| Updated: Blackjack Party is a live variation of 21 developed by Evolution Gaming. As the name suggests, this game focuses on providing a fun, social, and interactive gambling experience from the comfort of your home. The table is hosted by two staff members: a live dealer and a presenter who chat with each other and the players.
Rundown of the Rules and the Payouts
Blackjack Party is dealt from an 8-deck shoe and follows the standard American rules of 21. The live dealer always stands on 17, and players can double down on any two-card starting total. Doubling down after a split is not permitted. This is a hole-card game, but the dealer does not peek for blackjack when the upcard is a ten.
You can split your initial hand as long as both cards have equal value. Resplitting is not allowed in Blackjack Party. Hitting split aces is not an option either. The live dealer automatically draws only one additional card for each ace. Insurance is offered when the dealer’s upcard is an ace, and it pays 2 to 1. Blackjacks pay at the standard rate of 3 to 2, while all other winning hands pay even money.
Gaming Interface and Remarkable Features
Blackjack Party is easy to recognize in the Evolution Gaming live lobby because the table is staffed by two people: a brightly dressed live dealer and a presenter who discuss various topics with the players. This creates a laid-back atmosphere that can help you relax, even if you are a beginner.
The game offers several notable features, starting with the Bet Behind option. This feature allows you to place a wager on a hand dealt to another player whenever the live table is full. You and the seated player share the same outcome and receive the standard payouts for winning hands.
The action unfolds to an upbeat soundtrack that complements the banter between the table staff. The live chat feature lets players join whatever discussion the dealer and presenter are having. There is also a Switch View function that gives players an enlarged view of the betting layout. Multi-tabling and mobile play are also available with Blackjack Party.
Closing Thoughts
Evolution Gaming’s Blackjack Party is an entertaining live variation of 21 that is ideal for casual, low-stakes players on a tight budget. Its biggest attractions are the chatty hosts and the Bet Behind feature, which lets you join the game even when there are no vacant seats. Blackjack Party also offers an optimal theoretical return of 99.28%.