The Evolution of Blackjack Variants

Such is the versatility of Blackjack that not only have variations from the original game appeared, but the variants themselves spawn games too. These new versions are also not limited to cash games, but are now available in tournament play as well.

Elimination Blackjack

This variant is becoming very popular among high rollers, and if you watch Blackjack on TV, this is usually the format that they utilize. Usually there are seven players and the goal is to obtain the largest stack after a round. The round may consist of any number of hands, be it 8 or 16 (some 24), but whatever the number agreed upon, the one with the fewest chips is eliminated from the game.

Another feature of Elimination Blackjack is the secret bet, which can be made once per round by all players. Although this variant is popular in live tourneys, they are also becoming widespread online.

Ties Win Blackjack

The rules of this variant are quite similar to regular Blackjack, but the main difference is that in case of a push, the payout is 1:2.

Ties Win Blackjack is more popular online than in live casinos, and almost always for several players. In brick and mortar games, the number of decks used is between 6 to 8, although online this number can be increased or reduced, depending on the site. Another difference is that once you get the cards, you have only two choices: hit or stand. Doubling down or splitting is not allowed.

The value of the cards is the same as the regular game, and it should also be noted that in most cases the casino dealer will hit with a soft 17. Keep this in mind when you develop strategies for playing this game.

Quinze

This is one of the most interesting variants around today. The name is derived from the Spanish word quince, which means 15. The objective here is get to 15 instead of 21, but despite this deviation from the game, the rules and concepts are very similar to Blackjack,

This game first gained popularity in the early 1800s in Europe, and is in fact considered by some to have been a precursor, and not a variant. Whatever the case may be, it is now regarded as part of Blackjack family of games.

The more time you spend in casinos the more interesting Blackjack variants you'll find. As it continues to flourish, expect this classic game to develop in other more interesting, and exciting ways.