Online Blackjack variations
Fancy a game of online Blackjack variations? Whether you’re a complete beginner or a seasoned pro, you’ll know just how popular a casino game Blackjack is. Both online and in real life. It’s strategic, exciting, and if you know what you’re doing. It can also be hugely rewarding!
A staple in land-based casinos since the 1930s, forms of Blackjack have been around since the 1600s, with an early Spanish version, known as Ventiuna, requiring players to hit 21 without going over. More than 400 years later, Blackjack is still just as completely engrossing. And with the launch of online casinos, there are now more variations to enjoy than ever. Each with its own set of rules, twists, and opportunities.
That’s exactly what we’ll be looking at in this guide – the most popular types of Blackjack available online, any special features you need to be aware of, and smart strategies to help you boost your odds and get the most out of your gameplay. Ready to count to 21? Then let’s go!
Classic online Blackjack Variations
Of course we need to start with the OG of blackjack variations. Classic (also known as ‘standard’ or ‘American’) Blackjack. The version most people are aware of from casinos, TV and movies. Here the objective is wonderfully simple. To beat the dealer’s hand without going over 21. Sounds easy enough, right? Here’s a breakdown of the basic rules:
In terms of card hand values, cards 2 to 10 are worth their face value, face cards (J, Q, K) are worth 10. And Aces can be worth either 1 or 11.
At the beginning of each game of Blackjack, players are dealt two cards faceup, while the dealer receives one card faceup and one facedown. You’ll need to use this information to make your decisions from here on.
Once the cards have been dealt, you’ll have a number of choices available to you:
Hit: take another card.
Stand: stick with the cards you have.
Double down: double your bet and take one more card.
Split: If you have two cards of identical value, you can choose to split them into two hands.
Surrender: If the particular variation you’re playing allows for it, you can choose to surrender and reclaim half your bet.
Once you’ve made your decision with your Blackjack variations…
It’s the dealer’s turn to play. Typically the dealer will continue to take cards until they reach a predetermined amount set by the casino, usually until their hand totals at least 17.
Top tip: It’s worth checking if the casino you’re playing at allows the dealer to hit on a soft 17 (Ace and 6) or if they’re required to stand – this can make a difference to the outcome of the game. If they’re required to hit, it can be a slight advantage for the house. If they’re required to stand, it can be a slight advantage for you.
Once the dealer stands, if your card hand value is closer to 21 than theirs (without busting) then you’ll be the winner! Even better, if you hit 21 exactly with your first two cards (an Ace and a 10-value card), you’ll have Blackjack, which pays out at 3:2.
Easy enough to understand, right? Just get as close as possible to 21 without going over, and if your hand beats the dealer’s, you’ve won!
Now that you’ve got the hang of classic Blackjack, let’s move on to a few online variations and see what other kind of fun lies in store for you!
Popular online Blackjack variations
European Blackjack
Let’s start you off slow with European Blackjack. A game that’s similar to classic Blackjack, but with a few key differences:
At the beginning of a game of European Blackjack, you’ll receive two cards faceup as usual, however the dealer will only receive one card faceup to start.
Only when you’ve finished your turn will the dealer receive a second card.
It’s worth noting that doubling down on European Blackjack is usually only allowed on hands worth 9, 10 or 11.
While these might seem like small changes, in fact they make a big difference, both increasing the house edge and adding the need for strategy.
Why? Because unlike in classic Blackjack, the game won’t end right away if the dealer has Blackjack. Instead, you could spend more money doubling down or splitting, only to instantly lose if the dealer’s second card gives them Blackjack. You’ll need to be more careful with your betting decisions and your bankroll, and you’ll need to think about strategy too – and that’s what makes the game so exciting!
Atlantic City Blackjack variations
Why ‘Atlantic City’ Blackjack? Great question, and to answer it, we’ll need to delve a little into the history of Blackjack itself. As you’d imagine, this version of Blackjack is named after the New Jersey city, one of the USA’s favourite gambling getaways after Las Vegas. In fact, Atlantic City was the first destination outside Las Vegas to offer legalised gambling in the USA, in the late 1970s.
As part of their casino game regulations, New Jersey’s Casino Control Commission laid out a specific set of rules for Blackjack in the city – rules that were designed to be fair to players but still give the house a reasonable edge. Over time this specific variation came to be known as Atlantic City Blackjack as a result – how’s that for a knowledge drop!
Here’s why Atlantic City Blackjack variations are so popular to this day:
In this version, the dealer has to stand on soft 17, which can give the player a slight edge over the casino.
Players can split up to 3 or 4 times, depending on the house.
>Players are allowed to double down after they split.
>Late surrender is allowed, meaning you’ll be able to forfeit half your bet rather than going ahead with a weak hand.
The game is usually played with 8 decks (which is where giving the house a reasonable edge comes in).
