Stefan Weber
Ultimate, is a very strong word with phrases like final, decisive, fundamental, and best being some popular synonyms. So when a variant comes along and dubs itself Ultimate Blackjack, that's a very bold premise.
The developer Real Dealer has in fact made this claim, more than once, with two separate though similar versions of the game, Ultimate Blackjack with Rachael and Ultimate Blackjack with Olivia.
Both are cinematic games with one-to-one private table play, both happen to have a very high 99.51% RTP, and both begin with a minimum $1 bet. The main difference is in the dealer - do you prefer blonds or brunettes? - and the featured side game which can influence the top win.
The question you might then be having is, which to pick? Or as you may ultimately decide, as did we, there's plenty of time for both.
Table of Contents
- Best Ultimate Blackjack Casinos 2025
- Ultimate Blackjack Game Basics
- → Ultimate Blackjack with Rachael
- → Ultimate Blackjack with Olivia
- Which of these Ultimate Blackjack Games Is the Ultimate One?
- Play Ultimate Blackjack for Free
- Ultimate Blackjack Strategy Chart
- Ultimate Blackjack Tips and Tricks
- Ultimate Blackjack FAQs
Best Casinos to Play Ultimate Blackjack 2025
 | 93/100 Read Review | Up to $300+ 150 Free Spins | visit Playamo | |
 | 92/100 Read Review | $10,000+ 500 Free Spins | visit Lucky Dreams | |
 | 91/100 Read Review | $1,500 + 500 Free Spins | visit Playzilla | |
 | 89/100 Read Review | $1,250+ 125 Free Spins | visit Bizzo | |
 | 89/100 Read Review | $5,000+ 400 Free Spins | visit Just Casino | |
 | 89/100 Read Review | $3,000+ 200 Free Spins | visit Platincasino | |
 | 89/100 Read Review | $100+ 100 Free Spins | visit National Casino | |
 | 88/100 Read Review | $1,500+ 400 Free Spins | visit Spinoli | |
 | 88/100 Read Review | $120+ 120 Free Spins | visit 20Bet | |
 | 88/100 Read Review | $2,500 | visit Betandplay | |
Ultimate Blackjack Game Basics
Ultimate Blackjack, as an online casino game, is currently the sole domain of the developer Real Dealer Studios, which if you aren't familiar, is a wonderful cinematic developer working under the Games Global brand.
While not yet as widely distributed as other labels, Real Dealer Studios is definitely an up-and-coming name in the casino world. And Ultimate Blackjack exemplifies why.
The basics of this version, like any blackjack game, begin with the standard goal. That is, to get a natural blackjack, a 21, or a hand as close as possible without going over that beats the dealer. But here you'll have great side bet options, the near-live action element, and some other things worked in. For clarity's sake, let's look at the versions one by one.
Both versions of Ultimate Blackjack give you the convenience of an online blackjack game combined with the warm and engaging feel of a live casino game. Both Olivia and Rachael, the respective dealers, are real people, but with the game using a random number generator and recorded video in its patented style of play so you wouldn't guess they're not actually there. If you haven't encountered it yet, by the way, it's definitely a must see!
Rachael
The main differentiator between the two versions is in the name. That is the name of the hosts. Ultimate Blackjack with Rachael obviously features Rachael, a lovely American brunette, who's warm and friendly and quick to point out, that you're the star of the game.
Actual mechanics are such that you take a seat and place your bets by moving your chips to the table. Bets begin at $1. Rachael will then deal you two cards face up, and herself one up and one down. You can hit, stand, double down, or split.
Innovative and thrilling, beyond the cinematic style, it also accommodates the Perfect Pairs side bet and 6 Card Charlie rule, the latter being one we rarely see. Plus, the betting range of $1-$1,000 is ideal for blackjack players of any budget and style.
