Variants of Black Jack
One of the reasons why Black Jack is so popular and prevalent is its easy learning curve. It is a very straightforward game, wherein the player tries to get as close to 21 without going over. The other game specifications are simple to understand as well.
However there are actually rule variations and game derivations out there, and some of them are used in hotel casinos and online gambling sites. One popular Black Jack variant played online is Black Jack Switch.
The most unique innovation in Black Jack Switch is that players play and wager with two hands. Another distinctive feature is that at the onset players may switch the top two cards of each hand. During game play each hand is treated and played distinct from each others, and the standard rules (such as hit and stand) are applied. Almost always the dealer hits when holding a soft 17.
Another Black Jack variant, frequently played in casinos, is Double Attack Black Jack. The game is usually played with six decks (or more), and all the tens are removed. While this is clearly disadvantageous for the player, it is compensated for by its bonus payout scheme.
It works like this: after the dealer shows her up card, the player can bet that she will go bust with three cards. If the player is correct he will gain extra money. The payout itself depends on the card drawn, with a draw of 6 paying off 15 to 1.
If the dealer holds an 8 and draws the same number, the payout is 50 to 1. If it is of the same number and suit, it goes up to 200-1. All other rules, with the exception of those stated, apply to this variant.
Spanish 21 is regarded by many players as one of the most exciting and profitable of all Black Jack variants. Called Pontoon in Australia, Spanish 21 is well liked by players because its rules allow for great flexibility and lowers the house edge compared with other Black Jack variants.
Just like Black Jack Double Attack, Spanish 21 is played with 6 to 8 decks of 48 cards each, with the tens removed. To make up for this handicap, several rules are player friendly. Among the most significant is that in case player and dealer hold Black Jacks, the player prevails.
Other rules are: doubling and redoubling are permitted, resplitting of Aces and late surrender. In addition, bonus payouts and schemes are given out under the following circumstances: a player gets 21 with five, six or seven cards; a hand combination of 6, 7, 8 or 7, 7, 7 is also eligible for a bonus.
A word here about Crazy Eights: this game is often referred to in the UK as Black Jack, but it is not a derivation or a variant. In Crazy Eights five cards are dealt to each player. The rest of the deck is on the table with the top card up. The objective is to get rid of your hands by matching it with the number or suit of the card being taken from the deck.
As you can see, there is more to Black Jack than meets the eye. By studying these games you gain experience, improved skills and more winnings.