What is 21+3 in Blackjack?

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The 21+3 side bet merges the player's first two cards with the dealer's face-up card to create a three-card poker hand. This bet must be placed before any cards are dealt and is made in addition to your standard wager. Winning hands are based on poker combinations, offering multiple opportunities to score a payout.

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Key Winning Hands

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1. 1. Flush – Three cards of the same suit, in any order.
2. 2. Straight – Three sequential cards, regardless of suit (e.g., 7-8-9).
3. 3. Three-of-a-Kind – Three cards with the same value, irrespective of suit.
4. 4. Straight Flush – Three cards in sequential order and of the same suit.
5. 5. Suited Three-of-a-Kind – Three cards with the same value and suit.

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The thrill of this side bet lies in its variety of potential wins, but players should note that 21+3 odds vary depending on casino rules and the number of decks used. Always check with the dealer before starting.

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How Does 21+3 Work?

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Placing a 21+3 side bet is straightforward. After placing your main bet, you put an additional wager in the designated 21+3 betting area. Once the cards are dealt, your first two cards and the dealer’s upcard are assessed against the five winning hand combinations. If your cards match any of these, you win!

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Example Odds

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• - Flush – Pays 5:1
• - Straight – Pays 10:1
• - Three-of-a-Kind – Pays 30:1
• - Straight Flush – Pays 40:1
• - Suited Three-of-a-Kind – Pays 100:1

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While the payouts are tempting, the house edge for 21+3 bets can be significantly higher than the main Blackjack game, ranging from 2.74% (8-deck shoe) to 13.3% (single deck).

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Is It Possible to Beat 21+3?

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Side bets like 21+3 offer the allure of higher payouts, but they come with higher risks. The house edge for these bets is much steeper than standard Blackjack, and traditional strategies like card counting don’t apply.

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Considerations

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• - More decks increase winning probabilities but don’t outweigh the house advantage.
• - Single or double-deck games often have a substantially higher house edge.
• - These bets are best treated as an occasional indulgence rather than a consistent strategy.

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Pro Tip

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Play 21+3 for fun and variety, but avoid using it as a means to boost your overall winnings. Side bets are designed for entertainment, not long-term profitability.

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Why Is 21+3 So Popular?

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The 21+3 side bet has become a crowd favorite due to its dynamic nature and the fusion of two classic games. It’s an excellent way to speed up gameplay and add a touch of unpredictability to your Blackjack sessions.

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Advantages of 21+3

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• - Enhances the pace and excitement of the game.
• - Offers the thrill of poker-like hands within a Blackjack framework.
• - Accessible at most Blackjack tables worldwide.

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However, with its high volatility and elevated house edge, 21+3 is best enjoyed as a playful addition to your strategy, not the centerpiece of it.

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Final Thoughts

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The 21+3 side bet is an exhilarating addition to the world of Blackjack. Whether you’re a casual player seeking fun or a seasoned gambler looking for a new twist, it’s worth trying—just don’t overdo it. Remember, the real joy of gambling lies in entertainment, not just the pursuit of profit. So, next time you hit the Blackjack table, consider spicing up your game with a 21+3 side bet and enjoy the added excitement!