Blackjack Variants
Blackjack Variants: Everything You Need to KnowBlackjack is a classic casino game that has evolved into many different variations, each with its own unique rules and strategies. Whether you're a beginner or a pro, it's important to know the differences between the various blackjack variants to choose the one that best suits your playing style and preferences.
Exploring Popular Blackjack Variants
Blackjack is one of the most popular card games worldwide, and there are numerous variations of the game. In this post, we will explore some of the most popular Blackjack variants, along with their features and differences.
1. American (Classis) Blackjack
American Blackjack, also known as Classic Blackjack, is the most widely played variation of Blackjack. The game is played with six to eight decks of cards, and the dealer stands on a soft 17. The player can double down on any two cards, and splitting is allowed up to three times.
2. European Blackjack
European Blackjack is a variation of the game played mainly in Europe. The game is played with two decks of cards, and the dealer stands on a soft 17. Unlike American Blackjack, the player can only double down on hard totals of 9, 10, or 11. Additionally, splitting is allowed only once.
3. Vegas Strip Blackjack
Vegas Strip Blackjack is a popular variation played in Las Vegas casinos. The game is played with four decks of cards, and the dealer stands on a soft 17. Doubling down is allowed on any two cards, and splitting is allowed up to three times.
4. Progressive Blackjack
Progressive Blackjack is a variant of the game that offers players the chance to win a progressive jackpot. The game is played like traditional Blackjack, with an additional bet placed on the progressive jackpot. The jackpot increases every time someone plays the game until a lucky player hits the winning combination.
5. Atlantic City Blackjack
Atlantic City Blackjack is a variation played mainly in Atlantic City casinos. The game is played with eight decks of cards, and the dealer stands on a soft 17. Doubling down is allowed on any two cards, and splitting is allowed up to three times.
6. Multi-Hand Blackjack
Multi-Hand Blackjack is a variation where the player can play multiple hands at the same time. The game is played like traditional Blackjack, with the player making multiple bets on separate hands. The number of hands that can be played at once depends on the casino.
7. Double Exposure Blackjack
Double Exposure Blackjack is a variant where both of the dealer’s cards are dealt face-up. The game is played with six to eight decks of cards, and the dealer wins all ties except for Blackjack ties. Additionally, the player can only double down on hard totals of 9, 10, or 11.
8. Single Deck Blackjack
Single Deck Blackjack is a variation played with only one deck of cards, making card counting easier. The game is played like traditional Blackjack, with the dealer standing on a soft 17. However, Blackjack pays 6:5 instead of the standard 3:2.
9. Blackjack Switch
Blackjack Switch is a variation where the player plays two hands at once and can switch the top cards of each hand. The game is played with six to eight decks of cards, and the dealer hits on a soft 17. Additionally, Blackjack pays 1:1 instead of the standard 3:2.
10. Super Fun 21
Super Fun 21 is a variation where the player can win special payouts for various hand combinations. The game is played with a single deck of cards, and the dealer hits on a soft 17. Additionally, the player can double down on any number of cards.
11. Pontoon
Pontoon is a variation played mainly in Australia and the UK. The game is played with a single deck of cards, and the dealer’s cards are both dealt face-down. In this variation, the player wins with a “Pontoon,” which is an Ace and a ten-point card. The player’s hand is also called a “Pontoon” when it consists of five cards that have a total of 21 or less.
12. Perfect Pairs Blackjack
Perfect Pairs Blackjack is a variant that allows players to place a side bet on whether their first two cards will be a pair. The side bet pays out more if the pair is of the same suit or color. The game is played with multiple decks of cards, and the payout for natural blackjack is usually lower than in traditional blackjack games.
13. Spanish 21
Spanish 21 is a variation that is played with a Spanish deck of cards, which includes 48 cards instead of the traditional 52-card deck. The game offers a wide range of bonus payouts for certain hands, including a 21 made up of five or more cards. The game also allows players to double down on any number of cards and to surrender late in the game.
Which Blackjack Variation should you choose?
When choosing a blackjack variation, it’s important to consider the blackjack rules, odds, bets, and payouts. Each variation has its own set of rules and unique features, which can affect the house edge and your chances of winning.
