An option to do various kinds of side bets is available in many games, both online and in land-based casinos. Most often, you will find it in all sorts of poker games. It's usually called a bonus bet.
However, particular producers can define it entirely differently in some online games. For example, you will find a Pair Plus bet in the Three Card Poker by Microgaming. It is paid when the player hits a pair or a higher hand.
Pros and Cons of Side Bets in Casino Games
Side bets are prevalent among players (especially beginners) because they add variety to the game and allow players to win more. But we should not delude ourselves with such bets. They may seem attractive and profitable, but you should use them carefully and know their advantages and disadvantages.
Most side bets generally feature a house edge much higher than the basic bets feature.
For this reason, we recommend giving them up. Nevertheless, players chasing high payouts are willing to take risks.
This is especially true for the games requiring side bets to win a progressive jackpot.
The most striking example is stud poker by Realtime Gaming, although many producers offer similar options. This game's progressive jackpot can reach a considerable amount, forcing even the most experienced gamblers to chase it. In some games, side bets allow the player to win a fixed amount from the payout table.
How Side Bets in Casino Games Work
In most games, side bets are not required. However, casinos often remind players about this opportunity.
However, some games automatically add a certain amount to the user's bet. If a beginner does not examine the rules closely, they could spend the bankroll too quickly without awareness. That's why you should never play unfamiliar games for real money.
In some games, the side bet is paid independently of the main one.
For example, Caribbean poker pays by the bonus bet when the player hits the required combination, even due to the deal (sometimes also due to a five-card exchange). Then the game goes on, and theoretically, the base bet can even lose.
However, some games will pay the bonus bet only if the main bet wins.
From the perspective of the optimal strategy for any poker, blackjack, or some other game, side bets are highly unprofitable, so it is recommended to refuse them.
Of course, no one forbids you from adding diversity to the game. Still, it can be considered reasonable only if bonus bets allow you to participate in the drawing of a vast pool, even better if the size of the side bet is only a few percent of the primary wager.
| Name | Return to player | |
| 99.7% | |
| — | |
| — | |
| — |
Bonus Bets in Video Slots
Side bets on slots are a different story.
Usually, they are profitable for the player.
They commonly feature a higher RTP than the basic bet.
Bonus bets may work in various ways on video slots. Let's see the options:
- They bring more special symbols to the reels.
- Prize features play more often.
- Increased chances for free spins.
Another popular option is paid bonuses on slots. As we discussed in other articles on Casinoz, we won't get into the details of this.
Do you like side bets in blackjack, poker, or roulette? Have you ever won a jackpot? Boast of your wins!
