BEST EUROPEAN BLACKJACK
ONLINE NZ 2024

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:

  • What makes this casino game unique
  • Priceless insider tips and strategies
  • How we find the web’s best casinos
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European Blackjack combines excellent blackjack gameplay with wide availability to give players a fabulous blackjack variation.

What is European Blackjack?

What is European Blackjack?

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.

How to Play European Blackjack

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:

You place a wager and are dealt two cards face up while the dealer only gets one face-up card.

You can choose to stand, hit, split or double down. If the dealer is showing an ace, you'll also be offered an insurance bet.

The best hand is worth 21, but if you go over 21, you go bust and lose the hand.

Once you stand, the dealer gets a second card and plays the hand, standing on any hand worth 17, either hard or soft.

If the dealer goes bust, they lose. Otherwise, the highest-valued hand wins and you'll be paid out accordingly.

Playing European Blackjack like a pro

Playing European Blackjack like a pro

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.

Never take an insurance bet. The payout sounds appealing, but it has the worst odds.

Print out a betting strategy or load it on a second screen so that you always know whether it's best to hit, split, double down or stand.

Manage your bankroll and don't chase losses. Only play what you can afford to lose.

Remember the goal is to beat the dealer, so don't be overly focused on getting 21.

How is European Blackjack Different?

How is European Blackjack Different?

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.

How We Rate and Review Sites

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:

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LICENSING AND SECURITY

The first element we check, all sites must be fully licensed and certified by a trusted regulatory body. They must also use the latest encryption technology to keep your personal and financial data safe.
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SOFTWARE

From apps to instant play, online casinos need to give all players a stable, well-designed platform to play on across computers and mobile devices.
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GAMES

The games library should be vast and varied, featuring different popular, high-quality casino games including blackjack variations, pokies and other table games.
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BANKING METHODS

With secure and well-known banking methods, every casino online should give players instant deposit and withdrawal options.
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CUSTOMER SUPPORT

Even the best sites can leave players with lingering queries or concerns, so a friendly, effective customer service team is key.

Conclusion

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.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • No, European Blackjack is easy to play, but it's still advisable to follow an ideal strategy to win big.
  • The European Blackjack odds are stellar, with a low house edge of only 0.40%.
  • Of course! Thanks to a low house edge and an easy-to-learn strategy, the chances are great that you will win often in this blackjack variation, provided you play correctly.
  • Blackjack is paid out 3:2 while all other wins payout 1:1.
  • For sure! Whether you download a blackjack app or play instantly in your browser, you'll be able to play European Blackjack on any modern mobile device.