The classic blackjack game, which began as a single-deck card game in French casinos, has inspired dozens of fascinating variations that have also become a staple in many online casinos.
And each of the introduced types of blackjack games adds its unique layer to the standard gameplay goal, which is to exceed the dealer’s hand total without going beyond 21 (busting).
Today’s casino news highlights the most common blackjack variations that cater to the diverse risk tolerances, strategic preferences, and entertainment desires of players.
House Rules Define the Types of Blackjack Games
Slight rule changes in popular blackjack variants always impact the house edge and the strategies you use. Take note of that as you play blackjack online for real money.
The most popular types of blackjack games you can encounter are:
Classic Blackjack Games
The following blackjack games are popularly regarded as classics.
American Blackjack
American blackjack is the most popular variant, adhering closely to the foundational rules. These include the dealer standing on all 17s, players doubling down on any two cards, and natural blackjack paying 3:2. It is played with 1-8 (typically 6-8) decks of 52 cards, and players can use the cheat sheet for blackjack during gameplay.
European Blackjack
European blackjack is one of the most popular blackjack variations, introducing new rules to the classic game. The dealer receives only one face-up card (i.e., no hole card) until after the player acts, creating a shift in strategy. The game often uses just two decks and doesn’t allow late surrender. Doubling down is restricted to starting hands with a value of 9, 10, or 11.
Atlantic City Blackjack
Atlantic City is one of the more player-friendly variations of blackjack because it allows late surrender and lets players double after splitting. This variation uses eight decks, and the dealer stands on soft 17.
Creative Blackjack Games
There are modern types of blackjack games that can offer you more control, creative options, or built-in advantages without deviating from the core goal. They include:
Free Bet Blackjack
Of all the different types of blackjack, Free Bet blackjack is the only variation that lets you make free double downs or splits without using your own money. The casino covers the bet instead. However, it comes with a rule called Push 22, where a dealer 22 results in a push instead of a bust.
Blackjack Switch
Blackjack Switch lets you play two hands at once and swap the top cards between them to create the strongest possible combinations. However, natural blackjack only pays even money, and a dealer’s 22 results in a push.
Spanish 21
Spanish 21 is a bonus-packed blackjack game using a 48-card deck with all 10s removed. You can double after any number of cards and surrender. Hit specific hands, such as a 5-card 21 or a 7-7-7 hand of mixed suits, to earn bonuses.
Online and Live Dealer Blackjack Games
Some popular types of blackjack games are only accessible on digital platforms. They include:
Infinite Blackjack
This easily accessible and fast-paced live dealer game accommodates an unlimited number of players, playing different blackjack hands. All players share a two-card hand, but each makes decisions independently. You can place unique side bets like Hot 3 and Bust It to win beyond 21.
Lightning Blackjack
Lightning Blackjack is a visually striking variation that combines live dealer features with a random number generator (RNG). It offers enticing payouts and bonuses by adding random win multipliers to your hand if you win multiple rounds in a row.
Master Them All!
With so many types of blackjack games available, picking the right one is about aligning the game with your goal, playstyle, and risk tolerance. However, it is advisable to master the classic and popular ones before moving to more dynamic variations. By doing this, you answer questions like how do side bets work in blackjack.
Good luck, and stay with us at Slots Paradise Casino!
FAQs
What are the different types of blackjack?
The most played blackjack games include American, European, Atlantic City, Spanish 21, Free Bet, and newer live formats, such as Infinite Blackjack.
What is the best variation of blackjack?
The best variation of blackjack depends on preference, but American blackjack is the most preferred.