Blackjack is one of the most popular table games ever – both at physical and online casinos like Spin Genie. The aim of this simple yet engaging game is to get a hand higher than the dealer’s without exceeding 21. Today, there are thousands of fun blackjack variations to choose from, which cater to different player preferences and strategies.
In this article, we’ll highlight some of our favourite blackjack online games for you to try – all available to play here at Spin Genie.From European blackjack to American blackjack and live dealer blackjack, there’s plenty to explore. Keep reading to find out more.
Classic Blackjack
Overview
Classic blackjack involves competing with the dealer to get a hand that is the closest to 21, without going over this number. This version of the game is sometimes called traditional blackjack, and it is usually played with eight decks of cards.
In this variation the dealer gets a second face-down card at the start of the game (the ‘hole card’) and is allowed to peek at it if their first face-up card is a 10 or an Ace. If the dealer has an immediate blackjack, the round ends.
Players are allowed to double down on any total hand value, as well as after splitting.
Why Play It?
Classic blackjack is probably one of the most straightforward blackjack games, making it ideal for beginners. It also has a relatively low house edge and offers players more flexibility in terms of doubling down and splitting.
Many players also enjoy playing classic blackjack because it is thought of as the ‘original’ blackjack game that has proved so popular for hundreds of years.
European Blackjack
Key Features
As the name suggests, European blackjack is the most popular form of roulette in Europe. It is quite similar to classic blackjack, although there are a few significant differences. The game is played with fewer decks (typically 2 - 4), and the dealer does not receive their second card until all players have completed their hands.
Players may double down only on hands totalling 9, 10, or 11, and hands can usually be split up to three times.
Player Advantages
This variation has a slightly lower house edge than classic blackjack due to the fact that it is played with fewer decks. Less cards in play makes it theoretically more likely that you may draw an Ace after drawing a 10 (or vice versa).
It’s also fun to try a variation where the dealer does not receive their card until all players have completed their hands, since this also affects gameplay and strategy.
American Blackjack
Unique Rules
In American Blackjack, the dealer starts with one face-up card and one face-down card (the ‘hole card’). They check for blackjack immediately, and if they have blackjack the round ends. This variation of the game is very similar to classic blackjack.
American Blackjack can be more advantageous for players than other variants, as the dealer also reveals the value of their face-up card immediately. This means that they can make more informed decisions based on the dealer’s visible card.
Gameplay Dynamics
The ability to see the player’s face-up card gives players a chance to think about what the dealer’s face-down card could be. This can then guide their decision on whether to hit, stand, double down, or split, depending on their own cards and the visible dealer card.
For example, if the dealer's face-up card is high and the player suspects a strong hole card, they might choose to hit more cautiously to avoid busting. However, if the dealer’s face-up card is low and they suspect a weak hole card, they might decide to stand.
Spanish 21
Gameplay Features
Spanish 21 is a unique version of blackjack where all 10s are removed from the decks (meaning that it uses a 48-card deck rather than the usual 52). While this increases the house edge, the game compensates with more liberal and player-friendly rules, such as late surrender and special bonuses for certain hands, like getting blackjack with five or more cards.
Why It’s Popular
Many players like to try Spanish 21 as a fun blackjack variation that involves a different playing style. The option of late surrender is attractive for players, as well as the opportunity to win higher payouts than usual.
Blackjack Switch
How It Works
In Blackjack Switch, players are dealt two hands instead of one and can switch the top cards between hands.
While switching provides an advantage, other rules, such as blackjack paying 1:1 and the dealer’s 22 pushing against non-blackjack hands, help maintain the casino’s edge.
Strategic Depth
This variation provides a fun twist on the original game, which involves more strategy. It can potentially lead to higher odds of winning, since blackjack pairs can be created. For example, if you have one hand of 10 + 3 and a separate hand of Ace + 9, you can swap so that the 10 and the Ace are in the same hand, and win blackjack.Each hand is of an equal bet, to make the game fair. Although the stakes are higher in this version of the game, there is also a chance to get more favourable returns.
Why It’s Unique
This variant offers an unusual twist on the classic game, which gives the player more agency to make decisions that affect outcomes. Although there are other rules that help to balance out the player advantage and maintain the casino’s edge, Blackjack Switch remains an engaging blackjack variation that is great for those who have played blackjack before.
Live Dealer Blackjack
Interactive Experience
Live dealer blackjack is one of the most exciting ways to enjoy the game from your mobile device or desktop. All of the action from a live blackjack table is streamed straight to your device, with high-quality video technology to ensure that you don’t miss a thing.
Experienced dealers host the game, and you can even interact with them via chat functions on screen. Live dealer blackjack is the best way to get that authentic casino experience from the comfort of your own home, or from wherever you feel like playing.
Social Engagement
One of the major draws of live dealer blackjack is the social element. You can often engage with other players as well as the dealer via a chat function within the game, which helps to bring the experience to life and add a fun new dimension to the experience.
Games are played out in real-time, using state-of-the-art technology that will make you feel as if you’re really there.
Play Blackjack Online at Spin Genie
Each of the blackjack variants above offers a fun way to enjoy this classic table game. You can find all of the games in our list at Spin Genie’s online casino, home to all the best slots and online casino games. We recommend trying each of the different blackjack variants to see which you prefer. Always gamble responsibly, and never spend more than you can afford to lose.
