EUROPEAN BLACKJACK – A POPULAR TYPE OF ONLINE BLACKJACK

A SHORT HISTORY OF EUROPEAN BLACKJACK

European Blackjack has its roots in the classic game of blackjack, which originated centuries ago. The specific history of European Blackjack as a variant is not as extensively documented as the broader history of blackjack itself. However, it evolved alongside other regional variations of the game.

The game of blackjack traces its origins to various card games played in Europe during the 17th and 18th centuries, such as “Vingt-et-Un” in France and “Trente-et-Un” in Spain, which were early precursors to blackjack. These games involved similar objectives of achieving a hand close to 21 without going over.

Over time, blackjack gained popularity and spread to North America, where it underwent further modifications and rule variations. The version that emerged in the United States became what is now commonly known as American Blackjack.

European Blackjack, as a distinct variant, started to take shape as blackjack continued to evolve in European casinos. Specific rule variations, such as the dealer not peeking for blackjack and other slight differences in gameplay, led to the establishment of what is now recognized as European Blackjack.

The game likely gained its label as “European” to differentiate it from its American counterpart, highlighting the unique rules and gameplay aspects specific to the European version. As casinos across Europe adopted slightly varying rules and preferences, this variant solidified its presence and popularity.

Today, European Blackjack is a well-known variant of the game, enjoyed in both land-based and online casinos worldwide. Its distinct rules, including the absence of a dealer hole card and certain limitations on doubling and splitting, have contributed to its identity and appeal among players seeking a different flavor of the classic blackjack experience.

While the precise timeline of European Blackjack’s evolution may not be extensively documented, its establishment as a recognized variant alongside other iterations of blackjack demonstrates the adaptability and diversity of the game across different regions and rule variations over time.

HOW TO PLAY EUROPEAN BLACKJACK ONLINE?

European Blackjack rules varies from version to version, but the general rules are essentially the same across the board. Before we get into the specifics of the Blackjack variant, it’s best to learn these basic rules.

To win the game, the player that is up against the dealer needs to reach the score of 21 without surpassing it (or, “goes bust” if you’re using technical jargon). If nobody gets a 21, then the player that gets closest without exceeding 21 wins.

Each card has its own value:

• Numbered cards are worth the value presented on the card (1 is 1 point, 2 is 2 points, and so on)
• Picture cards, or face cards, are worth 10 points
• If the card is an ace it’s worth either 1 or 11, depending on if the player has a soft hand or hard hand

HAND VALUE IN EUROPEAN BLACKJACK

How do you know what type of hand you have? If you are dealt a hand with an Ace, then you have soft totals because it is easier to work with as the value of the Ace can be either 1 or 11. For example, if you are dealt an Ace and an 8, the value cards can be either 19 or 9, which is by definition a soft hand

If you are dealt a hand without an Ace, your hand is considered hard, since the total can’t vary. An example would be if you are dealt two 4 cards, the total is and can only be 8. The phrase hard hand comes from the simple fact that is stays the same and cannot be changed thus being a hard hand.

There are obviously added elements to the game whenever a side bet is introduced in the game, as the most common one is being dealt a pair. The payouts improve for pairs of the same color and the same suit. 7’s is a side bet which can involve a big jackpot payout, so there are different hand value cards depending on the splits and other rules allowed on the Blackjack table.

LEARN THE MOST IMPORTANT RULES OF EUROPEAN BLACKJACK

European Blackjack, like other variations of the game, follows some standard rules with a few differences from the American version. Get a comprehensive overview of the standard Blackjack rules at HotSlots. Here are some of the most important rules typically associated with European Blackjack:

