removed
Keep in mind that you should never remove your cards from the table at any point during the game. It's recommended that the cards are seen by other players, the dealer, and the security cameras.
Once the dealer calls "no more bets," don't touch your chips.
After you've placed your wager and the cards have been dealt, you aren't allowed to touch your chips until the end of the game. Your chips can only be collected after you've won. However, if you lose, the dealer will collect your chips for you.
Don't touch the cards when they are dealt face up
The shoe-dealt version of blackjack involves players receiving both cards face up and the house receiving one card face up and one face down. Players can't touch the cards. Instead, you indicate a "hit" or "stand" by using your hand motion for another card or signaling to the dealer if you're standing. Cards and chips can only be removed or moved by the dealer.
Signal your decision, don't say it
You must communicate your decision to stand or hit in Las Vegas through hand signals. Instead of saying "stand" or "hit," signal your decision to the dealer. Security cameras serve to record the game. Don't let hand gestures intimidate you. The dealer will be glad to show you the signals if you're new to the game.
Conclusion
Now that you know the rules of Blackjack, card values, hard and soft hands, moves, and all other instructions on how to play Blackjack, you can check a cheat sheet for Blackjack that you can use while practicing. If you already know how all these things, you can try to learn card counting, which can be a valuable skill in Blackjack.
Lastly, I’ve prepared frequently asked questions regarding Blackjack.
FAQ
Is blackjack skill or luck?
There are specific rules and tactics you can employ to win a blackjack game. For that reason, blackjack is considered a game of skill rather than luck.
Should I hit or stand on 16?
If you hold a hand of 10 or 12 to 16, it's best to hit. If you hold a 17 and over, it's wise to stand. It's important to note that when a dealer has cards 7–9, your chances increase because they can't make a blackjack.
How much should you bet in blackjack?
A typical blackjack bet ranges from $10 to $10,000 per hand. There's a little wiggle room—you might only find $20–$5,000 or $5–$20,000. A large casino blackjack game typically accepts between $10 and $10,000.
Is ace 1 or 11 in blackjack?
The value of Aces is 11, but if you need it to get to 21, it can be counted as a 1.
Do you hit on 15 against a 10?
In case you hold 15 in your hand that consists of an 8-7, you should hit against a dealer’s 10.
What does it mean Blackjack pays 3 to 2?
A 3:2 payout means you’ll get $3 for each wager of $2. This payout ratio is a standard one, giving a casino a slightly higher house edge.
December 18, 2022
Posted by Content Team
PayPal in online casinos is one of the staple payment systems. Here is how this banking method works in the gambling industry.
What is PayPal?
PayPal was founded in 1998 and had offices in California and was purchased by eBay in 2002. PayPal is an alternative payment method that has received many awards for its service, more than 20 awards. As a result, they were awarded two individual 'Best Financial Services Site' awards from the '06 Webby Awards, as well as the '06 Webby People's Voice Awards.
How Does PayPal Work?
Members of PayPal use the service to send and receive money online. Once you have registered for a free PayPal account, you can use PayPal to send and receive money. In order to make PayPal payments, you can fund your PayPal account using your credit card or bank account. Once your PayPal account is funded, you can make PayPal payments.
As part of the checkout process on a website where you buy something, you usually click on PayPal after selecting your payment method. It is possible to fund your PayPal account, and PayPal will then transfer the funds securely to your beneficiary's account. In addition, PayPal will send your recipients an email notification once they make a payment to let them know that they have been paid.
One important aspect is how sellers transfer their PayPal funds to their bank accounts. This process is quite easy for residents of the United States and seven other preferred countries that allow transfers from PayPal accounts to bank accounts. US residents are not charged for these transfers, but residents of other countries are charged a small transaction fee. Currently, PayPal accepts people from 43 countries. However, only seven countries outside the US allow members to transfer money: Canada, France, the UK, Germany, the Netherlands, Australia, and New Zealand. It would be best if you kept in mind that it usually takes between three and five working days to withdraw money from your PayPal account.
