An Introduction To Back Betting
Betting on another player’s Blackjack hand isn’t a very common occurrence in North America, whether it be in traditional casinos or online ones. Betting platforms like OMG Casino won’t be offering the option to bet on other players’ hands anytime soon, but that doesn’t mean it’s not a widespread occurrence in different parts of the world.
While the US isn’t accustomed to betting on other players’ Blackjack hands, other places (primarily Europe) consider this the norm. This is sometimes referred to as back betting, and there are a few reasons why players may opt for this instead of playing a game themselves.
Regardless of the back bets on a player’s hand, it will never directly influence the game. These are side bets that simply play out in the background as the active player and dealer face off against one another.
What’s The Issue?
The most common reason players may opt for betting on another player’s hand is that they feel the player is lucky and wants to bank on their good fortune. It is common in European casinos for crowds to begin placing back bets on a Blackjack player who seems to be on a winning streak. Some players enjoy Blackjack and simply wish to gamble with no responsibility or decision making; so they bet on another player’s hand instead. This way, they are involved and betting, but not actively in the game themselves.
Players can opt for betting on other players’ hands instead of waiting for a table to open up. Sometimes, bettors bet on other players due to all the seats/tables being full. This way, these bettors don’t need to wait for a vacancy to get in on the betting action.
Lastly, another reason bettors may opt for making back bets instead of joining in on the game themselves as an active player is the table minimums. Blackjack tables (along with other table games) often have a minimum bet requirement. To circumvent this rule, bettors may opt for back betting.
All casinos have their own in-house rules. While some casinos may allow players to make back bets, others may not (primarily casinos in the US). Ensure to check with your dealer if back betting is allowed before trying to place a bet on another player’s hand at the Blackjack tables.
Superstitions
One of the biggest problems with back betting is the superstition behind it. Before betting on another player’s hand at a Blackjack table, it is imperative to ask them for their permission before placing your bet.
This superstition revolves around making sure the active player consents to other bettors making wagers on their hand as they play. According to this superstition, if bettors are not courteous and ask for permission before placing a wager, they will have bad luck.
Another famous superstition about back betting is about giving advice. It is bad luck for bettors to give unwanted advice to the active player they are betting on. This is often referred to as backseating and isn’t encouraged.
Conclusion
If you’d like to try placing a back bet the next time you’re at the Blackjack table, keep in mind which parts of the world it’s discouraged and which areas it’s welcomed. Make sure to remember the proper etiquette as well to avoid bringing bad luck and bad company.
