No one would argue against that blackjack is one of the most popular casino card games ever. There is no obvious reason for this but the main motive could be hidden in the fact that there are so many blackjack variations, such as online Pontoon, Spanish 21 or Blackjack Switch, that any inveterate and hard-to-please gambler could find a version that would satisfy all his/her highest requirements.
Let us describe some blackjack variations and their inherent rules, so you would choose the most suitable game for you and play casino blackjack with pleasure.
Online Pontoon blackjack
Pontoon is the most prevalent and well-known blackjack variation, which is considered to be the British version of the game and is mostly widespread in American casinos.
The rules for the game are the same as for usual blackjack except cases when specific Pontoon features contradict common blackjack's regulations.
In online Pontoon ordinary decks of 48 cards are used without 4 Tens and Jokers. The main object of the game is to get cards of highest possible value but without exceeding 21 points - the same goal is actually pursued in usual blackjack.
Pontoon's feature lies in the fact that the game involves a particular card combination (obligatory initial) of the same name as the game is called itself - Pontoon, which includes an ace and either Jack, Queen or King. Furthermore, such combination as well as a natural is paid immediately.
Spanish 21
Spanish 21 is another popular variation of blackjack, which is usually played with 6 or 8 card decks, and this makes card counting application to be more difficult task.
On the other hand, there are no 10's played in the game and general rules provide more place for making blackjack moves. For instance, in Spanish 21 you are allowed to double down, hit or surrender at any time, not only at the beginning of the game.
Moreover, Spanish 21 offers additional payouts for certain card combinations of 21 points, namely for 6-7-8 and 7-7-7. In case a player is extremely lucky and gets 7-7-7 of the same suit while the dealer also has 7, the payoff increases essentially reaching $50 000.
Blackjack Switch
Blackjack Switch is considered one of the most profitable blackjack variations by right. The main distinctive feature of the game is that you play two hands and could switch them at any moment, which boosts you odds by leaps and bounds.
Nevertheless, there are some rules that could reduce gamblers enthusiasm significantly:
- firstly, Blackjack Switch pays out only even money;
- secondly, in case the dealer gets cards of total 22 points, this is regarded as push.
