European Blackjack is one of the best table games to play, despite its shortcomings. It has an increased house edge, and players are required to take an action before the dealer reveals their hole cards. However, do these features mean less fun and a reduced chance of winning? No! You only need to understand how the game works.
In this casino guide, we briefly discuss European blackjack, highlighting its rules and winning strategies. Blackjack reviews are our thing!
European Blackjack: Rules, Strategy & How To Play
European blackjack is a staple casino table game played using a standard 52-card deck. Players compete against a trained card dealer to form a hand total of 21 or as close to it as possible without exceeding 21 to win.
This objective also applies to the American variant. However, European blackjack has unique rules that guide its gameplay. Keep them in mind as you learn how to play blackjack.
European Blackjack vs American Blackjack
The American vs. European blackjack comparison centers on card dealing, gameplay actions, and the handling of Soft 17 in the respective variants. Let’s explain.
Card dealing
In European blackjack, the dealer doesn’t receive their second card until all players have acted.
Conversely, in American blackjack, dealers peek at their second card before player action and mercifully end the game if they have natural blackjack (Ace + 10-value card).
House edge
The absence of dealer hole card information contributes to the high house edge of European blackjack (0.11%). This means you can take an action and lose both bets if the dealer happens to have blackjack. American Blackjack, on the other hand, has a reduced house advantage of 0.5%.
Doubling and splitting
Most European blackjack rules restrict doubling down to values of 9, 10, or 11, and permit splitting only once, whereas players can double down and re-split in American Blackjack.
Soft 17
In European blackjack, the dealer is required to stand on a soft 17, whereas in the American variant, the dealer hits. You can learn more about American Blackjack using our guide.
Step-by-Step Guide To Playing European Blackjack
The following are the four basic steps on how to play European Blackjack:
- Place your bet within the table’s limits before the dealing of cards. You receive two face-up cards, while the dealer gets one.
- Take action either to hit, stand, double, split, or surrender, based on your hand and the dealer’s upcard. If you have a blackjack cheat sheet, you can use it.
- Wait for the dealer’s action. The dealer draws a second card and plays by house rules.
- If your hand beats the dealer’s, you win 1:1. But if you have an Ace and a 10-value card, that’s a natural blackjack, and you win 3:2.
How To Win at European Blackjack
There are three major strategies to win at European blackjack. They are:
Optimal strategy
The European blackjack chart simplifies the optimal move for your hand against any dealer’s upcard, which means you should:
- Hit on totals of 8 or less
- Stand on 17 or higher
- Double on 10 or 11 against a dealer’s weak card (2-6)
- Split Aces and 8s always
- Never split 10s or 5s
Card counting
Card Counting is an effective European blackjack strategy when permitted. Since most European blackjack tables use just two decks, you can track high and low cards to monitor when the deck becomes favorable.
Bankroll management
Managing your wagering budget is a crucial online blackjack strategy. It is advised to bet only 1-2% of your bankroll per hand to reduce the effect of variance.
Across the European Felt: Change Your Mindset!
Although it’s losing more players to the American version, European blackjack remains one of the most popular casino table games worldwide. It is rewarding when you play with a strategy at a reputable casino like Slots Paradise. Try European Blackjack from Betsoft to put strategy into practice.
FAQs
What is European blackjack?
European blackjack is a popular table game variant in which players compete against the dealer to achieve a hand total of 21 or as close to it as possible without exceeding 21 to win.
How is European Blackjack different from American Blackjack?
The American dealer receives two cards upfront and checks for blackjack. In contrast, in European blackjack, the dealer gets only one card and doesn’t draw a second until players have completed their actions.
What is the payout for blackjack in Europe?
In Europe, a natural blackjack often pays 3:2.
Can you split and double down in European Blackjack?
Yes, but doubling down is restricted to values of 9, 10, or 11, and splitting is permitted only once.
Is European Blackjack better for players?
No, American blackjack is considered better for players than European blackjack due to its no-hole-card rule and higher house edge.