Blackjack switch off to hot start at California casino

PALA, California -- (PRESS RELEASE) -- It's been on the floor about a week, but players are lining up to get a seat at the new Blackjack Switch table at Pala Casino Spa & Resort. The new game offers an exciting new way to play Blackjack that allows players to "switch" cards to make the best possible blackjack hand.

"It's been really popular with our Blackjack players and a number have already made the switch," said Mike Crenshaw, Pala's vice president of casino operations.

To start, players place equal bets on two betting positions. The dealer then deals two separate blackjack hands. The player then has the option of playing the hands as they were dealt, or switching the second card from each hand. Switching may only occur after the dealer has checked for a natural blackjack. The dealer then proceeds with the game following house rules for blackjack.

Doubling down and splitting are allowed, even after a switch is made. Blackjacks pay even money and if the dealer makes a hard 22, all remaining bets push.

Another addition is the Super Match bonus bet, which features multiple payouts. At Pala, Super Match bonus wagers can be made from $1 to $25 and if a player receives a pair or better from any of the initial four cards, the bet is paid according to the posted pay table. A pair pays 1/1; three-of-a-kind, 5/1; two pair, 7/1, and four-of-a-kind, 50/1.