Among online casino table games, blackjack can be seen as a game for purists. The high RTP of traditional blackjack means few people want to fiddle with the winning formula. However, there are dozens of unique rules variants for blackjack that add exciting new gameplay. Learn more about what blackjack variants offer and how to pick the best game.
The Different Blackjack Rules Variations
What do blackjack variants change? Almost everything is on the table. Variants might change the number of hands per player, add payout multipliers, or even allow players to swap out cards. Here’s a brief blackjack variant comparison for the most commonly tweaked rules.
Live Dealer Blackjack
Live dealer blackjack works by livestreaming a real-life dealer to a lobby of players. The dealer lays out cards and oversees the game in real time. Players can converse with one another or the dealer over text chat. Live dealer games bring the social element of land-based casinos to the online world.
Multi Deck vs Single Deck Blackjack
Standard blackjack is played with four to eight decks of playing cards shuffled together. But single-deck blackjack variants are available, increasing the variance of each hand in favour of the player. The basic strategy doesn’t change, but the blackjack house edge decreases with fewer decks in play.
Side Bets in Blackjack
Players win blackjack by outplaying the dealer, typically, but some of the best blackjack games online introduce blackjack side bets, which means players have extra ways to score a payout. Common side bets include insurance, 21+3, or perfect pairs. Just be aware that side bets often come with less favourable odds than basic gameplay.
How to Pick the Best Blackjack Variant
Which blackjack game is best depends heavily on a player’s personal preferences. Here are some of the different factors you might want to consider:
Blackjack Skill Level
Overall, blackjack is a very easy game to play, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t variants that make the game easier or more challenging.
For example, players who are new to the game and still learning essential blackjack terminology might consider trying a “bet behind” blackjack variant. This variant allows them to bet on another player, transferring the pressure of decision-making to another player.
On the other hand, a more experienced player who knows all the best blackjack winning strategies could consider a game like Blackjack Xchange. This blackjack variant allows players to change cards (for a price), which means players can use their knowledge to optimize their hands.
Social vs. Solo Experiences
If online blackjack against a virtual RNG dealer feels lonely, live casino variants will be more appealing. On the other hand, some players like to play solo.
Single vs. Multi-deck Blackjack Games
Experienced blackjack players may try to maximize their odds with fewer decks or maximize their playthrough with multi-hand titles. Or they may try to boost their RTP with resplits and early surrender rules.
New Gameplay Features
Fun-focused players might gravitate towards innovative gameplay, turning to side bets to liven things up. Otherwise, unique aesthetics or recognizable brands can be appealing.
Here are some of the most popular versions of blackjack online:
- Bet Behind Pro Blackjack
- Blackjack 11
- Blackjack Fortune Spinner Pro
- Blackjack Xchange
- Infinite Blackjack
No matter what gameplay a player likes best, there’s a blackjack variant out there designed to catch their interest. The best way to pick a blackjack variant is to try a lot of titles and find a few favourites.
