VIG Live Blackjack Review

Live Blackjack powered by Visionary iGaming is a standard 7-seat game using 6 decks. An individual player can take up to 3 seats, and if none are available, they can Back Bet behind one of those already playing. The ability to make a decision before it’s one’s turn speeds up the game.

The dealer receives both cards before asking players to hit or stand, and if their up card happens to be an Ace, they’ll offer Insurance which pays 2:1.

Sometimes you’re dealt a crappy hand and would rather bail out; ViG’s game variant allows you to do so via Surrender option which is available if the dealer doesn’t have Blackjack. Choosing to take it results in half of your stake returned.

Playing Experience

Video stream takes up the entire screen, with chips of various denominations and betting functions positioned at the very bottom. Featured icons enable players to rebet, clear bets, undo last and auto rebet with a single click of the mouse. Buttons placed in the upper right corner can be used to double-check rules, view bet limits and manage settings.

The latter will let you show or hide video, switch animations on or off, auto-hit 8 or less and automatically stand on 18 or more. Unlike most other developers, ViG doesn't provide an option to directly enter their lobby and choose another table. The „exit“ button instead takes you to the casino's lobby, which is less than ideal.

ViG live games incorporate a tipping functionality which means you can tip the dealer if happy with your gaming session. They also offer an opportunity to place a Tips bet which gets doubled if the player's hand wins. Live Chat option allows one to communicate with the host as well as other players and thus make the experience even closer to „the real thing“ .

Overall Thoughts

There are three main elements of live dealer games which impact one's gaming experience – the broadcasting quality, game interface and gameplay. ViG doesn't impress with the first two; the quality of video stream is at best average and in-game options pretty limited, though tipping functionality and Tip bets are not commonly found elsewhere.

In terms of the gameplay, ViG's Blackjack is not that different from competitive products except that the dealer hits on soft 17 and players can use Surrender option to cut their losses.

Those looking to win more than 3:2 per hand will appreciate optional side bets even if they don't pay as much as, for example, variants powered by Evolution Gaming or Playtech. You should also know that this particular game has a house edge of 0.67% which is higher than with the majority of alternatives.