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Pros
- Exceptional graphics
- Over/Under 13 Hi Lo Side Bet
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Cons
- Splitting only allowed once per game
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Bottom Line
Hi Lo 13 European Blackjack is a fantastic slot by Microgaming
BlackjackChamp Editor's Rating
Hi Lo 13 European Blackjack is another all-time-classic by Microgaming. The game uses the typical European blackjack rules we all know about. You’ll find the same features, 8 decks, standing on 17 – the usual. Within this Hi Lo 13 European Blackjack review, we look at rules, pay-outs and tips for winning.
Hi Lo 13 European Blackjack Review: An Introduction
First and foremost, Hi Lo 13 European Blackjack is an alternative version of playing the basic format by Microgaming. There are a few tweaks here and there which can throw you off at first. But soon enough you’ll get used to the new format and have an enjoyable gamer experience.
If you are familiar with the basic blackjack rules, getting to grips with Hi Lo 13 European Blackjack shouldn’t be all that difficult. Mind you, it can be difficult to grasp at first. Thus, we advise you play the free play version to truly get used to the format in place for this blackjack variant.
Rules
With the dealer standing on all 17s, Hi Lo 13 is a little different to your typical blackjack game. Splitting is allowed, but only once per game. Aces may be split, but each new hand then takes only one card before you must stand.
Players are also allowed to double down. However, that’s only accepted on 8, 10 or 11, but never after a split, or if they have been dealt blackjack.
Another perk about Hi Lo 13 European Blackjack has some bonus features to it. For instance, side bets are a nice touch. The wager is on the total of the player’s first two cards and becomes available once the main wager has been placed. There are three ways to wager. Those are:
-Low (Under 13)
-Hi (Over 13)
-13
Players can even wager on all three, making the bet a sure win. The max bet or each is 25 credit.
Pay-outs
First and foremost, you’ll want to know the limitations of the game. Players can choose between 8 different chip sizes. The minimum bet is 1 credit with the maximum able to reach up to 200 (€/£/$).
The game has two pay-outs to it, one for the main game and one for the side bet. The main game pays a standard 3/2 for blackjack, 1/1 for a regular win, and 2/1 on insurance bets.
When betting on the Hi Lo feature, you’ll want to keep in mind the following pay-outs.
- Low: 1/1
- Hi: 1/1
- 13: 10/1
It’s truly important that even though your primary bet may fail, this back-up can always be a way out. But more on that later.
Design and Presentation
One of the best bits about Hi Lo 13 is that the game looks as good as it plays. The table is crystal-clear, with bold cards and chips. Subtle animations and visual effects add a very nice touch. The subtle background music and murmur of the casino crowd work great to set the scene.
The only complaint we have is that the chip rack at the top of the screen is tiny and hard to see, but since it’s not an essential part of the game, it’s not really important. Overall, the game gets top marks in this category.
Winning Strategy for Hi Lo 13 European Blackjack
In order to make the most of this game’s special functions, you’ll need to approach the game differently from your typical blackjack titles. Hence, the Hi Lo 13 is one which you’ll want to look out for. Especially, as you can bet on all three of them at the same time.
This would be a good strategy, as it guarantees a win. However, it’s pretty much the same as just betting on 13. This is because the Hi and Lo bets pay 1/1, so if either is won, it pays for the other.
In the end, the best wager to make on this side bet is to only bet on 13. You’ll want to keep that in mind, as it may be a nice side bet to place every now and again, especially as it can lead to bigger wins.
Overall
Although Hi Lo 13 European Blackjack may be difficult to grasp at first, it is a very profitable and enjoyable game once you get the hang of it. Whilst we recommend playing the free demo version for about an hour before placing any real solid cash, you can go at your own pace.
According to this Hi Lo 13 European Blackjack review, we’ve got to note that the game is certainly more fun than the regular Classic Blackjack. The addition of better visuals, along with a high RTP and stake range speaks volumes. The visuals are set for quality gamer experience and the payouts are all pretty standard. If you play, you will have to risk a bit, but the reward and enjoyment could be worth your time.