Internet Blackjack

Many variations of blackjack games exist in casinos.  From the number of decks in the shoe and betting limits, to rules and allowances, this simple game of 21 is portrayed through a plethora of blackjack variances and games.

A blackjack game consists of at least one 52-card deck, and sometimes a double deck. However, most casinos commonly use four or six decks and occasionally eight decks (eight deck tables are uncommon, as players are discouraged by the overwhelming house advantage).

Some blackjack games are played with a shoe, where others are hand-held. Players are not allowed to touch the cards when playing a shoe-based game, whereas players may touch the cards in a hand-held game, provided these rules are followed: only the two face-down cards dealt to the player can be touched, and only with one hand, over the table.

Depending upon the blackjack variation, dealers will stand or hit soft 17 and will either allow or disallow the surrender rule. Rules for splitting also vary. The most common splitting rule grants players up to three (3) splits, with some casinos offering double or unlimited splits. Although it is rare, splitting is restricted by a minority of casinos.

European versions of blackjack are played with the “No Hole Card” rule.  This means that the dealer is not dealt their second hole card until all players have completed their play. This varies from the American version where the dealer receives their cards at the same time as the players.

Blackjack 21 Variations

Aside from basic blackjack, game variants of 21 and blackjack include:

21 Madness – players can win a $5 – $1,000 bonus when having placed the $1 side bet and are dealt blackjack.
Blackjack Switch – players are dealt two hands instead of one, and are allowed to switch their top hole cards, one with the other; blackjacks are paid 1:1 instead of 3:2.
Bust Out – player’s bets are paid out 2:1 when having placed a side bet, if the dealer draws a 10 and busts.
Double Exposure – both of the dealer’s hole cards are dealt face up, but players do not receive blackjack bonuses.
Over / Under 13 – players can wager a side bet that their hole cards will total fewer than 13 or over 14 for a 1:1 payout.
Red / Black – players can wager a side bet that the dealer’s up card will be red or black for a 1:1 payout, but dealer wins all if the card is a 2.
Royal Match – if the player side-bets and receives hole cards of the same suit, a 3:1 payout is received (10:1 if they are a King and Queen).
Spanish 21 – A six or eight deck variation of blackjack where all 10 cards are removed, but in which 678 and 777 combinations issue large payouts, especially if suited. Also, all 21 totals are paid, never pushed.

Casinos offer many blackjack game variations, so it is important to make an observation of which table game you join, so that you are aware of the rules that correspond to it. This simple but easily forgotten suggestion can save you money and potential embarrassment.