Push refers to a situation in a casino game where the player and the dealer end up with the same value of hand, resulting in a tie. In such a scenario, the game concludes with neither the player nor the dealer winning or losing. The term is most commonly used in blackjack but can apply to other card games as well.
- No Financial Exchange: In the event of a push, the player’s bet is returned without any additional winnings. Essentially, it’s as if the hand never happened from a financial perspective. The player neither loses their wager nor gains any profit from the round.
- Common in Blackjack: Pushes are most frequently encountered in blackjack. For example, if both the player and the dealer have a hand total of 18, the game results in a push. The player’s bet is returned, and the next hand begins.
- Blackjack Specifics: In blackjack, a push can also occur if both the player and the dealer have blackjack (an Ace and a 10-value card). Despite the high value of both hands, neither party wins, and the player’s bet is returned.
- Impact on Strategy: The possibility of a push affects the player’s strategy, especially in close-call situations where the risk of busting might outweigh the potential for a win. Knowing that a push is a possibility can influence decisions like whether to hit or stand.
- House Edge Considerations: Push scenarios are factored into the overall house edge calculation in games like blackjack. While they don’t directly contribute to the house’s profit, they do impact the game’s dynamics and the overall odds.
- Rules Variations: Different casinos or blackjack variants might have specific rules regarding pushes. For instance, some blackjack games have special rules about how a dealer’s push is handled, which can affect the game’s odds.
- Player Psychology: For players, a push can be a relief in situations where a loss seems imminent or frustrating if they were close to winning. It’s a neutral outcome that keeps the player’s bankroll unchanged.