Rules and special features
- Played with 6 decks of cards
- Perfect Pairs side bet
- 6 Card Charlie rule for an automatic win on a 6-card hand
- You can double down on any first 2 cards
- Splits allowed on your first 2 cards of the same value
- Option to purchase insurance on a dealer Ace
- Blackjack pays 3:2
- Dealer stands on all 17s, draws to 16
- Your bet is returned on a push
- Minimum bet $1, maximum bet $1,000
- Very low volatility
- 99.51% RTP
| Payouts | |
|---|---|
 | |
Olivia
This version of the game features the dealer Olivia. This time billed as a luxury, cinematic experience (where you are the VIP,) the sassy, blond, ex-Londoner Olivia shuffles the deck and deals you in to this private table card game.
Highlights here - besides Olivia herself and the stylish studio - are the double down feature, splits, side bets, and once again 6 Card Charlie rule.
Besides the nationality and hair color of the dealer, the main difference is there's now a 21+3 side bet, and increased winning potential with that.
Rules and special features
- Played with 6 decks of cards
- 21+3 side bet
- 6 Card Charlie rule for an automatic win on a 6-card hand
- Splits allowed on your first 2 cards of the same value
- Can double down on any 2 initial cards
- Option to purchase insurance on a dealer Ace
- Blackjack pays 3:2
- Dealer stands on all 17s, draws to 16
- Minimum bet $1, maximum bet $1,000
- Very low volatility
- 99.51% RTP
| Payouts | |
|---|---|
 | |
Which of these Ultimate Blackjack Games Is the Ultimate One?
Both versions are single-hand games with the 6 Card Charlie rule, and insurance, double down, and split options available. Plus, they both use Real Dealer Studio's patented format of professional moviemaking techniques combined with RNG gameplay to deliver a fantastically realistic experience - so you'd almost swear the dealer was live rather than recorded.
The main difference is the side bets, with Olivia offering you the 21+3 and Rachael the Perfect Pairs. So which is preferred is up to you, though maybe the next variant the developer releases will incorporate them both, for what would then truly be the ultimate of Ultimate Blackjack games.
Choose your version at National CasinoMoreLess
Play Ultimate Blackjack for Free
The really cool thing about Ultimate Blackjack is that it gives you the accessibility of an online game combined with what feels like live gambling interactivity. Besides being highly entertaining, this format makes it available for free play (actual live blackjack, as you know, is not).
This means you can try it for free at any of our recommended casinos - or right here from our review - and discover the wonders of this cinematic style of play without fronting a thing.
Ultimate Blackjack - Demo Mode
By pressing on "Play", I understand that I will be shown content from Real Dealer Studios.
Real Dealer Studios
Ultimate Blackjack Strategy Chart
Once you've made the decision to play, you'll want to play your hand right. Or as best as you can in this mixed skill-luck game. While there's never a guarantee, a basic strategy chart like this is good guidance for making your next move.
| Dealer's Up Card | |||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Player's Hand | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | Ace | |
| 5 to 8 | H | H | H | H | H | H | H | H | H | H | |
| 9 | H | DD | DD | DD | DD | H | H | H | H | H | |
| 10 | DD | DD | DD | DD | DD | DD | DD | DD | H | H | |
| 11 | DD | DD | DD | DD | DD | DD | DD | DD | H | H | |
| 12 | H | H | S | S | S | H | H | H | H | H | |
| 13 | S | S | S | S | S | H | H | H | H | H | |
| 14 | S | S | S | S | S | H | H | H | H | H | |
| 15 | S | S | S | S | S | H | H | H | H | H | |
| 16 | S | S | S | S | S | H | H | H | H | H | |
| 17 | S | S | S | S | S | S | S | S | S | S | |
| Dealer's Up Card | |||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Player's Hand | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | Ace | |
| A,2 | H | H | H | DD | DD | H | H | H | H | H | |
| A,3 | H | H | H | DD | DD | H | H | H | H | H | |
