Trip back in time to Side Bet City by Evolution Gaming

Step into a vibrant, neon-lit world reminiscent of the 1980s with Evolution’s captivating live casino game, Side Bet City. This unique offering transports players back to an era of classic cool, blending the thrill of poker with a refreshingly simple gameplay mechanic that appeals to a broad spectrum of South African casino enthusiasts.

Whether you're a newcomer to the world of online poker or a seasoned player looking for a fast-paced, high-payout experience, Side Bet City delivers. Its straightforward rules make it an ideal entry point for those intimidated by traditional poker, while the potential for significant wins, with odds reaching up to 1,000 to 1, keeps even the most experienced players engaged.

Forget complex strategies and intense bluffing; Side Bet City focuses purely on the strength of poker hands, making it a perfect choice for a relaxed yet exciting live casino session. Let's explore what makes this game a standout choice for players across South Africa in 2025.

What is Side Bet City?

Side Bet City is an innovative live casino game developed by Evolution, a global leader in live dealer solutions. Launched in 2019, it quickly gained popularity for its retro 80s aesthetic and its accessible approach to poker. Unlike traditional poker games where you compete against other players or the dealer, in Side Bet City, you are simply betting on the outcome of various poker hands dealt by the live dealer.

The game's premise is incredibly simple: players place bets on whether a 3-card, 5-card, or 7-card poker hand will win, or if all hands will lose (the “All Lose” option). Once bets are placed, the dealer deals the cards, and the results are automatically determined. There's no decision-making after placing your initial bet, making it a stress-free and enjoyable experience.

This unique setup means you're playing against the table's odds, not against the dealer or other participants. The dealer's role is purely to facilitate the game, dealing cards and announcing results, while players simultaneously place their wagers on the potential outcomes.

How to Play Side Bet City: The Bets Explained

Playing Side Bet City is remarkably easy, making it a fantastic option for both beginners and those looking for a quick, engaging game. Here’s a breakdown of the main betting options:

Three-Card Hand Bet

After all bets are placed, the dealer deals the first three cards face-up. If these three cards form a winning poker hand (e.g., a pair, flush, straight, three of a kind), and you've placed a bet on the 3-card hand, you win. The payouts for this hand are generally lower but occur more frequently.

Five-Card Hand Bet

Following the 3-card deal, the dealer adds two more cards, making a total of five cards. If these five cards form a winning poker hand, and you've bet on the 5-card hand, you win. This bet offers higher payouts than the 3-card hand due to the increased difficulty of forming stronger poker combinations.

Seven-Card Hand Bet

Finally, the dealer deals two additional cards, bringing the total to seven. From these seven cards, the best possible 5-card poker hand is formed. If this 5-card hand is a winner, and you've placed a bet on the 7-card hand, you win. This option typically offers the highest payouts, including the coveted 1,000:1 for a Royal Flush.

What Is An All Lose Bet?

The “All Lose” bet is a unique and intriguing option in Side Bet City. You win this bet if none of the 3-card, 5-card, or 7-card hands result in a winning poker combination. It's a bet on the absence of a winning hand, offering a different dynamic to the gameplay.

Players can choose to bet on any one of these options, or even combine them for a more varied betting strategy. The beauty of Side Bet City lies in its simplicity: place your bet, watch the cards, and see if you've won. There's no need for complex decisions mid-game, allowing for a truly relaxed gambling experience.

Why Side Bet City Appeals to South African Players

Side Bet City's blend of retro charm, straightforward rules, and the potential for substantial payouts makes it a hit with South African players. Its accessibility means anyone can jump in and enjoy the thrill of poker without needing extensive knowledge of the game's intricacies. The high-quality streaming and professional live dealers, characteristic of Evolution games, ensure an immersive and engaging experience from the comfort of your home or on the go.

For those in South Africa looking to explore live casino games, Side Bet City offers a perfect starting point. It’s a game that promises fun, excitement, and the chance for big wins, all wrapped up in a stylish 80s package.

Responsible Gaming in South Africa

While Side Bet City offers exciting entertainment, we always encourage responsible gambling. Set limits for your play, never chase losses, and remember that gambling should always be a fun activity, not a way to make money. If you or someone you know needs help, please reach out to local responsible gambling organisations in South Africa.