A Comprehensive Guide to Popular 12bet Blackjack Variations

Blackjack is a popular card game that we all have heard about. Over the last few years, it has gotten a positive response from players around the world for its exciting gameplay experience. But, did you know Blackjack has numerous variations? How many did you play? Every variation has its own diverse rules and strategies which elevate the gaming experience. In this article, we are going to discuss all these variations offered by 12bet in detail.

A Brief History of Blackjack and Its Origin

Blackjack is also known as 21 and it has a rich history that dates back centuries. Its origin can be traced to three countries in Europe mainly Spain, France and Italy during the 16th and 17th centuries. It is widely believed that the precursor to Blackjack was a game called ‘Vingt-et-Un’ which means ‘21’ in French.

A brief history of Blackjack and its variations

Vingt-et-Un was a popular card game in French casinos during the 18th century. The objective of the game was to achieve a hand total as close to 21 as possible without exceeding it.

The game of Vingt-et-Un spread throughout Europe and underwent various adaptations in different countries, giving rise to several regional variations. For example, in Spain, a similar game known as ‘Veintiuna’ was played while in Italy, it was known as ‘Sette e Mezzo.’

In the early 19th century, the game of Vingt-et-Un made its way to North America where it gained popularity in gambling establishments and casinos. The term ‘Blackjack’ originated from these casinos in North America where a special bonus was offered to players who received the Jack of Spades (Black Jack) and the Ace of Spades as their first two cards. Although this special bonus is no longer in place, the name ‘Blackjack’ stuck and became synonymous with the game.

12bet Blackjack Variations

Blackjack comes with different variations with a unique set of rules and features. Different online casinos will typically be powered by different gaming providers that will then have their own variations of the game to entice players to register with them and play. If you are a seasoned player then you should learn the basics of the Blackjack variations and find out which could be the most suitable variation for you. Let’s explore some of the best variations:

Classic Blackjack

Classic Blackjack, also known as Traditional Blackjack, is one of the most popular variations of the game. In Classic Blackjack, played with one to eight decks of cards, the objective is to beat the dealer by achieving a hand value as close to 21 as possible without exceeding it. The player’s goal is to create a hand stronger than the dealer’s without going over the magical number 21.

The basic rules of blackjack applies to classic blackjack, with minor rule variations focusing on odds, presence of hole card, and rules being present per gaming provider. The rules are the following:

Hitting and Standing: When your hand total is 8 or less, you should always hit (take another card). If your hand is 17 or higher, you should stand (not take any more cards).
Doubling Down: The classic blackjack strategy recommends doubling down when you have a total of 9, 10 or 11 and the dealer’s upcard is weak (2 to 6). Doubling down allows you to double your original bet and receive one more card. It’s a favorable move when you have a strong chance of improving your hand.
Splitting Pairs: If you are dealt a pair (two cards of the same rank), you have the option to split them into two separate hands and place an additional bet equal to your original bet. The classic strategy suggests always splitting Aces and 8s.

European Blackjack

In European Blackjack, the goal is the same as in Classic Blackjack. In most cases, it is played with two decks of cards, however other options of four or six decks of cards are also available.

The rules of European Blackjack are the following:

No Hole Card: In European Blackjack, the dealer does not receive a hole card until after the player has completed their hand. This means the player cannot surrender or double down after the dealer checks for a blackjack.
Dealer Stand on Soft 17: Unlike in some variations where the dealer may hit on Soft 17 (a hand containing an Ace), in European Blackjack, the dealer must stand on Soft 17.
No Double After Split: In European Blackjack, players are generally not allowed to double down after splitting a pair. Players can double down only on the hands whose total is 9, 10 or 11.

Vegas Downtown Blackjack

It is also similar to the Classic Blackjack game where the objective remains the same. The players can play in a single-hand or multi-hand mode. Earlier, it was played with one deck of cards but now it is played with four decks of cards.

The rules of Vegas Downtown Blackjack are the following:

Double Down: Look for opportunities to double down on your initial two-card hand. In this variation, you can double down on any two cards, which can be advantageous when the dealer’s upcard is weak.
Splitting Pairs: If you receive a pair of cards with the same value, you have the option to split them into two separate hands. In this variation, you can split up to three times, creating a total of four hands. Consider splitting pairs of 8s and Aces and avoid splitting 10s or face cards.
Dealer Hits on Soft 17: Unlike European Blackjack, the dealer in this version hits on Soft 17 which may give them a slight advantage.

Spanish 21

Spanish 21 is a popular variation of Blackjack often played with six or eight decks and all 10s are removed from these decks, leaving 48 cards in each deck. This variation gives greater chances of making a profit in the long term.

