Each variation of blackjack requires a different type of game play in order to improve the winning odds. The casino's hope is that you use the same strategy for each variation because that will give the House an edge. If you enjoy playing new blackjack games, you have to adjust your strategy and take into account the differences between each variation of the game. The first place to start is by learning the rules of each blackjack game.

Garden-Variety Blackjack Games

The garden-variety blackjack games have only slight differences that will vary between each casino's blackjack table. The amount of decks used in each game can range from 1-8. Some games require that a player stands on soft 17s and they may count Aces as 11s. There are others that state the dealer must hit on soft 17s, which is the usual custom. And in some instances, the dealer engages in the practice of continuous card shuffling.

Spanish 21 Blackjack Games

In Spanish 21 games, the 10 cards are not used but the Kings, Queens and Jacks stay in each deck. This game utilizes anywhere from 6-8 decks and is known for relaxed player rules such as surrenders, permission to hit anytime and double downs. For particular 21-point combinations, there are several additional payouts like 7-7-7s and 6-7-8s. Players can get big payouts with 7-7-7s belonging to the same suit, especially when the dealer has a 7 face-up card. These payouts can be anywhere from $1000-$50,000. Even the players at the table will win a small bonus.

Double Diamond, or Super Fun 21, Blackjack Games

As implied by the name, Super Fun 21 games employ only one deck. One of the biggest differences seen in this type of blackjack game is the payout. The payout is 1-1 for any blackjack combination that consists of two diamond-suit cards. There are several other player-friendly rules that work similarly to those found in Spanish 21; these rules are not in the House's favor, which means Double Diamond is a popular blackjack game among players. If you want to play this game when you visit a casino, be prepared to wait awhile for your turn. But keep in mind that although Super Fun 21 seems like a great blackjack variation, the House will still have the advantage if you do not alter your game play.

Single-Deck Blackjack Games

This game only uses one deck but gives players a payout of 1.2-1. The standard blackjack payout is 1.5-1. So what the player brings in, they eventually have to give up.