As the digital age continues to evolve, online casinos are fast becoming a popular avenue for casino enthusiasts. Among the various games offered, online blackjack stands out due to its simplicity and the skill element it involves. However, the impersonal and highly technical nature of online gaming often leads players to question its fairness. This article delves into the world of online blackjack, exploring whether the game is rigged or if it's a fair game.
Understanding the Concept of a Rigged Online Blackjack Game
Online blackjack games that are 'rigged' are usually set up to put players at a disadvantage through various methods. This could involve the game being rigged to ensure the dealer gets the best possible hands, or it could involve favoring a specific player. The most common methods of rigging include using subtle hand signals, second dealing, and modifying the deck to contain more low cards.
Hand Signals in Rigged Games
In rigged online blackjack games, dealers often resort to using specific yet subtle hand signals to convey information to accomplices. For example, swiping their thumb down the middle of the shoe may be an indicator of the value of their hidden card or an undealt card. However, these signals are often difficult to detect unless one is familiar with the standard procedures followed by live dealers.
Second Dealing
In legitimate blackjack games, a dealer is expected to draw the top card of the shoe or deck when dealing with players' hole cards. However, in rigged games, the dealer might choose to deal the second card instead of the first one – a trick known as second dealing. This dishonest practice can be used to give the dealer or a specific player an unfair advantage.
Altering the Deck
Another common method used in rigged games is to alter the deck to contain more low cards. This increases the possibility of a player going bust, thereby giving the dealer an unfair advantage.
Instances of Rigged Live Blackjack Dealers
While the idea of rigged live dealer casinos might seem like a theoretical concept, there have been actual instances of such happenings. For instance, a live dealer at BetOnline Casino was caught second dealing during a game in 2017 – an incident that was circulated widely on the internet. This incident is a reminder that players should exercise caution when choosing an online casino to play blackjack.
Ensuring Fairness in Online Blackjack with RNG Software
A crucial aspect that ensures the fairness of online blackjack games is the use of Random Number Generators (RNGs). The RNG produces millions of outcomes every second. When a player makes a bet or decision, the RNG stops, and the latest outcome is displayed. Despite being a software program, the RNG generates so many combinations each second that it is the closest approximation to pure randomness in the online gambling industry.
The Concept of the House Edge
While online blackjack games may not be rigged, it's essential for players to understand that the odds are usually stacked against them. This is due to a concept known as the 'house edge,' which gives the casino a slight advantage to ensure profitability in the long run. In online blackjack, the house edge generally lies between 0.5% and 2%, depending on how optimally the game is played.
The Role of Return to Player (RTP) in Online Blackjack
While the house edge represents the percentage of money from all players' bets that the casino takes, the Return to Player (RTP) refers to the amount of money a player can expect to win back over time. If an online blackjack game has a house edge of 1%, the RTP is 99%. This means that a player can expect to win back $99 for every $100 wagered over time.
Identifying Safe and Fair Online Blackjack Casinos
While every online casino is unique, the best and most reliable ones often share certain traits:
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Licenses: A reputable online casino should be licensed by a trusted authority such as the UK Gambling Commission or the Malta Gaming Authority.
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Additional Accreditations: Apart from licenses, a trustworthy online casino will likely have at least one third-party accreditation to ensure the fairness of its games.
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Online Reputation: Legitimate online casinos value their reputation and strive to maintain a positive image among players.
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Well-known Partnerships: A reputable online casino is likely to partner with well-known payment providers and software companies.
The Role of the Online Casino in Game Fairness
It's essential to understand that online casinos themselves cannot rig or fix games. This is because they do not create the games; instead, they purchase licenses to host games from software providers. Therefore, if a game is rigged, it's likely the fault of the software provider rather than the casino.
In Conclusion
While the world of online blackjack can be daunting, understanding the mechanisms behind the game can ensure a fair and enjoyable experience. As players, it's essential to be vigilant and choose reputable online casinos that uphold the principles of fairness and integrity. As the saying goes, "Caveat emptor" or "Let the buyer beware."