Infinite Blackjack is Evolution Gamingβs unlimited-seat blackjack variant β any number of players can join the same table simultaneously, all sharing the same two initial cards but making independent decisions from that point. It also introduces the Six Card Charlie rule and a suite of side bets not found on standard tables. The core strategy is identical to standard blackjack, but the rule variations and side bets change a few calculations.
How Infinite Blackjack Differs from Standard Blackjack
| Feature | Standard Live Blackjack | Infinite Blackjack |
|---|---|---|
| Player seats | Limited (7 typically) | Unlimited |
| Shared starting hand | No | Yes β all players share the same initial two cards |
| Individual decisions | Yes | Yes β each player acts independently from the shared start |
| Six Card Charlie | No | Yes β automatic win with 6 cards without busting |
| Number of decks | Typically 6β8 | 8 decks |
| Dealer stands on | S17 | S17 |
| Side bets | Varies | Any Two 3s, Hot 3, Bust It, 21+3 |
The shared starting hand is the key mechanic. All players at the table receive the same two opening cards from the dealer, see the same dealer up-card, then make their own hit/stand/double/split decisions independently. Your choices do not affect other playersβ hands.
The Six Card Charlie Rule
If you draw six cards without busting β regardless of your total β you automatically win. This is a player-favourable rule that reduces the house edge by approximately 0.16%.
In practice: Six Card Charlie is rare (you need to draw 4 additional cards to 6 cards total without exceeding 21) but adds an interesting dimension to borderline hands where you might otherwise stand.
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House Edge
Infinite Blackjack with basic strategy has a house edge of approximately 0.5%, effectively identical to standard blackjack with the same rules (S17, 8 decks). The Six Card Charlie rule provides a very slight player benefit.
Basic Strategy for Infinite Blackjack
Because all players share the same two opening cards, you will see your exact hand displayed before making any decision. Use standard 8-deck, S17 basic strategy β the rules are identical.
Key decisions to memorise:
Always:
- Split Aces and 8s
- Double on 11 vs dealer 2β10
- Double on 10 vs dealer 2β9
Never:
- Split 10s or 5s
- Take insurance
- Stand on soft 17
Six Card Charlie considerations: If you have 5 cards and a low total, drawing one more card to trigger Charlie is worth attempting even in situations where standard strategy says to stand β a 6-card hand automatically wins.
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Side Bets and Their House Edges
Infinite Blackjack offers four side bets. None are recommended from a house edge perspective, but here is what youβre working with:
Any Two 3s
Win if your first two cards are both 3s.
- House edge: ~6%
Hot 3
Win based on your first two cards plus the dealer up-card totalling specific values (19, 20, or 21).
| Total | Payout |
|---|---|
| 21 (suited) | 100:1 |
| 21 (7-7-7) | 100:1 |
| 21 | 20:1 |
| 20 | 10:1 |
| 19 | 3:2 |
- House edge: ~6β8%
Bust It
Win if the dealer busts with a specific number of cards.
| Dealer Bust Cards | Payout |
|---|---|
| 8+ cards | 250:1 |
| 7 cards | 100:1 |
| 6 cards | 18:1 |
| 5 cards | 6:1 |
| 4 cards | 2:1 |
| 3 cards | 1:1 |
- House edge: ~6β8%
21+3
Win based on your two cards plus the dealer up-card forming poker combinations.
| Hand | Payout |
|---|---|
| Suited three of a kind | 100:1 |
| Straight flush | 40:1 |
| Three of a kind | 30:1 |
| Straight | 10:1 |
| Flush | 5:1 |
- House edge: ~3β5%
Recommendation: Skip all side bets. The main Infinite Blackjack game at 0.5% house edge with basic strategy is one of the best bets in the live casino. Side bets erode that advantage.
FAQ
Do all players get the same cards in Infinite Blackjack?
All players at the table share the same two starting cards and see the same dealer up-card. From that point, each player makes their own independent decisions β your hit/stand choices affect only your hand.
Does Infinite Blackjack have worse odds than regular blackjack?
No. With basic strategy, the house edge is approximately 0.5% β essentially identical to standard 8-deck S17 blackjack.
What is Six Card Charlie?
If you draw a total of 6 cards without busting, you automatically win regardless of your hand total. This rule reduces the house edge slightly and adds value to low-total multi-card situations.
Should I play Infinite Blackjack side bets?
No. All side bets carry significantly higher house edges (3β8%) than the main game (0.5%). They are entertainment, not strategy.
Can other playersβ decisions affect my hand in Infinite Blackjack?
No. While everyone shares the same starting cards, each playerβs decisions are completely independent. Another player splitting or doubling has no effect on your hand.