How to Play Progressive Blackjack: An Introduction to the game

Blackjack as a game dates back several centuries and its roots can be traced to Europe in the 16th and 17th century. It made its way stateside in the 18th century when it was introduced by French colonists. Nowadays, there are plenty of blackjack variations. If you’re used to playing classic blackjack and fancy trying out a different version, we’re here to tell you all about progressive blackjack. As its name suggests, it includes a progressive jackpot element that players can win by placing a side bet. 

Here’s our guide how to play progressive blackjack online.

If you’re familiar with classic blackjack, you’ll know the fundamentals of the progressive version. Simply put, progressive blackjack has a twist: you can engage in side bets to contribute to—and potentially win—a progressive jackpot.  
 
The basics of the game are otherwise the same: you need to achieve a hand with a value as close to 21 as possible without exceeding it. All the while, the progressive jackpot accumulates throughout the rounds as players make their side bets. There are often specific criteria for winning the jackpot, including achieving a rare hand like consecutive aces. 

Even if you’ve played lots of online casino games, it’s always a good idea to read up about any new ones. Here is how to play progressive blackjack. 

Step 1: Learning the Rules  

Progressive blackjack is straightforward and beginners can enjoy it. Familiarise yourself with the card values and the dealer’s role as well as the standard actions you’ll have to use like hitting, standing, doubling down and splitting.  

Step 2: Placing Your Bets  

Before the cards are dealt, you need to place your bets, including your side bet to partake in the progressive jackpot. There are a variety of bets available. This include wagers on individual hands.  

Step 3: Understanding the game’s odds  

The game’s odds and your chances of winning depend on your bet type. Achieving a natural blackjack with an ace and a 10-value card occurs in around 1 in 21 hands.  

Step 4: Playing the Game  

Here’s how to play progressive blackjack:  

1. Place your bet, including any side bet on the progressive jackpot. 
2. Receive your cards.  
3. Evaluate your hand and make your decisions. 
4. Observe the dealer.  
5. Compare hands to see if you’ve won.  
6. If you have a winning hand for the progressive jackpot, collect your winnings.  

Even if you choose to use a strategy when you play blackjack, the most important thing is to understand the rules. Here are our top tips: 

1. Play free versions first to get used to the progressive jackpot element.  
2. Learn about the specific bets you can make in this version.  
3. Set yourself a budget and stick to it.  
4. Research the different odds so you know the likelihood of achieving a specific hand. 
5. Prioritise fun above all else.  

Progressive blackjack is great for fans of the classic card game looking for an additional boost. The progressive jackpot element is presented as a side bet, which gives players the opportunity to win a substantial prize for achieving a high-value hand. So, if you’ve already tried classic blackjack, why not explore a progressive jackpot version of the game?