Blackjack is one of the most popular casino games worldwide. In this Beginner’s Guide to European Blackjack, you’ll learn about its straightforward rules and strategic gameplay. The main difference between this and the original version is that two decks of cards are needed in this one.
Besides, the dealer does not check for blackjack until all player’s actions are completed, which adds extra suspense to the gaming experience.
This version is ideal for beginners since it offers simplicity and focus instead of complex side bets or rules. The objective remains the same: get as close as possible to the number 21 without exceeding it.
However, in this version, players can improve their odds even more by learning basic strategies like hitting, standing, splitting, and beating the dealer’s hand. This is one of the main differences between European and American Blackjack.
Overview of European Blackjack
European Blackjack is a 17th-century version of the classic game, in which the primary goal remains the same but includes distinct rules that set it apart from other variations.
The main distinction of this variation is the use of two decks of cards in comparison with the American, which usually uses multiple decks. In this European version, the dealer receives only one card face-up at the beginning and waits to draw the second card until all players have completed their hands.
This is to add suspense and a touch of strategy to the game. Besides, players can double down only on hands with values of 9, 10, or 11 and split only once per round.
This variety has become one of the favourites among players due to its simplicity and low-house edge. It has become very popular and is even included nowadays as a prominent feature in online gambling platforms.
The Setup and Deck
Before learning how to play European Blackjack, it is important to know more about the basics of the game. Let’s go!
Deck
The cards used in the European style are two decks of 52 cards each. This reduces the house’s advantage and helps players access better odds when they use strategic moves.
The values of the cards are a vital point in this game. Knowing the values and being involved can make you master the game:
- Number Cards (2-10): These are worth their face value.
- Face Cards (Jack, Queen, King): Each is worth 10 points.
- Aces: Aces can be valued at 1 or 11, depending on which benefits the hand most.
Dealer
It is probably the most essential character of the game since he or she is in charge of drawing the card and guiding the session.
At the beginning of the round, the dealer receives the “upcard”, a card face-up. In this version, the dealer does not draw the “hole card”, the second card, until everyone in the game has completed their hands. This dynamic makes European Blacljack more suspenseful and makes a hit into the strategies, as players are limited to knowing whether the dealer will have blackjack or not.
Players can do three main actions when seated around the gaming table: hitting, which means drawing another card; standing, which means keeping their current hand; or doubling down, which is doubling their bet and receiving one final card.
Structure and Key Terms of European Blackjack
Simplicity and strategy are two of the qualities that compose the structure of this game, in which beginners can learn while seasoned players can obtain in-depth gaming sessions. Without the “hole card” in use, there is an extra layer of unpredictability that makes the game more dynamic and engaging.
In order to understand this special version, it is crucial to know and comprehend some key terms:
- Bust: It’s the term to mention when the addition of all cards of a player’s hand surpasses 21. This means automatic loss.
- Dealer’s Upcard: It’s the key card of the game. This card is visible to all users and placed on the table to set the starting point of the round. For example, if the dealer’s upcard is 10, your cards should not overpass 11 in order to reach the 21 total.
- Push: It’s the moment when a tie happens between a player and the dealer. In this case, the original bet is returned to the owner.
Basic Rules of European Blackjack
If you want to know how to play European Blackjack and master it, the first step is to learn the basic rules. Are you ready? Let’s get started:
Dealing the Cards
The round starts with the dealer dealing two cards to each participant and one card face-up to themselves. The second card, called “the hole card,” which in other versions should be dealt to the dealer, is not dealt until all participants have completed their actions. This creates a sense of suspense and directly affects the players’ strategies, as it takes long to know the next number, and they cannot easily predict the dealer’s potential blackjack.
Players Actions
There are four possible actions to be performed in this game:
- Hit: It’s when an additional card is requested to improve the total of the hand. It is recommended that you use this movement only if your total is under 12 or the risk of busting is minimal.
- Stand: Basically, it is to keep calm and do nothing. Stay stand with your cards because you’re satisfied with your numbers, so you avoid busting. For example, if you have a 17 or around.
- Double Down: It is the action of doubling your original bet and receiving only one more card. It is good to do this if you have a total between 9 and 11 and the upcard is low.
- Split: If you receive a pair, you can split your hand into two and double your bet. However, remember that this is recommended for aces and 8s but not for 10-value cards.
Dealer Actions
The dealer usually follows a determined strategy. They must stand on 17 or higher and hit on 16 or lower. It is known that upcards heavily influence players’ decisions because they show the strength or weakness of the dealer’s hand. In a typical game, an upcard of 2-6 suggests a weak hand, while a 7-Ace indicates a stronger one.
