Online Pontoon works like blackjack. The goal is to reach 21 or get as close as possible without going over. However, its hidden dealer cards and unique terms make it different from classic blackjack.
If you are new to blackjack variations, read our guide on Blackjack Variants. You can explore other fun versions of the game.
What is Pontoon?
Pontoon is like Blackjack. The goal is to get a hand total of 21 or as close as you can without going over. However, there are unique rules that make it different and, for many players, more challenging.
How is Pontoon Different from Blackjack?
- The dealer’s cards are both face-down, making it harder for players to decide their next move.
- A hand of Ace + 10-value card is called a “Pontoon”, not a blackjack, and pays more.
- Players must twist (take a card) if they have a total of 14 or less.
- There are no “Stand” or “Hit” actions—instead, players use “Stick” and “Twist”.
Why is Pontoon Popular?
- Offers higher payouts than Blackjack (2:1 for a Pontoon).
- Adds more strategy options with the ability to “buy” extra cards.
- The dealer having both cards face-down makes the game more unpredictable and exciting.
Understanding the Rules of Pontoon
Before diving into strategies, let’s cover the fundamental rules of Pontoon so you can confidently play.
Basic Objective of the Game
- The goal is to beat the dealer’s hand by having a total closer to 21 without exceeding it.
- A Pontoon hand (Ace + 10-value card) is the strongest hand, paying 2:1.
- If the dealer and player both have a Pontoon, the dealer wins.
Key Differences Between Pontoon and Blackjack
| Aspect | Pontoon | Blackjack |
|---|---|---|
| Dealer Cards | Both face-down | One card face-up, one face-down |
| Best Hand | “Pontoon” (Ace + 10-value card) | “Blackjack” (Ace + 10-value card) |
| Player Must Twist | If total is 14 or less | No such rule |
| Terminology | Twist (Hit), Stick (Stand), Buy (Double Down) | Hit, Stand, Double Down |
| Payout for Best Hand | 2:1 | 3:2 |
Card Values and Hand Rankings in Pontoon
The card values in Pontoon are the same as in Blackjack:
- Aces = 1 or 11
- Face cards (J, Q, K) = 10 points
- Number cards (2-10) = Face value
What is a “Pontoon” Hand?
A Pontoon is when a player’s first two cards form an Ace + 10-value card. This is the best hand and pays 2:1.
Soft vs. Hard Hands in Pontoon
- A Soft Hand contains an Ace that can count as 1 or 11 (e.g., Ace + 6 = 7 or 17).
- A Hard Hand is any hand without an Ace or where the Ace must count as 1 (e.g., 10 + 7 = 17).
4. Step-by-Step Guide to Playing Pontoon
Step 1: Placing Bets
- Players place their bets before the cards are dealt.
- The minimum and maximum bet limits vary depending on the casino.
Step 2: Receiving Initial Cards
- Each player receives two face-up cards.
- The dealer receives two face-down cards (this is a major difference from Blackjack).
Step 3: Player Actions
- Twist (Hit): Take another card. Players must twist if their total is 14 or less.
- Stick (Stand): Stop taking cards.
- Buy (Double Down): Players can double their bet and take an extra card. Unlike Blackjack, you can buy multiple times per hand.
- Split: If the player has two cards of the same value, they can split them into two separate hands.
Step 4: Dealer’s Turn & Determining the Winner
- The dealer reveals their hand only after all players have finished.
- The dealer must twist until their hand is at least 17 or higher.
Winning Hands in Pontoon
- Pontoon (Ace + 10-value card) → Pays 2:1
- Five-Card Trick (5 cards totaling 21 or less) → Pays 2:1
- Higher total than the dealer (without busting) → Pays 1:1