Blackjack variants take the game that we all know and love and tweak the rules ever so slightly to create something different.
You might be surprised to know that the online blackjack realm is filled with real money blackjack variants that offer exciting twists on the traditional game. Some of these versions, like Spanish 21 and Blackjack Switch, are popular in land-based casinos, while others are unique to online gaming.
In this guide, we’ll help you navigate the world of blackjack variants, focusing on the key differences, rules, and payouts to help you find the best blackjack sites and games that suit your play style.
What Are the Key Rule Differences Across Blackjack Variants?
Blackjack variants share the same core mechanics, but changes in rules can massively change gameplay. These variations include how the dealer plays, whether doubling down or splitting is allowed, and how payouts are structured.
- Dealer Stands or Hits on Soft 17: If the dealer must stand, it benefits the player. If they can hit, the house edge increases.
- Blackjack Payouts: While 3:2 is the standard, some games lower it to 6:5, which reduces player returns.
- Splitting Rules: Games that allow multiple splits, especially for aces and 8s, benefit the player.
- Doubling Down: Some variants restrict when you can double down, limiting your chances for increased winnings.
- Surrender: Always look for games that allow surrender, especially “early surrender,” which lets you fold before the dealer checks for blackjack.
| Variant | Dealer Hits on Soft 17 | Blackjack Payout | Split Rules | Doubling Rules | Surrender Allowed |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Classic Blackjack | No | 3:2 | Limited | Liberal | Sometimes |
| Spanish 21 | Yes | 3:2 or better | Multiple Splits Allowed | Liberal | Yes |
| Blackjack Switch | Yes | 1:1 | 1 Split Allowed | Liberal | No |
| European Blackjack | No | 6:5 | Limited | Restricted | No |
How Do Payouts Vary in Different Blackjack Variants?
Payouts in blackjack variants differ from the standard 3:2 payout for a natural blackjack. Online versions at a number of casinos reduce this to 6:5 or even lower, making it harder to profit.
Certain variants offer bonus payouts for specific hands, such as a five-card 21 in Spanish 21, or a “Super Bonus” for hitting blackjack with specific combinations. These payouts might be enticing, but the house edge is usually higher – so weigh up the risk vs reward before playing.
Which Blackjack Variants Offer Unique Rules and Payouts?
Many blackjack variations offer unique rules and payouts, including Spanish 21, Blackjack Switch, and European Blackjack.
Why Should You Try Spanish 21?
Spanish 21 is known for being more player-friendly, with rules allowing players to double after splitting, late surrender, and automatic wins when hitting 21 – even if the dealer has 21.
The game removes all 10s from the deck though, which increases the house edge. Despite this, the ability to win with bonus payouts, like for a five-card 21, makes it a popular choice.
What’s Different About Blackjack Switch?
In Blackjack Switch, you play two hands and are allowed to swap the top cards between them to improve both hands. This gives players an advantage, but it’s balanced by the dealer pushing on 22 rather than busting, which can reduce potential wins.
The game also limits payouts for blackjack, often offering only even money.
Is European Blackjack Worth Playing?
European Blackjack has stricter rules compared to the standard game, which make it frustrating and less worth playing than other variations.
- The dealer only receives one card at the start, and no hole card is dealt until all players have completed their hands.
- Doubling is often more restricted
- The game usually offers lower payouts.
These limitations increase the house edge slightly, making it less favorable for players seeking higher returns.
Are There Other Popular Variants You Should Explore?
Other known variants include Pontoon, a British version of blackjack where a five-card trick pays out better than a standard 21, and Vegas Strip Blackjack, which is popular in casinos and has more flexible doubling and splitting rules.
How Do Side Bets Change the Blackjack Experience?
Side bets change the blackjack experience as they allow the player to make additional bets on outcomes other than the main hand, which makes the outcome and payout more exciting.
The payouts for side bets are huge, but taking these bets increases the house edge. Popular side bets include:
- 21+3: This side bet combines blackjack and poker. You win if your first two cards and the dealer’s upcard form a poker hand like a straight or flush.
- Perfect Pairs: You win if your first two cards form a pair, with bigger payouts for cards of the same suit.
- Buster Blackjack: You win based on how many cards the dealer uses to bust, with higher payouts for larger busts.
Are Blackjack Side Bets Worth the Risk?
Taking side bets in blackjack is not worth the risk for long-term serious play. If you’re looking for a quick win, side bets can add excitement, but in the long run, they are less profitable.
The house edge for every side bet is significantly higher than it is for simple online blackjack.
What’s the Role of Live Dealer Blackjack in Online Variants?
Live dealer blackjack closes the gap between automated online blackjack and real-life casino blackjack. The live dealer version is more immersive as it involves a real dealer on live video, and other players to chat with. It feels more authentic and allows for more advanced play, such as card counting.
Live dealer blackjack is often just standard blackjack, but more and more online casinos are opening live dealer rooms with some of the other variants.
How Do Live Dealer Games Compare to Automated Blackjack?
Live dealer games use real cards and a human dealer, which is the big difference to automated online blackjack.
With live dealers, you can sometimes utilize card counting to help boost your payback. That’s something you won’t be able to do if the dealer is automatic, because in those cases, reshuffling takes place after every hand and makes card counting irrelevant.
What Other Card Games Should You Try If You Like Blackjack?
If you enjoy blackjack, there are several other card games that may appeal to you.
- Baccarat is a simple yet thrilling game where you bet on whether the player or banker hand will come closest to nine.
- Poker is another popular choice, offering deeper strategy and higher stakes.
- Pontoon, a variation of blackjack, is also worth exploring, featuring similar gameplay but with different rules for hitting and standing.