Despite the number of decks used in every game and the challenge it presents to keeping track of the cards, Atlantic City Blackjack has one of the lowest house edges when played with basic strategy. Which means if you’re looking for a Blackjack variation that’s easy on players and big on winnings, Atlantic City could be just the place to find it!
Spanish 21 – Blackjack variations
If you feel like trying an online Blackjack game with a difference, Spanish 21 might be just the variant you need. A Blackjack variation played with a Spanish-style deck, Spanish 21 removes all the 10 cards from the game, leaving just 48 cards rather than the regular 52. Add in a few extras like bonus payouts and player-friendly options, and you’ve got a Blackjack game brimming with excitement!
What makes Spanish 21 different from regular Blackjack variations?
It’s played with 6 to 8 decks, with all the 10s removed (face cards stay in though).
>If you have 21 and the dealer has 21, you’ll always win regardless – that’s because in Spanish 21, the player’s 21 always wins.
You’ll receive bonus payouts for certain hands, like 6-7-8 suited or 5-card 21s.
You’ll be able to double down after a split, re-split Aces, and surrender late as well.
It’s more strategically complex, as removing the 10s from the deck changes the maths.
While the removal of the 10s from the deck gives the house a very slight edge, meaning fewer opportunities for natural Blackjack, Spanish 21 is still a fun and fast-paced game. So if you’re up for Blackjack that’s all about crazy hand combinations and strategic thinking, sit down to Spanish 21 and see what the cards have in store for you!
Blackjack Switch
Want to get a little more playful with your Blackjack? Then Blackjack Switch is your game! A cheeky little variant that allows you to play two hands at the same time, Blackjack Switch also allows you to switch the top cards between the two hands in order to improve them. It’s all in the name, and it’s all in the way you play!
Want to know more?
After the initial deal, you’ll be able to switch the top cards (the cards dealt second in each hand) between your two hands – a move that could help you turn a weaker hand into a stronger one.
Blackjack in Blackjack Switch pays out even money (1:1).
If the dealer busts with exactly 22, all non-Blackjack hands will push (tie) instead of winning. This does swing the edge in the house’s favour, but it’s done to offset the advantage given to you by switching your cards between hands.
Use your switch to create the best hands possible or split up your worst combos – but always make sure both hands are balanced. Having one great hand and one terrible hand won’t do you any favours. Play conservatively if the dealer has a strong upcard, and watch out for that push on the dealer’s 22 – playing too aggressively could come back to bite you.
When all’s said and done though, Blackjack Switch is a thrilling, dynamic way to play. So maybe it’s time to change from regular Blackjack to this variation for a while? A switch-up could be just what your game needs!
Double Exposure Blackjack
You know how in regular Blackjack, you only get to see one of the dealer’s cards faceup when they’re dealt? Wouldn’t it make life (and betting) a whole lot easier if you just knew the total of the dealer’s hand right from the start?
That’s the concept behind Double Exposure Blackjack – a game where both the dealer’s cards are ‘exposed’ (dealt faceup) at the beginning of the hand, so you’ll be able to see exactly what the dealer has before you make any betting decisions. Sounds awesome, right?
Here’s everything you need to know:
Having the dealer’s hand right in front of you makes strategic decisions much easier. If the dealer has 20, for example, you won’t risk hitting on 16. There’s no mystery anymore – you’ll have all the information you need to make an informed betting decision.
Of course, the house needs to even out this player advantage somehow, in order to keep things interesting. That’s why in Double Exposure Blackjack, having Blackjack only pays out 1:1 instead of the usual 3:2.
Unless you both have Blackjack, the dealer takes the win on all ties—so once you see their hand, it’s always in your best interest to try and beat it.
No insurance and no surrender. There are no safety nets in Double Exposure Blackjack – you’re all in right from the start, so make sure you manage your bankroll accordingly.
While you’ll need to have a different strategic mindset to play Double Exposure Blackjack successfully, it’s a thrilling challenge nonetheless. All that remains to be seen is whether or not you’re up for it!
Pontoon
If you’re a Blackjack aficionado, you might have heard of Pontoon before – originally a British variant of the game and now a staple in online casinos, one with its own unique terminology and rules. It’s Blackjack, but not quite as you know it – because it’s Pontoon!
You’ll still have to beat the dealer by getting as close to 21 without going over – but this time when the dealer’s cards are dealt, they’re BOTH face-down. So it’s like the exact opposite of Double Exposure Blackjack. If you like a challenge, this is it!
There’s no Blackjack here. There’s only Pontoon. That’s what it’s called when you get an Ace and a 10-card – a hand that’ll still beat one with 3 or more cards adding up to 21.
Instead of hitting and standing, you’ll be twisting and sticking. A new way to play, a whole new language to learn. British slang for the win!
Are you feeling lucky?
