21 Stud

Introduction

21Stud is a straightforward blackjack variant devoid of decision-making. In this game, both the player and the dealer receive two cards, and the side with the higher point total wins. As of November 2022, 21Stud has been enjoyed at the Encore in Boston and the Boston Billiard Club and Casino in New Hampshire. Excitingly, there are plans for it to debut soon at the Eagle Mountain Casino in California.

Rules:

  1. Decks: The game may utilize six to eight standard 52-card decks or 48-card Spanish decks*.
  2. Scoring: Cards follow blackjack scoring rules, with aces always valued at 11. Two aces constitute a blackjack, equal in rank to a standard ace-10 blackjack.
  3. Side Bets: In addition to the main 21 Stud wager, there are three side bets — Mirror Match, Match 1, and Match 2.
  4. Dealing: Once wagering concludes, the dealer deals two cards each to the player and themselves.
  5. Payouts: A winning player blackjack pays either 1.5 or 1.2 to one, as per posted rules. A blackjack tie may either award the win to the player or result in a push, depending on posted rules.
  6. Main Wager Outcome: If the player achieves a higher total than the dealer, the 21 Stud wager pays 1 to 1. Otherwise, if the dealer wins or there’s a tie, the player’s 21 Stud wager loses.
  7. Side Bet Rules:
    • Mirror Match: Wins if the player’s two cards form a pair.
    • Match 1: Pays if the player has at least one card matching the dealer’s first card.
    • Match 2: Similar to Match 1, but based on the second dealer card.

Base Wager Analysis

The base wager in 21 Stud offers four customizable rules, encompassing:

  1. Deck Quantity (6 or 8)
  2. Deck Type (standard or Spanish)
  3. Blackjack Win Payout (1.2 or 1.5)
  4. Blackjack Tie Outcome (player wins or pushes)

With these variables, 16 rule combinations are possible, influencing the game’s house edge. The table below illustrates the house edge for each rule set, including the outcome for blackjack ties.

Mirror Match Analysis

The Mirror Match side bet in 21 Stud provides an opportunity for players to wager on their initial two cards forming a pair. This analysis examines the payout structure and odds associated with achieving a pair, offering insights into the potential returns for this side bet. By understanding the probabilities and payout ratios, players can make informed decisions when deciding whether to engage in the Mirror Match bet.

Methodology for 21 Stud

To conduct a comprehensive analysis of 21 Stud, several steps were followed:

  1. Data Collection: Gathered information on game rules, including deck configurations, scoring rules, and side bet options.
  2. Simulation: Utilized computer simulations to simulate gameplay scenarios and calculate probabilities, payouts, and house edge for various rule combinations and side bets.
  3. Statistical Analysis: Employed statistical techniques to analyze the collected data and derive insights into the game’s dynamics, including the impact of different rule configurations on player outcomes.
  4. Documentation: Summarized findings and observations in a structured format to provide clear and actionable insights for players and stakeholders interested in understanding the game’s mechanics and optimizing their strategies.