An Introduction to Blackjack Variants
Tired of playing traditional blackjack? Here is a line-up of alternative games that are as exciting and interesting as the original version. Their rules are similar to blackjack but with modifications.
Over / Under 13. This version of blackjack is gaining popularity in Las Vegas. It includes a side bet which makes the game exciting. The player will make a wager on whether the total of his first couple of cards will be less or more than 13. The value of an ace is always one. The casino wins when the total is 1. This is equivalent to an even money bet of 1:1.
Red / Black. In this version, the player guesses whether the upcard of the dealer will be a red or black by putting their bets on the corresponding circle. When the upcard is a 2, the dealer gets the automatic win and the payout is always 1:1.
Blackjack Switch. Individual players are dealt separate hands having similar bets. The player can opt to switch their second card if they desire to do so.
Royal Match. In this game, the player makes a wager on the similarity of their initial two cards. This corresponds to a 3:1 payout. However, when the player is dealt a king and queen of similar suit, they get a Royal Match and is entitled to a 10:1 payout.
Double Exposure. This is a complete turnaround of the usual game of blackjack. Here the first two cards of the dealer are held face up, which gives the player a huge advantage. A tie translates into an automatic win for the dealer and no blackjack incentives will be given for the player advantage. Playing this game as well as the techniques involved are considerably different from the usual game of blackjack.
Spanish 21. This game is considered as one of the primary ancestors of the game of blackjack. Here, six or eight decks of cards are utilized. The player who totals a 21 or gets a natural blackjack is declared the winner. Cards with a face value of ten are discarded from the deck. A different technique is used in this variation.
Bust Out. This game works very much like insurance. When the dealer has exposed his hole card and the hand is not yet completed, wagers are already available if the dealer has a stiff hand. When the dealer is dealt a 10, the payout becomes 2:1. This game is no longer played in modern casinos.
21 Madness. This side bet alternative is still played in a few casinos. With a $1 side wager, the player gets a bonus ranging from five to a thousand dollars if the player scores a blackjack and the dealer does not.
These are some alternative variants to the game of blackjack that a player can consider. He should do some research and practice before engaging in these games. Enjoy the games.
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