Elizabeth Hall | February 21, 2023 | Updated on: March 22nd, 2023
There are many online blackjack variants available at different online casinos, but some of the most popular ones include Classic Blackjack, European Blackjack, Atlantic City Blackjack, Vegas Strip Blackjack, and Blackjack Switch. Other variations include Perfect Pairs Blackjack, Spanish 21, Double Exposure Blackjack, Pontoon, and Super Fun 21. Each variant has slightly different rules and gameplay, so it’s important to read the rules carefully before playing.
Players can choose from different variations of blackjack and can also benefit from bonuses and promotions offered by online casinos. It’s important to play at a reputable and licensed online casino to ensure a fair and safe gaming experience.
Australian Online Casinos with Blackjack Variations
The Most Common Blackjack Variants
There are many variants of blackjack, but some of the most common ones include:
Classic Blackjack
The most widely played version of the popular casino card game. It is also known as traditional blackjack or simply “21”. The objective of the game is to beat the dealer’s hand by having a hand value of 21 or as close to it as possible without going over. A hand with an ace and a 10-value card (10, Jack, Queen, or King) is called a “blackjack” and is the highest hand in the game.
Classic Blackjack is played with a standard deck of 52 cards, and the game typically allows players to double down, split pairs, take insurance, and stand or hit as desired. The dealer must draw to 16 and stand on all 17s. Classic Blackjack is a simple and straightforward game that is easy to learn and enjoyable to play for both beginners and experienced players.
European Blackjack
Similar to Classic Blackjack, but with a few key differences. In European Blackjack, the game is played with two decks of cards instead of the standard one deck used in Classic Blackjack. Additionally, the dealer does not receive a hole card until the player has completed their hand.
This means that the dealer does not check for blackjack immediately after the deal, and the player can potentially lose their entire bet if the dealer has a blackjack. European Blackjack also has different rules for doubling down, with players only able to double down on hands with a value of 9, 10, or 11. Overall, European Blackjack is a popular variation of the game that offers a slightly different experience for players looking for something new.
Vegas Strip Blackjack
This is a popular variation of the traditional blackjack game that is played in many Las Vegas casinos. It is similar to Classic Blackjack, but with a few differences in the rules. Vegas Strip Blackjack is typically played with four decks of cards, and the dealer must stand on soft 17.
Players are allowed to double down on any two cards, as well as after splitting. They are also allowed to split up to three times to make four hands, without aces, which can be split once. Insurance is also offered if the dealer has an ace, and the payout for a blackjack is typically 3:2. Vegas Strip Blackjack is a popular game because of its fast pace, high stakes, and exciting gameplay.
Progressive Blackjack
This is a variant of the traditional blackjack game that includes a side bet that can result in a progressive jackpot win. The side bet typically involves a small additional wager that goes into a jackpot pool. The jackpot pool accumulates until a player hits the jackpot by receiving a specific combination of cards. The specific combination required for the jackpot varies depending on the casino, but it usually involves receiving several consecutive suited Aces. The progressive jackpot payout can be quite substantial, and it can vary depending on how long it has been since the last jackpot win.
It’s important to note that the house edge on the Progressive Blackjack side bet can be relatively high, and the odds of winning the progressive jackpot are relatively low. Therefore, it’s generally recommended to only place the side bet on occasion and not rely on it as a primary strategy. Overall, Progressive Blackjack is an exciting and potentially lucrative variation of the game that offers players a chance to potentially win big payouts with a little bit of extra risk.
Blackjack Switch
This is an innovative and unique variation of blackjack that was created by Geoff Hall in 2009. In this game, players are dealt two hands of cards and have the option to switch the top two cards between them to create two new hands. This means that players have more control over their hands and can potentially improve their chances of winning. The game is typically played with six to eight decks of cards, and the dealer hits on a soft 17.
Blackjack Switch also has other unique rules, such as a dealer push on 22, which means that if the dealer busts with a hand value of 22, all remaining player hands are a push. Additionally, a blackjack pays out even money instead of the typical 3:2 payout. Overall, Blackjack Switch is a fun and exciting variation of the game that offers players a fresh and unique gameplay experience.
Double Exposure Blackjack
This is a variant of the popular casino card game that is played with both of the dealer’s cards face-up. This gives players more information to make their decisions and alters the basic strategy that would be used in Classic Blackjack. In Double Exposure Blackjack, the dealer wins all ties except for a tie with a natural blackjack, which is paid out at the standard 3:2 payout.
The game is typically played with eight decks of cards, and the dealer hits on a soft 17. However, to balance the advantage that the player has from seeing the dealer’s cards, there are other rule changes in Double Exposure Blackjack, such as the fact that the dealer wins on all hands that are not a natural blackjack when the player and dealer both have a hand value of 21. Overall, Double Exposure Blackjack is a challenging and exciting variation of the game that requires players to adjust their strategies to take advantage of the unique rules.
