Blackjack Variations

Blackjack Variations Ensuring More Diversity While Playing the Game

With blackjack being a game adored by many, it comes as no surprise that it is available at any reputable brick-and-mortar or online casino. To diversify players’ gaming experience, casinos often offer multiple variations of the game of 21, with rule alterations that can make one’s betting session more thrilling and rewarding.

As we have previously covered, the basic rules of blackjack apply to almost every variation you may come across, both offline and online. That said, there are certain rule alterations you need to be aware of when choosing a blackjack table to join. While some standard Vegas rules ensure better RTP, slight changes to the blackjack rules might significantly increase the house edge. In this article, we will cover popular blackjack variations, their rules, and potential returns. That way, you can make informed decisions when choosing the best blackjack game to play.

Most Popular Blackjack Variations

All blackjack variations share the same basic rules, meaning that the main objective—to reach 21 or form a total as close as possible to that number—remains the same. It is fairly easy to distinguish the different versions straight away, since all of them have unique features and subtleties. Some games have been created specifically to be more distinctive and challenging, whereas others have been simplified to suit novice players. There are a few variations that even alter the way the dealer’s cards are positioned. It is also possible to play a version that is almost identical to the classic game; the only difference is that it features additional side bets.

Before trying a particular game, it is essential to become familiar with all of its rules and subtleties in order to be prepared for the possible situations that might occur. Since all variations have unique rules, their house edge differs. It should be noted that the house edge can vary from one casino to another, which is why players should always take the time to consider it beforehand. Let’s have a look at some of the most-played blackjack variations and their house edge to determine whether they work in favor of the casino.

Atlantic City Blackjack

Atlantic City Blackjack is very similar to the classic game of blackjack, which makes it perfect for more traditional players. What sets this version apart from the original game is the fact that it is played with eight decks of cards instead of six. It is possible to enjoy either a single- or a multi-hand version, both of which have the same basic rules.

Even though the number of card packs is increased, this variation has a very low house edge – 0.35%. It is a Hole-card game, meaning that the dealer peeks for blackjack. The dealer is also required to stand on soft seventeen. In this game, players may double down on any two cards and split up to three times. Late surrender is another move that players can make during the game, meaning that it is possible to give up their hand after the dealer has peeked for blackjack.

Atlantic City Blackjack Strategy Chart

Rules:

• 6 Decks
• Dealer Stands on Soft 17
• Dealer Does Not Peek for Blackjack
• Double on Any Two Cards, Double After Split (DAS)

Legend:

• H: Hit
• S: Stand
• D: Double if Possible, Otherwise Hit
• Ds: Double if Possible, Otherwise Stand
• P: Split (Pair)

European Blackjack

European Blackjack is another widespread version of the game that can be played in most brick-and-mortar casinos as well as online. Initially, it was played predominantly in Europe, but it became so popular that nowadays it can be found in casinos all over the world. It is one of the few versions that use only two standard decks of cards. Its house edge is 0.39%, and if players apply a basic strategy, they have fairly good chances of winning in the long run. It is not a Hole-card game, meaning that the dealer doesn’t peek for blackjack.

The rules require the dealer to stand on soft seventeen, and if he goes over twenty-one, it is considered a bust. If both the player and the dealer have blackjack, the result is a push. It is possible to split any pair only once, as long as it contains two cards of the same rank. For instance, it is possible to split two Queens; however, if players have a Ten and a Queen, they cannot take advantage of this move. The rules of the game can differ from one casino to another and therefore it is always a good idea to double-check them in advance.

European Blackjack Strategy Chart

Rules:

• 6 Decks
• Dealer Stands on Soft 17
• Dealer Does Not Peek for Blackjack
• Double on Any Two Cards, Double After Split (DAS)

Legend:

• H: Hit
• H*: Hit with 2 cards, Stand with 3+ cards
• S: Stand
• D: Double if Possible, Otherwise Hit
• Ds: Double if Possible, Otherwise Stand
• P: Split (Pair)

Vegas Downtown Blackjack

Vegas Downtown Blackjack is an exciting version of blackjack whose name comes from the fact that it was predominantly played in the brick-and-mortar casinos in Las Vegas. It uses only two packs of cards, which makes it very beneficial for card counters. The dealer hits on soft seventeen but stands on hard seventeen.

