European Blackjack
If you play casino games by Microgaming, then chances are that you might be aware of Switch Studios, which was founded in 2017 by a group of talented individuals. In 2018, Microgaming introduced Switch Studios as their latest independent studio that will be providing exclusive content to them.
Switch Studios is known for developing premium and high-quality table gaming for Microgaming. And their European Blackjack is no exception to this. The game features a traditional Blackjack table, boasts high-quality graphics and offers some exciting features that are beneficial for players. Read on to explore the game in more detail.
Game Rating
Graphics
Bonus Round
Entertrainment
Overall
4/5
4.5/5
4/5
4/5
Provider
Switch Studios
Game Type
Card Games
RTP
99.60%
Max Win
£600
Reels
NA
Free Spins
NA
Paylines
NA
Volatility
NA
Year
2019
Mobile friendly
Yes
Graphics 4/5
Bonus Round 4.5/5
Entertrainment 4/5
Overall 4/5
Provider
Switch Studios
Game Type
Card Games
RTP
99.60%
Max Win
£600
Reels
NA
Free Spins
NA
Paylines
NA
Volatility
NA
Year
2019
Mobile friendly
Yes
Overview of the rules
All the fundamental rules of Live Blackjack apply here, and there are also some changes that you must know. First, the game is played with two 52-card decks, and the dealer must stand on all 17s. The small differences are quite beneficial for players, as the RTP would decrease if the game used more decks or the dealer had the option to hit a soft 17. With the use of the correct strategy, the theoretical RTP of the game can be 99.6%.
However, there are some rules that some players might find restricting. For instance, players can only double down on a hard 9, 10, or 11. This variation of Blackjack allows a single split at the start of the game. You can’t divide 10-value cards that are different, but you have the option to hit split Aces more than once. Also, the peek rule is not in effect in European Blackjack. Moreover, it’s not possible to do card counting in this Blackjack game.
How to play European Blackjack
When playing European Blackjack at a live casino, you’ll be able to experience all the features that the land-based variation boasts. Here is a step-by-step guide to playing European Blackjack live:
Load the game
In order to start playing European Blackjack, you must first select it as a variant at Winissimo. After this, simply go on and load the real-money game provided that you’ve already deposited money into your casino account.
Select your chip
Once the game loads, your next step is simply to select how much you want to wager. After this, all you have to do is click on the chip.
Wait for your score
Your next step is to just wait for the score. If lady luck is by your side and you manage to get a Blackjack and the dealer doesn’t have one, your payout will be awarded immediately. However, you’ll lose your bet if the dealer has a Blackjack.
Decide whether to hit, stand or double down
Assuming that nobody has won the game, you’ll have to decide the best move for your next hand.
Hit – Clicking on the ‘hit’ button will enable you to receive another card to improve your initial score.
Split – The ‘split’ option is activated when you have two cards that are of the same value. When you split your hand, you’ll be left with two hands and receive an additional card for each hand from the dealer.
Double – You’ll be able to double your bet using this option. On doing this, you’ll receive one card and your turn will end soon after.
Bonus features
When playing European Blackjack, you can use the split and double down features. As mentioned earlier, you can split two cards that have the same denomination. You’ll receive a payout 1:1 if you’re able to form Blackjack after a split. You can double down on your first two hands if they’re a hard hand with a value of 9, 10 or 11. This bet also pays at 1:1 if you’re able to form a Blackjack.
Additionally, you can also take insurance in European Blackjack that covers your original hand.
Mobile version
As Switch Studios strives to offer a premium gaming experience to casino players, their European Blackjack game works flawlessly on both Android and iOS devices. This means that you can easily place your bets whenever and wherever you want.
Software
European Blackjack features a minimalistic design, but there are still some options that you can adjust as per your preferences. The three-line menu at the top of the left-side will take you to a “Settings” sub-section where you’ll find options like audio sliders for the game sounds and dealer’s voice, mute toggle, and a turbo mode that enables fast play. Also, the menu section features a “Help” section and a list of the most important rules for European Blackjack.
When it comes to soundtracks, there’s no background music playing in the game allowing you to think clearly about your next move.
Closing thoughts
Played with two decks of 52 cards, European Blackjack from Switch Studios is the perfect playable version of Blackjack. Overall, the game features good graphics and the rules are also beneficial to the players. Give it a try today!
