Review of Blackjack at Valley View Casino

I recently had the opportunity to visit Valley View Casino, one of the premier tribal casinos in the northern region of San Diego. This casino stands out from the more remote establishments in the area by offering a wide range of competitive gaming options. Owned and operated by the San Pasqual Band of Diegueno Mission Indians, Valley View Casino started as a casino-only facility. However, it has since grown to include a conveniently located hotel, just a stone's throw away from Harrah's. In addition to the top-notch accommodations for both regular guests and VIPs, the casino boasts an impressive array of amenities. With six restaurants to choose from, visitors can indulge in a variety of delicious dining options. Moreover, there is also a retail shop for those looking to take home a souvenir or two.

Experience the ultimate gaming adventure at Valley View.

Valley View Casino, located in the heart of the region, boasts a gaming floor spanning 7,500 square feet. What sets it apart from neighboring casinos is its expansive non-smoking gambling area, surpassing that of its competitors. The crown jewel of their gaming offerings is an impressive collection of 2,000 slot machines, touted by the casino as "certified loose," although the certifying authority remains undisclosed. In addition to this, visitors can indulge in four distinct blackjack games, the casino's signature "Richer" roulette, Pai Gow, Texas Hold'Em, 3-card poker, and even Keno. To enhance the overall experience, Valley View Casino offers a club membership program, providing guests with a complimentary buffet pass upon their initial visit.

Single Deck Blackjack

Valley View, similar to its closest rivals, has a limited number of single deck Blackjack tables that are known for their unfavorable 6:5 payouts. It is highly recommended to steer clear of playing at these tables, primarily due to the betting limits imposed. The minimum bet required is set at a rather steep $15, while the maximum bet allowed reaches an impressive $500.

In this casino, you'll find single deck games where the dealer hits on soft 17 and players can double down after splitting. However, they don't offer a re-splitting aces option or a surrender option. It's worth noting that mid-game entry is also not allowed, which may be a good thing for serious players. The house edge in these games is a favorable 1.45%, giving you a decent chance at walking away with some winnings.

Double Deck Blackjack

The double deck tables at Valley View are one of the main reasons why the casino has been frequented by Blackjack players, as they have decent rules. However, you can only hit the table for a $25 minimum, so if you want a cheaper game you can find other places nearby. The max bet is capped at $1,000, though.

At the double deck games, the dealer hits on soft 17, and players have the advantage of being able to double down on any two cards as well as double after a split. However, it's worth noting that splitting pairs is only allowed once, which slightly increases the house edge. Unfortunately, there is no option for surrendering. In terms of penetration, it generally ranges up to 0.9, although there may be some variation. With optimal play, the house edge is approximately 0.45%. It's important to mention that mid-game entry is not permitted, so wonging is not an option here.

Blackjack Switch with a six-deck variation.

Valley View used to offer a fantastic 6 deck game, which was a favorite among players. However, they recently made some changes and switched to a different version. Now, they only have one or two tables open at a time for this game. The betting limits for this new version are set at a minimum of $10 and a maximum of $500. It's worth noting that the game's popularity may have been affected by this switch, but some players still enjoy trying their luck within these limits.

At the switch tables, the dealer hits on soft 17, allowing players to double after splitting and re-split up to four times. It's worth noting, though, that if you switch cards and end up with an A+10, your resulting 21 will be considered a push against the dealer's 21 or 22, adhering to the standard rules. In terms of the house edge, it's slightly less favorable compared to the eight deck tables and double decks, coming in at around 0.58% for greater accuracy.

8 Deck Blackjack

At Valley View, the majority of the Blackjack tables are specifically designated for hosting 8 deck games. Unless you have substantial experience as a skilled advantage player, attempting to match the skill level required to participate would prove futile. The minimum wager permitted at these tables is fixed at $10, while the maximum amount you can bet is capped at $500.

I'd like to share some insights about the blackjack games at this particular casino. Firstly, I should mention that the dealer, in the 8 deck games, chooses to hit on soft 17. This decision affects the course of the game. Additionally, players have the opportunity to double after they split, and they can also re-split aces. This flexibility in splitting can be advantageous to players who strategize effectively. Another favorable rule at this establishment is the option for late surrender, which can be used in conjunction with the other rules to one's advantage. When considering all these rules together, it can be estimated that the house has an approximate advantage in the game.