The dealer peeks for blackjack, provided that his up card is an Ace or a 10-valued card. Players are allowed to double down on any two cards, and it is also possible to do so after splitting. They can resplit a pair and form up to three hands. The house edge of this variation is 0.38%, which is considered very favorable. In this version, blackjack usually pays 3/2; however, the payout for this winning combination can vary depending on the casino.

Vegas Downtown Blackjack Strategy Chart

Rules:

• 2 Decks
• Dealer Hits Soft 17
• Dealer Peeks for Blackjack
• Double on Any Two Cards, Double After Split (DAS)

Legend:

• H: Hit
• H*: Hit with 2 cards, Stand with 3+ cards
• S: Stand
• D: Double if Possible, Otherwise Hit
• Ds: Double if Possible, Otherwise Stand
• P: Split (Pair)

Spanish Blackjack

Spanish Blackjack, also commonly known as Spanish 21, is considered one of the most challenging variations. It has very distinctive rules, and one of the major differences between this version and the classic game is that all ten-value cards are removed from each deck. It is played with six or eight decks of cards, each one consisting of 48 cards. Even though, at first glance, this rule seems to favor the casino, the house edge of this version is fairly low – 0.38%.

One specific rule that benefits players is that a total of 21 automatically wins, regardless of the dealer’s cards. In this version, it is possible to double down after splitting any two cards, including a pair of Aces. Players are also allowed to surrender, even after doubling down. This variation offers different payouts depending on the particular winning combination. For instance, if players have a total of 21 that consists of five, seven or more cards, the payout is 3/2. If they have a total of 21 that consists of six cards, the payout is 2/1.

Spanish Blackjack Strategy Chart

1. Unique Rules:
   • Played with 48-card decks (10s removed)
   • Player Blackjack beats dealer Blackjack
   • Player 21 beats dealer 21
   • Double on any number of cards
   • Re-double down once
   • Surrender after doubling down
2. Bonuses:
   • 5-card 21 pays 3:2
   • 6-card 21 pays 2:1
   • 7+-card 21 pays 3:1
   • Unsuited/Suited/Spades 6/7/8 or 7/7/7 pays 3:2, 2:1, 3:1 respectively
   • Suited 7/7/7 against dealer 7 pays 50:1
3. Common Blackjack Rules:
   • 8 decks
   • Dealer hits soft 17
   • Dealer peeks for blackjack
   • Double after split
   • Resplit to 4 hands, including aces
   • Surrender allowed

Legend:

• H: Hit
• S: Stand
• S#: Stand if your hand has # or fewer cards, otherwise hit
• S*: Stand unless 6/7/8 bonus is possible
• D: Double
• D#: Double if your hand has # or fewer cards, otherwise hit
• P: Split (Pair)
• P*: Split unless suited 7s (possible bonus)
• R: Surrender if possible, otherwise hit

Legend:

• S: Stand
• D: Double
• R: Surrender (if possible)

Atlantic City Blackjack

Live Dealers Blackjack

Blackjack Tournaments

Blackjack Bankroll

Double Exposure Blackjack

Double Exposure Blackjack is a very interesting variation that offers players the chance to experience their favorite game in a different way. What sets this version apart from the rest of the blackjack games is the fact that the dealer is initially dealt two cards, both of which are visible to all participants. Even though this adjustment works in favor of the players, there are some additional rules that are not as beneficial.

For instance, in this version the dealer instantly wins all ties, except when the player has a natural blackjack. Furthermore, blackjack pays even money, just like the other winning combinations, instead of the standard 3/2 payout. Players may split a pair only once, which is also highly unfavorable. The house edge of this version is moderately high in comparison with other blackjack games – 0.69%. The rest of the basic rules for this version differ from one casino to another, which is why they should be reviewed beforehand.

Double Exposure Blackjack Strategy Chart

Rules:

• 8 Decks
• Dealer Hits Soft 17
• Double on Hard 9-11
• Double After Split (DAS)

Legend:

• H: Hit
• S: Stand
• D: Double if Possible, Otherwise Hit
• P: Split (Pair)

Perfect Pairs

Another well-known variation of blackjack that is played in many casinos is Perfect Pairs. It is essentially the same as the classic game, the difference being that it offers a side bet. This new feature is one of the main features that make the game so attractive, as it gives players the chance to win big by placing an additional wager. However, it is worth mentioning that the odds of this side bet are not always in the players’ favor and therefore they should proceed with caution.

