Out of all the casino games people are fond of, Blackjack surely ranks highest. It has had quite an impact on thousands and millions of people all across the world. Ever since its popularity, there have been quite a few forms of this game. While there is a huge following in the casino business, not many players know about the few other forms that are also played.
These alternate versions can give a player better odds of winning the game. This article further sheds light on some of the most popular versions of Blackjack. You will also learn about the few advantages and rules that make them different and get a step closer to understanding Blackjack.
- Classic Blackjack
Classic Blackjack is one of the more popular versions of Blackjack, not just in brick-and-mortar casinos but in online gambling as well. The main factors adding to its popularity are the low house edge of 0.5% and relatively easier rules that you can understand and implement for your benefit.
However, just because the house edge is low does not mean you are taking full advantage of it. This percentage is often changing for different games, assuming you make the right moves. That said, since Classic Blackjack has simple rules, with a little bit of practice and luck, you can change your fate around.
In this game you must understand Blackjack, the players take into account each card they are dealt and go against the dealer to reach the number 21 or somewhere close to it. Each player receives two cards at the beginning of every round and can either choose to hit or stay from there.
If a player chooses to ‘hit,’ they will get another card while they stay with the existing cards if they choose to ‘stay.’ If the dealer or player gets cards that equal more than 21, that hand is lost.
- European Blackjack:
With very similar techniques and rules to roulette, the European version of Blackjack offers better odds of winning. This version of the game is played with two decks of cards. This further makes the dealing hands more predictable than other versions, which use 5-6 decks in each game.
With the dealer at a soft 17, European Blackjack is a lot more favorable to the platers. A few things you should know about this version is that players can only double down if their cards show a 9, 10, or 11, with blackjacks paying 3:2 eventually.
On calculating, you will see that the house edge in this version is about 39%, which is 20% lower than that of Classic Blackjack. That said, if you are well-versed with this game and want to get your hands on something new and exciting, European Blackjack is quite fruitful.
- Face Up 21:
This version of poker provides a lot of power in the hands of the player and takes some away from the house. As the name suggests, all cards dealt in this game, including the dealer’s cards, are shown face up.
Being able to know what the first two cards are instead of just one, like in other versions, can help you strategize your gameplay and make the best out of any given situation.
That said, it is not all good news. For instance, the house edge for this version adds up to only 0.69%, which is the lowest in this list. However, even with a low house edge, with the right betting strategy and rule implementation, it is a better option than classic Blackjack.
- Perfect pairs:
This is the best version of Blackjack for players who rely on betting strategies more than playing strategies. While it mostly follows the same rules as Classic Blackjack, there is a betting twist you must know about. At the start of the game, every player is allowed to make an extra side bet.
For the side bet, players essentially take a gamble and guess the first two cards dealt will be of the same number. However, for most players, that might seem a long shot. Basically, if the first two cards dealt are of the same number or the same face card, you get a win payment ratio of 5:1.
If both the cards are of the same value and color but different suits, you will get paid at 10:1. The big win is when both the cards are of the same suit and rank, or the ‘perfect pair.’ In such a case, you will get paid at 30:1.
These are some of the most popular alternate versions of Blackjack played all around the world. That said, before you indulge in the different versions of this game, make sure that you have a proper understanding of Blackjack and the rules of each version.
Having enough experience with Classic Blackjack can also help your winning odds, as most of the rules are similar. With the right knowledge and steps, Blackjack can be quite a fruitful casino game.