| A,4 | H | H | DD | DD | DD | H | H | H | H | H | |
| A,5 | H | H | DD | DD | DD | H | H | H | H | H | |
| A,6 | H | DD | DD | DD | DD | H | H | H | H | H | |
| A,7 | S | DD | DD | DD | DD | S | S | H | H | H | |
| A,8 | S | S | S | S | S | S | S | S | S | S | |
| A,9 | S | S | S | S | S | S | S | S | S | S | |
| Dealer's Up Card | |||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Player's Hand | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | Ace | |
| 2,2 | H | H | Sp | Sp | Sp | Sp | H | H | H | H | |
| 3,3 | H | H | Sp | Sp | Sp | Sp | H | H | H | H | |
| 4,4 | H | H | H | H | H | H | H | H | H | H | |
| 5,5 | DD | DD | DD | DD | DD | DD | DD | DD | H | H | |
| 6,6 | H | Sp | Sp | Sp | Sp | H | H | H | H | H | |
| 7,7 | Sp | Sp | Sp | Sp | Sp | Sp | H | H | H | H | |
| 8,8 | Sp | Sp | Sp | Sp | Sp | Sp | Sp | Sp | H | H | |
| 9,9 | Sp | Sp | Sp | Sp | Sp | S | Sp | Sp | S | S | |
| 10,10 | S | S | S | S | S | S | S | S | S | S | |
| A,A | Sp | Sp | Sp | Sp | Sp | Sp | Sp | Sp | Sp | H | |
Legend: H = hit, S = stand, Sp = split, DD = double down / Note: Face cards also count as 10
Ultimate Blackjack Tips and Tricks
At its core, this is a classic version of the game, without any special rules like you would find in variants like 21 Burn Blackjack or Blackjack Switch. So if you know the basics of the game, then you're good to go, and the strategy you generally use will apply here too.
General recommendations, as a reminder however, would be to:
- Know when to hit or stand based on your hand and the dealer's upcard (remember the dealer in Ultimate Blackjack holds on 17)
- Always split Aces and 8s
- Avoid taking insurance since the potential payback isn't really worth the expense
The other tip would be to think wisely about the side bet options in these games. While the prize potential, especially with the 21+3 option in the Olivia version of the game is tempting, it's important to remember that it simultaneously has a very high house edge. So make the decision and manage your bankroll accordingly.
Ultimate Blackjack FAQs
- Where can I play Ultimate Blackjack?
- Is there more than one variant of the Ultimate Blackjack card game?
- Is Ultimate Blackjack a live casino game?
- How do I know Ultimate Blackjack is fair?
- What's special about Ultimate Blackjack?
- Can I count cards when playing Ultimate Blackjack?
- What is the house edge in Ultimate Blackjack?
- Does Ultimate Blackjack have a bonus round?
- Which side bets are available in Ultimate Blackjack?
- Are there any geo-restrictions on the Ultimate Blackjack game?
- Can Ultimate Blackjack be played with Bitcoin bets?
- Is Ultimate Blackjack mobile?
1. Where can I play Ultimate Blackjack?
Ultimate Blackjack is not available at every online casino. Some would say unfortunately, while others would say that's part of its appeal, i.e. the exclusivity factor.
Either way, since we're guessing you now want to play, to help you find quality operators carrying this compelling premium blackjack game, we refer you to our 'Best Casinos to Play Ultimate Blackjack' list, above.
2. Is there more than one variant of the Ultimate Blackjack card game?
Yes, there are currently two versions of this game available. One is called Ultimate Blackjack with Rachael, a stunning brunette from Dallas with a fun demeanor, and a Perfect Pairs side bet option. Or there's Ultimate Blackjack with Olivia, the posh ex-Londoner, with plenty of sass and a tempting 21+3 side bet on the table.
3. Is Ultimate Blackjack a live casino game?
Technically Ultimate Blackjack is not a live casino game, as it's not streamed live from a studio to your screen. Rather it's a distinct format created by Real Dealer Studios in which high-quality video clips are recorded of dealers and all possible scenarios of game play. This ensures that whatever cards you're dealt, you get a realistic response that feels totally sincere, and of course the correct next action follows.
If you haven't seen how it works, by the way, we'd say it's undoubtedly a must see, as it's very impressive and unique.