To increase your chances of success, it’s recommended to learn basic blackjack strategy, which can help you make the best decisions in any situation.
Check out our blackjack strategy page before you hit the blackjack casinos to play.
If you’re new to the game, classic American Blackjack or European Blackjack are good starting points. If you’re looking for a challenge, try Double Exposure Blackjack or Blackjack Switch. For the lowest house edge, try Single Deck Blackjack or Vegas Strip Blackjack.
Blackjack variants with the lowest house edge
Single Deck Blackjack and Vegas Strip Blackjack are known for having the lowest house edge, typically around 0.4%. These games have fewer decks and more favorable rules, such as the dealer standing on a soft 17, which gives the player a better chance of winning.
| Variant | House edge |
|---|---|
| Single Deck Blackjack | 0.13% |
| Vegas Strip Blackjack | 0.35% |
| European Blackjack | 0.39% |
| Blackjack Switch | 0.58% |
| Perfect Pairs Blackjack | 0.67% |
| Super Fun 21 | 0.94% |
| Double Exposure Blackjack | 0.69% |
| Atlantic City Blackjack | 0.36% |
| Progressive Blackjack | 0.47% |
| Spanish 21 | 0.40% |
| Pontoon | 0.38% |
Blackjack variations that payout the most
Perfect Pairs Blackjack and Progressive Blackjack are known for having higher payouts than traditional blackjack games. Perfect Pairs Blackjack offers a bonus payout for pairs, and the payout for a natural blackjack can be as high as 30:1. Progressive Blackjack offers a progressive jackpot, which increases with each hand played and can result in a massive payout for a lucky player.
The best variants to try when you’re new to casino
If you’re new to the casino, it’s recommended to start with classic American Blackjack or European Blackjack. These games have straightforward rules and are widely available. Multi-Hand Blackjack can also be a good choice, as it allows you to play multiple hands at once and get more practice in a shorter amount of time.
Types of Blackjack to play if you’re a pro
For expert blackjack players, consider Double Exposure Blackjack or Blackjack Switch. Double Exposure Blackjack provides you with additional information to play your hand because the dealer’s cards are face-up. The game offsets this advantage by paying even money on most victories and pushing on dealers’ blackjack.
Pros enjoy Blackjack Switch. Players have two hands and can switch their second cards. This allows for more freedom and better hands, but the game features a peculiar rule that makes a dealer total of 22 a push instead of a bust, which significantly boosts the house edge.
Blackjack variations you should avoid
There are numerous intriguing blackjack varieties, but some you should avoid. Super 21, for instance, lets players win more on certain cards. Due to its higher house edge, these hands rarely pay off.
Spanish 21 should also be avoided. Spanish 21, while an entertaining spin on the original game, has various rule changes that might work against the player, such as a lower blackjack payout and a requirement to hit on soft 17.
Avoid 6 to 5 blackjack games. This payout reduction boosts the house edge and diminishes your odds of winning.
It’s crucial to know the rules and payouts of each blackjack variation you’re contemplating and avoid ones that favor the house.
Key Takeaways
Finally, blackjack is a timeless classic with numerous intriguing variations. American, European, Vegas Strip, Progressive, and Atlantic City blackjack are popular. Consider the rules, odds, bets, and payouts before choosing a variation, and apply the fundamental blackjack strategy for the best odds.
Multi-Hand Blackjack, Single Deck Blackjack, and Perfect Pairs Blackjack are perfect for beginners, while experienced players may prefer Double Exposure Blackjack or Blackjack Switch. Avoid Super 21, Spanish 21, and blackjack games that pay 6 to 5.
Understanding the several blackjack variations and choosing one that suits your skill level and playing style can boost your chances of winning and provide hours of fascinating games.
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Raguia is the Content Writer for the UAE market. She has been a writer since the early 2000s, specializing first in journalism, then social media and now content writing. She likes to follow casino trends and stay up to date with the ins and outs of the gaming industry. She plans her next trip if she isn't trying, testing and reviewing casinos. She speaks five languages, has visited 37 countries, and will keep travelling while playing online.