Why do some casino games have different rules on different websites?

Game makers also modify odds to differentiate themselves from the competition, or to adjust their margins for profit. For example, some casinos allow the dealer to hit on a soft 17 in blackjack or pay less than 35:1 on a winning bet in roulette. These are small differences that accumulate.

But the real issue is variations in the house edge. The house edge in Blackjack can vary by as much as one or two percentage points depending on the rules of play. This may not seem like much, but it makes a massive difference over time.

That’s not all. As a gambler, you must know your conditions. Watch who deals the cards, how many decks are in play, what the winning payouts are. If you’re smart, you’ll shop around for the best terms, giving yourself a miniscule advantage over the casino.

But casinos and online portals adjust the house edge by changing the odds slightly. Some will make things easier for players, while others will be biased against them. In blackjack and roulette, for example, the rules of one site might provide the player with more opportunities to play, or a greater chance to win, than those on other sites. For example, some offer a “double down” option following a split, which increases the player’s chances of winning. Others do not. Before playing, check the rules carefully; being informed helps players gain an advantage.

But each site can set its own rules even when offering the same game. Doubling down on a split hand might be allowed or not depending on which casino you choose. Some sites might have European roulette wheels rather than American ones. The rules of any game can have a huge impact on odds and house advantage. Some games are simply better (or worse) for players than others. Read them before you play – because they matter. And I’m telling you now.

Finally, casinos will sometimes alter the rules of games to achieve a desired balance between fun and profit. For example, the payout on blackjack may vary between 3:2 and 6:5, or the number of decks or the dealer hitting or standing rules may differ. The roulette may have a single or double zero, depending on which version the casino is offering. Such variations can dramatically shift your odds. It pays to know what’s what ahead of time. Read the rules!

The game rules of each casino are determined by their online software provider, such as Microgaming, Playtech, and so forth. Even in a game like Blackjack, the various providers adjust payoff rates, the number of decks, or dealer hits and stands. Thus, your expected value (and the house edge) may increase or decrease from site to site. For instance, you may be allowed to double after splitting at one online casino, while another does not allow that. These differences make a slight difference in your return, so it is best to familiarize yourself with them.