Blackjack Variants - Overview & Rules

Aria BrownStefan Weber

6 min read

When it comes to the most popular card games, Blackjack is really up there along with poker. It's the most classic card game, and it's often the first card game people learn. The basics are easy, and there's also room to add more complexity, delivering a smattering of Blackjack variants.

From European to American Blackjack, to Blackjack Switch, there are many versions of Blackjack out there, each with its own special take on the game. The differences are minor but each work to highlight certain risks and opportunities to give the game a change in rhythm. To help players get a better feel for the game, we have a summary of the most popular variations here, along with what makes each special. We also have some tips as to how you can get the most out of these different Blackjack games online.

Table of Contents

The Best Blackjack Variations 2024

Classic Blackjack

European Blackjack

American Blackjack

Like European Blackjack, the difference is in the deal. The dealer here gets a hole card and an open card right away. If the open card is a 10 or Ace, the dealer checks his hole card and if it's a blackjack the game ends immediately.

American Blackjack info

©betsoft

• Dealer gets 1 hole card and 1 open card
• Both 3:2 and 6:5 payouts available
• Dealer stands on soft 17
• Players can double down after splitting
• Hands can be split 3 times to a total of 4 hands
• Late surrender available

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Since you know whether the dealer has a Blackjack right away, the chances of making useless bets that can only lead to losses is reduced. This is why American Blackjack is especially a good choice for beginners or budget players.

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Popular Variants on American Blackjack:

Atlantic City Blackjack	Vegas Strip Blackjack	Vegas Downtown Blackjack
Always with 8 decks of cards	Played with 4 decks of cards	Dealer hits on 17
Dealer stands on soft 17		Played with 2 decks of cards
Late surrender allowed
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The key difference is the number of decks in play.

In Vegas Downtown Blackjack there are several changes from standard American Blackjack – the dealer must hit on 17, or h17 written in shorthand. H17 games are known to increase house edge, although in Vegas Downtown this is offset by there only being 2 decks of cards. It's obvious that the more decks there are, the higher the house edge.

Pontoon Blackjack

Spanish 21

Super Fun 21

Match Play 21

Double Exposure / Face up 21

Multihand Blackjack

Blackjack Surrender

Blackjack Switch

Blackjack Side Bets

Turn things up a notch by placing side bets on a variety of outcomes beyond 21 but still within the game itself. We've put together some of the most popular Blackjack side bets for you here.

Perfect Pairs Blackjack

Triple Sevens Blackjack Jackpot

21+3 Blackjack

Buster Blackjack

Exclusive Live Blackjack Variants

Practically all Blackjack variants are available as both software based and live games. Some live casino developers have been exploring special Blackjack games that were designed with the live format in mind. Here are some of our favorites.

It's pretty clear that the classic game of 21 can come with many different twists. And no matter what you're in the mood for, you can easily play these Blackjack variants online.

Classic Blackjack – the Basic Rules

There are many Blackjack variations, but they all arise from the classic game. Variants are mostly based on different rules for the dealer, as well as available side bets. But the basics are as follows.

• The basic rule to Blackjack is just to get as close to 21 as possible without going over.
• The best case scenario is when you get dealt an Ace and a 10 (or a Face card) for your first two cards. This combination gives you a Blackjack – and a win as long as the dealer doesn't have a Blackjack as well.
• In most cases however, the total value of your two cards will be too low and you will need to draw a third card. Your goal now is to beat the dealer getting closer to 21.
• Before taking a third card, you do have the option to split your two cards into two separate hands, or doubling down your bet. In some games like Free Bet Blackjack, these additional bets are free.

Tips for Getting Better at Blackjack

	Know the rules. Since Blackjack comes in many variations, you need to be sure you understand the rules of the specific game you are playing. Whether, for example, a dealer hits or stands at 17 can make a huge difference in your strategy.
	Practice makes perfect. Knowing the rules alone are not enough. And this is why online blackjack is awesome. Not only can you play anywhere anytime, you can also play blackjack for free as a demo game. Almost all reputable online casinos will give you this option on their software based-blackjack games. We highly recommend you use it.
	Always take the Dealer's Hand into account. It's very tempting to focus on your own hand and getting it to 21. But you only need to beat the dealer to win. Most Blackjack games will have a face up card for the dealer, so take a look at it and make your decisions accordingly.
	Use a basic strategy to start. For example, split on Aces but never on 10s. That's because two 10 cards are very close to 21. When these basics become second nature, you will have mastered core principles to more complex strategies in Blackjack.
	Take a glance at the blackjack table at the beginning of each game. There you will find the most critical information written, concerning payouts, and whether dealer hits or stands on 17. It's always good to make this mental note before placing your wager.

