Available for players at [Blackjack Ballroom Casino](https://casinos.fyi/casino/blackjack-ballroom-casino-review/), Blackjack X marks a significant evolution for Pragmatic Play Live [Casino Games](https://hackmd.io/@idanbraun/S1XLnky3yg), being their inaugural RNG Blackjack offering.

However, this isn't just any standard RNG game; it mirrors the experience of Live Blackjack, minus the dealer and physical table.

All the familiar elements remain intact, including the game rules, the eight-deck shoe penetration, and the option to engage in multi-seat play with others at a seven-seat table.

Additionally, players can enjoy side bets like 21+3 and Perfect Pairs, along with the opportunity to Bet Behind any player seated at the table.

While I typically don’t delve into RNG games, this one is so reminiscent of the Live experience that I felt it necessary to give it a try, play a few hands, and share my thoughts.

Launched in early 2024, Blackjack X has seen a steady addition of new tables as its popularity continues to grow.

## How to Play?

Blackjack X features seven seating positions, adhering to Vegas rules, which slightly favor players over European rules.

The goal is to surpass the Dealer’s hand by achieving a total as close to or equal to twenty-one as possible, or by capitalizing on the Dealer's bust while attempting to reach 21.

This [game](https://casinos.fyi/casino/golden-tiger-casino-review/) utilizes a virtual dealing shoe that is shuffled and contains eight decks of 52 cards. A new shoe is introduced for play once the cutting card is reached, typically after four decks have been dealt.

There is no live dealer at the table; instead, all shuffling and dealing are managed by computer systems. An RNG engine ensures that the cards are shuffled randomly, mimicking the actions of a real dealer.

To start, players can choose their seat at the table, with the option to occupy multiple seats by clicking on them to reserve.

Once seated, a twelve-second betting window opens, allowing you to select your chip value and place your wager on the designated betting area.

You also have the option to place bets on Side Bets and to bet behind another player if you choose.

The Dealer will deal two cards face up to each player, while dealing one card face up and one face down for themselves.

Side bets are resolved as soon as the Dealer’s upcard is revealed. If you win on the Pairs Plus or the 21+3, your payout will be displayed on the betting area, and this payout is yours regardless of the outcome of your hand.

When it's your turn to make a move, you have several options to consider.

* Hit – draw another card to improve your hand.
* Stand – choose to stop drawing cards and keep your current hand.
* Double – you can double your wager and receive one additional card. This is typically a good strategy when the Dealer has a two to six showing and your hand totals nine, ten, or eleven.
* Split – if you have a pair, you can divide your hand into two separate hands, allowing you to hit or stand on each one. Doubling is not an option here. If you split Aces, you will only receive one card for each hand.

## Outcomes

After all participants have finalized their hands, the Dealer discloses the second card and proceeds in accordance with the established guideline of drawing to a total of 16 and standing on 17 or higher.

* Hands that exceed the Dealer's total are deemed victorious and are awarded their respective payouts.
* Active hands are compensated if the Dealer exceeds 21 and busts.
* When a player's hand matches the value of the Dealer's hand, the result is classified as a "push," resulting in the player receiving a refund of their original wager.
* In instances where the Dealer possesses a superior hand compared to the Player, or if the Player has bust, the Player forfeits their wager.