Before the game starts, players have the opportunity to choose whether to place the side bet or not. The amount of the new bet, which they need to place before the dealing of the cards, must be equal to their initial wager. When players receive their first two cards, if they are a pair, the side bet wins. It is possible to form three different winning pairs—colored pairs, perfect pairs, and mixed pairs. If players have placed this side bet but their initial cards are not identical, the game continues as usual. If gamblers have blackjack, the result is an instant win. The house edge in this version is calculated to be around 0.42%.

Perfect Pairs Blackjack Strategy Chart

Rules:

• 2 Decks
• Dealer Stands on Soft 17
• Dealer Does Not Peek for Blackjack
• Double on Hard 9-11, No Double After Split (DAS)
• Hit Split Aces

Legend:

• H: Hit
• H*: Hit with 2 cards, Stand with 3+ cards
• S: Stand
• D: Double if Possible, Otherwise Hit
• P: Split (Pair)

Blackjack Switch

Blackjack Switch is undoubtedly one of the most outstanding versions, as its rules and gameplay are quite different from the classic game. What makes this game so unique is the fact that players have two hands to play instead of the usual one and have the chance to exchange cards between them. This way, they can form winning combinations more easily, since the chances of getting a particular card are higher. This variation has one of the lowest house edges among all games – only 0.17% – thanks to the aforementioned rule.

Even though players can switch cards from one hand to another, it should be noted that these two hands are separate and should be played as such. In this version, all players receive their first two cards face up and can choose to switch the top cards or hold them instead. Some casinos offer Multi-Hand Blackjack Switch, meaning that players have the chance to play with up to five hands.

Blackjack Switch Strategy Chart

Rules:

• Dealer 22 results in a push against all non-blackjack hands.
• Blackjack pays 1:1.
• Dealer hits soft 17.
• 6 decks (Note: With 8 decks, do not double on 9 vs 5).

Legend:

• H: Hit
• S: Stand
• D: Double if Possible, Otherwise Hit
• Ds: Double if Possible, Otherwise Stand
• P: Split (Pair)

Pontoon

Pontoon is an exciting version of blackjack that closely resembles another variation – Spanish 21. In most casinos, this game is played with either six or eight decks; however, this number can vary depending on the casino. The main objective of the game and the assigned values of the cards are the same as in classic blackjack. In this variation, players have to decide who is going to take the role of the banker. At the beginning of the game, all gamblers have to place their bets without being able to see one of their cards, since it is dealt face down. In this version, both of the dealer’s cards are also placed face down, which is extremely unfavorable for the players.

The best winning combination is called Pontoon instead of blackjack, but it consists of the same cards – an Ace and a ten-value card. Besides the different name of the highest winning hand, the payout for Pontoon is also not the same, offering 2/1 instead of the regular 3/2. The second-best hand that can be formed is called a Five Card Hand and consists of five cards whose total is a maximum of 21. The house edge is the same as in European Blackjack – 0.39%.

Pontoon Strategy Chart

Rules:

• Pontoon pays 2:1.
• Any 5-card hand pays 2:1.
• Pushes are treated as losses.
• Dealer cards are not visible until the hand is completed.
• Players can “twist” (hit) after a “buy” (double).
• Players can “buy” (double) on 3 or 4 card hands.
• Players can “twist” (hit) and “buy” (double) split aces.
• A 2-card 21 after splitting aces counts as a pontoon.

Legend:

• H: Twist (Hit)
• S: Stick (Stand)
• D: Buy (Double if possible, otherwise hit)
• Ds: Buy (Double if possible, otherwise stand)
• P: Split

Conclusion

Blackjack is undoubtedly one of the most enthralling casino games of all time, thanks to its engaging rules and gameplay. Since it is one of the most-played games worldwide, it is no wonder that it has spawned a number of entertaining variations. Nowadays, players have the chance to enjoy some of the most popular versions in almost every brick-and-mortar casino as well as online. Thanks to this vast diversity, they can experience their favorite game in a new, more exciting way.

FAQ: Blackjack Variations