Blackjack variants, RTPs, and different bet types or special features
Blackjack is a well-known casino card game. It originated from an English variant of Twenty-One called ‘Vent-Un’ and was popular in Europe in the 18th century. In other nations, the game is now available in several blackjack forms.
The goal is to beat the dealer’s hand without going over. The game is the same, but the rules have changed. It’s best to research all popular game varieties in NJ casinos before joining a table and betting.
| Variation Name | RTP | Bets/ Special features |
|---|---|---|
| American (Classic) Blackjack | 99.54% | The dealer does not receive a hole card |
| European Blackjack | 99.33% | The player has an advantage in the move |
| Blackjack Charlie 7 | 99.84% | The extra chance of winning per hands |
| Progressive Blackjack | 99.53% | 8 decks |
| Atlantic City Blackjack | 99.65% | Double down on two cards for the player |
| Multi-Hand Blackjack | 99.60% | You are allowed to use as many hands as you want |
| Double Exposure Blackjack | 99.33%. | Pretty similar to classic blackjack |
| Single Deck Blackjack | 99.75% | Play with a single deck |
| Blackjack Switch | 99.27% | The croupier deals with two hands |
| 7 Seat Blackjack | 99.60% | 7 seats on the table |
| Pontoon | 99.64% | Dealer= banker |
| Perfect Pairs Blackjack | 99.59 | The perfect pairs side bet |
| Spanish 21 | 99.58% | A player 21 always win |
1. American (Classic) Blackjack
It’s the classic version of blackjack where eight decks of cards are used. In this game, the dealer does not collect a hole card and he is hit with a soft 17 or anything less than 16. Also, American Blackjack offers a theoretical return of 99.54%.
2. European Blackjack
With an RTP of 99.33%, the rules of European Roulette say that the dealer does not get a card until the players have decided. Here, there are two decks in play, and you can double down and split your cards. Players can double down only if the total is 9, 10, or 11.
3. Blackjack Charlie 7
This online blackjack variation relies on 8 decks of cards and the dealer standing on a 17 total. Also, you instantly win the hand if you draw seven cards without busting.
4. Progressive Blackjack
Like the progressive slot machines, a Progressive Blackjack game offers a huge jackpot. You can play for the jackpot by making a side bet that often features a huge house edge of at least 10%.
5. Atlantic City Blackjack
The popularity of the classic blackjack in New Jersey gave rise to one exciting variant- the Atlantic City Blackjack. This game comes with 6 to 8 decks and a blackjack pays 6 to 5. It also follows the rules of the classic game and splitting is allowed up to 3 times.
6. Multi-Hand Blackjack
This is a recommended variant for experienced players since multiple hands are allowed. Depending on the casino, a player can play up to 4 hands simultaneously. Again, the rules allow you to split and double down.
7. Double Exposure Blackjack
Double Exposure Blackjack is an entertaining version of the game where the dealers’ cards are visible to the player. This may seem advantageous, but your payouts are like those in Classic Blackjack. Also, the rules sat that the dealer wins a tie except for a natural blackjack.
8. Single Deck Blackjack
Yes, this variant uses one deck of cards only. As such, this game is advantageous to the players thanks to its RTP of 99.75%.
9. Blackjack Switch
In Blackjack Switch, you can play with two hands with similar bets. During play, you can switch between hands or move cards within two hands to create a winning hand.
10. 7 seat blackjack
This online blackjack game seats up to 7 players with a chance to bet behind. 7-Seat Blackjack offers a return of 99.60%.
11. Pontoon
Many NJ casinos offer Pontoon as one of its feature variants. In Pontoon, a player cannot stand with 14 or lower but with a chance to double down.
12. Perfect Pairs Blackjack
In Perfect Pairs Blackjack, you can make a side bet for the perfect pair. A perfect pair in online blackjack features two cards of the same face card value, number, suit, or color.
13. Spanish 21
Spanish 21 uses a shoe with six decks of playing cards and it offers an RTP of 99.58%. When playing the game, you continue to get playing cards until you stand without going bust. Again, the Spanish 21 rules allow you to split and re-split your cards.
Which blackjack variation should you choose?
Several fun variations of the game are available at top NJ casinos. The side bets, betting rules, payouts, and RTP of these blackjack versions vary. The first step is to familiarize yourself with these casinos’ features. Ask about the number of decks, side bets, and the rules for hitting, standing, and splitting cards.
Do you think a blackjack game is right for you? The choice is based on risk tolerance and game knowledge. For beginners, single deck blackjack games like Single Deck Blackjack and Classic Blackjack are preferable. Experienced players can take on the Double Exposure, Multi-Hand, and Switch Blackjack games.
Best variations of blackjack regarding to its profitability
It’s natural to desire to win large when playing blackjack. To increase your chances of winning at online blackjack, choose games with larger returns, natural blackjack payouts, and progressive jackpots.
For example, if you locate casinos that pay 3:2 and 6:5, choose the former. In natural blackjack, a $10 bet wins $15 at a 3 to 2 payout. With a 6 to 5 rule, your $10 only wins $12.
Blackjack variants with the lowest house edge
Another way to choose blackjack games is to check its Return to Player or RTP percentages. When comparing types of blackjack games, look for a game with a decent return that is roughly 1% in-house edge. Check out this list of blackjack variations with better return percentages:
- Blackjack Charlie with 99.84% RTP.
- Single Deck Blackjack with 99.75% RTP
- Atlantic City Blackjack with 99.65%.
Blackjack variants that payout the most
Blackjack games that payout the most are those that offer friendly payouts for blackjack and supports several side bets. Check these games for bigger potential payouts:
- Progressive Blackjack
- Multi-Hand Blackjack
- Blackjack Switch
Best blackjack variants that suit with my level of player
The choice of the right blackjack variation depends on your skills and risk level. If you are new to the game or simply want to learn first, then we recommend a few blackjack variants for beginners.
The best blackjack variants for beginners
- Single Deck Blackjack. This is best for beginners looking for a game that is easy to follow, master and win. It only uses one deck giving you a lower house edge.
- Classic Blackjack. Like the Single Deck, this traditional game also relies on one deck of cards.
Blackjack variants for advanced players
For the experienced players, there are several blackjack variations that are recommended, as listed below:
- Progressive Blackjack
- Multi-Hand Blackjack
- Blackjack Switch
- Blackjack 7 Charlie
Blackjack variations you should avoid
If you want to preserve your advantage, you also need to avoid some blackjack types. These are the games that are difficult to master or come with a higher house edge.
- Blackjack Switch
- Double Exposure Blackjack
- European Blackjack
Top NJ Casinos We Suggest for Online Blackjack
Love a good game of Blackjack? Here are some other great places to get your cards flipping!