Is Gambling in Rust Rigged? Exploring the Fairness of In-Game Odds

Playing Blackjack in RUST

Blackjack was added to RUST by Facepunch Studios in November 2022, expanding the game's gambling options beyond poker. In this game, players focus on their own luck, wagering scrap against a computer dealer. To start playing, players must find a terminal at the betting table. They need to insert at least 5 scrap into the game’s storage slot. After placing the scrap, they can press 'E' to begin the game and compete against the dealer.

Where to Locate Blackjack Tables in RUST

Finding blackjack tables in RUST requires exploration, as they are not fixed in one location. Players must travel across the map to discover these gaming spots. A notable new feature is the Lucky Caboose Casino, which is part of the above-ground Train Rail Network. This mobile casino offers blackjack along with other games, all housed in a train car.

To join the action, players need to locate and enter the caboose, taking a chance for rewards.

It's important to note that maps smaller than 4250 in size do not include the above-ground rail network, meaning blackjack tables won't be available. In addition to blackjack, players can also find a Poker Table and Slot Machines within the caboose.

How to Start a Blackjack Game in RUST

To begin a game of blackjack in RUST, a player does not need a specific number of participants. They can select any available terminal at the table and look down at the laptop displayed in front of them.

A minimum of 5 scrap must be placed into the card game storage port to join. After inserting the scrap, they should direct their attention to the bowtied dealer’s computer and press ‘E’ to start the game.

Once a player activates the game feature, the round will commence. It is possible to join a game already in progress, but they must wait until the current hand concludes. Joining an ongoing game follows the same process as starting a new one but requires patience.

Players can exit the game at any time, provided they do not have an active bet in play. Leaving while committed to a bet results in folding and forfeiting that wager. Any remaining winnings will automatically transfer to their inventory upon standing up to leave.

The Blackjack Interface in RUST

The Player List and Your Cards

When a player sits at a blackjack table, the interface changes significantly. The global chat is disabled, and instead, a private chat for table participants opens up, allowing focused communication. Above the health bar, a notification appears, indicating that the player can press 'Space' to leave the table. The escape key serves as an alternative quick exit.

On the left side of the screen, players will see a list of competitors. This list displays each person’s name, their current bets, and the total amount of scrap they possess, enabling everyone to track the game's progression.

Once the player initiates the game by pressing ‘Play Game,’ a countdown timer of 30 seconds begins. This time is crucial for players to submit their bets before cards are dealt. They can adjust their wagers using the Up and Down arrow keys. After deciding on their bet, pressing the B key will finalize and lock in their wager with the dealer.

During the 30-second period for placing bets, players have the option to press “M” to bet the maximum amount of 500 scrap or whatever balance they have available. They may also choose to exit the game by pressing Space. Those who do not submit a bet will not face any penalties but will need to wait for the next round to participate again.

The basics of blackjack in RUST

Blackjack in RUST mirrors the traditional game closely. The goal is to reach a total value of 21 without exceeding it. Players achieve this by using different card combinations.

The values of the cards are as follows: Cards numbered 2 through 10 hold their respective values. Face cards, which include the jack, queen, and king, are each valued at 10. The Ace can represent either 1 or 11, based on the player's choice during play. Importantly, card suits do not affect gameplay. If a player goes over 21, they bust, resulting in an automatic loss of that hand to the Dealer.

The Dealer

The Dealer is the primary opponent in the game. Players aim to outperform the Dealer to win their bets. There are specific rules that apply to the Dealer’s play, which differ from standard casino practices:

• The Dealer must stand when they reach a total of 17 or higher.
• If both the player and Dealer end up with the same total, the player simply gets their wager back, resulting in a tie.
• Currently, the option for Insurance is present in the interface but is not in effect.
• Winning a hand with blackjack pays out at a rate of 3:2. For example, a bet of 10 scrap brings a return of 10 scrap plus an additional 2.5 scrap (rounded down).

Your turn

Players are presented with clear options during their turn, with a timeout of 30 seconds to decide. The available actions appear at the bottom right of the screen. The options include:

• Space: Pressing this key allows players to collect their scrap and leave the table. They can also use the Esc key for the same action.
• S (Stand): This choice signals that players do not wish to draw any additional cards and are satisfied with their current hand.
• H (Hit): This option allows players to request another card to improve their hand’s total. Players can hit multiple times, as long as their hand does not exceed 21.
• P (Split): If players receive two identical cards, they can choose to split their hand. By pressing P and doubling their original bet, the two cards become separate hands. Each new hand receives an additional card and plays independently.
• D (Double Down): This action can only be done after the initial two cards are dealt. By selecting this, players double their original bet and receive only one more card. This move is strategic, typically used when the total of the first two cards is 10 or 11, as drawing a face card or Ace could result in a blackjack. The payout, in this case, reflects the increased bet, paying out double the original amount.

The combination of these rules and options creates an exciting gameplay experience in blackjack within RUST. Players can strategically choose to stand, hit, split, or double down as they aim for the coveted blackjack hand.

Risks of Gambling in RUST

Gambling can be very unpredictable and should be approached carefully. Players in RUST blackjack risk losing all their scrap. Unlike poker, this game does not have a secure area.

The danger doesn't just come from the game itself. Other players can attack and kill those participating in gambling. It's essential for players to stay aware of their environment. To improve their chances of survival, they might consider building defenses, such as setting up turrets near their homes.

Knowing the game well can increase the odds of making the most out of time spent at the tables. Players should always prioritize their safety while enjoying the thrill of the game.