European Blackjack Rules: A Classic with the Twist

Blackjack has been attracting players from all over the world with its perfect blend of luck and chance. In Europe, it has received its own variant that brings a twist to the classic card gameplay. This variant may be enjoyed in any of the best casinos around the world.

Join us as we dive into the following points, and learn about what makes European Blackjack stand out:

• Understanding The Game
• How to Play European Blackjack
• Why Should You Play European Blackjack?

Understanding The Game

While the European Blackjack variant follows the same goal as traditional blackjack played in other continents, there are several distinct rules and gameplay elements that make this variant different from the rest.

Number of Decks

European Blackjack is typically played with two decks of 52 cards, excluding any jokers. The number of decks can directly influence the game’s dynamics, as well as any strategies you may be thinking of using.

Dealer’s Hole Card

One of the biggest differences between European Blackjack and other variants is that the dealer is not allowed to peek at their hole card when Blackjack is a possibility. Players may need to plan ahead when the dealer has an Ace or a 10-value card on the table.

Doubling Down

This action may only be done by the player when their initial hands total 9, 10, or 11. This restriction requires players to plan ahead more often about when to increase their bets.

Splitting Pairs

Pairs may only be split once. However, there are restrictions as to when you are allowed to split pairs. In most cases, when it comes with 10-value cards, only two identical cards may be split. Re-splitting or hitting aces is also not allowed in European Blackjack. 

Dealer’s Actions

The dealer receives one face-up card at the start of the game, but their second card may only be dealt after the players have completed their hands. This rule forces the dealer to stand on a soft 17.

Insurance and Surrender

Insurance bets are optional bets. These bets are made when you think that the dealer will have a blackjack hand. While some players might see placing this side-bet when the dealer’s face-up card is an Ace as wise, research psychologist Will Bennis, in the Electronic Journal of Gambling Issues (2004), advises that basic strategy says to never take insurance.

In most games of European Blackjack, players are not allowed to surrender. This means that you will not be allowed to forfeit your hand to reclaim half your bet.

How To Play European Blackjack

Let’s jump into learning how to play this variant step by step:

1. Join a table and place your bets.

• Whether you’re playing live or in a land-based casino, joining a table is the first step to playing the game.
• Once you have joined, you may place your bets according to your set budget.

2. Will you hit, stand, double down, or split?

• Look at your hand to determine whether you want to receive another card (hit), or leave your hand as is (stand).
• Remember, doubling down may only be allowed under certain hands, and pairs may only be split once.

3, Watch as the dealer reveals their hand.

• After you have finished up your own hand, you may now wait until the dealer reveals their hand. 
• If your hand beats the value of the dealers, without exceeding 21, then you win the round.

4. Play another round?

• If your budget allows, then you may join the next game or round. However, if you think you will be spending more than your budget, then we advise you to take a break.

Why Should You Play European Blackjack?

• Cautious players may enjoy the game’s more conservative approach to blackjack.
• Compared to other variations of blackjack, there are not as many rule changes.
• European venues typically offer a sleek and sophisticated atmosphere.
• There is an additional element of risk that players may find exciting.
• The strategy that you may use may be similar to standard blackjack.

European Blackjack brings various twists to the classic blackjack formula, making it a great choice for players looking for an exciting yet conservative variant of the classic card game. We suggest checking out some of Genting Casino’s RNG blackjack or live blackjack to get a better feel of this blackjack variant.