European Blackjack

What is the difference between European Blackjack and Blackjack Classic?

This blackjack variant favors a conservative approach that cautious players will enjoy, with only a few rule changes from standard variations. It evokes the sleek and sophisticated experience of European venues, while also adding a greater element of risk that players may find exciting. The basic strategy for this variant is pretty similar to the standard blackjack.

European Blackjack is a variant of the classic game of Blackjack, but with a few key differences. European Blackjack typically uses two decks of cards, instead of the usual six or eight deck set up used in most American casinos. It also has certain rules in place that enhance the house edge.

For example, the dealer is only allowed to peek at their hole card if they have an Ace or a ten-value card showing, and the player is not allowed to split or double down on hands that contain an Ace. Additionally, the dealer must stand on soft 17, whereas in classic blackjack the dealer is generally allowed to hit on soft 17.

European Blackjack vs American Blackjack

European Blackjack is played with two decks instead of the standard six or eight decks used in American Blackjack. Also, the dealer stands on a soft 17, which means they will not hit until they have a hard 17 or higher. In American Blackjack, the dealer hits on a soft 17.

In European Blackjack, players are also allowed to double down on any two cards, whereas in American Blackjack, you can only double down on certain hands. Finally, in European Blackjack, players can split any two cards of the same value, while in American Blackjack, they can only split two cards of the same value if they are both Aces.

European Blackjack game features

European Blackjack, the dealer only reveals their first card face up and does not consult their second card until the player has finished their turn. In contrast, American Blackjack dealers deal a “hole card” at the same time, initially leaving it face down before turning it over once the players have finished playing. The only exception is when the dealer has an ace for their up card and the player is offered the chance to take the insurance side bet. 

The dealer does not peek at their hole card in European Blackjack to check for blackjack. In American Blackjack, the dealer peeks at the hole card to see if they have blackjack. If the dealer does have blackjack, the insurance bet is paid out and all other bets are lost, unless the player also has a natural blackjack, in which case their hand is a ‘push’ and their stake is returned. 

Players are limited in terms of doubling down in European Blackjack, as they can only double on hands with a value of nine, 10, or 11. There are no such constraints in American Blackjack. 

European Blackjack only allows players to split once, and only with 10-value cards of the same face/value, such as two queens. In American Blackjack, players can split up to three times, with the exception of aces which can only be split once. It is also possible to split mixed 10-value cards, such as 10-king.

European Blackjack by Betsoft

Betsoft's European Blackjack is a classic that players have enjoyed since its release in 2013. The game stands out among other blackjack variants, due to its high Return to Player percentage of 99.38%. Wizard Of Odds, one of the most respected gaming sites, even deemed European Blackjack to be one of the best games for players looking for a realistic simulated blackjack experience. European Blackjack is extremely easy to learn and play, making it an ideal choice for both experienced and inexperienced gamers.

In the game, one to three decks are shuffled together and then dealt from the shoe. The dealer can hit soft 17 in this variant and players can double after splitting aces. There are also opportunities for insurance bets, as well as player surrender.

Players of European Blackjack will be exposed to the incredible Betsoft graphics and sound effects, which together create a immersive gaming experience. Players also have the ability to adjust the speed of the game, choose.

Eight steps to start playing European Blackjack:

1. Always read the rules of the game before playing.
2. Understand the optimal strategy for playing the game.
3. Set a bankroll and stick to it.
4. Don't take insurance unless it is part of the strategy you have worked out.
5. Don't be afraid to split your cards if the situation calls for it.
6. Try to double down when the situation allows it.
7. Don't be afraid to walk away if you are losing.
8. Enjoy the game and have fun!