There are many variations of this classic game. Learning the different types of blackjack games can help you narrow your focus on a game that feels the most exciting for you. Join us as we discuss some of the most popular blackjack variations..
CLASSIC BLACKJACK
Played with one or more standard 52-card decks, the objective of the game is for players to beat the dealer in blackjack by getting a blackjack hand total closer to 21 without busting.
Players can hit, stand, double down, or split pairs to increase their chances of winning. This blackjack game also allows players to place a side bet in other types of blackjack casino games (which we’ll explore below).
What’s the appeal of this game for most? It boasts a low house advantage of 0.5%. The rules are easy to understand, and the game is more social than poker.
CLASSIC BLACKJACK KEY FEATURES
While you can play this game with one or more decks, the most, well, ‘classic’ version of the game is played with just one deck. Also called ’21,’ ‘Standard Blackjack’, or ‘American Blackjack,’ the goal of this blackjack table is to get as close as possible to 21 points without going over:
- This game allows for two types of bets: the ante and the additional bet after being dealt two cards.
- American Blackjack players can double down, split pairs, or surrender their hands in certain situations.
Note that American Blackjack is quite different from the key features and rules of European Blackjack (one of the first blackjack variations). Here, the dealer receives only one card initially. The second card is dealt to the dealer after players have made their moves.
Additionally, the number of decks used in European Blackjack ranges between two and eight decks, while American Blackjack games use six or eight decks of cards. Furthermore, the rules governing splitting and doubling down vary by the type of game you play.
CLASSIC BLACKJACK RULES
In this variant, the dealer deals two cards to the player and the dealer. Players win in a few different ways:
- By getting 21 exactly with an ace, and a 10 or a face card.
- The dealer busts.
- You earn a hand with a value closer to 21 than the dealer.
Choosing to stand means you’re happy with your hand, hitting will allow you to draw another card, abd splitting will split your hand into two. The dealer must stand on soft 17 or more but draws at 16 or less. If both hands are equal, they will push and you will receive your bet back..
In terms of points, an ace counts as one or 11, face cards are worth 10 points, and other cards are worth their numerical value.
At the end of each round, each player’s hand total is compared with the dealer’s. If a player has a higher total than the dealer while not exceeding 21 points, that player wins and receives an amount equal to their original wager plus any extra bets placed during the round.
CLASSIC BLACKJACK STRATEGY
The strategy for this game is centred around making the best decisions when playing each hand. This involves knowing when to hit, stand, split, or double down based on the player’s cards and the dealer’s upcard.
Regarding hitting and standing, players should always hit if their hand total is 16 or lower and stand if it’s 17 or higher. Splitting should only be done if they have a pair of eights or aces. Double down with any two-card hand totalling nine, 10, or 11 to get maximum profit from your initial bet.
There’s a lot more to winning (again, typically called American Blackjack at several online casinos and land-based casinos). Still, these strategies may give you an edge over the house and increase your chances of winning.
CLASSIC BLACKJACK PROS
Classic Blackjack offers several advantages compared to other types of blackjack casino games. Primarily, the game’s rules are much simpler and straightforward, making it easier for new players to learn and understand.
Players can also act on their hands more often; they can double down on any two-card total and split a pair of cards of the same value up to three times.
Furthermore, the house advantage in Classic Blackjack is lower than other variations, making it a better bet for experienced players looking to maximise their chances of good gameplay.
CLASSIC BLACKJACK CONS
Classic Blackjack will typically have fewer side bets available, which can limit how much players can win or the opportunities for strategic play.
Additionally, certain variations, such as those played in Atlantic City, may restrict players to only being able to double down on hands with 10 or 11, making it harder to maximise profits from certain hands.
CLASSIC BLACKJACK HOUSE EDGE
The house edge for a Classic Blackjack game is 0.5%. This means this classic game has one of the lowest profit margins for any game (aside from other casino banking games like video poker).
BLACKJACK SWITCH
This dynamic card game was developed by Geoff Hall in 2009. It is played with two hands, and each hand’s stakes must be of the same value.
Unlike other multi-hand blackjack variations, this game allows players to switch their cards between hands, offering an exciting opportunity to improve their total or avoid going bust.
BLACKJACK SWITCH KEY FEATURES
This card game is a variation of blackjack in which two hands are dealt to each player.
- The distinctive feature of this version is the ability to switch the second card dealt to each hand.
- This type of Blackjack also allows players to split any two pairs or double down on hands up to three times per round.
- As a result, it creates more chances for players to win, making it one of the most popular variations out there.
BLACKJACK SWITCH RULES
Here, the dealer is required to hit on soft 17, and the game is played with either six decks or eight decks. Unlike other blackjack variations, you can double down after splitting and are also allowed to make this move on any two initial cards.
Additionally, players may take advantage of an optional side bet called the Super Match side bet. This bet is placed before the hand is dealt it wins if the cards dealt to player are a pair (1 to 1); three of a kind – 5 to 1; two pairs – 8 to 1; and a lucky pair of four of a kind pay 40 to 1.
