Lucky 13

Question 1 - [00:04]

Mike: Hello, I’m Mike Shackleford from the Wizard of Odds. Currently, I’m at the 2014 Raving Table Games exhibition at the Paris Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas. I'm joined by Vinny from Lucky 13s. I first encountered this intriguing game a few months back at the Global Gaming Expo, and I’m thrilled to see it again here at the Raving show. Vinny, could you explain the core concept of the game?

Vinny: Absolutely, Mike. The game is fairly straightforward. It’s a variation of blackjack, but it utilizes a special deck that incorporates cards with values of 11, 12, and 13—such as the 11 of hearts, the 11 of diamonds, and so on. This unique setup adds an additional 12 cards to the deck. It’s typically played with multiple decks from a continuous shuffle machine, allowing players to jump right into the action. The gameplay is similar to regular blackjack, but the introduction of higher value cards brings some exciting twists.

A fascinating aspect of this game is that the dealer stands on a total of 16 instead of the conventional 17 or higher. Many players see this as a favorable rule since, as you mentioned, Mike, if a player has a hand of 7, 8, or higher, those winning hands will automatically be paid out.

Question 2 - [01:10]

Mike: Does the introduction of this alternate deck with 11s, 12s, and 13s provide any advantages or disadvantages for the players?

Vinny: In many respects, it greatly benefits the players. If you’re familiar with blackjack, you'll understand that having more high cards in the deck increases the chances of the dealer busting. It’s a significant edge for players to see a 12 or 13 in the dealer’s face-up card, as those cards bust considerably more often than 5s or 6s in traditional blackjack. Additionally, if the dealer has a 13 showing, side bets payout at a multiple of five times—meaning, a payout that normally offers 40 to 1 would instead offer 200 to 1.

This dynamic fosters a sense of victory among savvy players, as they consistently feel they’re winning more and provoking dealer busts. Dealer busts are fantastic since they generate positive energy at the table, leading to an enjoyable experience for everyone.

Question 3 - [01:54]

Mike: Do players feel discouraged if they end up busting with their initial two cards? Is there any strategy to mitigate that risk?

Vinny: You’ve hit the nail on the head, Mike. One unique element of this game is that players can indeed be dealt a total exceeding 21 right from their first two cards—something that wouldn’t happen in standard blackjack.

There’s actually an additional wager players can make called the protection bet. This optional bet can be placed prior to dealing, indicated by a green circle, and will pay out if a player is dealt a hand value over 21, which would normally be considered a bust. However, if they receive a pair that totals over 21—like two 11s, two 12s, or two 13s—they win their protection bet despite exceeding 21. Their hand remains live, allowing them to split the pair or choose to aim for a bust. It introduces a thrilling strategic choice for players as they decide whether to split or to risk busting. This new element is incredibly exciting, and players seem to enjoy it immensely.

Mike: Thank you for the insight into Lucky 13s!

Written by: Michael Shackleford