How to Use PayPal in Online Casinos?
PayPal is an easy way to deposit and withdraw funds from an online casino. First, make sure you check out the Casino's Banking or Cashier page after selecting the right online casino for you. You will find PayPal's logo there. A new window will open up by clicking on it or tapping on it.
1. Enter Your Account Login Detail
If you must go through the authentication procedure, make sure to do so. Ensure you enter the amount of money you'd like to have on your online casino balance and confirm the transaction. The process of depositing money with this eWallet is very simple. As soon as the transaction is confirmed, you will be able to see the money being transferred directly into your online casino account in an instant.
2. Withdrawing Your Winning
It's as simple as that. The procedure would be the same as just described. Therefore, you would need to go to the Banking/Cashier page, find its logo, authenticate the request you have made, enter the money you wish to withdraw, and send the request. After the money has been verified by the casino and approved, it should appear on your account fairly quickly. Please keep in mind that the casino may take time to verify your request and approve it, but the payment solution will transfer the money right away as soon as it has approved it. It is considered one method that offers the fastest payouts among all online casinos.
Disadvantages and Advantages of Using Paypal in Online Casinos
The search for the perfect payment method for an online casino can be quite exhausting. Still, if you look at the advantages and disadvantages of using PayPal, you could find that you've discovered a viable option to use. When all the pros and cons are considered, there is no doubt that this is an excellent way to pay. It is also possible to use it for deposits and withdrawals, which you do not get with all payment methods. Furthermore, it is possible to make cost-effective transactions by using it since the fees it charges are nothing compared to fees by other methods. Then you'll notice that it is available on hundreds of online casino sites, which means you'll be able to choose from and play at them instantly.
When you use Pay Pal to deposit money into an online casino, you are assured of safety, security, and anonymity. Once you have funded your eWallet with your credit card or bank account, you can transact across online casinos with it without having to share any personal information. Moreover, thanks to its high-security measures, you can rest assured that your funds will be kept safe from third parties. Moreover, the fact that you can use only the money you funded it with to play across all online casino websites also gives you the advantage of managing your bankroll effectively. Thus, you won't spend more than you intended, more than you can afford, and you will not develop any unhealthy gambling habits. Furthermore, we must not be remiss in emphasizing that this is a solution that is incredibly easy to use, convenient and efficient, as it enables you to move money across the internet as quickly and efficiently as possible in just a few taps or clicks on your device, in an instant.
As mentioned earlier, since PayPal is linked with banks and credit cards, it is not available through some major gambling markets like Germany and the United Kingdom. That is because these markets have their restrictions, and PayPal is unavailable in those countries. Despite this, there are over 200 countries that accept it, which is why it remains a global solution that can be used across a variety of online casinos. You can use it as long as you are not a player from one of the prohibited countries and enjoy a seamless online gaming experience.
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PayPal Security Measures
There is no doubt that PayPal is immensely well-respected for its top-notch buyer protection policy. Customers' loyalty is so important to the company, so they are often seen going to bat for their players in the event of any disputes. This a significant advantage for players in a world where casinos sometimes seem to be looking for any excuse to not pay winners due to technicalities, which is not a small advantage for casino players!
In addition, their approach to security stands head and shoulders above that of most banks and credit card companies. All PayPal transactions leave behind an extensive paper trail, meaning that fraudulent activity is almost impossible.
This advantage reflects some of the strong advantages that Bitcoin offers gamblers. (Although the technical application is nearly the opposite, in essence, this advantage is nearly the same.). What's good to know is that PayPal allows the usage of Bitcoins.
Top 5 PayPal Online Casinos
Vegas Hero
Las Vegas Hero Casino transports you to another world where you'll find yourself surrounded by heroes, rewards, and thrilling gameplay adventures.
CasinoHero is an exciting and fun game with a superhero theme, with the main character of the game being the Vegas Hero. You can also find him as a guide, mentor, and person who will provide you with all the rewards and benefits you will be able to enjoy at the casino.
