Blackjack switch is one of the many variations of the classic game that has become popular in recent years. This version of the game offers players unique advantages that may help them beat the house. Of course, the casino also gains some key advantages as well.
This article will break down everything you need to know about blackjack switch rules, how to play the game and some casinos you should use to play blackjack online.
What Is Blackjack Switch?
Most casino gamblers have tried their hand at blackjack before. It’s one of the most popular casino games, and for good reason. The popularity of blackjack has led to people making their own variations of the game.
Blackjack switch is one such variation. The main goal of this version is the same as regular blackjack; beat the dealer and get as close to 21 as possible without going over.
However, there are three key differences in this version of the game compared to your standard game of blackjack.
How to Play Blackjack Switch
According to the standard blackjack switch rules, players who beat the dealer win the hand. Most of the gameplay mirrors stand blackjack games. But there are three unique rules that players need to know about playing this version of the game.
The first major change is that players start with two hands instead of one. This means that you also have to wager on two hands instead of one.
After your cards are dealt, you will have the chance to switch the top cards in your hand. This can be a huge advantage depending on the cards you are dealt. Then you play out both hands as normal.
The final major difference between regular blackjack and the switch version is that a dealer does not bust after 21 points. If a dealer ends with 22 points, then all of the bets made on that hand are a push.
Blackjack Switch Rules
Most of the blackjack switch rules are the same as classic blackjack games. Players bust if they go over 21 points and you win by beating the dealer’s hand. The ability to play two hands and switch your top cards does change some of the rules, though.
Number of Cards
The first difference you will notice when playing the switch version of blackjack is that your start with two hands. This requires you to place two starting bets. Casinos usually require these bets to be the same amount.
After placing your bets, you will receive two hands. This gives you a total of four starting cards to work with.
Each hand is played separately. So, even if one hand busts, you can still win with the second one. Players can use this to their advantage when deciding how aggressively to bet.
Switching Cards
The biggest advantage players have in this version of blackjack is the ability to switch their top cards. Let’s say you are dealt a 9-6 and 5-A as your starting hands.
You could keep your hands as they are and play them as normal. Or, you can switch two of your cards. In this case, let’s say you switch the six and the ace.
By switching your top cards, you end up with 9-A and 5-6. Your first hand is worth 20 points, giving you a great chance to beat the dealer. The 5-6 hand is a great option for doubling down as you are guaranteed not to bust.
Players only have the option to switch cards after their initial hands are dealt. Also, you can only switch the top cards in your hand.
Push on 22
Not all of the blackjack switch rules benefit the player. The casino gains some advantages as well.
Arguably the biggest advantage for casinos in this version of blackjack is that the dealer does not lose if they get to 22 points. Every bet made on that round ends as a push. This means even if you hit the magic number of 21, you still do not beat the casino.
This small rule change can have huge repercussions. It gives dealers, and the casino, a larger margin for error. It also helps to increase the house edge because you win less often than you otherwise would.
Switch Side Bets
Switch games have a unique set of blackjack side bets as well. The most common of these side wagers is called Super Match.
A Super Match wager is won or lost depending on the cards in a player’s starting hands. To win a player must have a pair, three-of-a-kind, or four-of-a-kind. The better the hand, the better the payout.
There are many factors that determine the payout rates for side bets, including the number of decks and the casino itself. Here is an example of what a pay table for the Super Match bet may look like.
Type of Hand | Payout |
---|---|
One Pair | 1:1 |
Three-of-a-Kind | 5:1 |
Two Pair | 8:1 |
Four-of-a-Kind | 40:1 |
Should You Play Blackjack Switch Online?
Playing blackjack switch can be a fantastic way to add more excitement to your gambling routine. But there are also some disadvantages to be aware of before you start playing.
Advantages
Switch versions of blackjack offer players a ton of extra advantages. The ability to switch your top cards gives players more control over the results of the game.
Normally, players only have one hand to work with. This means that a bad starting hand can greatly reduce your odds of beating the dealer. In regular blackjack, you do not have many options other than playing out the bad hand.
In switch games, you get two starting hands to work with. This already increases your odds of beating the dealer. The ability to rearrange your starting cards can increase your odds even more.
Switching your top cards can greatly reduce the house edge when done correctly. Arranging your cards into better starting hands will, hopefully, help you defeat the house more often.
It may take some time to truly master the right strategy for this version of blackjack. However, once you do, you can take full advantage of all the added benefits switch games have to offer.
Some online gambling sites will even let you practice for free. This is ideal for new players because it stops you from wasting your bankroll while you learn to play.
Disadvantages
Like all casino games, there are some drawbacks to playing switch versions of blackjack. Thankfully, many of these disadvantages can be overcome with a little practice.
The first issue is that when the dealer lands on 22, all of the bets on the table result in a push. This can be disheartening when you have a strong hand. Not even a blackjack can overcome this rule.
Also, this rule does increase the house edge slightly because you are winning less often than you should be. However, even with this rule, switch games tend to have a lower house edge than most blackjack games.
Another issue to account for is that you need to expand your blackjack strategy. Most players use basic strategy to determine whether they will hit or not. However, switch players need to expand their plan to include when to switch their starting cards.
Finally, switch games tend to be more expensive to play than classic blackjack games. This is due in large part to the fact that you are making two opening bets instead of one. Players need to take this into account when they are making their blackjack bankrolls.
Tips for Playing Blackjack Online
Playing switch versions of blackjack can be a lot of fun. But that fun will only last so long if you are not also winning. Here are three tips to help you play blackjack online.
Use the Right Blackjack Casino
There are plenty of casinos that offer blackjack games. However, not all casinos are as good as they may first appear.
For the best blackjack experience, you need to use a top-rated casino site. BetOnline, for example, is a highly rated casino that offers multiple variations of blackjack switch.
Be Wary of Side Bets
Side bets are a great way to add more excitement to your casino experience. These wagers can also be tricky to learn, especially if you are new to the game.
New players should avoid side bets, at first. Once you master the basics of switch blackjack then you can start to incorporate these additional wagers.
Use Casino Bonuses
The best way to learn to play switch blackjack is by playing. Some sites, like BetUS, offer free versions of the game. These are a great tool for new players who do not want to risk their bankroll.
Another option is to find sites with deposit match casino bonuses. Playing with bonus funds will allow you to stretch your bankroll farther and play more hands.
Will You Play Blackjack Switch Online?
Blackjack switch is a variation of the classic game that gives players a ton of advantages. When played correctly, you can enjoy all of the fun of blackjack while maintaining an extremely low house edge.
Check out our latest casino blogs to learn more about blackjack and other popular casino games.
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