MicroGaming is one of the largest online casino game developers. It offers all kinds of games in its software platform. Slots, blackjack, roulette and baccarat are but a few of the many games available at MicroGaming Casinos. The company is also a leading developer of online slot machines. This article, however, focuses on MicroGaming's range of blackjack games. The selection is large, but we'll concentrate on the most interesting variants.
MicroGaming separates its blackjack games into "single-hand" and "multi-hand" blackjack. As the names imply, single-hand blackjack is one hand at a time against the dealer, whereas multi-hand blackjack lets you play up to five hands in every game.
There are more than a dozen blackjack varieties in each category; "European Blackjack," "Atlantic City Blackjack," and "Classic Blackjack" to name a few. What separates the different variants are some of the rules and the number of decks used. Here are some of the different blackjack variants available at MicroGaming:
Classic Blackjack
Classic Blackjack is built on simplicity and straightforward rules. Only one deck is used, which confers a small advantage to the player. The dealer stands on all 17's as is customary in most forms of blackjack. You may split aces, and you're also allowed to hit several times after splitting. The same goes for all pairs, but you're not allowed to re-split. Doubling down is only allowed on a 9, 10 or 11 in Classic Blackjack. These are the most distinguishing features of classic blackjack - check out a MicroGaming casino if you want to try it.
Vegas Downtown Blackjack
Vegas Downtown Blackjack is an exciting blackjack variety that differs from Classic Blackjack in several ways. Two decks are used, and you're allowed to re-split aces. An interesting detail is that the dealer hits on soft 17's. You may double down on any two cards, not just 9, 10 or 11, and it's also allowed to double down after a split. Vegas Downtown blackjack is not offered at all casinos - only at a few. Maybe this could be a new favorite?
Atlantic City Blackjack
In Atlantic City Blackjack, eight decks are used, and there are a couple of rules that stand out. The most appealing rule is the possibility to surrender. If you feel that your winning chances are abysmal, you may forfeit the hand and get half of you wager back. You have to decide on the first two cards if you want to surrender, but it's still a major advantage for the player, who may save a lot of money when the odds are stacked against him. Aces may only be split once, and other pairs may be split up to three times. You may double down on any two cards, which is a great rule. Atlantic City Blackjack is also available in a "gold" variety with improved graphics and additional features.
If you're interested in playing online BJ in a proper online casino, check out Casino Guide's Blackjack Toplist, where our editor's have put together a toplist of which online casinos to play at and why.