Las Vegas Hero was founded in 2017 by Genesis Global Limited, a company that owns and operates the site. In addition, three of the industry's leading gaming authorities are fully licensed and regulated by the casino.
At Vegas Hero Casino, you have the opportunity to play the newest online slots as well as progressive jackpots, table games, and live casino games. Make your gaming experience even more rewarding with top-notch bonus promotions, a top-notch VIP program, and quality customer support.
Genesis Casino
The Genesis Casino is a brand new online casino that launched in 2019. The site is part of Genesis Global Gaming LTD, an experienced operator with many online gaming sites, including Vegas Hero, Spinit, and Casino Cruise.
It has a very interesting "outer space" theme, which permeates every element, from how things are spelled out to how the VIP program is organized. The game has an almost "voyage" feel, with rewards offered for completing "missions" along the way. In addition, the game is an interactive casino that keeps it engaging and interesting.
One of the first things I always look for at a casino is if the casino is licensed. The Genesis Casino has the necessary licenses from the UK Gambling Commission, Malta Gaming Authority, and Curacao iGaming, proving it is a legitimate and trustworthy site. Also, it publishes its game payouts on its site, and these payouts are verified by a random number generator, which gives me additional confidence.
888 Casino
Launched in 1997, 888 Casino has grown steadily to become one of the most recognized brands in the industry.
In 2005, the well-known gambling site was named one of the most successful operators of the year, and as of now, it has over 25 million members.
As one of the best platforms for UK players, 888 Casino claims to have hundreds of games to keep them entertained.
However, how does 888 Casino fare compared to its online casino competitors? The following is an overview of what customers can expect from this gambling website.
Bet365 Casino
This online betting website was created in 2000 as part of the full range of online gaming +services provided by British company Bet365 Group Ltd, which includes a wide range of casino, skill, poker, sports, and bingo games. In recent years, the domain has established itself as one of the world's most reputable online gambling operators.
Even though it started as a bookmaker, bet365 offers many gambling options, including an exceptionally good online casino. Gibraltar Gambling Commissioner regulates gambling in Gibraltar, and the Gibraltar Government licenses the domain. Regulations, controls, and constant monitoring it is subject to are all designed to ensure the operator's players are provided with fair and secure gaming conditions.
Bet365 offers an incredible range of games that are sure to meet the demands of the most demanding players, regardless of whether you are a fan of slots, table games, or arcade games. The moment you create a bet365 account, you will be given access to the wide range of games offered by the company. There are generous bonuses as well, and these are discussed in more detail in the following section.
Casino Lab
A new online casino just hit the scene, opening its doors in the last stretch of 2020 with licensing from three respected gaming authorities. Genesis Global is the parent company of this casino and is the company's 14th brand within their already extensive portfolio of brands.
It has an animated design with a quirky mad scientist theme that takes you into the world of a magical laboratory where all the magic happens by playing live casino games, table games, jackpots, online slots, and much more; you can unleash your inner scientist.
In addition to that, there is already a perfect mix of promotions to add some spice to your gaming experience. Even in the fussiest of players, Casino Lab offers a range of games that will keep them entertained.
PayPal in Online Casinos — FAQ
Does PayPal come with transaction fees?
To fund your account with the eWallet, you can use several traditional methods, so the number of fees you're going to incur will depend on which method you choose. If you intend to use this currency conversion service, you will also need to pay a fee for the conversion, so before you decide to use it, make sure you know more about it.
Is PayPal secure?
PayPal takes great pride in the security measures it implements and has a reputation for being a safe payment method. It blocks countries with disreputable reputations, protects the user's funds with its Security Key, and complies with all the regulatory requirements.
Can you cancel/reverse PayPal transactions?
The transaction can be canceled if "pending," but it cannot be canceled on the "review list." To find out more about the transaction status, you should access your account.
Is PayPal widely used in online gambling?