The rules of Spanish 21 Blackjack are the following:

Doubling Down: Spanish 21 allows players to double down on any number of cards. This means you can choose to double your bet after seeing more cards, providing more chances to make profitable decisions.
Redoubling: Spanish 21 allows players to redouble up to three times after the initial double down. This can help you to increase your wager when you have a particularly strong hand.
Splitting Pairs: Like other variations, Spanish 21 allows splitting pairs. You can split up to four hands, including Aces. Some strategies suggest always splitting Aces and Eights.
Late Surrender: You can surrender late in Spanish 21, which means you can give up half of your wager to fold your hand after seeing the dealer’s cards. This can save you from potential losses if you have a weak hand.
Bonuses: Spanish 21 offers various bonuses for specific hands, such as a 21 consisting of 5, 6 or 7 cards or a 21 made up of 6-7-8 or 7-7-7. When your hand qualifies for a bonus, you win regardless of the dealer’s hand.

Double Exposure

Double Exposure Blackjack is another variation of the classic game where both of the dealer’s cards are exposed, providing players with valuable information to make their decisions.

The rules of Double Exposure Blackjack are the following:

Dealer Wins on Ties (Except for Blackjack): In Double Exposure Blackjack, the dealer wins all ties except for a tie with a player’s blackjack. This rule increases the house edge slightly, so players need to adjust their strategy accordingly.
Higher House Edge: This variation often has a higher house edge compared to classic blackjack games. As a result, players should be cautious with their bets and manage their bankroll carefully.
Lower Blackjack Payout: Some Double Exposure Blackjack games offer a reduced payout for a player’s blackjack such as 1:1 instead of the standard 3:2. Be aware of these variations and choose tables with favourable payouts whenever possible.
One Split Allowed: In this variation, you are allowed to split only once.
Since the dealer’s cards are exposed, so insurance and surrender are forbidden in this variation.

Blackjack Switch

This version is one of the favourite versions of many players which allows them to exchange cards between two hands. This gives an opportunity to avoid busting or improving the total in your hands.

The rules of Blackjack Switch are the following:

Take Advantage of Switching: The most significant advantage of Blackjack Switch is the ability to switch the top cards of your two hands. Look for opportunities to create stronger hands by switching cards that improve both hands. Focus on creating strong hands with cards of value 10, like a 10 or a face card.
Optimal Switching Scenarios: As a general rule, you should always switch if you have a hard total of 11 or less or if you have a pair. These are favourable scenarios where you can significantly improve your hand.
Avoid Splitting Tens: In traditional blackjack, splitting tens is generally not recommended but in Blackjack Switch, it’s even riskier. You’re likely to weaken both hands, so it’s best to keep a strong hand with a total value of 20.

Progressive Blackjack

Progressive Blackjack is a variation of the classic game that incorporates a side bet option offering a chance to win a progressive jackpot. It is important to remember that placing a side bet is optional. Generally, six decks of cards are used in this variation.

The rules of Progressive Blackjack are the following:

Manage Your Bankroll: Set a budget for your progressive side bets and stick to it. The progressive jackpot can be enticing but it’s crucial not to overextend yourself financially.
Play with Optimal Strategy: Use basic blackjack strategy for your main blackjack hand to make the best decisions based on your cards and the dealer’s upcard. Progressive side bets should not influence your primary blackjack strategy.
Collecting 4 Aces: If you want to win a progressive jackpot, you have to collect 4 Aces that have the same suit.

Pontoon

Pontoon is a popular blackjack variation with its unique set of rules and gameplay. The rules of Pontoon Blackjack are the following:

Aim for Pontoon: Achieve a Pontoon which is an Ace and a 10-point card (10, Jack, Queen or King), as it is the best hand and guarantees an immediate win.
Hit on Low Hands: When your hand value is 14 or less, always hit to improve your hand. In Pontoon, a low hand has a higher chance of not busting due to the favorable rules.
Stand on 15 or More: If your hand value is 15 or more, consider standing. In Pontoon, the dealer wins all ties, so avoiding busting and hoping the dealer busts can be a viable strategy.
Utilize Five-Card Trick: Aim for the ‘Five-Card Trick,’ which is a hand with five cards totaling 21 or less. This hand beats any other hand except for Pontoon, offering an excellent chance of winning.

FAQs

Blackjack variations differ from traditional blackjack in several ways, such as the number of decks used, specific rules on splitting and doubling down, payout ratios and the availability of side bets.

Yes, Blackjack variations offer several advantages. They provide exciting gameplay variations, unique side bets that can increase potential winnings and diverse strategies to employ.

The odds in Blackjack variations vary based on the specific rules and side bets offered. Some variations may have a lower house edge, giving players better odds. It’s essential to research the rules and payouts of each variation to determine which one offers the most favorable odds.

Conclusion

Blackjack is one of the most popular card games and its variations make it even more exciting and rewarding for players. The rules and strategies of each variation have their own benefits. However, if you are a beginner and looking for the best Blackjack gaming experience, then we at 12bet are committed to giving you that and this article will surely help you to make more profits. Join us today and start your fascinating journey with us.

Blackjack

A Comprehensive Guide to Popular 12bet Blackjack Variations

A Brief History of Blackjack and Its Origin