Blackjack is a well-known traditional casino game, and its popularity has increased due to its simplicity and ease of playing. The game has become more popular online thanks to its successful integration into online casinos.
There are over a hundred different variations of blackjack, from classic American Blackjack to subtle variations that offer additional side bets, increasing the potential for bigger payouts. Given the range of options that cater to all player preferences, this article explores some of the most popular variations of online blackjack that are highly favored by players.
American Blackjack game
American blackjack, called classic or standard blackjack, is the same game you find in a land-based casino: the dealer versus the players. Using either one, two, four, six, or eight, the main goal of American blackjack is to outscore the dealer by getting a higher score, getting closer to 21. Players can double their bet on any two cards. Splitting a hand is permitted, meaning players can split a hand three times, resulting in four separate hands.
Players can also enjoy live dealer blackjack games for a chance to experience the live casino environment and To play blackjack for real money. Players are immersed in a realistic environment where they can interact with the live dealer stationed at an actual gaming table inside the casino studio. The game uses real cards, and different camera angles enhance the viewing experience.
European blackjack
One of the initial modifications of card game It was the creation of European blackjack. Similar to roulette, it was inevitable that a European version of this traditional card game would be introduced. The gameplay of European Blackjack involves using two decks of cards, each consisting of 52 cards, creating a higher house edge.
Players must have a hand value of 17 or more to participate in the game, while the dealer must draw another card if their hand value is 16 or less. Unlike other versions, European blackjack only reveals one face-up card to the dealer and does not include a hidden card. The dealer will only get an additional card after players have completed their hands and placed their bets.
The European version of the game carries a slightly higher level of risk than its American counterpart. The main difference lies in the fact that European blackjack usually uses 2, 6 or 8 suits of cards. The dealer is not obligated to stand on all 17 cards, allowing him to choose a shot if his hand adds up to 17 points or higher.
Progressive blackjack
Progressive blackjack takes the traditional game to the next level by offering a side bet that effectively contributes to the ever-increasing progressive jackpot. Participants have the option to place an additional bet, offering them the opportunity to compete for the ever-accumulating jackpot.
Players usually must get a specific combination of cards to win the desired jackpot. For example, a common requirement might include getting four aces of the same suit. This element gives the game more suspense and anticipation as participants try to outdo the dealer and aim to hit the challenging jackpot.
Players looking for a traditional gaming experience and a chance to win a large sum of money often choose progressive blackjack, which adds more excitement and the possibility of a profitable outcome.
However, players should be aware that the probability of winning a progressive jackpot is usually small, and they should approach the game with a balanced mindset that includes having fun and the possibility of winning the jackpot.
Free bet on blackjack
Table game creator Jeff Hall, well known in blackjack, created Free Bet Blackjack, a variation of the game. The main difference compared to traditional blackjack games is that players are not required to deposit additional money when splitting or doubling their hand. However, there is a catch: Payment rule 22.
When the dealer’s total reaches 22 without going over, the 22 pay rule considers all of the player’s hands to be tied. This rule is unfavorable to players because it increases the house advantage. However, the dealer can take additional cards when his total reaches 17; The blackjack payout is still 3:2 instead of 6:5.
The casino offers free opportunities for players to double their bets on the first hand if the total value is nine, ten or eleven. In addition, players can split their paired hands at no cost, except for hands containing pairs of cards worth ten, such as tens, jacks, queens, and kings.
Multi-Hand Blackjack Game
Multi-hand blackjack is a modern adaptation that allows players to participate in multiple hands at once. At the start of the game, players can choose how many hands they want to play, and some games allow up to five hands per round.
The main goal of multi-hand blackjack remains unchanged from traditional blackjack – to beat the dealer without going over 21 on any hand. Multi-hand blackjack provides players with additional opportunities to use different strategies and place multiple bets.
Each player receives two face-up cards in each hand, while the dealer gets one face-up and one that remains hidden. Players can take an additional card, stay with their current hand, increase their bet by doubling the original amount, or split their hand into two separate hands.
Perfect pairs in blackjack
Perfect Pairs Blackjack, an early version of blackjack with additional side bets, shares many rules and basic requirements with American blackjack. However, it has a unique side bet feature. When players anticipate that their first two cards will have identical values, such as two kings or two sixes, they can place an additional side bet. This side bet pays 6:1.
If two cards share not only the same value but also the same color, players can get payouts of 12:1. The largest payout ratio of 25:1 is awarded exclusively to those who successfully land two cards of the same value, color and suit, often known as “perfect pairs”.