1. Deck Used: European Blackjack rules stipulate that games are commonly played with 2 decks of 52 cards each. In cases more decks are allowed to be in play the player is at a disadvantage as the player is not able to predict certain outcomes.
2. Dealer’s Hole Card: In European Blackjack, the dealer is only dealt one card face-up initially, and they don’t receive their second (hole) card until players have completed their hands. This means the dealer doesn’t peek for blackjack (as in some American versions), reducing the chance of an immediate win for the dealer. Early surrender (ES) rule whereby the players can fold bad starting totals against the dealer’s ten or ace before a second card is drawn to the house’s hand. This rule is very player-favourable and mostly unavailable in US-style variations that use hole cards.
3. No Hole Card: If the dealer gets a blackjack (a natural 21) with their first two cards, the players lose immediately. Players can’t split, double down, or take other actions if the dealer has a blackjack.
4. Player Options: Players have the standard options of hitting, standing, doubling down (usually allowed on hard totals of 9, 10, or 11), and splitting pairs (up to a certain number of times). Surrender might also be available, allowing players to forfeit half their bet instead of playing out the hand.
5. Splitting and Doubling Down: European Blackjack commonly allows players to split pairs of cards of the same value (e.g., two 7s) into separate hands, with an additional bet equal to the initial wager. After splitting, players can usually double down on these new hands, depending on the casino’s specific rules.
6. Dealer’s Play: The dealer generally stands on a soft 17 (a hand totaling 17 that includes an Ace counted as 11).
7. Payouts: Payouts in European Blackjack usually pay 3:2 for a natural blackjack, and 1:1 for other winning hands.

Remember that rules can vary slightly between casinos and regions. It’s crucial to familiarize yourself with the specific rules of the game at the table you’re playing, as slight variations can significantly affect your strategy and the house edge.

BASIC STRATEGY FOR THE EUROPEAN VARIANT OF BLACKJACK

Mastering the basic strategy for European Blackjack is paramount for players seeking to maximize their odds at the tables. In this variant, where the dealer receives only one face-up card initially, players have a unique advantage in decision-making.

The strategy revolves around understanding the statistical probabilities and making optimal moves based on the player’s hand against the dealer’s visible card. Key elements include standing on hard totals of 17 or more, hitting on totals of 11 or less, and doubling down on hard totals of 9, 10, or 11 when advantageous. It’s essential to split pairs of Aces and 8s while avoiding splitting 10s or 5s. Additionally, staying mindful of the dealer’s potential hand strength is crucial, especially when they have a lower visible card.

By adhering to this strategy and adjusting gameplay based on specific rules at the table, players can significantly reduce the house edge and increase their chances of success in European Blackjack.

This basic strategy provides general guidelines for players to make informed decisions based on mathematical probabilities in European Blackjack. Tailoring strategies to specific rules and variations of the game can further optimize gameplay.

EUROPEAN BLACKJACK PAYOUT TABLE

Original Bet	Blackjack Payout
€1	€1.50
€5	€7.50
€10	€15
€20	€30
€50	€75
€100	€150
€200	€300
€250	€375
€500	€750
€1,000	€1500

ADVANTAGES AND DISADVANTAGES OF EUROPEAN BLACKJACK

ADVANTAGES

1. Favorable Player Rules: European Blackjack often offers more favorable player rules compared to some other variants. For example, the dealer typically doesn’t peek for blackjack, potentially giving players a chance to act before the dealer reveals their full hand.
2. Lower House Edge: Due to specific rules like no hole card for the dealer and certain restrictions on doubling down and splitting, European Blackjack might have a lower house edge compared to other versions, offering better odds for players.
3. Simplicity: The straightforwardness of the rules in European Blackjack can make it more approachable for newcomers to the game. With fewer variations in rules, it might be easier for players to grasp and implement basic strategies.

DISADVANTAGES

1. Limited Doubling and Splitting Options: Some European Blackjack versions may have restrictions on doubling down and splitting, limiting player options for maximizing advantageous hands.
2. No Dealer Hole Card: The fact that the dealer doesn’t check for blackjack upfront can pose a disadvantage for players, as they won’t know if the dealer has a natural 21 until after decisions have been made on their hands. This increases the risk for players to invest more in a hand that might ultimately lose to a dealer blackjack.
3. Varied Rule Sets: Rules can vary between different casinos offering European Blackjack. Depending on the specific rules in place, the house edge can fluctuate, potentially affecting the overall player experience and chances of winning.

