Face Up 21 is a compelling variation of traditional blackjack, where both the dealer’s and the player’s cards are dealt face up. While this provides an advantage to players—eliminating the need to guess what you need to win—the game includes rules to balance the scales. For example, blackjack pays out 1:1 in Face Up 21, compared to the 3:2 payout in classic blackjack.
If this game is new to you, don’t worry. In this guide, we’ll explain the basic rules of Face Up 21 Blackjack, how to play it at an online casino, and some useful strategies when playing.
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What Is Face Up 21 Blackjack?
Face Up 21 Blackjack is a popular variation where all cards, including the dealer’s, are visible to everyone. This differs from classic blackjack, where only one of the dealer’s cards is shown.
The ability to see both dealer cards offers a strategic advantage to players. However, to maintain the casino’s edge, the game has specific rules: blackjack pays 1:1, and the dealer wins all ties except when both the player and the dealer have blackjack.
Basic Rules of Face Up 21 Blackjack
Here are the essential rules for Face Up 21 Blackjack:
Objective:
The goal is to beat the dealer without exceeding 21.
Unique Rules:
- All cards, including the dealer’s, are dealt face up.
- Blackjack pays out 1:1.
- The dealer wins all ties, except when both the player and the dealer have blackjack.
- Surrender is available, allowing players to forfeit half their bet and withdraw from the round.
- The game typically uses six to eight decks of cards.
Dealer Rules:
- The dealer must stand on soft 17 in most games.
- The dealer wins all ties, except when both the player and the dealer have blackjack.
How to Play Face Up 21 Blackjack
Here’s a step-by-step guide to playing:
- Starting the Game:
- Each player is dealt two face-up cards, as is the dealer.
- If the dealer has blackjack, players lose unless they also have blackjack, which results in a tie (push).
- If the dealer does not have blackjack, the game proceeds as usual.
- Player Options:
- Players can hit, stand, double down, split, or surrender based on their cards.
- Dealer’s Turn:
- Once all players complete their actions, the dealer plays their hand following house rules, such as standing on soft 17.
- Winning and Losing:
- The round ends when the dealer busts or when a player’s hand is closer to 21 than the dealer’s.
- Ties result in the dealer winning, except when both the player and the dealer have blackjack.
Tips & Strategy When Playing Face Up 21 Blackjack
Enhance your gameplay with these tips:
- Understand the surrender option: Surrendering is a viable strategy when the dealer has a strong hand. While it forfeits half your bet, it can minimise losses in the long run.
- Doubling Down: This is usually allowed on hands totalling 9, 10, or 11. It’s most effective when the dealer’s face-up card is weak (e.g., 2–6).
- Splitting Pairs: Many versions of Face Up 21 allow splitting pairs up to three times, increasing your chances of forming winning hands.
Face Up 21 Blackjack vs Classic Blackjack
Face Up 21 Blackjack is a variation of standard blackjack. While the two share similarities, each has unique nuances. Here’s how they compare:
- Face-Up Cards: In Face Up 21, all cards are visible, giving players a strategic edge. In classic blackjack, players must decide without seeing the dealer’s second card.
- Payouts: Face Up 21 offers a 1:1 payout for blackjack. Classic blackjack pays out 3:2 for blackjack.
- Ties: In Face Up 21, the dealer wins all ties unless both have blackjack. In classic blackjack, ties result in bets being returned.
- Gameplay: Both versions offer engaging gameplay. Why not try both to discover which you prefer?
For a more immersive experience, live blackjack games let you compete against real dealers live.
Play Face Up 21 Blackjack at Genting Casino
Face Up 21 Blackjack is an exciting way to play blackjack, allowing players to see both of the dealer’s cards before making their decisions. Whether you’re a seasoned player or new to the game, Face Up 21 Blackjack is a fantastic choice to try.
You can play it at Genting Casino, home to a wide selection of online and live casino games. Register today to enjoy an authentic casino experience from the comfort of your home or on the go.
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