Games Strategies
Let It Ride was first introduced to the casinos in 1993. Shuffle Master Inc, the company that makes those automatic-shuffling machines, created it. The game is popular because it offers a potential for high pay outs. Because the players are not playing against each other or trying to beat the dealer, camaraderie develops among the players creating a fun atmosphere. The game and the correct playing strategy can be learned quickly.
The game is played on a table similar to the blackjack tables. There are three circles in front of each player on the table. The circles are marked with the numbers 1. 2 and $. To start the game a player places three equal bets in each circle. The Shuffle Master machine deals out cards three at a time. The dealer places the three-card hand in front of each player. After each player receives his cards the dealer discards one card leaving two cards face down in front of the dealer. The machine counts out the remaining cards into the discard tray. When this is finished the players are allowed to look at their three-card hand. At this point you have the option to take back your bet in circle number one or Let It Ride. To take back you bet you scrape your cards on the table toward you or make a brushing motion with your hand.
After all the players have made their decisions the dealer will turn up first of the two community cards which is in front of the dealer. This card is used as the forth card for all the player's hands. You now have the option of taking down your second bet or letting it ride. You may take down the second bet even if you let the first bet ride but you can not take down or put the first bet back up.
After all the players make their decision about the second bet, the dealer will turn up the second community card. This card completes the five-card hand for every player. At this point the dealer will pay all the winning bets according to the pay table.
The House Edge for the basic game is approx. 3.5% when you play the correct strategy. You must know which hands you should take down and when to "Let It Ride".
There is an extra side bet you can make for a dollar when playing Let It Ride. In 1995 Shuffle Master created a tournament. Every three to six month players that qualified by getting a Royal Flush when they made the side bet were invited to a million dollar tournament. The tournament has been discontinued but the side bet can still be made for a bonus payoff when certain hands are made. The pay tables for the bonus varies from casino to casino. The House Edge ranges from 15 to 30 % on these bets. As with most side bets offered by the casino, these should be avoided.
Let It Ride can be a fun game for the recreational player. The game is slower than blackjack. You will be dealt about 40 hands per hour. Some casinos offer lower limit games. If you take the time to learn the simple strategy you can enjoy the excitement of this table game.
SOURCE: http://casinogambling.about.com/library/weekly/aa021400.htm
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