Spanish 21
This is another popular blackjack variation that is played with a Spanish deck of cards, which is a standard 52-card deck with the four 10s removed. This alters the odds and the basic strategy that would be used in Classic Blackjack. In Spanish 21, a player’s blackjack always beats the dealer’s blackjack, and a player’s total of 21 always wins, regardless of the dealer’s hand.
Players are allowed to double down on any number of cards, and they can also double down after splitting. Late surrender is also allowed in Spanish 21, which means that players can give up the hand they have and lose half of their original bet after the dealer checks for blackjack. Additionally, there are special bonus payouts for certain hands, such as a 5-card 21 or a 6-7-8 or 7-7-7 combination of mixed suits. Overall, Spanish 21 is a fun and exciting variation of the game that offers players a fresh and unique gameplay experience, with a lower house edge compared to traditional blackjack.
Live Dealer Blackjack
This is an online blackjack variation that offers players a more immersive and realistic gaming experience. In Live Dealer Blackjack, real dealers are filmed and broadcast live from a physical casino or studio, and players participate in the game through an online interface. This allows players to enjoy the social and interactive aspects of playing blackjack in a real casino, without having to leave their homes.
The gameplay in Live Dealer Blackjack is generally similar to that of traditional online blackjack, with the main difference being the presence of a live dealer. Players can interact with the dealer and other players through a chat feature, and the game is conducted in real-time. The dealer uses real cards, and the game is played according to standard blackjack rules, with variations depending on the specific version of the game being played.
Live Dealer Blackjack is a great option for players who prefer the authenticity and human interaction of a real casino, but who may not have the ability to visit a physical casino. The game can be played on a computer or mobile device, and it offers a convenient and flexible way to play blackjack from the comfort of your own home.
These are just a few of the many blackjack variants available at different casinos, each with its own set of rules and gameplay.
Online Blackjack RTP and Payout
The RTP (return to player) and payout for blackjack can vary depending on the specific variation of the game being played and the rules and strategies used by the player. In general, however, blackjack is considered to be one of the casino games with the highest RTP and lowest house edge, which means that the odds of winning are relatively high.
The exact RTP and payout for blackjack will depend on the specific rules and variations being used. For example, the RTP for Classic Blackjack is typically around 99.41%, which means that for every $100 wagered on the game, the player can expect to win back $99.41 in the long run. The RTP for other variations, such as Atlantic City Blackjack or European Blackjack, may be slightly higher or lower.
It’s important to note that while the RTP for blackjack can be relatively high, this does not guarantee that every player will win in the short term. The game still involves an element of chance, and the outcome of each hand is determined by a combination of luck and skill. In addition, some variations of blackjack may include side bets or other features that can impact the RTP and payout.
Conclusion
Overall, players can increase their chances of winning at blackjack by using basic strategy and taking advantage of favorable rules and variations. However, it’s important to remember that no strategy or system can guarantee a win, and players should always gamble responsibly and within their means.
In addition to the traditional variations of blackjack, there are also several popular side bets that can be added to the game, including Perfect Pairs, Progressive Blackjack, and 21+3. These side bets can offer the potential for big payouts but also come with increased risk.
Finally, the rise of online casinos has made it easier than ever to play blackjack from the comfort of your own home. Online blackjack allows players to enjoy the game from their computer or mobile device and offers a wide range of variations and betting options to suit different preferences and skill levels.
Online Blackjack Variants FAQs:
Classic blackjack is the standard version of the game, but other variants offer different rules and side bets, such as European Blackjack, Vegas Strip Blackjack, and Blackjack Switch.
Yes, different blackjack variants have different rules that can affect the gameplay and strategy, such as the number of decks used, when to surrender, and whether to allow double downs after splits.
No, not all online casinos offer the same selection of blackjack variants. Some may have a wider variety than others, so it’s important to check each casino’s game selection before signing up.
Some of the most popular blackjack variants include European Blackjack, Vegas Strip Blackjack, Atlantic City Blackjack, and Blackjack Switch.
The number of decks used in blackjack can affect the house edge and the optimal strategy. Generally, fewer decks are better for players, as they increase the likelihood of getting natural blackjacks and decrease the chances of the dealer getting them.
The best strategy for each blackjack variant will depend on the specific rules of that game. However, basic strategy charts are available for most variants and can be a helpful starting point for learning optimal play.
The payout for blackjack variants can vary, with some games offering higher payouts for certain hands, such as suited blackjacks or certain side bets. It’s important to check the specific payout tables for each game before playing.
Yes, many online casinos offer live dealer blackjack games, including various variants. Live dealer games are played with a real dealer and offer a more immersive and interactive experience.
Yes, as long as you play at a reputable online casino that uses certified random number generator (RNG) software to ensure fair and unbiased outcomes. It’s important to research the casino and look for certification from independent auditing agencies to ensure fairness.