Online Blackjack Variant: European

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What Is European Blackjack?

Blackjack is believed to have originated in France in the 17th century, where it was initially called ‘Vingt-et-un’ (Twenty-One). The game quickly spread across the globe, and when it reached the USA, the American blackjack variation was created.

The aim of blackjack is simple and consistent across its variations: to achieve a hand with a total as close to 21 as possible without exceeding this number. Regardless of how many players are in a game, each player competes against the dealer rather than each other.

Basic Rules of European Blackjack

Here are the basic rules of European blackjack:

• Objective: The goal is to beat the dealer without exceeding 21.
• Unique Rules:
• The dealer begins with only one face-up card and does not receive a second card until all players have completed their hands.
• Players may double down only on hands totalling 9, 10, or 11.
• Surrender is not typically an option in European blackjack.
• Deck: European blackjack is generally played with two decks of cards.
• Dealer Rules:
• Dealers must stand on soft 17 (a hand totalling 17 with an Ace counted as 11), which slightly favours the player.
• Dealers must hit on totals of 16 or less.

How to Play European Blackjack

Here’s a quick guide to playing European blackjack:

1. Start the Game:The dealer deals two cards to each player, face up, and one face-up card to themselves.
2. Player Options:Players decide whether to hit, stand, double down, or split, based on their hand and the dealer’s visible card.
3. Dealer’s Turn:Once all players have completed their actions, the dealer deals themselves a second card and plays their hand according to house rules. This typically involves hitting on totals of 16 or less and standing on soft 17.
4. Winning and Losing:
• The game ends when the dealer busts or a player's hand totals closer to 21 than the dealer’s.
• If both the player and dealer achieve blackjack, the round results in a ‘push’ (a tie), and the player’s bet is returned.

Tips & Strategy When Playing European Blackjack

Here are some helpful tips to improve your gameplay:

• Decide When to Hit or Stand:
• Generally, it’s advisable to hit when your hand value is 11 or less and stand when your hand value is 17 or higher.
• Doubling Down:
• Players can only double down on hands of 9, 10, or 11, so use this strategically when the dealer’s visible card is weak (e.g., 3-6).
• Splitting Pairs:
• In European blackjack, hands can be split up to three times, giving players additional chances to win.

European Blackjack vs American Blackjack

Both European and American blackjack are widely enjoyed, and the choice between them depends on personal preference. Here’s how they differ:

• Dealer’s Face-Up Card:
• In European blackjack, the dealer starts with only one card, creating more suspense as players must act before the dealer completes their hand.
• In American blackjack, the dealer’s face-up card provides players with extra information, potentially reducing the likelihood of costly moves.
• Doubling Down:
• European blackjack restricts doubling down to hands totalling 9, 10, or 11, while American blackjack typically allows doubling down on any hand, even after a split.
• Flexibility:
• American blackjack offers more flexibility with options like surrender and wider doubling-down rules.
• House Edge:
• The house edge is slightly lower in American blackjack, but in both versions, outcomes ultimately depend on chance.

Play European Blackjack at Genting Casino

European blackjack is one of the most popular online casino games of all time. Whether you’re new to the game or a seasoned player, European blackjack offers a thrilling and strategic gaming experience that you can enjoy at your convenience.

Play European blackjack today at Genting Casino, or explore thousands of other online and live casino games. Register now for a premium casino experience tailored to you.

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