None is 100% sure about where and when Blackjack originated. There are two main schools of thought and each one has different historical evidence to support it.
Many experts say that Blackjack arose in the casinos of France in the 1700s as Vingt-et-Un, which translates to Twenty One. This game was in turn derived from Chemin de Fer and was a hit with King Louis XV’s courtiers.
Other historians claim that 21 may have been invented by the Ancient Romans. This is supported by their love of gambling and arose because wooden blocks, painted with different numbers, have been found. It’s possible that these were used to play Blackjack instead of the paper cards in use today.
Whichever theory is true, Blackjack has been in existence for many hundreds of years now. It makes sense that there are multiple variations. With the increased access internet-based casinos have given the game, online players are experimenting with different ways to get to 21.
Main Differences in Blackjack Games
While the many different versions of 21 have a lot in common, the way they are different is important:
- The Dealer’s Move on a Soft 17
In some variations, dealers must Hit when they’re holding a hand worth 17 points including an Ace, while others force them to stand.
- Limitations on Players’ Doubling Down
Certain versions of Blackjack restrict which cards players can Double Down on and how much they need to increase their wager by when they do.
- How Many Splits Are Allowed
Different versions of the game make it possible for players to Split cards of equal value into separate hands. How many times they can do this varies.
American Blackjack
Often referred to as Classic 21, American Blackjack is very widely played. The most noticeable difference in this variation is that the dealer gets their Hole card before players have to make any game decisions.
Blackjack Perfect Pairs
Players in this version of 21 can make a Perfect Pairs wager before the cards get dealt. If the first two cards are of the same value, or are matching face cards, and a Pair is created, they’ll win the side bet.
Blackjack Switch
This variation allows players to control two hands separately with the option to swap the second card they get dealt between these.
European Blackjack
In this version of 21, the dealer doesn’t get their Hole card until after the player has made their decision about what to do with the cards they’ve been dealt.
Vegas Strip Blackjack
Named after the most famous stretch of South Las Vegas Boulevard, where it originated, up to four hands can be split per game in Vegas Strip Blackjack. Doubling Down after Splitting is also possible.
More Ways to Win With so many variations to choose from nowadays, Blackjack players can enjoy their favourite casino game any number of ways at Lucky Creek. Trying a new version of 21 is a great way to hone your playing skills and increases the likelihood of seeing a good return.
