Although the origins of Blackjack have been a subject to heated debates for quite some time, researchers could not settle around a decision as to which was the country where the game had emerged. Yet, the majority of researchers believe the game originated from France and it was discovered at the beginning of the 17th century. At first, it was known as Vingt-et-Un, which translated into English, means 21. However, many researchers believe Blackjack emerged as a variation of two French card games, which used to be popular at that time.
According to another version, the home country of Blackjack was Spain and the game was considered a variation of the Spanish game One and Thirty where the player was supposed to reach 31 with three or more cards.
The popularity of the French and Spanish versions of the game continued to grow and expanded to North America and soon it was played worldwide.
At that time, the rules were different from the rules contemporary Blackjack players adhere to. For example, in the past, players were not allowed to take advantage of the double feature.
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In the 1930s, the game became extremely popular in Nevada, the first state to legalize gambling. Some casinos offered a great number of lucrative payouts and great odds with the aim of attracting more players and further boost game’s popularity.
Although this practice was discontinued, the game of Blackjack evolved as players’ favourite. The rapid development of the casino sector also led to the establishment of different Blackjack variations, which revolutionised the industry and made Blackjack one of the most recognised games in both online and land-based venues.
Now, you can hardly come across a casino where Blackjack is not available. For the time being, live Blackjack games are players’ preferred variation as it enables them to feel the exciting atmosphere of the casino floor without even leaving their homes. There is no need to travel hundreds of miles to the nearest casino venue when then can simply create an online casino account. However, the online gambling environment poses a challenge to the card counters and makes it impossible to track the cards.
No matter if you prefer to play online or offline, you will invariably come across the Blackjack variations mentioned below.
Popular Blackjack Variations
Blackjack Switch
Blackjack Switch is probably the most popular variation of the traditional Blackjack game, but you have to keep in mind the following specifications:
At the beginning of each hand, you are supposed to make two equal bets and then, you are dealt two Blackjack hands face up. If the dealer has Blackjack, the player automatically loses the hand. It depends on the casino itself as to whether the player will be allowed to switch the “top” or the “bottom” card. When you are done switching, the game will continue as a standard Blackjack game where you will be given access to features such as split, stand, hit, etc.
Six or eight decks are used and the dealer hits a soft 17. Blackjack pays even money.
Progressive Blackjack
NetEnt Blackjack
Spanish 21
Atlantic City Blackjack
Multi-Hand Blackjack
Double Exposure
Double Exposure is a Blackjack variation that allows players to see both dealer’s cards, which at a first glance seems like a great advantage. However, this extra information is not as helpful as initially thought due to certain rules applicable to Double Exposure.
Most casinos allow players to Split once per game. The dealer wins on all ties apart from the natural Blackjack, which pays even money.
European Blackjack
Modern Blackjack is usually played with 8 decks of cards, which are re-shuffled at the beginning of every round, which is a real challenge to card counters. Plus, no peek option is available.
Depending on the casino you are playing at, you might not be allowed to take advantage of a splitting option. According to the general rules of European Blackjack splitting on 4’s, 5’s and 10’s is not possible.
The dealer cannot take a look at the card that is turned face down, before the player decides what the next move would be. However, the American Blackjack variation allows the dealer to check the card that is turned upside down and reveal the cards of there is a Blackjack. In European Blackjack the dealer hits on soft 17 and Blackjack pays 3:2.
Perfect Pairs
If you are used to the rules applicable to the standard game of Blackjack, then, you should not experience any issues related to playing the Perfect Pairs variation. The following exceptions apply, though.
The Perfect Pairs variation allows you to make a perfect pairs bet on the side. You have to make a normal bet and the perfect pairs bet should be equal to the minimum wager. The payout depends on the pair you get.
Spanish 21
Spanish 21 is a Blackjack variation that is frequently considered the best bet in the casino. In order to make the best decision as to which Blackjack variation is most suitable for you, you have to check as to whether you are allowed to redouble and whether the dealer stands on a soft 17. If you are looking for an exciting game with a low house edge, Spanish 21 is definitely an option to consider.
In Australia, the game is known as Pontoon and the rules are slightly different.
Super Fun 21
As its name implies, Super Fun 21 offers hours of entertainment and the chance to scoop appealing profits. Super Fun 21 is a popular variation of the standard Blackjack and it provides you with a chance to take a break from the traditional Blackjack game, which is played with a standard deck of cards and player’s objective is to come as close to 21 as possible without exceeding that number. What makes Super Fun 21 different from the traditional Blackjack games is the bonus payout. You are declared a winner if you have six cards totalling 20 or less. If you decide to play Super Fun 21, you will be dealt two cards turned face up. The dealer is also dealt two cards, but one of them is turned face down. If the visible card is an Ace, players have the right to take insurance.
Atlantic City Blackjack
If you opt for the Atlantic City Blackjack variation, you have to stick to the following rules. Dealer has to draw to all totals of 16 or less and stand on 17 or more. Players are allowed to double down or split any initial pair. Once you get used to playing Atlantic City Blackjack, you will find out that the rules are the same in all casinos and they have been established with the aim of being beneficial to the player.
