Play Online European Blackjack

European

In UK’s live venues and online casinos, European blackjack is the most common form of blackjack played. It contains several differences when you compare it with the standard US version. For Brits, it is at the top of the list of games you'll encounter at your local casino.

Like any other blackjack variation, European Blackjack is played versus a dealer. The objective of the game is simply to beat the dealer by getting as close to 21 points without going over or forcing the dealer to go bust. Face cards and 10s are valued at 10 points, an Ace can be worth either one or 11 points and the remaining numbered cards score the same as their face value.

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Other European Blackjack Rules

European

Depending upon the variation you pick, European Blackjack can be dealt with 2, 4, 6 and even 8 decks of cards. Each deck is shuffled after a successful round of play. While some casinos may choose to create their own dealer rules, the majority will require that the dealer must stand on soft 17 or higher and hit on 16 or lower.

The first major difference in the European version is the “No Hole Card” rule. For blackjack games in the US, the dealer usually picks two cards initially: one card that faces up (exposed card), while the other is face down (hole card). In Europe, the dealer can never glance at his hand. Meaning each player at the table is required to complete their hand before the dealer’s hand is revealed.

Blackjack is paid out at the standard 3:2, and if the dealer's face up card is an Ace then the player may purchase insurance with another real cash bet prior to the peek. If the player decides to split their hand, insurance will no longer be in effect. And, if the player buys insurance and then decides to double, only the initial real money wager will be doubled.

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How To Win At European Blackjack

An initial betting round will take place before any cards are dealt, and you may use this time to decide how many hands you wish to play for the upcoming round. The minimum and maximum wagers are often the same throughout the more popular online casinos, with £1 being the minimum, generally. Still, you can double an initial bet or “double-down”, as long as you are resolute about “standing” once an additional card has been dealt.

After the betting round is over, two cards will be dealt to each active hand. The player's cards will all be facing up, but only one of the dealer's will be visible. If the player has Blackjack, the best hand in the game, then they immediately win and are paid out at 3:2.

Otherwise the player can either hit or stand, and in some cases split or double, with the aim of getting their hand as close to 21 as possible without going over. For example, if a player is dealt seven-seven or a nine-nine, two hands can be created in order to place an additional but same amount wager. The casino might have its own rules for card-splitting such as number of total splits or number of splits for particular cards such as the Ace.

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Strategies For European Blackjack

You'll soon learn the hard way which hands to stick on, which to hit and so on, but you can also find strategy cards online that tell you what to do in every possible situation. Some players find the rigidity of following the card to the letter when betting a bit constricting and go with their gut from time to time. Generally speaking, though, the top guides won't steer you far wrong if you're still learning to play.

Did You Know?

With a house edge of around 0.4%, European is one of the best variations for Brits looking to play blackjack.

Multi-hand play can greatly increase your real money winnings on a top round. If you have a hot temper, avoid games with other players - what you perceive to be mistakes on their part might wind you up if it affects the cards the dealer ends up with.

Online Casino European Blackjack

One of the most common blackjack variations in the UK, and throughout casinos in Europe, you can play European blackjack offline in virtually any British casino. Still, there's a lot to be said for playing online casino European blackjack:

  • Convenience - no need to travel to get to the casino, no dress code and cashing out online is as easy as clicking a few buttons
  • Time - if you want to consult your strategy guide, need to take a call or just want to take a break, you can do so on the web without annoying everyone at your table
  • Accessibility - whether you're a newbie to the game or looking to play for some serious real cash prizes, you'll be able to find a game to suit you on the internet.

But why pick between offline venues and the online casino? European blackjack players are increasingly playing some hands in the casino, maybe for special occasions (you have the best nights out at a casino), and playing some on the web. Have your cake and eat it too!

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Frequently Asked Questions
How does European blackjack work?

European blackjack works like most of the other blackjack variations, the player tries to get 21 or closer to that figure than the dealer, while betting on his results. There are rule variations in European blackjack compared to the other options though, and this makes the game play differently.

Where can I find the best European blackjack games?

Most popular online casinos have high quality European blackjack games that you can experience. Just read casino reviews and track down the leading casinos to enjoy quality European blackjack. It’s easy to do and won’t take much time to find the best options.

How is it different to regular blackjack?

One major difference is that the player loses every bit of his bet if the dealer gets a blackjack, there is no way to recoup any of that money, even after doubling or splitting.

Is it popular in the UK?

Yes, European blackjack is highly popular in the UK and worth considering if you’re a fan of blackjack. Many players over in the UK prefer this variety to other variations of the game.

Are online European blackjack games fair?

Absolutely, most online European blackjack games rely on a random number generator to ensure that they are fair to play at.

How many decks are used in European online blackjack?

Typically six decks of cards are used to play European blackjack. The decks are in the middle of the four and eight decks often used for blackjack, and ensure that the games are fair when played.

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