Blackjack Variations

Most casino games have variations and blackjack has more variations than others. Europeans have different rules from Americans and even in America Vegas rules differ from those in Atlantic City. In land-based casinos the basic structure of the game remains largely unchanged. The variations are in the number of decks used, or when a player is allowed to double or split or whether the dealer has to hit on a soft 17. However in online casinos the rules often alter the basic structure of the game and offer many more variations, because it is innovativeness and variety that propels online casinos.

Most of the standard land casino blackjack games are offered on online casinos. But in the last five years or so a number of variations have been introduced. Many of the variations involve additional payouts such as for suited blackjacks or five card hands that do not bust. Microgaming online casinos offer some unique variations of blackjack in its Gold Series. These games offer progressive jackpots and interesting side bets. Microgaming Triple Sevens offers a progressive jackpot. A compulsory bet contributes to the jackpot. If the player is dealt three consecutive seven of diamonds then the progressive jackpot is hit. Microgaming Bonus Blackjack Gold has an optional side bet that offers additional payouts on the first two cards dealt to the player. The Jack and Ace of spades pays 50:1; any other suited Jack and Ace pays 25:1 and any two suited cards pay 5:2. Playtech offers one of the most innovative variations in blackjack in its game Blackjack Switch. The player has to play two hands with identical wagers. After the two cards are dealt for each hand the player has the option of switching the second cards. This offers so great an advantage to the players that a blackjack pays only even money in this game.

It is in the interest of the players that they are aware of the blackjack variants offered and fully comprehend the rules applicable for each variation of the game. If they do not do so they may end up making moves that are not allowed. Or even worse they may not consider moves that are allowed and give them an advantage. The best places to check out the games rules are review sites. Players can get all the games provided by all software developers under one roof. The best such site is Casino Advisor. Casino Advisor has reviewed a large number of online casino games, including blackjack games. The reviews can be easily located from the Casino Games menu in the lobby of the site. The games can be filtered according to type and software provider. The rules are clearly explained. In case Casino Advisor has not reviewed the variant do mail them and they will do the needful. Meanwhile the player can check out the rules from the Help menu of the game.