Blackjack Variations
| Updated: Blackjack Variations That Add More Variety to the Game
With blackjack being a game adored by many, it comes as no surprise that it is available at nearly every reputable brick-and-mortar or online casino. To diversify the gaming experience, casinos often offer multiple variations of blackjack, with rule changes that can make betting sessions more thrilling and rewarding.
As we have previously covered, the basic rules of blackjack apply to almost every variation you may encounter, both offline and online. That said, there are certain rule changes you need to consider when choosing a blackjack table. While some standard Las Vegas rules can result in a higher RTP, slight changes to the blackjack rules may significantly increase the house edge. In this article, we cover popular blackjack variations, their rules, and their potential returns. This information can help you make an informed decision when choosing a blackjack game to play.
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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 because each has 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. A few variations even alter how the dealer’s cards are positioned. It is also possible to play a version that is almost identical to the classic game, with the only difference being the addition of side bets.
Before trying a particular game, it is essential to become familiar with all of its rules and subtleties so that you are prepared for the situations that may arise. Since all variations have unique rules, their house edges differ. The house edge can also vary from one casino to another, which is why players should always take the time to review the rules beforehand. Let’s examine some of the most popular blackjack variations and their house edges to determine how favorable they are to players.
Atlantic City Blackjack
Atlantic City Blackjack is very similar to the classic game, making it ideal for more traditional players. What sets this version apart is that it is played with eight decks of cards instead of six. It is possible to enjoy either a single-hand or multi-hand version, both of which follow the same basic rules.
Even though the number of decks is increased, this variation has a very low house edge of 0.35%. It is a hole-card game, meaning that the dealer peeks for blackjack. The dealer is also required to stand on soft 17. In this game, players may double down on any two cards and split up to three times. Late surrender is another move available to players, meaning that they can give up their hand after the dealer has peeked for blackjack.
Atlantic City Blackjack Strategy Chart
Rules:
- 8 Decks
- Dealer Stands on Soft 17
- Dealer Peeks for Blackjack
- Double on Any Two Cards, Double After Split (DAS)
| Strategy Chart for Atlantic City Blackjack |
|---|
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 it can now be found in casinos around the world. It is one of the few versions that use only two standard decks of cards. Its house edge is 0.39%, and players who apply a basic strategy have fairly good chances of winning in the long run. It is not a hole-card game, meaning that the dealer does not peek for blackjack.
The rules require the dealer to stand on soft 17, and if their hand exceeds 21, 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, provided that it contains two cards of the same rank. For instance, players can split two Queens, but they cannot split a Ten and a Queen. The rules can differ from one casino to another, so it is always a good idea to check them in advance.
European Blackjack Strategy Chart
Rules:
- 2 Decks
- Dealer Stands on Soft 17
- Dealer Does Not Peek for Blackjack
- Double on Any Two Cards, Double After Split (DAS)
| Strategy Chart for European Blackjack |
|---|
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 the game that takes its name from the brick-and-mortar casinos in downtown Las Vegas. It uses only two decks of cards, making it particularly beneficial for card counters. The dealer hits on soft 17 but stands on hard 17.
The dealer peeks for blackjack when their upcard is an Ace or a 10-valued card. Players are allowed to double down on any two cards and can also do so after splitting. They may resplit a pair to 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, although the payout for this winning combination can vary depending on the casino.
Vegas Downtown Blackjack Strategy Chart
Rules:
- 2 Decks
- Dealer Hits on Soft 17
- Dealer Peeks for Blackjack
- Double on Any Two Cards, Double After Split (DAS)
| Strategy Chart for Vegas Downtown Blackjack |
|---|
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)