However, this is why other rules are not so favourable for players, such as not being able to double down after splitting a pair of aces and having only one draw for split aces.
BLACKJACK SWITCH STRATEGY
A good strategy for this game is to pay close attention to the dealer’s hand and try to form two strong hands. When switching cards, it’s best not to aim for a high hand value but instead aim for a hand with the flexibility to draw and improve.
BLACKJACK SWITCH PROS
The main pro is that it allows players to switch their top two cards between hands. This creates new opportunities for players to improve their chances of winning by optimising their hands against the dealer’s upcard. It also allows for more strategic play since the player can double down on one hand and hit on another, creating a more balanced approach with the potential for higher wins.
BLACKJACK SWITCH CONS
One of the most prominent drawbacks is that it pays out even money rather than the usual 3:2 ratio. Additionally, when the dealer has a hard 22, this results in a push or tie, except when a player also has blackjack.
HOUSE EDGE
Despite the downfalls mentioned above, this game still offers one of the lowest house edges of any online casino game. Depending on the rules, it usually falls between 0.16% and 0.58%.
VEGAS STRIP BLACKJACK
Before the advent of online casinos and online gambling, this game was predominantly played in Las Vegas. However, with several high-quality online casinos existing these days, you can play this game online just about anywhere you want.
VEGAS STRIP BLACKJACK KEY FEATURES
- The number of decks used in this blackjack variation is four decks rather than just one like in the original game, which makes it more difficult for a card counter to gain an advantage.
- Players can choose to play either single-hand or multi-hand mode and if they choose to play multiple hands, they can decide how many hands are involved.
- The Perfect Pairs side bet and Bonus Blackjack side bet are also available.
VEGAS STRIP BLACKJACK RULES
The objective and rules for scoring remain the same as in classic blackjack. Each card has its face value, and the goal is to have cards whose total value is closer to 21 than the dealer’s. Aces count as either one or 11, while kings, queens, and jacks all count as 10. The Perfect Pairs bet pays 30:1.
VEGAS STRIP BLACKJACK STRATEGY
A great strategy involves playing the dealer’s upcard closely. Specifically, when the dealer’s visible card is low (let’s say between a two or a five), hitting is beneficial as you are more likely to get closer to 21 without busting.
Additionally, when the dealer has a higher card showing (between a seven to an ace), it is more profitable for players to stand and hope that the dealer will bust due to their high probability of having an unfavourable hand.
Lastly, if you have a pair of eights or aces, it is best to split them depending on the dealer’s face-up card; if they have a weak card (between a two or a six), we recommend splitting.
VEGAS STRIP BLACKJACK PROS
This game has many advantageous strategies compared to other types of blackjack tables. Players can double down on their first two cards and split a maximum of four hands.
Players can also split 10-valued cards, such as kings and queens, giving them an edge over the house. Additionally, doubling down after splitting is another move that gives players greater control in the game and can help maximise their chances of winning.
VEGAS STRIP BLACKJACK CONS
There are a few disadvantages here when compared to other blackjack types. Firstly, many casinos offer a 6:5 payout rather than the standard 3:2, which is more disadvantageous for the player.
Secondly, the dealer stands on a soft 17 and checks for a blackjack, reducing players’ chances of victory. Additionally, this game will often be played with multiple decks making it hard for players to keep track of cards when playing at a land-based casino.
VEGAS STRIP BLACKJACK HOUSE EDGE
The house edge is relatively low, coming in at just 0.36%. This is because the game allows players certain advantages that reduce the house’s overall advantage.
SPANISH 21 BLACKJACK
Spanish 21 Blackjack is a variation of the popular casino game that uses decks of 48 cards instead of 52, as there are no 10s. This variation also includes additional bonuses and special rules, such as being able to double down on any number of cards, Late Surrender, and generous side bets.
SPANISH 21 BLACKJACK KEY FEATURES
As mentioned, this blackjack variation stands out from classic blackjack.
- The 10-cards are removed from the deck.
- Players are given additional payouts for certain hands.
- Players can receive a bonus payout if they hit a five-card 21.
- Players can double down on any number of cards, and split pairs up to four times.
The game can be very favourable to the player.
SPANISH 21 BLACKJACK RULES
Spanish 21 Blackjack follows the same general rules as regular Blackjack, with several key differences. For instance, players are allowed to resplit any pair, including aces. Bear in mind that a hand with a split ace and a 10-valued card is not considered a natural blackjack.
They can also double down on any point total after receiving any amount of cards dealt. Furthermore, they may double down even after splitting a hand.
Most notable, though, is the fact that Spanish 21 offers a unique payout structure that makes it so attractive; players receive bonus payouts if they get 7-7-7 of the same suit, and the dealer has a seven in any suit.
SPANISH 21 BLACKJACK STRATEGY
A good strategy for Spanish 21 Blackjack is to double down on nine, 10, and 11 and hit if you have a hard 16 or soft 18. It is also wise to split pairs of eights, aces, and nines. However, standing is usually the best option when you have a hand total of 17-21.