Payouts and Winning
The payments in this version will depend on the outcome of the hand. The highest ones are for a blackjack, which is an ace and a 10-value card, which pays 3:2. In a real round, if someone bets ₹100 and gets a blackjack, that person wins ₹150. The rest of the winning hands pay 1:1, which means that if someone bets ₹100 wins ₹100.
The winner is that player with a total closer to 21 than the dealer but without exceeding 21. In case of the dealer busts 21, the player wins. However, the dealer wins if the player busts or if the dealer’s total is higher than the player’s hand.
A push happens when the dealer and the player have the same total, being the original bet returned. It’s important to note that blackjack beats any other 21, even if the dealer has a 21 from three or more cards.
Top Casino to Play European Blackjack
When talking about casinos, you can easily find plenty of alternatives nevertheless, there is one that catches all the attention: Starzbet.
Starzbet is a leading platform in online gaming. It offers exceptional games for both beginners and experienced players. It also provides engaging and seamless gaming experiences with a special focus on localized services for Indian players, such as UPI payment and unique promotions. Besides, with its user-friendly interface, secure payments and 24/7 online support, it has become one of the favourites in the region.
Why Starzbet Casino is the Best for European Blackjack
What everybody wants to know is why this casino has become so popular these days. Here are 5 reasons why you cannot miss playing European Blackjack in Starzbet!
1. Exclusive Tables:
Can you imagine having plenty of choices to play with whatever budget you want? Well, in Starzbet, it’s possible since it features multiple tables dedicated only to this variation with competitive rules and varying bet limits, making the casino suitable for casual gamers or high-stakes enthusiasts.
2. Generous Bonuses and Promotions:
Start your journey with an enhanced bankroll! Register and claim welcome bonuses, matched deposit offers and more. Starzbet is constantly updating new and ensured rewards for loyal players. A 100% Slot and Live Casino Welcome Bonus will be activated automatically after your first gaming session.
3. Localized Payment Methods:
One of the casino’s best features is its secure and efficient payment methods, such as UPI, Net Banking, and other popular e-wallets. With hassle-free deposits and fast withdrawals, Indian players’ needs are covered.
4. Mobile Compatibility:
Not only on your computer but also on your cellphone; European version is available in full quality on both devices, so you can play with no limitations anytime, anywhere.
5. Security and Fair Play:
Apart from a top-tier gaming experience, the casino is licensed and regulated, which ensures a safe gaming environment and guarantees fairness and transparency.
Important Differences Between European and American Blackjack
Even though both versions are similar, there are some slight differences in gameplay and strategy that may impact the play style. Below are the key contrasts:
1. No Hole Card in European Blackjack:
The European version creates extra suspense since the dealer does not take a second card, known as the “hole card,” until all players have completed their hands. This adds suspense and risk to the game because players might now double down or split without knowing whether the dealer has a blackjack or not.
2. Doubling Down Rules:
There are some restrictions to specific hands: totals of 9, 10, or 11. In contrast, the American version of blackjack allows doubling down on any two cards.
3. Splitting Rules:
In the European version, players can split a hand only once, and it is usually restricted to double down on a split hand. While in the American one, it is often allowed multiple splits and doubling down after a split.
4. Blackjack Payouts:
With the absence of the “hole card” the dealer reveals blackjack only after all players’ actions, the European mode slightly increases the house edge. In both versions, a 3:2 payout is offered for blackjack.
5. Decks Used:
Only two decks are used in European versions, while in the American version, it is common to use six to eight. This reduces the house edge, making card counting more workable. Players need to be more cautious and avoid taking extra risks.
Top Strategies for Beginners in European Blackjack
The more you learn about this exciting game, the more chances you have to win. Here are European Blackjack tips for beginners:
1. Learn Basic Strategy:
Learn and practice at least one European Blackjack strategy for new players. Some basic strategies are essential to master this version. For example, hit on totals under 12 when the dealer’s upcard is 7 or higher, and remember always to split aces or eight.
2. Pay Attention to the Dealer’s Upcard:
Avoid taking unnecessary risks and stand on hands with 12 or higher. If the dealer shows a 2-6, it’s because there are more probabilities of busting.
3. Use Caution When Doubling Down:
Double-down on a strong dealer card is too risky. In this version, it is recommended to double down only on 9, 10, or 11 when the upcard is weak or under 6.
4. Avoid Risky Splits:
Pay attention when to split. Never split 10s or 5s. If you do so, you will only weaken a strong hand and splitting 5s reduces the chance of building a good total of 20.
5. Card Counting:
Even with two decks, card counting can provide an edge in European Blackjack by tracking high-value cards remaining in the deck.