As a result of its high demand, PayPal is widely accepted at UK online casinos as a payment method. Players appreciate how easy it is to use PayPal, especially when gambling on their mobile devices. It takes just a few steps, and you can quickly and securely deposit or withdraw your funds for total control over your gambling budget. It takes just a few taps to get started
Do casinos offer special PayPal bonuses?
Yes, there is no doubt about it. The majority of online casinos encourage their players to use PayPal as an eWallet, and as a sign of goodwill, they design special bonuses for those who use it. You can find such bonuses if you search for PayPal online casinos and check out the Bonuses and Promotions page of the site. So there should be something there for you to take advantage of.
July 29, 2022
Posted by Content Team
As a result of the intense competition in the casino industry — which is arguably the most intense — all participants are doing whatever it takes to stay afloat with the idea of keeping their customers. One way to do so is through Bitcoin casino bonuses.
To entice new members and keep existing ones engaged, they implement a variety of incentives into the system. Today, I'm only interested in bitcoin casino platforms, and if you want to understand how a Bitcoin bonus works, you must first understand the mechanics of it.
What Is a Bitcoin Casino?
Most online casinos use fiat currency as a way to pay for things. Whether you use UK sterling, US dollars, or Euros to fund an online casino account through PayPal or a debit card, you'll use fiat currency. Aside from fiat currencies, there are crypto casino sites that use cryptocurrencies as their in-game currency, meaning that they don't have to worry about credit card numbers and bank account information being stolen by third parties.
Bitcoin is among the most popular cryptocurrencies out there, which is why people who live in countries with harsh governments and strict gambling laws like crypto casino sites. With crypto gambling, the government can't see what people are betting on because everything is done through blockchain technology.
This technology makes crypto casinos one of the safest ways to gamble online. Moreover, it gives them an advantage over traditional fiat casinos, where players have to share their personal financial information. On the other hand, crypto gambling sites have some downsides, like not being able to deposit with fiat currency and the risk that comes with using digital currencies.
What Is a Bitcoin Bonus?
Bitcoin came out in 2008, right after Occupy Wall Street said that big banks were misusing borrowers' money, tricking customers, rigging the system, and charging outrageous fees. Bitcoin's founders wanted to put the seller in charge, eliminate the middleman, get rid of interest fees, and make transactions clear. They also wanted to reduce corruption, make the network more valuable, and cut fees. So they made a system that didn't depend on banks and let people control their own money and know what was going on.
In a short amount of time, Bitcoin has made great progress, and now its currency is accepted by businesses worldwide, from the US jewelry store REEDS Jewelers to a private hospital in Warsaw, Poland. In addition, companies with billions of dollars like Dell, Expedia, PayPal, and Microsoft have started doing the same thing. Namely, Bitcoin has its own exchange rate, price index, and application programming interface (API).
Thieves breaking into accounts, high volatility, and slow transactions are all problems. On the other hand, Bitcoin may be the most reliable way for people in third-world countries to send or receive money.
How Do Bitcoin Bonuses Work?
If you're unsure how bitcoin bonuses work, don't worry, I'll provide all the essential information in this section. Online casinos usually use millibitcoin (mBTC) as their currency because it’s the most like a dollar, euro, or pound.
If you want to cash out your bonuses, you must meet certain conditions, such as wagering requirements or rollover. Namely, the wagering requirement is the number of times your bets need to be higher than the bonus amount itself. For example, let's say you can get a bonus of $500, where the rollover requirement could be x30. Before you can cash out your bonus, you'll need to bet a total of 30 times.
Some casinos with shady practices have big bonuses but ask for a high rollover because they're trying to make players avoid checking the terms and conditions. Therefore, before you start wagering your money, go through the casino's T&C section to get all the necessary information.
How to Get Bitcoin Bonuses?
The online casino market is highly competitive and has a distinct organizational structure. Platforms, games, licenses, and support are all provided by separate companies. What remains is to create an original brand story or theme and offer various bonuses.