To maximise your chances of success, it’s important to remember that Spanish 21 pays out a bonus for certain hands, such as five-card 21s, six or seven-card 21s, and 6-7-8 or 7-7-7 combinations.
SPANISH 21 BLACKJACK PROS
The pros of Spanish 21 Blackjack are that it offers players more options to win. Unlike most games of blackjack, the player can double down on or after splitting cards and surrender half of their bet. Additionally, Spanish 21 Blackjack pays out bonuses for various hands, such as 5-6-7-8 or 6-7-8-9. These bonuses offer extra rewards that regular blackjack options do not have.
Finally, the game also plays with a 48-card deck. This increases the chances of certain hands being hit by decreasing the number of 10s in the deck.
SPANISH 21 BLACKJACK CONS
Spanish 21 Blackjack is not as popular as other blackjack variations on this list, as well as games like Perfect Pairs Blackjack, European Blackjack, Double Attack Blackjack, Progressive Blackjack, Multi-Hand Blackjack variations, or even Atlantic City Blackjack. This is because Spanish 21 has a higher house edge due to its rules (depending on how you play).
Additionally, certain Spanish 21 hands automatically lose if the dealer draws a specific card, whereas other blackjack variations may have more lenient rules regarding automatic losses.
Finally, Spanish 21 does not offer the Surrender option, which can be beneficial in other variants. This means players cannot opt to forfeit half of their wager and keep the other half when they believe they will certainly lose the hand or don’t want to risk wagering any further.
SPANISH 21 BLACKJACK HOUSE EDGE
Spanish 21 Blackjack has a house edge of around 0.38%, making it one of the lowest house edges of all blackjack variants. However, and this is a big however, some house rules may increase this edge to up to 0.78%. European casinos and European games are slightly different, for example, and that can affect the house edge.
DOUBLE EXPOSURE BLACKJACK
Developed by Richard A. Epstein, this variation of blackjack features the dealer receiving their first two cards, both of which are dealt face-up. This contradicts the traditional rule that only one card is dealt face-up. Players can use this knowledge and their cards to gain an advantage over the house, allowing them to plan their moves better.
KEY FEATURES
As mentioned above, the main difference between this and traditional types of blackjack games is that:
- Both of the dealer’s cards are exposed from the start.
- Players can also tie with the dealer if both hands are equal in value.
RULES
Aside from seeing the dealer’s visible cards, this version plays with eight decks, and the dealer hits on a soft 17 (similar to Blackjack Switch and other variants).
However, while this is true for most casinos, it’s not the case at all casinos. So ensure you know the rules wherever you’re playing, whether at land-based casinos or when playing at an online casino blackjack table.
Perhaps the main difference in this form of Blackjack is the payout. It pays even money instead of 3:2. As mentioned above, and ties are settled as a push. Additionally, you cannot place an insurance bet or a double down bet available and split Aces can only be hit once.
STRATEGY
The strategy of this game is slightly different from traditional blackjack, as the player has a higher chance of winning due to being able to anticipate the dealer’s plays for each round.
A good strategy is to always split your eights and aces. You should also stand when the dealer has a four, five, or six showing, increasing your chances of winning.
Additionally, it is best to hit if you have a hard 12-16 and the dealer has a seven or higher. Finally, you should always double down if you have 10 or 11 and the dealer has any card lower than 10 in value.
PROS
One of the major pros is that this online casino table provides a much higher chance of winning for the player. This is because the game rules allow both dealer cards to be exposed and visible, meaning players can make more informed decisions about their next move.
CONS
Perhaps the biggest drawback of this blackjack game is that the player only receives a 1:1 payout when they have a blackjack. At the same time, the dealer will automatically win all ties except when players have a natural blackjack in their hand.
Additionally, players can only split a pair once and cannot double down after splitting. As a result of these rules, it can be more difficult for players to win compared to other variations of blackjack. It’s important to note that some casinos may require players to use a basic strategy to avoid having an edge over them.
HOUSE EDGE
Double Exposure Blackjack usually has a house edge above 0.7%, making it one of the highest house edges in casino table games. Despite this disadvantage, many players still enjoy playing this variant due to its fast-paced gameplay and added tension of knowing both of the dealer’s cards.
SUMMARY
Here’s a quick breakdown of all we’ve learned with this article:
| Blackjack Variant | Number of Decks Used | Bonuses Present | Online Availability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Traditional Blackjack | 1 | - | Yes |
| Blackjack Switch | 6-8 | Super Match Bet | Yes |
| Vegas Strip | 6-8 | Perfect Pairs Bet & Bonus Blackjack Bet | Yes |
| Spanish 21 | 6-8 | Match the Dealer Bet | Yes |
| Double Exposure | 5 | - | Yes |
Remember, however, the above-mentioned blackjack variations aren’t your only options. We could spend ages exploring other types of blackjack games with you. There’s a lot to learn about this unique casino game, from games like European Blackjack to single-deck blackjack games and progressive Blackjack. However, the best way to learn is by playing.
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