Blackjack has been a staple in both land-based and online casinos, celebrated for its classic appeal and strategic depth. In 2017, the online landscape for real money blackjack was thriving, with numerous platforms vying for the attention of both casual players and seasoned enthusiasts. This article delves into the rankings of real money blackjack online in 2017, providing an expert analysis based on years of online casino experience.
Overview of Real Money Blackjack in 2017
In 2017, online casinos offered a variety of blackjack games, each with unique rules and features. The popularity of these games was largely driven by their accessibility, optimized for mobile devices and desktops alike. Let’s explore the defining characteristics of real money blackjack from that year:
- Game Variants: Popular variants included Classic Blackjack, European Blackjack, Atlantic City Blackjack, and Vegas Strip Blackjack.
- Live Dealer Options: Many online casinos introduced live dealer versions, providing a more immersive experience.
- House Edge: Most games had a house edge ranging from 0.5% to 1%, a significant factor for players choosing where to play.
- Payouts: The standard payout for a natural blackjack was 3:2, although some variants offered different rewards.
Blackjack Rankings: Top Online Casinos of 2017
Based on game variety, user experience, and fairness, here are some of the top-rated online casinos for real money blackjack in 2017:
| Casino | Game Variety | Live Dealer | Mobile Compatibility |
|---|---|---|---|
| Betway Casino | Classic, European, Atlantic City | Yes | iOS, Android, Windows |
| 888 Casino | Classic, Vegas Strip, Perfect Pairs | Yes | iOS, Android |
| LeoVegas Casino | Classic, European, Multi-Hand | Yes | iOS, Android |
The Appeal of Live Dealer Blackjack
One of the most significant trends in 2017 was the rise of live dealer blackjack. This version of the game bridged the gap between the virtual and real worlds, offering an authentic casino experience from the comfort of home. Players could interact with professional dealers and other participants, enhancing the social aspect of the game.
Live dealer blackjack was particularly popular because:
- Realism: Players appreciated the realistic environment, complete with HD streaming and real-time interactions.
- Trust: Seeing a live dealer shuffle and deal cards increased trust in the fairness of the game.
- Community: The chat feature allowed players to converse with dealers and fellow players, mimicking the camaraderie found in physical casinos.
Assessing Game Fairness and Reliability
Ensuring the fairness of online blackjack games was a primary concern for players in 2017. Here are some methods players used to determine reliability:
Licensing and Regulation: Trusted online casinos were licensed by reputable bodies such as the UK Gambling Commission or the Malta Gaming Authority. These licenses ensured the casino adhered to strict fairness and security standards.
Random Number Generators (RNGs): RNGs played a crucial role in ensuring the outcome of each game was random and unbiased. Casinos often had their RNGs audited by independent agencies like eCOGRA.
Player Reviews: Gathering feedback from other players was a common way to gauge a casino’s reputation. Websites like Trustpilot featured genuine user reviews that could provide insights into the reliability and fairness of specific platforms.
Comparing Device Compatibility
In 2017, playing blackjack on-the-go was increasingly popular. Here’s a https://americanroadstar.com/book-of-dead-online-casino-no-deposit-bonus-a-comprehensive-review/ comparison of device compatibility for online blackjack:
| Device | Operating Systems Supported | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mobile Phones | iOS, Android | Convenient, portable | Smaller screen size |
| Desktops | Windows, macOS | Large screen, stable connection | Less portable |
| Tablets | iOS, Android | Larger screen, portable | Can be less convenient than phones |
Strategizing for Success: Tips and Tricks
In 2017, successful blackjack players employed a variety of strategies to improve their odds. Here are some expert tips from experienced players:
- Basic Strategy: Learning the basic strategy chart can significantly reduce the house edge and increase your chances of winning. It guides players on the best action to take based on their hand and the dealer’s upcard.
- Bankroll Management: Setting strict limits on how much to wager and sticking to these limits is essential for long-term success and prevents significant losses.
- Avoid Insurance Bets: The insurance bet might seem like a good safety net, but it’s generally not a wise choice due to its high house edge.
Bonuses and Promotions: Maximizing Your Play
Online casinos in 2017 offered a variety of promotions to attract and retain players. Some of the most appealing bonuses included:
- Welcome Bonuses: New players were often greeted with generous match bonuses on their initial deposits, sometimes up to 100% or more.
- Loyalty Programs: Regular players could earn points for every bet placed, which could later be redeemed for cash or other rewards.
- No Deposit Bonuses: Some casinos offered small bonuses without requiring a deposit, allowing players to try games risk-free.
These promotions were enticing, but players were advised to read the terms and conditions carefully, as wagering requirements could significantly impact the actual value of the bonus.
Real Player Reviews: Insights from the Community
Understanding the player experience is crucial when evaluating online casinos. Here are snippets from real player reviews sourced from platforms like Trustpilot:
«Playing at 888 Casino has been a pleasure. Their blackjack games are seamless and the live dealer tables add an exciting touch. Withdrawals are processed swiftly, and I appreciate the regular bonuses they offer.» – John D.
«I’ve been a member of LeoVegas for years, and their mobile blackjack experience is top-notch. It’s easy to navigate, and the game variety keeps things fresh. The customer support is always helpful too.» – Susan M.
