Blackjack is a card game that most of us have an inkling of how to play. After all, it’s a game that many are taught as kids, as it is far simpler to grasp than many of the more complicated card games out there. However, don’t make the mistake of thinking that there is just one blackjack game to play. There are dozens of top variants out there, each with its own subtle takes on the rules.
If you’re interested in playing online blackjack, where do you begin? Should you opt for the conventional classic blackjack game? Perhaps single-deck blackjack is better? If you want ambience and atmospheric conditions, is live dealer blackjack the way to go? Don’t worry – I’ll explain how to find the best blackjack variants right here in today’s blog.
What Is a Blackjack Variant?
Firstly, I should touch on what a variant is. Whether we’re talking about poker, baccarat, blackjack or roulette games, most casino games have multiple variants for you to choose from. For instance, some may be ideal for high rollers (big spenders), and others are beginner’s tables designed for newbies.
Some play with the rules, offering you seemingly advantageous rule changes, while others may adjust the RTP, payouts, or house edges as a result. These are commonly known as blackjack variants, and each is played slightly differently than the conventional game. It is up to you to decide which variant suits you the best.
Tips for Finding the Best Games to Play
Given that there are, on average, at least half a dozen blackjack variants at any given online casino, you have some choices to make when playing. If you’re new to the game, then I strongly recommend opting for the basic blackjack game, either Classic Blackjack or Single Deck Blackjack. However, if you’re experienced enough, it may be time to explore some of those variants. I have accumulated plenty of knowledge and experience over my years playing, and I’m going to share with you my top tips for doing so below.
Play Games for Free
Firstly, always play blackjack variants for free. You never want to try a new game without first testing what the game offers. By playing for free, you can learn how it is different, if certainly strategies work better, and more before you risk your own hard-earned cash. All blackjack variants (save for live dealer games) can be played for free.
Opt for Games with Low House Edges
To begin with, opt to play blackjack variants that have low house edges. The last thing that you want to do is play a game with exceptionally high house edges. The lower the house edge, the better it is for you. This is where free blackjack games come in, but you can also check the house edges via the game’s paytable. Identify why it is different from other games using that paytable.
Watch Those Payouts
Almost every blackjack variant alters the rules of the basic game in some way or another. Every alternation or rule variant will affect something else. For instance, you may find that the payouts are altered. This could see you win more or less based on the hand you have. Always check the table rules to see whether you’re getting 1:1, 2:1, 0.9:1, 3:2, or any other adjusted payout based on the rules.
Don’t Worry About Side-Bets
Don’t worry about side-bets in blackjack games. Less commonly known as proposition bets, these usually have terrible probability, and you should avoid side bets anyway. Just because a variant doesn’t feature side-bets doesn’t make it not worth exploring.
Pay Attention to the Rules
The rules in blackjack variants will be different than what you’re used to. This means that you may not be able to split, double down, or take insurance like you are used to. There may also be certain rules which alter when a hand is pushed or not. In top non-GamStop live dealer casinos that offer Lightning Blackjack, you should pay attention to the multipliers, as they work differently than in, say, Lightning Roulette. In my opinion, they are arguably a lot worse than in that roulette game. Either way, cast an eagle eye over everything before you wager.
5 Blackjack Variants You Should Consider Today
Now that I’ve shared what to look for with you, allow me to introduce you to a handful of my favourite blackjack variants and why they are different. Each of these is certainly worth considering if you want to branch out from the main game. My top five blackjack variants include:
- Blackjack Switch: Blackjack Switch gets its name because it allows you to play with multiple hands and switch cards from one hand to another. However, the dealer can push at 22 if you have 21.
- Spanish 21: In Spanish 21, the key difference is that all 10-point cards have been removed from the deck (except face cards). Therefore, it is trickier to land blackjack, but the payouts are altered as a result.
- Double Exposure: In this game, you’ll see both of the dealer’s cards from the start. Because of this advantage, the dealer wins all ties, while tied blackjacks are pushed.
- Single-Deck Blackjack: Single-Deck Blackjack may feature conventional rules, but the fact that it only uses a single deck makes it ideal for those who wish to “attempt” to count cards.
- Atlantic City Blackjack: In this game, you can double down on any two available cards and split cards up to three times, making it ideal for anyone who favours strategy when playing.
Where to Play Top Online Blackjack Games in 2024
You don’t have to look hard to find a host of blackjack variants online. Some are more commonly available than others. However, if you want to sign up and play at a trusted site which has plenty of options, then look no further than our recommended online casinos. Each has been reviewed for you and is ideal if you want a couple of decent blackjack variants to choose from. Explore them at your leisure before signing up and exploring new ways to play blackjack online today.
Best Blackjack sites for 2024
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