Blackjack Surrender
Blackjack Surrender is not among the most popular Blackjack variations, but those who have already tried it claim it is definitely worthy of playing.
As an avid Blackjack fan, you must be aware that Surrender is an option that allows you to fold a hand and get half of your bet back in case you have really bad starting hands.
Surrender is not available in all casinos and you have to ask the dealer or the customer support at the online casino as to whether it is available.
You might not be allowed to use the Surrender option if you have already split, doubled or hit.
Popular Online Blackjack Casinos
The game of Blackjack is, without a doubt, one of the most popular games in both online and land based casinos. Although the main objective of the player is to beat dealer’s hand without exceeding 21, there are some additional details you have to be familiar with.
In case you are considering the option of creating an online casino account, there are certain rules you have to adhere to. First of all, you have to make sure the casino you have eyed is a trustworthy one. The best casinos are affiliated with reputable suppliers of online gambling solutions – Playtech, NetEnt, Microgaming, Betsoft to name a few.
Take a look at the active bonuses and promotions and make sure the casino have not set impossible to fulfil wagering requirements. You also have to take into account the available deposit and withdrawal methods and always read the fine print where essential information can be found.
When selecting an online casino with the aim of playing predominantly Blackjack, you also have to pay attention to the available variations and check as to whether the casino site is licensed by a strict gambling jurisdiction.
Last but not least, know your limits and don’t wager more than you can afford to lose.
Below, you will find several respected online casino brands known for their reliability, security and generosity when it comes to bonuses and promotions. Needless to say, the Blackjack variations they feature are powered by well-known software providers.
Royal Panda
Royal Panda has managed to become a household name in the online gambling industry. The casino does a fantastic job offering an incredible selection of slots, table games and live dealer options. The games are powered by NetEnt and Microgaming, which therefore means they have a sleek, polished design and offer amazing profits. The most passionate fans of table games are given access to a plethora of Baccarat, Roulette, Craps and Blackjack games.
For the time being, Blackjack fans can try Classic Blackjack, Blackjack Party, Double Exposure, Single Deck Blackjack Professional Series. The Live Dealer section is also worthy of paying a visit to as you will find Live Blackjack and Royal Panda Live Blackjack.
Casino Cruise
Casino Cruise was founded in 2014 and although it cannot take pride in being an old-established brand, it has successfully attracted a lot of players who never compromise with the quality of their gambling session. The website boasts a gorgeous design and plenty of gambling options.
The casino itself is powered mainly by the software giants NetEnt and Microgaming although there are some other providers as well. If you are looking for a customer- oriented casino offering top-notch casino games, you should consider creating an account at Casino Cruise. Blackjack fans will find a decent variety of games including, but not restricted to HiLo 13 European Blackjack, Premier Blackjack High Streak Gold, High Limit European Blackjack, Single Deck Blackjack, Premier Blackjack HiLo Gold, Super Fun 21, Spanish 21.
Betway
As soon as you create your account with Betway, you will see that it is a highly respected online gambling spot for a reason and its spotless reputation is absolutely justified. The casino is a leader in providing top quality sports betting and casino services and players’ security has always been of paramount priority.
Along with the variety of Microgaming-powered slots, Betway also offers a fantastic array of table games including the timeless casino classic – Blackjack. If you are convinced you have all chances of beating the dealer and turning a substantial profit, don’t hesitate to engage in Classic Blackjack, Blackjack Multihand, European Blackjack, High Limit Blackjack, High Streak Blackjack, Vegas Blackjack.
Golden Tiger
Before the rapid development of the online gambling sector, avid Blackjack players used to visit land-based casinos in order to enjoy their favourite game. Now, they are enabled to do that without even leaving the comfort of their homes. No matter if you prefer the traditional brick and mortar casinos or you are keen on playing online, your only objective is to beat the dealer. If playing Blackjack online is more appealing to you, Golden Tiger casino should definitely be included in your must visit list. It is known as one of the few casinos that offer an extensive range of Blackjack games in an online format. In order to generate significant profits, you have to remember that Blackjack is a game of skill and you need to carefully consider your tactics if you want to beat the dealer.
If you are convinced that your Blackjack skills are superior to dealer’s, then, don’t hesitate to try Multi-hand Blackjack, Atlantic City Blackjack, Bonus Blackjack, Double Exposure, Spanish 21, Vegas Downtown, Vegas Strip, Classic Blackjack, European Blackjack, Spanish 21, Super Fun 21, etc.
Leo Vegas
LeoVegas is an online casino focused on delivering games of exceptional quality. It is powered by one of the leaders in the business – NetEnt. Therefore, players should expect smooth gameplay and a decent variety of games available for both desktop and mobile devices. As for the table games section, the titles you have access to may vary from country to country, but you will definitely have a decent range of games to choose from. As for the Blackjack games in particular, players are enabled to choose between Classic Blackjack, Blackjack Redeal, Blackjack Party, Live Blackjack, Multihand Blackjack, American Blackjack, Grand Blackjack.
