Blackjack vs. Pontoon

[Action Scott]

I havent' played many casino bonuses but have done a few and only played blackjack. I see a lot of people in these forums talking about Pontoon. So yesterday, I got on Intercasino and tried it out for play money. I guess Pontoon is supposed to have a lower house advantage but I don't see it...3 things:
1. You can't see either of the dealers hole cards
2. You have to hit on 14 and below
3. (this is the biggie) DEALER wins all ties

The only advantage I see is that Pontoon (21) pays 2:1.

Enlighten me, it seems that the house would have more of an advantage in this game.
Also, what is the proper stratgey then, do you hit 15's and 16's?

Thanks for your input.

I belive that http://wizardofodds.com/ is your friend regarding an optimal strategy.

Regarding BJ vs Pontoon the house advantage is less but the variance is higher, i.e., you are more likely to bust or win big.

Best,

Ralf

[BigF]

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I belive that http://wizardofodds.com/ is your friend regarding an optimal strategy.

Regarding BJ vs Pontoon the house advantage is less but the variance is higher, i.e., you are more likely to bust or win big.

Best,

Ralf

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And higher variance translates into higher EV, assuming you are adequately rolled.

[PLOlover]

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And higher variance translates into higher EV, assuming you are adequately rolled.


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Can u explain that a bit please? I'm not a newbie but I'm not quite sure what you mean or if that is right.

[BigF]

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And higher variance translates into higher EV, assuming you are adequately rolled.


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Can u explain that a bit please? I'm not a newbie but I'm not quite sure what you mean or if that is right.

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Correct me if I'm wrong.

I define EV as EV = Bonus - HA * Wagering Total

higher variance -> busting out more often -> smaller wagering total -> higher EV

It's a small edge but a player edge nonetheless.

[PLOlover]

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Correct me if I'm wrong.

I define EV as EV = Bonus - HA * Wagering Total

higher variance -> busting out more often -> smaller wagering total -> higher EV

It's a small edge but a player edge nonetheless.

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I see what you mean. And when you bust the wagering requirement is not carried over to the next month, right?

[rusty JEDI]

Doubling at any point in the hand helps the player.

rJ

[BigDave]

I am a big fan of 5 card tricks paying double, and often find soft 4 card hands that make automatic 5 card hands. That allows you to double before the 5th card and win quadruple, which is very nice. I think this is an advantage too.

I stand on 15 and 16 everytime, cause the card on the WoO says so.

[cassette]

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I stand on 15 and 16 everytime, cause the card on the WoO says so.

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Make sure you're not standing on a 4 card 15 or 16. Double down. Might not hurt to read the startegy card again...

[BigDave]

you are of course right, I assumed the OP was aking about 2 card 15 and 16's.