Pragmatic Play Expands Privé Lounge Blackjack With New Features
Pragmatic Play has introduced two new gameplay mechanics to its premium live casino offering through an update to Privé Lounge Blackjack.
The new features, Face Down Double Down and Split After Split, are designed to provide additional strategic options for players while keeping the traditional blackjack structure associated with the VIP-focused Privé Lounge format.
The update follows the company’s previous Double Down After Split addition and continues Pragmatic Play’s efforts to add new elements to its premium blackjack tables while maintaining familiar land-based blackjack rules.
Face Down Double Down allows players to double their wager while keeping the additional card hidden until the dealer completes their hand. The mechanic introduces additional suspense during each decision, as players must wait before seeing the outcome of their move.
Split After Split expands splitting options by allowing eligible hands created after an initial split to be split again. The feature gives players more flexibility during gameplay and increases the game’s return to player (RTP) rate to 99.51%.
New Mechanics Add More Strategic Choices
The two features are available exclusively within Privé Lounge Blackjack, a premium format created for VIP players.
With Face Down Double Down, players receive an additional card after choosing to double down, but the value of that card remains concealed until the dealer’s hand is completed. This changes the timing of information available to players while preserving the core rules of blackjack.
Split After Split applies to qualifying hands formed after a first split, allowing players to continue splitting in situations where the feature is available. The mechanic creates additional decision points during a hand and provides players with more possible strategies.
Both features build on Pragmatic Play’s previous blackjack updates and combine additional gameplay options with the established structure of the game.
Privé Lounge Blackjack Focuses On VIP Gameplay
Privé Lounge Blackjack is designed as a dedicated VIP experience featuring individual player sessions, trained dealers, and personalized table options.
The format includes services such as dealer changes, extended sessions, and shoe reshuffles. According to Pragmatic Play, the Privé Lounge series focuses on creating a tailored environment for players seeking a premium blackjack experience.
The single-player format allows only one player to access a Privé Lounge Blackjack table at a time. Players can request dealer changes or extend sessions for up to 90 minutes, with gameplay adjusted around individual preferences.
The format launched in late 2023 and initially included five live blackjack tables. The number of tables later expanded, with the Privé Lounge brand also growing to include additional live casino titles such as Baccarat, Roulette, Roulette Deluxe, and Russian Poker.
Pragmatic Play Continues Live Casino Development
The Privé Lounge Blackjack update arrives as Pragmatic Play continues focusing investment on its core product categories.
Following a strategic review in June 2026, the supplier confirmed plans to phase out its sportsbook and bingo verticals while concentrating on slots and live casino.
Sharon McHugh, director of public relations at Pragmatic Play, said: “Privé Lounge Blackjack has delivered a truly premium experience from day one, combining personalised service with elegant gameplay.
“Face Down Double Down adds a new level of suspense to every hand, while Split After Split gives players greater strategic freedom and improves their potential edge. Together, they deliver a richer blackjack experience while remaining true to the classic gameplay that players know and enjoy.”
The company said the latest additions strengthen the Privé Lounge Blackjack experience by combining new decision-making opportunities with the traditional blackjack format familiar to players.
Source:
Pragmatic Play upgrades premium blackjack with new Privé features, igamingbusiness.com, August 11, 2026
