There are dozens of different blackjack variants available to play online here at Lord Ping, which is no bad thing… after all, variety is the spice of life.
You’ll notice that our blackjack games are split into two broad categories: virtual blackjack and live casino blackjack.
But what’s the difference between these two types? And which is right for you? That’s exactly what I’ll be exploring in this article… so strap yourself in, blackjack lovers.
What is Virtual Blackjack?
Virtual blackjack pits human players like yourself head-to-head and toe-to-toe against a ‘computer’ dealer.
This dealer is powered by their software code, which instructs them what to do in each scenario at the table; they play very ‘tight’ blackjack, from a strategic perspective. The cards that you are each dealt are determined by the game’s random number generator (RNG).
With virtual blackjack, you can play any time and at any place you have an internet connection on your chosen device. This is convenient, high-speed gaming, allowing you to brush up on your skills and play virtual blackjack with just a few taps of your screen.
The game mechanics are simple to follow and understand. You click on the virtual chips to select your stake size, before tapping the deal button to reveal your hole cards on screen. And then it’s just a case of hitting, doubling, splitting or standing as you see fit, which you can do by selecting the relevant button.
For the quickest and easiest virtual blackjack experience, you can enjoy European Blackjack – by the industry-leading Playtech – right here at Lord Ping. I’m confident you’ll appreciate this version of the game, which is the perfect place for beginners to start their online blackjack journey.
What is Live Blackjack?
If you prefer a more immersive and authentic experience, you might just favour live blackjack instead.
Thanks to the wonders of modern technology, we’re able to live stream video feeds in real time on our smartphones and tablets. And that’s exactly what live blackjack games bring to the party.
You’ll find yourself seated across the table from a human dealer… don’t worry, you won’t have to get up from the sofa. They deal the cards and take your bets, which are carried out – in much the same way as virtual blackjack – by tapping on the relevant chip size on your screen.
You inform the dealer of how you want to play your hand using the on-screen prompts, watching as they split your cards or reveal a third card if you hit or double down. You’ll then get to see the live dealer play out their hand in real time, too. You can also watch them shuffle the cards, ensuring full transparency.
The perfect example of live blackjack comes courtesy of Lightning Blackjack. Don’t be put off by the name: the gameplay is neither super-fast nor will you be struck by a celestial bolt from the sky while playing it – although, apparently, there is a 1 in 15,300 chance that you will be struck by lightning in your lifetime. Just saying…
What are the Differences Between Virtual Blackjack and Live Blackjack?
There are some key differences between virtual blackjack and its live counterpart… as well as some similarities, as well.
In virtual blackjack, it’s you vs. the computer. This is online blackjack at its most straightforward: simply place your bets, play your hand and wait and see if you win or not. All of the action is determined by the game’s hard-coded RNG.
As far as live blackjack is concerned, you’ll get the basic blackjack gameplay and so much more besides. You can interact with a professional dealer, who cannot see or hear you but who has access to a live chat feed. You can talk about blackjack or anything else that’s on your mind… but keep it decent and sensible, please, in the manner befitting a sophisticated Lord Ping acolyte.
Virtual blackjack is quick and easy to play. Live blackjack, meanwhile, is more representative of a real casino experience, complete with the sights and sounds you would enjoy in Las Vegas or Monte Carlo.
Virtual Blackjack vs. Live Blackjack: Decision Made
And so the choice is yours. Hopefully, after reading this casino guide, you’ll have a better understanding of the differences between virtual blackjack and live blackjack, while forming an opinion as to which version you will likely prefer.
If you’re still unsure, you can always try out both types of online blackjack – starting out with small stakes – right here at Lord Ping. If you want to sample virtual blackjack, may I recommend to you American Blackjack, an excellent game from GVG.
This is a popular game of choice for newcomers to online blackjack, thanks to its simple controls and game mechanics. American Blackjack is widely considered beginner-friendly, thanks to its straightforward controls.
On the other hand, if you wish to give live blackjack a try, allow me to point you in the direction of Infinite Blackjack.
The game mechanics are the same as in virtual blackjack, so just click your screen to choose bet sizes and implement your chosen strategy when the cards have been dealt. But the action is enhanced by the presence of a friendly dealer, whom you can interact with and enjoy the company of. Always remember that the house will always have the edge. Players should never try to recover losses by gambling more. The outcome of the games is always entirely based on luck.
To infinity… and beyond! Now, where have I heard that before…
18+ Play Responsibly. Gambling should be fun. Set limits and take breaks. For help, visit BeGambleAware.org.