Understanding the advantages and disadvantages of European Blackjack helps players make informed decisions and adapt their strategies accordingly. Adhering to basic strategies while considering the specific rules in play can help mitigate potential disadvantages and capitalize on the game’s advantages.

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN EUROPEAN AND AMERICAN BLACKJACK?

MAIN DIFFERENCES BETWEEN EUROPEAN AND AMERICAN BLACKJACK

 

	European Blackjack	American Blackjack
Number of Decks	Commonly uses two decks	Commonly six to eight decks
Dealer’s Hole Card	Dealer receives only one card face-up initially and does not receive a hole card	Dealer typically receives two cards, one face-up and one face-down
Dealer’s Play	Dealers typically stand on a hard 17	Dealers might hit on a soft 17
Double Down & Splitting	Have restrictions on when doubling down or splitting is allowed	Does not have any restrictions to split or double down
House Edge	Slightly lower	Higher house edge

 

WHAT IS THE HOUSE EDGE IN EUROPEAN AND AMERICAN BLACKJACK?

The house edge in blackjack varies depending on the specific rules and variations being played. If you want to get the nitty gritty details about house edge make sure to read HotSlots latest blog on the topic. In general, European Blackjack tends to have a lower house edge compared to American Blackjack.

For European Blackjack, the house edge is typically around 0.5% to 0.6%, assuming the player is using basic strategy. This lower house edge is influenced by rules such as no hole card for the dealer (the dealer only receives one card initially) and restrictions on doubling down and splitting.

In contrast, American Blackjack usually carries a slightly higher house edge due to differences in rules. The main distinguishing factor is the dealer’s peek for blackjack, where in the American version, if the dealer’s upcard is an Ace or a ten-value card, they immediately check for blackjack. If the dealer has a natural blackjack, players lose immediately. This additional opportunity for the dealer to secure an immediate win contributes to a slightly higher house edge in American Blackjack, generally around 0.5% to 1% higher than European Blackjack.

It’s essential to note that these house edge percentages are theoretical averages based on optimal play using basic strategy. Variations in rules, specific gameplay decisions, and individual player actions can impact the actual edge in any given session. Nonetheless, understanding these differences helps players make informed choices and select games with more favorable odds when playing blackjack.

EUROPEAN BLACKJACK IN ONLINE CASINO

European Blackjack is a popular variation of the classic blackjack game found in many online casinos. Here’s what you can expect when playing European Blackjack in an online casino:

1. Game Availability: Most online casinos offer European Blackjack as part of their gaming portfolio. Players can access this game through the casino’s website or dedicated casino apps.
2. Variations and Software Providers: Different online casinos might offer variations of European Blackjack from various software providers. Each variant may have slightly different rules, graphics, and gameplay features, so it’s essential to review the specifics of the game at your chosen casino.
3. Rules and Gameplay: European Blackjack follows the basic rules of blackjack, but it has distinct differences from other variants, such as the dealer receiving only one face-up card initially and not checking for blackjack upfront. Players aim to beat the dealer’s hand without exceeding 21.
4. Demo Play and Real Money Options: Many online casinos allow players to try European Blackjack for free in demo mode. This provides an opportunity to practice, learn the rules, and develop strategies without risking real money. Players can later switch to the real-money mode to wager and potentially win cash prizes.
5. Graphics and User Interface: Online versions of European Blackjack typically feature high-quality graphics, smooth gameplay, and user-friendly interfaces. Some versions may also offer customization options for the table layout or card designs.
6. Live Dealer Option: Some online casinos provide a live dealer version of European Blackjack. In this format, players interact with a real dealer via live video streaming, creating a more immersive and authentic casino experience.
7. Bonuses and Promotions: Online casinos often offer bonuses and promotions, including welcome bonuses, deposit bonuses, or free spins, which players can use to play European Blackjack and other games.

Before playing this variation of Blackjack in an online casino, it’s essential to choose a reputable and licensed casino, review the specific rules of the game, understand the betting limits, and consider responsible gambling practices. Understanding the nuances of the variant being offered can enhance your gaming experience and potentially improve your chances of winning.