Welcome to the ultimate European Blackjack guide. European Blackjack is a popular variation of the classic game of Blackjack, also known as 21. The game is played with two decks of cards and follows standard Blackjack rules with a few exceptions. The objective of the game is to beat the dealer by having a hand that is closer to 21 than the dealer’s hand without going over 21.
European Blackjack vs. Blackjack: What’s the Difference
When it comes to casino card games, Blackjack is one of the most popular games around. But did you know that there are different variations of the game? Two of the most played variations are European Blackjack and Blackjack. European Blackjack is a popular variation of the classic game of Blackjack, also known as 21. The game is played with two decks of cards and follows standard Blackjack rules with a few exceptions. In European Blackjack, the dealer must stand on all 17s, and players can only double down on hands that have a value of 9, 10, or 11. Splitting is allowed only once per hand, and Aces can only be split once.
Key Differences
The number of decks used: In European Blackjack, two decks of cards are used, while in Blackjack, one or more decks of cards can be used.
The dealer’s actions: In European Blackjack, the dealer must stand on all 17s, while in Blackjack, the dealer must hit until their hand is at least 17.
Doubling down: In European Blackjack, players can only double down on hands that have a value of 9, 10, or 11. In Blackjack, players can double down on any hand.
Splitting: In European Blackjack, splitting is allowed only once per hand, and Aces can only be split once. In Blackjack, players can split any pair.
How to Play:
To start playing European Blackjack, you need to place your bet. Once all bets are placed, the dealer deals two cards to each player and two cards to themselves. The dealer’s second card is dealt face-down.
In European Blackjack, the dealer must stand on all 17s. Players can only double down on hands that have a value of 9, 10, or 11. Splitting is allowed only once per hand, and Aces can only be split once.
If the dealer’s face-up card is an Ace, players have the option to take insurance, which is a side bet that pays 2:1 if the dealer has Blackjack. However, if the dealer does not have Blackjack, the insurance bet is lost, and the game continues as usual.
What are the Rules of European Blackjack?
The rules are relatively simple. Here are the essential rules you need to know:
The game is played with two decks of cards.
The dealer must stand on all 17s.
Players can only double down on hands that have a value of 9, 10, or 11.
Splitting is allowed only once per hand, and Aces can only be split once.
If the dealer’s face-up card is an Ace, players have the option to take insurance.
The objective of the game is to beat the dealer by having a hand that is closer to 21 than the dealer’s hand without going over 21.
Tips for Playing European Blackjack
Now that you know the rules of the game let’s look at some tips that can help you increase your chances of winning.
Always split Aces and 8s.
If the dealer’s face-up card is 7 or higher, and your hand has a value of 12-16, always hit.
If the dealer’s face-up card is 6 or lower, and your hand has a value of 12-16, stand.
Never take insurance unless you are an experienced player and know the odds.
Always play within your budget and set limits on how much you are willing to spend.
Final Thoughts
European Blackjack is an exciting variation of the classic game of Blackjack. The game’s rules are easy to understand, and with a little bit of strategy and luck, you can increase your chances of winning. Remember to always play responsibly, stay within your budget, and have fun!
