A Comprehensive Review of Blackjack at MGM Casino

Not many individuals are unfamiliar with the MGM Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas, a renowned resort of immense popularity. This colossal establishment, the MGM Grand, stands as the largest hotel in the United States, boasting a staggering 5,000 rooms. In fact, this extraordinary complex ranks as the third largest in the entire world. Few other destinations can rival the sheer magnificence that the MGM Grand exudes.

At MGM Grand, the heart of the attraction is undoubtedly the casino, which is the main focus and holds the greatest appeal for visitors. Spanning an impressive 170,000 square feet, the gaming area offers ample space for enthusiasts to immerse themselves in the thrilling world of gambling. But the MGM experience extends far beyond the casino floor. As you explore the sprawling complex, you'll discover a myriad of enticing options to indulge your taste buds, with over a dozen restaurants serving diverse culinary delights. Whether you crave a fine dining experience or a casual meal, the MGM has something to satisfy every palate. As the night falls, the energy intensifies, and the MGM comes alive with the pulsating beats of its several nightclubs, which offer a vibrant and lively atmosphere for those seeking to dance the night away. Furthermore, the MGM Grand provides a range of other amenities to ensure a well-rounded and fulfilling stay. From luxurious accommodation options to rejuvenating spa services, there's no shortage of opportunities to pamper yourself and enhance your overall experience. Amidst all the entertainment, the MGM also hosts a selection of captivating permanent shows. One such popular attraction is Brad Garrett's Comedy Club, where you can revel in laughter brought to you by talented comedians. Additionally, the renowned illusionist David Copperfield regularly dazzles audiences with his mind-bending performances. With such an array of entertainment offerings, the MGM Grand promises an unforgettable experience that extends far beyond the excitement of the casino.

Great Casino Offer

MGM's gaming selection is absolutely outstanding. They have an impressive variety of options, including slots, poker, and an extensive selection of over 50 types of whiskey. The dealers are not only friendly but also highly skilled, creating a welcoming atmosphere for all players. Additionally, they offer a special rewards MasterCard with numerous benefits. For those who enjoy sports and races, betting options are also available. When it comes to table games, MGM offers a staggering 9 different types, but our main focus is on Blackjack.

Blackjack at MGM

MGM Grand boasts approximately 50 Blackjack tables, providing a variety of Blackjack options for players to enjoy.

6-Deck Stand on Soft 17

At this casino, the most popular Blackjack game is the one played with six decks. You'll find more than 25 tables with 6-deck shoes, where the dealers must hit soft 17. In this game, players are allowed to double down, and they can even re-split aces. It's worth mentioning that players also have the option to double down after splitting and surrender if they wish. With these rules, the house edge is calculated to be 0.46%.

The minimum bet on these tables is $15 when the action is slow, usually during workdays it is $25, whereas during weekends and other busy days it is $100. The maximum bet is $10,000.

Playing with a six-deck deck where the dealer must stand on a soft 17.

At this casino, patrons have the opportunity to partake in over ten different tables offering a more favorable advantage to the players. Specifically, they feature a variant of 6-deck Blackjack, maintaining the same rules as the previously mentioned version, except for one crucial distinction – the dealer stands on all 17s. Consequently, this slight alteration substantially diminishes the house edge to a remarkable 0.26%. Undoubtedly, this constitutes one of the most advantageous scenarios for players seeking a minimal house edge in the game of Blackjack.

At MGM Grand, some of the Blackjack tables offer the same betting limits as the ones where the dealer hits on soft 17. But here's the twist: the Blackjack pay-out at these particular tables is 5 to 6, resulting in a slight increase in the house edge to 1.6%. It's important to note this difference if you're considering trying your luck at these tables.

Double-Deck Blackjack

At MGM, you'll find two tables offering double-deck Blackjack. The minimum bet for this game is either $50 or $100, while the maximum bet reaches $5,000. When it comes to the dealer's strategy, they always stand on soft 17. As a player, you have the freedom to double any two cards, and even double after splitting. However, it's worth noting that re-splitting aces or surrendering is not an option in this particular game. The house edge for this variant of Blackjack stands at approximately 0.2% if the payout for a Blackjack is 3 to 2. However, if the payout changes to 5 to 6, the house edge would increase to 1.59%.

Single-Deck Blackjack

At MGM, you'll find Single-deck Blackjack as well, with minimum bets starting at $15 and a maximum of $5,000. What sets this variant apart is that players can double down regardless of their initial two cards, and they even have the opportunity to double after splitting. A total of six one-deck tables are available, but it's important to note that they all pay 6 to 5 for a Blackjack, resulting in a higher house edge of 1.24%.

