Exploring the Exciting World of Blackjack Variants

Number of Decks

Single-Deck Blackjack

The most traditional form of Blackjack is played with a single deck of 52 cards. This variant is popular among card counters, as it makes it easier to track the cards and gain an advantage over the house. However, single-deck games often have stricter rules to counteract this advantage, such as paying 6:5 instead of the standard 3:2 for a Blackjack.

Multi-Deck Blackjack

In an attempt to thwart card counters, many game developers have introduced multi-deck games, which use anywhere from two to eight decks of cards. The more decks used, the harder it is for players to track the cards and develop a winning strategy. However, multi-deck games usually have more lenient rules and offer better odds for players, making them attractive to a wider audience.

Rule Variations

Different variants of blackjack can have different rules on whether the dealer stands or hits on soft 17. These rule variations can significantly impact the strategy and odds of the game. If you are using basic strategy, then be sure to use an appropriate chart by checking whether the dealer will stand on a soft 17 or not.

Side Bets

Insurance

The Insurance side bet is offered in most Blackjack variants. It becomes available when the dealer's card is an Ace. Players can bet up to half of their original wager, and if the dealer has a Blackjack, the insurance bet pays 2:1. However, if the dealer doesn't have a Blackjack, the player loses their insurance bet.

Perfect Pairs

The Perfect Pairs side bet is based on the first two cards dealt to the player. If the player's initial two cards are a pair (e.g., two Queens), they win the side bet. The payouts vary depending on the type of pair, with mixed pairs typically paying 6:1, coloured pairs paying 12:1, and perfect pairs (identical rank and suit) paying 25:1.

Hands per Round

Multi-Hand Blackjack

In Multi-Hand Blackjack, players can play multiple hands in one round, increasing their chances of winning. This variant appeals to seasoned players looking for more excitement and action at the table. However, playing multiple hands requires a larger bankroll and can increase the risk of losing.

Splitting

Standard Splitting Rules

In most Blackjack variants, if a player is dealt a pair, they have the option to split the pair into two separate hands. Each hand is then played independently, with the player placing an additional bet equal to their original wager on the new hand. Some games allow players to split multiple times, while others limit the number of splits allowed.

Splitting Aces

Splitting Aces is a special case, as it often comes with additional rules. In many games, if a player splits Aces, they receive only one additional card for each Ace, and if a ten-value card is dealt to a split Ace, it's not considered a Blackjack.

Doubling Down

Doubling down is a popular Blackjack option that allows players to double their original bet in exchange for receiving just one additional card. The rules for doubling down can vary from game to game.

Surrender

Surrender is an option in our Blackjack Surrender title from Playtech. It is an extra action that you can take after your cards have been dealt. Effectively, it is folding your hand, for which you will receive half your stake back. Not many Blackjack variants offer the surrender function, and it may vary between games.

Stakes

High Stakes Blackjack

High Stakes Blackjack, or VIP Blackjack, are games designed for players looking to bet large sums of money. These games often have higher minimum and maximum bets, attracting high rollers who want to put their skills and bankrolls to the test.

Low Stakes Blackjack

Low Stakes Blackjack games cater to players who prefer smaller bets and a more casual gaming atmosphere. These games often have lower minimum bets, making them accessible to a wider range of players. Low Stakes Blackjack is perfect for beginners looking to learn the game without risking too much money or for those who simply want to enjoy a relaxed, budget-friendly gaming experience.

And More!

Blackjack variants are increasingly popular in the iGaming industry. Developers go to great lengths to create new innovative variants and release them to the market. At Galera, we provide a large assortment of Blackjack that includes most of these variants. For example, you can try out Blackjack Switch. This follows all the basic rules of Blackjack, but it has a quirky extra where you can swap cards between hands. Then, you can have traditional variants of Blackjack that have extra bonus games attached to them such as Mega Fire Blaze Blackjack. In this variant, from Playtech, there is a side game which costs an additional wager. You need to place the additional wager and then if the right cards are dealt during any round, a bonus round is triggered. There are some serious prizes to be won in the bonus round, and though it is not necessarily “traditional Blackjack”, this variant appeals to many players.

Take on the House Today

The world of Blackjack is filled with exciting variants that cater to players of all skill levels and preferences. By understanding the differences in rules, side bets, and strategies associated with each variant, you can enhance your gaming experience and increase your chances of winning. Whether you prefer Single-Deck Blackjack, Multi-Hand Blackjack, or an exhilarating High Stakes game, there's a Blackjack variant out there for you. Now that you're armed with this knowledge, it's time to hit the tables and try your luck!