What Is Push 22 in Blackjack?

If you’re a fan of blackjack, there’s a good chance you’ve heard the term “Push 22.” But what does it mean, exactly?

In short, Push 22 is a rule that some casinos use in blackjack games. It states that if the dealer busts with a hand value of 22, any remaining hands at the table that haven’t busted automatically push (tie) rather than win.

This might not seem like a big deal at first glance, but it can significantly impact the game’s strategy and outcome. Let’s take a closer look.

First of all, it’s worth noting that Push 22 is not a universal rule in blackjack. It’s up to each individual casino to decide whether or not to use it. Some do, while others don’t.

For players, this means that if you’re used to playing at one casino and then switch to another that uses Push 22, you’ll need to adjust your strategy accordingly. Specifically, you’ll need to be more cautious about hitting when the dealer has a weak upcard (e.g., 2 through 6), since doing so increases your chances of busting and losing your bet if the dealer ends up with a 22.

On the other hand, because Push 22 essentially creates an extra “buffer” zone for players between having a total of 21 and busting (since any hand value between 22 and 31 automatically pushes), some players may be tempted to take more risks than they otherwise would. For example, they might hit on hands that they would normally stand on in hopes of getting closer to 21 without going over – knowing that even if they do bust, there’s still a chance they’ll push instead of lose.

Ultimately, whether or not Push 22 is a good or bad rule for players depends on several factors – including their own risk tolerance and playing style as well as how the rule is implemented by the casino.

For example, some casinos may use Push 22 as a way to offset other player-friendly rules (such as allowing players to double down on any two cards), thus making the overall game less favorable for players. Others may implement it in a way that’s more player-friendly, such as by offering higher payouts on certain hands to compensate for the increased risk of pushing.

So, should you seek out or avoid blackjack games that use Push 22? As with most things in gambling, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. It ultimately comes down to personal preference and understanding how the rule affects the game’s strategy and odds.

That said, if you’re new to blackjack or have never played with Push 22 before, it’s worth taking some time to familiarize yourself with how it works and how it might impact your play. As with any new rule or variation, there will likely be an adjustment period as you get used to it – but with practice and experience, you’ll be able to make more informed decisions at the table and hopefully come out ahead in the long run.