Online casinos offer a range of blackjack variants, each with unique rules and features that can provide a different experience from the classic game. Here are some of the best and most popular online blackjack variants:
The Best Online Blackjack Variants
1. Classic Blackjack
1.1. Overview
- Rules: The standard version of blackjack where the goal is to beat the dealer by having a hand value closest to 21 without going over.
- Payout: Blackjack (an Ace and a 10-value card) typically pays 3:2, and regular wins pay 1:1.
- Dealer Rules: The dealer usually stands on a soft 17.
1.2. Why Play?
- Familiarity: It’s the traditional version most players are familiar with and is available at almost every online casino.
2. European Blackjack
2.1. Overview
- Rules: Similar to Classic Blackjack but with a few key differences. The dealer only receives one card face up initially.
- Payout: Blackjack pays 3:2, and the dealer stands on a soft 17.
- Additional Rule: The dealer does not check for blackjack until after the player completes their hand.
2.2. Why Play?
- Strategic Differences: The game offers a slightly different strategy due to the dealer not checking for blackjack right away.
3. Blackjack Switch
3.1. Overview
- Rules: Players are dealt two hands and are allowed to switch the top cards between the hands.
- Payout: Blackjack usually pays 1:1, not 3:2.
- Additional Rule: There’s often a rule where a dealer’s 22 results in a push against all player hands.
3.2. Why Play?
- Increased Strategy: The card-switching option adds a strategic element and can improve your odds with proper play.
4. Spanish 21
4.1. Overview
- Rules: Played with a Spanish deck (48 cards, removing all 10s). The game has a more favorable set of rules for the player.
- Payout: Blackjack pays 3:2, and there are bonus payouts for certain hands.
- Additional Rules: Players can double down after splitting, and there are often more bonus features.
4.2. Why Play?
- Enhanced Payouts: The game offers various bonus payouts and more flexibility with splitting and doubling down.
5. Pontoon
5.1. Overview
- Rules: A British variant of blackjack with different terminology and rules. A Pontoon (a hand of 21) and a Five-Card Trick (five cards totaling 21 or less) have special payouts.
- Payout: Pontoon pays 2:1, and a Five-Card Trick pays 2:1 as well.
- Additional Rules: The dealer always hits on 16 and stands on 17.
5.2. Why Play?
- Unique Rules: The different payout structure and unique hand values offer a fresh twist on the classic game.
6. Blackjack Surrender
6.1. Overview
- Rules: Players have the option to surrender their hand and forfeit half their bet if they feel they cannot win.
- Payout: Blackjack pays 3:2, and the surrender option is available at the start of the hand.
- Additional Rules: The game follows standard blackjack rules, but players can surrender their hand if desired.
6.2. Why Play?
- Strategic Flexibility: The surrender option allows players to minimize losses in unfavorable situations.
7. Perfect Pairs Blackjack
7.1. Overview
- Rules: In addition to the standard game, players can place a side bet on whether their first two cards will form a pair.
- Payout: Perfect pairs side bet has different payout levels depending on the type of pair (e.g., mixed pair, colored pair, perfect pair).
- Additional Rules: The side bet does not affect the main game’s rules.
7.2. Why Play?
- Additional Betting Opportunity: The side bet offers the chance to win extra payouts based on the pair type.
8. Double Exposure Blackjack
8.1. Overview
- Rules: The dealer’s cards are both dealt face-up, providing players with more information.
- Payout: Blackjack typically pays 1:1, and there are usually fewer rules that favor the player (e.g., dealer wins ties).
- Additional Rules: The dealer usually hits on a soft 17.
8.2. Why Play?
- Increased Transparency: Seeing both dealer cards allows for better strategic decisions.
9. 21+3 Blackjack
9.1. Overview
- Rules: This variant includes a side bet that combines the player’s first two cards with the dealer’s upcard to form a poker hand (e.g., flush, straight).
- Payout: The side bet pays out based on the strength of the poker hand formed.
- Additional Rules: The main game follows standard blackjack rules.
9.2. Why Play?
- Poker Hand Opportunities: The side bet offers an additional way to win based on poker hands.
10. Live Dealer Blackjack
10.1. Overview
- Rules: Played in real-time with a live dealer via video stream. All standard blackjack rules apply.
- Payout: Standard blackjack payouts (typically 3:2 for blackjack).
- Additional Features: Offers the interaction of a land-based casino with the convenience of online play.
10.2. Why Play?
- Authentic Experience: Provides a realistic casino experience and interaction with live dealers.
Conclusion
These online blackjack variants offer diverse gameplay experiences, each with unique rules and features that can enhance your enjoyment of the game. Whether you’re interested in trying new strategies, seeking additional betting opportunities, or enjoying a more authentic casino feel, there’s likely a blackjack variant that suits your preferences. Explore these options to find the variant that best matches your playing style and enjoy the variety they bring to the classic game of blackjack.
