Similar to several other online casino games, the Blackjack table game also has several variations. However, this game has much more variations compared to other games. For instance, Americans follow different rules from those that Europeans follow, which are also distinct from the rules that Vegas follow. When playing Blackjack variations in any land casino, however, the basic rules are almost similar.
The differences between the games typically lie in the deck of cards you use to play the game. Variations may also exist in the strategies that players use to split, hit, or double a soft while gaming. However, when you play Blackjack in online casinos, the rules may change the entire pattern of the play. Therefore, you can enjoy a significant number of the game’s variations. You can also make use of blackjack demo games before you begin playing real games to allow you to feel what it will be like playing any of the variations. This will be a great way to choose a game that meets your needs.
In this guide, we will tell you about some of the top Blackjack variations you will find in an online casino. Given that the number of these games is significantly larger, it may be difficult to choose the best variation. Keep on reading to find out how to choose the best Blackjack for your style.
Blackjack Variations You Can Play in Online Casinos
1. The European Variant
This Blackjack variant allows a player to surrender a two-card hand and get half of their original bet value if a dealer hasn’t shown an ace. The game also features insurance that you pay at a rate of 2:1 just in case a dealer hits the Blackjack. When you play this game online, you use six 52-card decks that are shuffled prior to the beginning of any hand when no hand has been dealt. Moreover, the dealer doesn’t have a hole card and is needed to hit a soft 17. You will be paid 3:2 odds when you hit a blackjack.
Whether you are a beginner or an experienced player, this variant has moves and speeds ideal for any gambler. The game’s `split` option becomes active online after a gamer possesses a pair of cards whose value is equal. On the other hand, you can double your bet to receive a card. What is more, you can take insurance if a dealer possesses an Ace during the game.
2. Super Fun 21
Although this Blackjack variant is quite outdated, it is among the most popular versions of the game. In this game, the initial round of betting occurs before dealing with a single card. Moreover, in this variation, you may carry out any standard Blackjack shifts and choices on any of the card values. In essence, this means that you can surrender, hit, double, or stand on any combination. This is a limitation in the standard Blackjack game. The feature gives you an advantage over the dealer. With this version, your chances of emerging a winner are much higher than with the standard Blackjack.
3. Progressive Blackjack
Progressive Blackjack has become one of the most liked versions of the game by players who prefer diversifying their gameplay. In this variation, you have the opportunity to play for a jackpot as you make an elective side bet. You get payouts for qualifying hands. The house edge in this game’s bet is dependent on the size of the jackpot. That is, the larger the bet, the better the returns you should get. This Blackjack variation is the perfect choice for players who desire an exciting and rewarding experience at the same time.
4. Multi-Hand Blackjack
This is one of the most popular variations you will always find in online casinos. It is very hard to find an online casino that does not offer this variation of Blackjack. Just as the name suggests, you can play several hands in a given round, with most of these games offering a maximum of 3 to 5 hands. Moreover, this game will give you more action in every round. However, the more hands you play, the more exposure you get to the house edge.
5. Hi-Lo Bet
This Blackjack variation entails a side bet where you are supposed to guess if the second card will have a lower or higher value than the first card. A correct guess will result in you receiving a 1:1 payout. However, the trick here is that an ace doesn’t have value and will give the dealer an automatic win. Therefore, only 2 to the `king` qualify for the Hi-Lo side bet.
6. Pontoon Blackjack
The title of this variant comes from the name given to a natural 21: a pontoon. Compared to the classic Blackjack game, this variation also has a bit unusual hand rankings. The top-ranked hand, apart from a pontoon, is the Five Card Trick. Here you are allowed to draw up to 5 cards devoid of busting. Other pontoon variations, particularly the Australian ones, use Spanish decks, which have their 10s removed. Generally, the game is similar to the classic Blackjack game, with the difference being the possible Spanish decks, the varying terminology, and Five Card Trick.
7. Vegas Downtown Blackjack
The major characteristics of this Blackjack variation are similar to the ones of the standard Blackjack. This variation is named after a place where Blackjack was mostly played: Las Vegas Downtown. This game is popular for its numerous rules and incredible payouts that give you a great gambling encounter. The major goal of the game is to defeat the dealer with a higher-worth hand whose value is not more than 21. At the beginning of the game, the dealer gets 2 cards with one face-up, and the players also get two cards face-up. You can then decide your course of action: hit, split, double down, stand, surrender, or utilize an insurance bet.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Blackjack Variation
Now, you know some of the popular variations of Blackjack you can play in online casinos. Let us tell you about the factors you should consider when choosing a Blackjack variation. Read them and choose what you are looking for.
Bonus Preferences
All online casinos provide bonuses for the different versions of the Blackjack game. However, the bonuses differ from one company to the other and from one version of the game to the other. These bonuses may vary from $30 to $10,000. Some individuals like games with huge bonuses to allow them to get a lot of free money they can use to play with, while other players prefer the minimum bonuses given to have as low wagering requirements as possible. This allows them to concentrate on winning. Other individuals also prefer no deposit bonuses, so they won’t have to deposit any money but still win real money. Therefore, you should check out games that provide bonuses that match your preferences.
Your Styles
We would like to begin by telling you that generally, a number of gamblers know the rules as well as the fundamental strategy associated with playing Blackjack. In any case, the gameplay and rules are pretty simple, and almost all gamblers know the classic version of the game. However, with so many variations out there, some are more complex compared to others. This implies that some variants may be suitable to your temperament and playing style, while others may be disastrous to your experience.
The Casino Experience
Different versions of the Blackjack game will give you different online experiences. For example, the speed you like and the services offered should match the online experience you intend to have. The ease of use of the game’s software is also an essential element that affects your experience when playing online. Always go for a version that gives a great experience for you.
Unique Features of the Variations
When choosing a variation, you should consider the features that make it stand out from the rest. This will help you choose a game that suits your preferences. For example, consider how the European variant is different from the rest of the games. The table below provides features that set aside the common Blackjack variations.
Black Variation | Basic Strategy |
European Variation | Allows surrender: You can surrender a two-card hand to get half of your original bet if your dealer hasn’t shown an ace.
The game features insurance that you pay just in case a dealer hits the Blackjack. |
Super Fun 21 | The initial round of betting occurs before dealing a single card |
Multi-Hand Blackjack | You have the option of playing multiple hands in each turn |
Progressive Blackjack | You are allowed to play for a jackpot alongside other side payouts |
Hi-Lo Bet | With this variation, you make a side bet whether your second card is lower or higher than the first card. |
Pontoon | Allows guaranteed wins for a 5-card trick. The natural Blackjack is known as a pontoon. |
Odds vs. Payouts
We all want to win when playing any casino game, and the odds play a critical role. Some Blackjack variations have better odds than others do. However, the general rule here is that the higher the chances of winning, the lower the payouts, and vice versa. Therefore, you have to choose whether you need higher odds or higher payouts.
Conclusion
The number of Blackjack variations is increasingly growing, and the list can never be exhausted. You will have a number of options to choose from, making it a daunting task if you don’t know what you should be looking for. You may begin with the ones we have discussed here, but with time, you can use the factors above to choose more variations that suit your preferences.