- Excalibur is now offering the only $5 live dealer blackjack table on the Las Vegas Strip.
- Players are divided over the return, with praise for the low limit and concerns about the 6:5 payout.
LAS VEGAS — Live dealer $5 blackjack has quietly returned to the Las Vegas Strip, offering a rare low-limit option for players looking to enjoy a traditional table game without breaking the bank. Excalibur, an MGM Resorts International property on the southern end of the Strip, is currently the only casino offering this live-dealt, low-stakes blackjack game.
For the past few months, Excalibur has promoted the game with signage reading “$5 Blackjack – Dealt by hand.” The table pays 6:5 for blackjack and requires dealers to hit on soft 17. While the 6:5 payout may appear rewarding, it increases the house edge significantly compared to the traditional 3:2 payout—something experienced players are quick to note.
Split Fan Reactions
Gamblers' responses to the $5 live table have been conflicting. Since $15 minimums have become the norm on the Strip, many tourists and casual players are happy to see an inexpensive table again. The lower entry point offers a way to enjoy real cards and dealers without jumping to higher-stakes games.
Others, however, are not as excited. Even if the lowest payment is minimal, seasoned players argue that the 6:5 payout vs 3:2 blackjack payout detracts from the game's worth. When these players are assessing the value of a game, favorable rules are just as crucial as bet size.
Although legal blackjack is also available in off-Strip casinos like Silverton, Ellis Island, and Palms for $5, the limits frequently change based on demand.
Excalibur’s table stands out as a steady option on Las Vegas Boulevard. The casino also offers electronic table games, including craps, roulette, and blackjack, with minimums as low as $3. This variety supports the broader push for legal Nevada blackjack, both in-person and online.