6. Avoid Insurance Bets:
This is a side bet that protects players in case the dealer has blackjack that pays 2:1. It happens when the upcard is an Ace, and it is usually half of the original wager. For example, if you bet ₹1,000, you can take ₹500 as an insurance bet. If the dealer has blackjack, you lose ₹1,000 but win ₹1,000 from the insurance bet (₹500 x 2). But pay attention because if the dealer doesn’t have blackjack, you lose those ₹500.
7. Start with Small Bets:
As in any gambling environment, it is always recommended to start small. The first step is to learn the game, develop confidence and try out different strategies to win. If you start big from the beginning, there is a high probability of crashing out.
8. Set Your Limits:
Blackjack, in any version, tends to be a very captivating game. That’s why it is essential to set fixed limits and to respect them. Play responsibly and ensure a fun and controlled gaming experience!
Common Mistakes to Avoid in European Blackjack
Everyone who is just starting in the blackjack world needs a beginner’s guide to European blackjack with the actions you should avoid. Let’s review the basics:
1. Overcomplicating the Strategy:
Overconfidence and overthinking are two of the common mistakes of new players. Trying to implement fast and advanced techniques too soon. Stick to basic strategies like when to hit, stand, split, or double down to simplify your rounds.
2. Ignoring the Dealer’s Upcard:
One of the major errors is not paying attention to the upcard and focusing only on your hand. Remember, the key to the game is the upcard since it provides clues about the dealer’s strengths or weaknesses, guiding you to take your actions.
3. Mismanaging Bankroll or Betting Too Aggressively:
Once again, the advice of starting small comes into the conversation. Betting too much or without any pause can lead you to quick and big losses. Compromise to manage your bankroll, setting limits and bet responsibly to ensure sustained gameplay.
4. Not Knowing When to Stand or Double Down:
Knowing exactly when to stand or double down is a good way to avoid a typical error. These actions can cost you the entire game, so it is essential to take the time to learn and comprehend them to avoid unnecessary losses.
Conclusion
Strategy and simplicity are the main words that describe this thrilling variation of the classic blackjack. Compared with other versions, European blackjack uses two decks of cards, and the “hole card”, which is the dealer’s second hand, is only revealed after all players complete their actions. This special feature adds extra suspense and a layer of deep strategy.
Success is in the blink of an eye! As long as you learn and understand the basic rules and actions: hitting, standing, doubling and splitting, you can refine your skills in each gaming session and master the game.
In this version, the aim remains to get closer to 21 than the dealer without exceeding it, but in this variation, the strategies are related to calculated risks and informed choices. For beginners, it is highly recommended to follow strategy charts, start with small bets, learn and develop predictive skills, and, of course, play responsibly.
Remember not to make common mistakes such as advanced and overcomplicated strategies, ignoring the dealer’s upcard or mismanaging your bankroll. These actions could take to undesired losses.
European Blackjack is an amazing alternative for those fans of blackjack in searching of a slight variation with a mix of strategy, suspense and lots of fun. Take your time, practice wisely and step into the world of blackjack with this European version, with Starzbet your journey to success is waiting for you!
FAQs: European Blackjack
There are two main differences in this version: the use of two decks of cards and the omission of the dealer’s “hole card”. These features change the game since add suspense and affects directly the strategy of each player, who must decide their moves without knowing if the dealer has a blackjack or not. About the rules, there are more restrictions in doubling down than in the American version.
In the European mode, two 52-card decks are typically used, compared with other versions, like the American, for example, which uses six to eight decks. This allows lower house edges, making it easier for players to track cards and use basic strategies correctly.
A blackjack pays 3:2 in a natural one, an Ace and a 10-value card). For example, a ₹100 bet wins ₹150. All the rest of the winning hands pay 1:1, which means bet ₹100 wins ₹100. This type of payment makes the game one of the best payouts in table games.
Yes, it is possible to double down, but only on a total of 9, 10 or 11. Also, splitting is allowed for pairs. Anyway, in general, players can split only once per hand, making the environment more interesting, full of caution and with well-timed decisions.
Actually, this is an excellent alternative for beginners in the world of blackjack. Why? Because its straightforward rules and focus on strategy helps new player to learn fast and with discipline. Beside, the absence of deep side bets or multiple decks turn it into a easy to learn gaming pace.
Inspired by her son Leon, a 10-year-old fan of online games, she has learned everything she needs to know about apps and websites, bonuses and tricks. She currently works in one of the biggest online game providers and casino sites in the Middle East. She pretends to become “the teacher behind the screen” and teach all those beginners to learn valuable techniques to get the most out of their stakes. After a big win in online casinos, she fell in love with betting and slots, making this new world her new lifestyle.
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