Bitcoin casino bonuses and promo codes can be used as a marketing tool. What's more, using these incentives, casinos can entice new players to sign up for their site instead of someone else's. What you should know is that these bonuses have been carefully crafted to keep the house as profitable as possible. These venues have done a lot of research and discovered that a lot of things are working in their favor, so they'll end up with more money.
To get a Bitcoin bonus:
1. You have to own bitcoins and find casinos that accept BTC.
2. When you select a casino, you have to send your bitcoins to them.
3. Once you know the wallet address of a certain casino, you have to go back to the exchange where you bought your BTC.
4. You have to choose the send option and enter the casino’s digital wallet address.
5. Lastly, enter the funds you want to deposit and confirm the transaction.
Types of Bitcoin Bonuses
In this section, I'll go over Bitcoin bonuses you can use to try out online casino games.
Deposit Bonus
To the dismay of traditional online casinos, bitcoin casino platforms reward their users for simply signing up for an account. Players can get a few promotions that give them a chance to win real money. But to cash out, you must first place a bet and win at least one wager. A common practice is to offer 100% of the deposit you’ve made. Note that these bonuses have wagering requirements.
No Deposit Bonuses
Unlike traditional online casino websites, bitcoin casino platforms let members get bonuses even if they don't make deposits. You will, however, be eligible for some promotions that give you a chance to win real money after you’ve completed playthrough requirements. Using this type of bonus, you can try out certain casinos and choose whether or not you’ll play there.
Free Spin Bonuses
Many offer free spins, and you should know that there are different kinds of free spin bonuses:
Free spins that require a deposit.
Free spins that don't require deposits.
Free spins that are given to regular customers as a reward for their loyalty.
To be able to withdraw winnings using a free spin bonus, you have to bet on your spins a certain number of times. Also, this kind of bonus comes as an email offer (check terms and conditions). A slot game's bonus round can also give you free spins, but only if you're lucky enough to get it.
Bonus Codes
For this offer to work, eligible people must enter a specific code when they make their first deposit to get a bitcoin bonus. This is relatively new, but the thing is that bonus code deals give players more bonuses than the ones we talked about above. But not all bitcoin casinos offer this kind of bonus in the form of a code. Some would post a link instead.
Faucet Bonuses
The faucet bonus is a special offer from bitcoin casino platforms. It's a reward system that makes a special page where eligible bettors can go to claim this bonus. Bitcoin casino platforms use faucet bonuses to attract new members and make gambling more fun for everyone by giving tasks to players. But you'll have to do some things to be eligible. If you make it through, you'll get a certain amount of cryptocurrency (not necessarily BTC). More precisely, you’ll get a piece of a Bitcoin in the form of one-time payment or recurring payments, depending on the tasks you’ve completed.
Conclusion
Most of the time, a bitcoin bonus at Bitcoin casinos is better than one at a casino that uses fiat currency. Even casinos that take both Bitcoins and regular money tend to prefer Bitcoins.
The amount a player gets is based on how much money they put in, and this amount builds up over time. For example, if you deposit the same amount, you might get a bonus of 5 BTC. But, it's impossible to get all these Bitcoins at once. Instead, you must place bets to earn them. You could win 0.5 BTC for every 20, 50, or 100 BTC you bet, which doesn't sound as exciting as a traditional welcome bonus, but it means you have to meet your wagering requirements to get your bonus.
In the long run, it stays the same. You'll get more credits if you spend a lot of money on bets. So, if you want to find the best Bitcoin casino bonuses and coupon codes, read the terms and conditions section to avoid problems in the future.
FAQ
How do I use a bitcoin casino bonus?
Most bonuses will require you to enter a bonus code to get them. You can usually find this bonus code on the casino's website or in the terms and conditions. After you enter the bonus code, it will be added to your account, and then you can start playing.
Does a bitcoin bonus come with any restrictions?
Yes, bonuses usually have some rules about how they can be used. Some bonuses can only be open to players from certain countries or those who deposit a certain amount. Before you claim the bonus, make sure you read the terms and conditions, so you know what the limits are.
August 10, 2022
Posted by Content Team
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