Who says the house always wins?
In a refreshing change for gamblers, the Palms Casino-Hotel has revamped its blackjack rules to favor players.
As of Valentine’s Day, all blackjack tables at the casino now feature a 3:2 payout, departing from the industry trend of the more common 6:5 payouts found at many Strip properties.
The San Manuel Gaming and Hospitality Authority (SMGHA) operates the off-Strip casino.
SMGHA is an affiliate of the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians, a federally recognized American Indian tribe.
What 3:2 Payout Means for Blackjack Players
This shift benefits blackjack players.
In a 3:2 payout structure, a player with a winning blackjack hand—comprising two cards that total 21—earns $3 for every $2 wagered.
This means the player loses less money over time when winning a blackjack hand. With a 3:2 payout, you receive 1.5 times your bet for a winning blackjack, while a 6:5 payout only gives you 1.2 times your bet, increasing the casino's advantage.
To put it in perspective, placing a $10 bet under this rule rewards you with $15 instead of the $12 you’d receive under a 6:5 payout. This change not only enhances potential winnings but also reflects Palms' commitment to creating a favorable gaming environment.
Scott Hager, Vice President of Gaming at Palms, told the Las Vegas Review-Journal, “We are dedicated to delivering the best gaming experience for our guests, especially our local players,” Hager stated. “Enhancing and expanding our blackjack offerings reflects our dedication to providing top-tier table games and ensuring an exceptional experience for everyone who walks through our doors.”
Why Blackjack Offers Great Odds and Simple Play
Blackjack is one of the casino games where players have the best chances of winning because the house has only a small advantage—just 1%.
Another great thing about blackjack is that you’re only playing against the dealer, not against experienced champions, and it’s a simple game to learn. Your goal is to reach 21.
Having a basic blackjack strategy also helps.
A Stand Against Typical Blackjack Rules
This move defies a broader trend among casinos, especially following the challenges of the pandemic, as many operators raised table minimums and adjusted game conditions in favor of the house.
Common examples include the introduction of triple-zero roulette and 6:5 blackjack payouts. You may still find 3:2 payouts at blackjack tables on the Strip, such as Horseshoe, Caesars Palace, or Golden Nugget, but the buy-in will be higher. $5 3:2 blackjack tables are becoming harder to find.
However, Palms continues to offer affordable play, maintaining $5 minimums on both blackjack and craps games around the clock—a clear message to both tourists and locals that they can enjoy gaming here without breaking the bank.
Under New Ownership, a New Vision
The Palms Casino-Hotel has undergone a transformation since the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians acquired it from Station Casinos in 2021. This group, owning the property’s new direction, invested $650 million to ensure that the Palms not only keeps pace with gaming megatrends but also sets new standards for player satisfaction.
By choosing a player-friendly 3:2 payout structure, the Palms has made a bold statement in Las Vegas’s evolving gaming landscape—offering a more favorable play environment and distinguishing itself from competitors entrenched in less generous practices. With this strategy, the Palms not only enhances its appeal but also potentially attracts a broader audience seeking fairer gaming opportunities.
Learn To Play Blackjack Online
Learning to play blackjack online is easier than ever, thanks to online casinos and sweepstakes casinos that offer live dealer games. These platforms bring the casino experience to your home, allowing you to interact with real dealers in real time through video streaming.
Many online casinos provide detailed tutorials and beginner tables, making it easier for newcomers to pick up the game. Players can practice their skills, refine their strategies, and get comfortable with the rules before playing at higher stakes. The convenience of playing online means you can practice anytime, while live dealer games ensure you enjoy the social atmosphere and excitement of a traditional brick-and-mortar casino.
But if you do decide to take up the game, gambling responsibly should always come first. Always set limits and never gamble more than you can afford to lose.