Blackjack Training for Beginners

• Learn common Blackjack terms, such as Hit and Stand
• Find a reputable casino and choose a software based blackjack game
• Open the demo game – read the rules of that specific blackjack game
• Place bet and play
• Repeat with free games until you are comfortable to switch to real money gambling
• Start with small bets
• Explore live blackjack games – these are only available for real money wagers

Blackjack has specific terms even for the most basic actions, like to Hit is to take another card. Going through a Blackjack glossary and learning the terms is thus crucial to becoming a proficient player and playing Blackjack strategically.

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Blackjack Test Games Online – Pros and Cons

Playing often will make you better at Blackjack, and both beginners and experienced players will benefit from practice. There are many blackjack test games you can play for free online. The better online casinos will let you play them directly in your browser. They are great for getting familiar with a specific variant or for practicing a strategy. However, do remember they have limitations – mainly you won't win anything.

Choosing a Blackjack Game

1. Each Blackjack game has its own set of rules. Although the basics are the same, the small differences give the game a different spin. Make sure you know what the rules are.
2. More Decks equals more complexity. Basically, more decks equal more cards, which equals more possibilities. Most online Blackjack games play with 6 to 8 decks. Beginners may find single deck blackjack especially good for learning the ropes.
3. Beginners should avoid side bets. Side bets can be a lot of fun, but as a general rule beginners should stick with simpler games like Classic Blackjack or American Blackjack. Because of these games' structure, the possibilities of making bad wagers are significantly reduced. And that's good for your bankroll.

Blackjack FAQs

1. What are Blackjack variants?
2. What are the easiest Blackjack games?
3. Does it make sense to play free Blackjack games?
4. What are Blackjack sidebets?

1. What are Blackjack variants?

Blackjack variants are Blackjack games that have slightly different procedures within the main game. For example, whether a dealer has to Hit (take a another card) or Stand (not take another card) on a soft 17, for example. Or whether the dealer's cards are dealt face up or down. Some variants might change what players are allowed to do, such as the option to split or double down. But as a whole, the game is still about getting as close as 21 as possible.

2. What are the easiest Blackjack games?

Classic Blackjack and American Blackjack are the easiest versions and what we would recommend for beginner players. The rules are standard and you can spend the game focusing on your hand. In Classic Blackjack, the dealer hits on a Soft 17, while in American Blackjack, they stand. What the dealer does on a Soft 17 is a key differentiator in variants. So when you master these two games, you will have a solid foundation for other blackjack variants.

3. Does it make sense to play free Blackjack games?

Some people think free games are a waste of time, and to a certain extent we agree. It makes no sense playing games where you don't get paid for your wins. Especially for a game like blackjack where skills make a difference. But the thing is, playing free Blackjack games is a great way to sharpen your skills, so we'd say it definitely makes sense. Just don't get lost in it!

4. What are Blackjack sidebets?

Sidebets are extra bets on non-critical events you can make in the Blackjack game. For example, whether your hand has a pair does not technically affect your win or loss in getting close to 21. But a perfect pair side bet will pay out if that's what your cards are, regardless if you win or lose that round.

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I am trained as a tax consultant, mostly because my father insisted that I get a normal job. Luckily, I listened to my heart and followed my passion in writing. Today I work as an online editor while traveling the world, which is why I'm rarely in my hometown, Toronto. By pure chance, I discovered the online casino review industry about ten years ago, and I have been testing and reviewing gambling sites since then. Personally, I prefer Blackjack and Poker games. I think the skills and strategies involved make them much more interesting than slots.

I'm lucky enough to have found both my job and my calling on the internet. As the online marketing manager for a major sportsbook, I began in the online gambling business over a decade ago. The business has been good to me and I love the dynamics of the industry. A blackjack enthusiast myself, I try to provide articles that combine practicalities with the strategic elegance of the game in a way that both rookies and experienced players can appreciate. And when I can, I like to spend my free time on live streaming platforms such as Twitch and Kick.