4. How do I know Ultimate Blackjack is fair?
Ultimate Blackjack is totally cutting edge in its delivery format. Plus, it uses the RNG in unique ways too. Besides guaranteeing fair and random results, Ultimate Blackjack's very game engine is also RNG-based to combine seamless video streaming with fluid gameplay. This RNG-engine ultimately means it guarantees error-free performance, 100% of the time, on each and every round.
5. What's special about Ultimate Blackjack?
The framework is ultimately quite standard, with gameplay and rules being typical. Of course, not every variant has the side bets you'll see here, with Rachael offering Perfect Pairs and Olivia the 21+3 side bet.
But the truly unique thing in Ultimate Blackjack is undoubtedly the pioneering technology and approach of cinematic RNG play. This ensures an unprecedented online experience that feels like you're being dealt in at a VIP, private table.
6. Can I count cards when playing Ultimate Blackjack?
No, it's pretty much impossible to count cards when playing online blackjack. Also, even if you could, the cards are regularly reshuffled. But you can feel free to try.
7. What is the house edge in Ultimate Blackjack?
The RTP of both versions of Ultimate Blackjack is 99.51%, which translates to extremely good returns. This means the house edge is a surprisingly low 0.49%, or put into a cash calculation, for every $100 wagered, the casino theoretically keeps just $0.49.
Just remember, the house edge is much higher on side bets like 21+3 and Perfect Pairs, which is why you should think twice when considering them, as fun as they are.
8. Does Ultimate Blackjack have a bonus round?
No, there's no bonus round in Ultimate Blackjack. Nor are there any special tricks or gimmicks involved. The main selling point here is the highly stylized format, which gives you a unique and engaging VIP experience.
9. Which side bets are available in Ultimate Blackjack?
Ultimate Blackjack with Olivia has a 21+3 side bet option, while Ultimate Blackjack with Rachael offers Perfect Pairs. Both also let you purchase insurance on a dealer Ace up card. And both follow the 6 Card Charlie rule which gives you an automatic win if you manage to draw 6 cards without busting, regardless of the dealer's hand (i.e. they could have a blackjack and you'd still win).
10. Are there any geo-restrictions on the Ultimate Blackjack game?
Yes, there are likely to be geo-restrictions depending on where you're located, which casino you're playing at, as well as the casino's own policies for accepting players from different countries. If you encounter such restrictions, these will be standard ones you're familiar with, which can be navigated with a VPN in most cases.
11. Can Ultimate Blackjack be played with Bitcoin bets?
Sure, you can bet with Bitcoin if you're playing at a crypto casino. In fact, you can bet on Ultimate Blackjack with any currency theoretically - both digital and fiat - only limited by the casino's own policy.
12. Is Ultimate Blackjack mobile?
Cutting-edge to the core, Ultimate Blackjack is as sophisticated as they come when it comes to its design.
Built for flawless performance on any device (as far back as iPhone 5!), it perfectly adjusts to landscape or portrait modes, for quality viewing on your phone. Fast-loading and responsive, the game also automatically optimizes the video streaming quality to suit your connection speed. And since it's not actually live, you can resume where you left off, if your network loses connection for whatever reason.
Ultimate Blackjack Summary
While we can't say what's the optimal game for you, Ultimate Blackjack may well be a contender.
The cinematic experience of Hollywood-quality filmmaking combined with the unique RNG-based game engine ensure each round gives you a true to life feel - which is highly appealing.
Whether you choose Rachael or Olivia to deal you in, you'll enjoy quality gaming, with engaging VIP level private table play. Plus, the side bet potential of each, makes either version extra fun.
Hot Topics
MoreLess
I'm lucky enough to have found both my job and my calling on the internet. As the online marketing manager for a major sportsbook, I began in the online gambling business over a decade ago. The business has been good to me and I love the dynamics of the industry. A blackjack enthusiast myself, I try to provide articles that combine practicalities with the strategic elegance of the game in a way that both rookies and experienced players can appreciate. And when I can, I like to spend my free time on live streaming platforms such as Twitch and Kick.