Online Blackjack is one of the most popular games at non GamStop casinos, especially for those looking for where to play if you’re on GamStop. There are two ways to play online: you can play on a slot machine, or against a live dealer.
Live Blackjack
Live Blackjack variants are played in real time against live dealers. These are real people working in a live studio. Other players also take their place at the virtual gaming table. These are players who, just like you, are sitting at their computer, laptop, or tablet and want to play a game of Blackjack.
Thanks to the HD webcams, you can follow the game closely. You’ll have several on-screen buttons for things like betting, hitting, or doubling down. The live chat function keeps you in touch with the dealer and other players. Online casino bonuses are usually not available in the live casino, but they are available in other parts of the online casino.
It’s essentially the same as playing at a land-based casino. The only difference is that at the online casino, you enjoy the comfort of your own home. You don’t have to pay for parking, food, or drinks. However, you’re only virtually there, watching the action unfold on your screen. The live studios are usually located in Malta, Latvia, or Estonia. Sometimes you’ll also find one in the UK.
Video Blackjack
Besides playing in the live casino, you can also play online Blackjack at non GamStop casinos, also known as Video Blackjack, on a slot machine. So you’re not playing against a live dealer in a suit, but against a computer. This computer deals the cards and controls the game. There are no other players at the table. It’s a direct confrontation between you and the computer. So you don’t have to wait for anyone else, and no one is breathing down your neck.
Because the Random Number Generator (RNG) is used here, everything is fully automated and random. The software determines which cards are dealt and which choices the banker makes.
A huge advantage of online Blackjack is that you can take your time. This is especially recommended if you’re still learning the game’s basic strategy. While you’re often not allowed to bring a cheat sheet with you in a brick-and-mortar arcade, Pragmatic Play’s games even give you an overview of the game within the machine. Another advantage of online Blackjack is that you can find a table to play at any time of day. You can often play from just €0.50 per hand.
Variants of online casino Blackjack
Most players are familiar with Blackjack. After all, the game is hundreds of years old. It’s also one of the oldest online casino games. That’s why developers have taken the time to add some variations to the regular game. There are several online Blackjack variations available, and they’re definitely worth trying.
Double Exposure Blackjack
In Double Exposure Blackjack, the main difference is that both of the dealer’s cards are face up. However, there are also several other differences, such as:
- The dealer wins when there is a tie
- You may split once
- You can win 1 x the stake
Double Exposure Blackjack has a slightly higher house edge than the classic version, but Double Exposure Blackjack is still one of the variants with the smallest house edge.
Pontoon
In Pontoon Blackjack, the goal is the same as in classic Blackjack: to get more points than the dealer, but not to go over 21. In this Blackjack variant, too, the dealer wins in the event of a tie, except in Blackjack. Another notable difference is that both the dealer’s cards are face down. The terminology in Pontoon is slightly different from what you’re used to in standard Blackjack. For example, the terms twist (hit) and stick (stand) are used here. When you have two cards that total 21, it’s called Pontoon.
FAQ
What variations are there on live Blackjack?
In classic live Blackjack, you sit at a virtual table with a dealer. You place your bets using the on-screen buttons. Non GamStop casinos offer other options with these Blackjack variations:
- With or without a live dealer: at some live Blackjack tables, the casino chooses to work with an automated dealer. You then play against the computer using a Random Number Generator. Non GamStop casinos do this, for example, because they don’t have a dealer available 24/7. By opting for an RNG, players also can’t count cards.
- With or without Surrender: Surrendering or surrendering is not mandatory in Blackjack, but an option offered by some non GamStop casinos.
- Whether or not to stand on a soft hand with a value of 17: The dealer normally stands when they have an Ace with a 6 or higher, to increase the player’s chances of winning. However, some non GamStop casinos don’t enforce this rule.
Because there are so many variations of Blackjack, it’s always a good idea to practice a few rounds first. This way, you’ll get used to the rules of that particular casino and avoid unexpected outcomes.
How to increase your chances of winning at online Blackjack?
You can increase your chances of winning Blackjack by placing a side bet. This way, you still have a chance of winning, even if you don’t have a winning combination. Another option is to thoroughly study Blackjack tactics, for example, using a Gamble Guide. Then, practice a few times at a free online Blackjack table to test your strategies.
Did you know that a good blackjack strategy isn’t all that difficult to learn? With the right blackjack strategy, you can reduce the casino’s house edge to a very minimal 0.5%. While the cards you’re dealt are purely random, you can still take advantage by standing, doubling down, and splitting at the right times. The combination of playing according to a true strategy and the low house edge makes blackjack the favorite casino game of many players.
What is insurance in online Blackjack?
Blackjack insurance is essentially no different from insurance for your house, car, or cat. You’re insuring yourself against an uncertain event: something that might happen, but it’s far from certain. If it does happen, you’ll receive a payout from the insurance company. In return, you pay a premium. And if nothing happens, you lose the premium.
The insurance pays out if the bank receives a ten-point card after the Ace. This could be a ten, jack, queen, or king. If the bank receives any other card, the insurance is void and no payout is made.