If you’re able to draw five cards without going bust, you’ll beat all hands except Pontoon. As with Double Exposure Blackjack, the dealer wins all ties. Although in Pontoon you won’t know what the dealer has until it’s their turn to play. So guard your bankroll with your life!
As you can see, Pontoon has all the familiar elements of Blackjack variations. But with a fresh new feel. Must be that British influence. Pour yourself a cup of tea and get to it!
Live dealer Blackjack
Last but not least, there’s live dealer Blackjack variations. The closest you can get to casino Blackjack without needing to leave the comfort of your home. Combining the authenticity of real-life play with the convenience of digital gambling, live dealer Blackjack is the best of both worlds. And instantly accessible via laptop or mobile device.
Thanks to high-definition streaming video, you’ll be able to view real live dealers in a real-life casino environment, managing the Blackjack table in real time. What’s more, you’ll also be able to interact with them and the other players around you thanks to the handy chat function available. Place your bets, chat to the dealer and your other competitors. Take part in thrilling side bets if you can afford to. And enjoy all the exhilaration of genuine Blackjack play on a digital platform. It’s the way of the future. And it’s top quality, immersive gambling at its best!
Online Blackjack side bets
Looking to add to your Blackjack variations and winnings beyond the main game? Try taking out a side bet while you play for added excitement and maybe even added payouts too! Popular online Blackjack side bets include:
Perfect pairs: A side bet you can take that’ll pay out if your initial two cards are a pair.
>21+3: Combine your two cards with the dealer’s faceup card to make a Poker-style hand and win at the same time.
>Hot 3: This side bet will pay out based on the sum of your first two cards and the dealer’s faceup card.
>Bet behind: Taking this bet will allow you to bet on another player’s hand (something often seen in live dealer games).
Insurance: The dealer offers insurance whenever their faceup card is an Ace. If the dealer has Blackjack, you receive a 2:1 payout.
It’s worth noting that while side bets can be a lot of fun, they generally also carry a high house edge at the same time. So it may not be financially worth your while to take them. Always check your bankroll first before you take any side bets. And make sure you’re managing your money as efficiently as you can.
How to improve your online Blackjack game
By far the biggest selling point of online Blackjack is the advantage it gives you over the house. The fact that if you’re a seasoned, experienced player. The decisions you make when you play can help to significantly reduce the house edge in your favour. The better you are, the more impact your decisions will have on the outcome in a positive way. Which could translate into bigger winnings for you!
Want to learn how to play smarter? Keep these winning tips and strategies in mind:
Learn basic strategy
No matter what your level of Blackjack experience, you can always benefit from learning basic strategy. By consulting the charts available, you’ll start to learn the statistically best moves to make
in any situation based on your hand and the dealer’s upcard. Just find the right strategy chart for the Blackjack variations you’re playing, and start doing your homework.
Some basic strategy essentials include:
Always hit on card hand values of 12 to 16 when the dealer shows 7 or higher.
Stand on 17 or more.
Always split Aces and 8s.
Never split 10s or 5s.
Play for free first
It makes sense, right? Before you start playing online Blackjack variations with your own money. Play with the casino’s first as you learn the ropes. Try out one of the many free or demo versions available, and take your time finding your way round the many Blackjack versions on offer. You’ll be able to play in a stress-free environment without risking your own hard-earned money. Valuable experience that you’ll be able to capitalize on once you start playing for real.
Manage your bankroll
Successful online Blackjack play (and online gambling in general) is all about managing your money effectively. The more you’re able to protect your bankroll, the longer you’ll be in the game. Try these money management tips to help:
Always set yourself a gambling budget before you start playing, and stick to it.
Make use of flat betting (betting the same amount each game) in order to extend your playtime.
NEVER chase your losses!
Always quit when you’re ahead, or as soon as you’ve reached your loss limit.
Keep these tips in mind, and you’ll find it easier to keep an eye on your bankroll as you play.
Use any available strategy tools
We’ve already highlighted the importance of learning basic strategy when it comes to Blackjack variations. But did you know that you can use basic strategy charts actually at the table? If you’re having trouble memorizing what to do and when. Find out if your online casino allows Blackjack trainers or the use of basic strategy charts as you play. Take advantage of any resources available to you in order to help improve your game!
Know the rules before you play
It sounds basic but it’s hugely important, as every different Blackjack variation has different rules that can significantly affect the house edge. For example:
Whether the dealer hits or stands on soft 17.
The number of decks used in each game.
In which circumstances double and split is allowed.
Make sure you’re aware of all the fine print first, and check the necessary rules and terms before you place any bets. Your bankroll will thank you!
You know how to play, you know more about the various types of Blackjack available, and you have a selection of tips and tricks up your sleeve as well. All you need to do now is place your bets and hit the tables – that elusive number 21 is calling for you!