While unique blackjack variations can add some new excitement to the game, many players are left to desperately search for classic blackjack with rules closer to what they already know. Luckily, you can have the best of both worlds with European Blackjack. This variation is built on classic blackjack action, but with modern tech and availability to let you play when and where you like.
Keep reading to understand:
European Blackjack combines excellent blackjack gameplay with wide availability to give players a fabulous blackjack variation.
The core game of blackjack remains consistent across most variations. Blackjack is a two-card hand worth 21 and is the best hand in the game, though any hand valued at 21 is ideal. However, going over 21 means “going bust”, and losing the hand. Head this way if you want to avoid making any other big online gambling mistakes…
The goal of the game is to beat the dealer. Many players fall into the trap of pushing for 21 instead of also keeping an eye on the dealer's cards. Whether you win by getting a blackjack, or simply by beating the dealer's hand with a 19, you still win. Most of the time, you'll be trying to get the best hand you can without going bust, all while keeping an eye on the dealer's card to figure out the odds that your hand will be better.
European Blackjack rules are similar to other blackjack variations, but with a few important differences. The game is played with two decks of cards. Splitting is restricted to two hands only and cards must be matching to split, so you can't split cards simply because they are of the same value.
Unlike some other blackjack variations, you can get multiple cards on split aces. Double downs are allowed on hard totals of 9, 10 and 11 only. The dealer must stand on all hands worth 17, hard or soft. If you play with the best European Blackjack strategy, the house edge is an excellent 0.40%. This means that this variation has some of the best blackjack odds you can get playing blackjack online.
Playing European Blackjack online is fairly straightforward. The game is played with two decks of 52 playing cards. Cards are worth their face value, with jacks, queens, and kings all valued at 10 while aces can be either a 1 or 11. A two-card hand worth 21 is blackjack and paid out 3:2. The game flows as follows:
In contrast to some other casino games, blackjack is a game of skill and chance. This means that you can improve your blackjack casino odds by following certain rules. Here are some quick tips to help you win big with an ideal European Blackjack strategy.
The rules are what distinguish European Blackjack from say, Atlantic City Blackjack or Double Exposure Blackjack. By playing with a lower deck count, and still allowing splits and double downs while requiring the dealer to stand on all totals of 17, the house edge swings into the player's favour. The house edge is only 0.40%, which makes this blackjack variation among the most beneficial for players.
Because of the great odds and intuitive gameplay, this blackjack variation is often offered at leading online casinos. This means that you'll be able to try European Blackjack free to get a feel for the game before you switch to playing for real money. Whether you're trying to perfect your European Blackjack strategy, or you simply want to play blackjack for fun, free play is a great option for players in New Zealand.
Our team of experts carefully evaluate each online casino to give you honest and detailed reviews, letting you know what to expect at a casino online. Sites are rated and ranked so that players across New Zealand can easily find the ideal place to play, one that fits your specific needs, interests and desires. Our experts base each review on a range of criteria, including:
European Blackjack combines excellent blackjack gameplay with wide availability to give players a fabulous blackjack variation. The low house edge means that you could win some real money with such favourable blackjack odds. Play European Blackjack online today at one of our recommended online casinos for players in New Zealand and join other gamblers winning real money in 2024.