8-Deck Blackjack

I am ecstatic to inform you about the incredible assortment of games at MGM, including the highly captivating Eight-deck Blackjack. What makes this variant even more enticing is the flexible betting options, with a minimum wager of either $5 or $10, while the maximum amount reaches a staggering $5,000. A distinguishing feature of this game is that the dealer hits on soft 17, allowing you to truly test your strategic prowess. Moreover, if you are lucky enough to be dealt a pair of aces, you will have the opportunity to re-split them, enhancing your chances of a victorious outcome. Additionally, the option to surrender and double down after splitting adds an extra layer of excitement to the game. It is worth noting that the house edge on this particular version stands at a mere 0.48%, providing a fair and stimulating gambling experience.

Blackjack Switch

At MGM, we not only have the usual Blackjack options, but we've also added an exciting variant called Blackjack Switch. With this game, players are dealt two hands and have the unique opportunity to switch, or exchange, cards between the hands. To balance the advantage, the payout for a Blackjack in this version is 1 to 1, and if the dealer gets a hard 22, it results in a tie against all bets except a natural Blackjack. The minimum bet for Blackjack Switch is set at $10, while the maximum allowed wager is a thrilling $2,500. Join us and experience the thrill and strategy of this captivating Blackjack variant!

Keeping track of cards at the MGM casino.

In terms of card counting, MGM was once regarded as one of the more lenient casinos in Las Vegas. The Blackjack tables, in particular, are always bustling with activity, especially on holidays and weekends, attracting a large crowd of enthusiastic gamblers. As a result, the surveillance team at the casino remains constantly occupied, ensuring that everything runs smoothly and no foul play takes place.

If you want to fly under the radar while gambling at a blackjack table where the dealers hit soft 17, you'll find plenty of high-stakes players in that area, which provides a convenient camouflage. However, be aware that the double-deck games are under close scrutiny, and it's no walk in the park to keep track of the cards without getting caught. Although there are signs that MGM has become stricter in recent years, it's still feasible to employ card counting techniques if you limit your playing time, avoid making significant bet increases, and steer clear of tables that are attracting too much attention.

Conclusion

MGM, renowned as one of the finest casinos in Las Vegas, holds its ground as a top-tier gambling destination worldwide. This establishment serves as an ideal choice not only for enthusiasts of casino games but particularly for those who revel in the game of Blackjack. The wagering limits cater to a wide range of players, offering considerable flexibility, and a variety of game options are available, including 6-deck, 8-deck, single-deck, and double-deck variants. Additionally, patrons can partake in the thrilling experience of Blackjack Switch. It is worth noting, however, that until recently, MGM had a slight drawback where some of their tables paid out 5 to 6 for a natural Blackjack instead of the more common 3 to 2 payout ratio.

 

MGM Blackjack Rules

Single Deck Blackjack

Limits for table games range from a minimum bet of $10 to a maximum bet of $2,000. When playing blackjack, the dealer will hit on Soft 17 (H17), you can double down after splitting, but resplitting aces is not allowed. Additionally, a blackjack hand will pay out at a rate of 6:5.

Double Deck Blackjack

Table limits for blackjack range from a minimum of $50 to a maximum of $5,000. The dealer will stand on Soft 17 (S17) and players have the opportunity to double down on any two cards. Additionally, doubling down after splitting is allowed (DAS), but there is no option to split aces again or surrender.

6 Deck Blackjack (S17)

Table Limits: The minimum bet is $25, while the maximum bet is set at $10,000. In Blackjack, the dealer will stand on Soft 17 (S17) and players are allowed to double after splitting (DAS), resplit aces (RSA), and surrender if desired.

6 Deck Blackjack (H17)

Maximum limit for tables: $10,000 is the highest stake, while the minimum bets range from $5 to $25. The rules for blackjack include the dealer hitting on Soft 17 (also known as H17), allowing players to double after splitting (DAS), permitting the resplitting of aces (RSA), and allowing surrendering.

8 Deck Blackjack

Table Limits: Minimum bets start at $5 and go up to a maximum of $5,000. In Blackjack, the dealer will hit on a Soft 17 (H17), players are allowed to double after splitting (DAS), they can also resplit aces (RSA), and the option to surrender is offered.

The greater the height of the RED bar, the lower your chances of winning. Strategically counting cards at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas.

Playing blackjack at MGM in Las Vegas offers optimal conditions for card counting compared to other casinos. The immense size of the casino and its consistent crowd, especially on weekends, provide ample opportunities for surveillance and the pit crew to be occupied. The S17 area is particularly lucrative, attracting numerous high rollers, making it effortless to blend in. While the double deck game at MGM Grand is highly favorable for a solo card counter, it is closely monitored. It is advisable to maintain brief gaming sessions and employ effective camouflage techniques to ensure your activities remain inconspicuous.

Entering mid-shoe on the 6 deck tables as a card counting team can be a breeze, with minimal interference. Certain establishments may disallow such entry, while others might set a maximum bet limit, say around $200, for mid-shoe entry (think New York, New York, and Planet Hollywood). However, at MGM, you'll be pleased to know that there are no such restrictions in place. So, don't hesitate to flaunt those yellow chips and make your moves with confidence!