Multi-deck blackjack uses classic blackjack rules in most cases. The multi-deck variation simply means that two, four, six or even eight decks of cards are used at the same time.
This variation was introduced to eliminate the possibility of card counting. Using the multi-deck variation does not change game odds in a major way. However, it’s important to check out the payout ratio displayed on the table.
Multi-deck blackjack rules
Players will find game rules differ depending on how many decks are used.
Playing with four decks of cards presents a house edge of 48 percent. Players will not have the ability to surrender or double down after a split. The game does allow re-split up to three hands and doubles any two cards. The dealer will not be required to hit on a soft 17 consisting of an ace and 6.
Blackjack played with six decks presents a house edge of 42%, which gives the player a bit more of an advantage. With six decks you will not have the ability to re-split or surrender. However, players can double any two cards and double down after a split. The dealer will not be required to hit on a soft 17 in this variation either.
With standard eight deck blackjack, a house edge of 44% is presented. Players have the ability to re-split up to three hands, double after a split and double down on any two cards.
With the standard variation, the dealer will not be required to hit on a soft 17.
With these rules explained it’s important to remember different variations of each game can be presented. For example, Spanish 21 consists of eight decks and different game rules to standard eight deck games.
For example, with Spanish 21 you will not have the ability to re-split and the dealer has to hit on a soft 17. These two rules could change the game in a major way, which could require a whole new strategy.
Odds
As mentioned above game odds different depending on the variation played. However, before playing for any of these variations ensure your payouts consist of 3:2 and not 6:5.
The 6:5 game offers the exact same rules as 3:2, but with much lower payouts. This increases your risk as well as the house edge.
Some variations of blackjack could also present other rules that have a negative impact on your game, which is why it’s important to find a few game types that suit your strategy and casinos that offer them.
Using Charts
Charts are commonly used in blackjack as they give you a “best move” indication with every hand. These charts work on your hand total and the dealer face up card that can be seen in the beginning of each round.
Once you have the two totals you can refer to the chart and see the recommended move.
Usually, the dealer total will be displayed horizontally and players total vertically, you are simply required to find the point where they meet on the chart to find the recommended move.
The chart can tell you went to hit, stand, double up or split. These charts work really well for all players and can easily be adjusted to suit your personal game and strategy better.
Single or Multi-deck
Single bet game variations have become very uncommon as casinos have a slightly bigger edge with multi-deck game variations. However, at the same time, the rules presented with multi-deck also benefit the player.
Some players may prefer the single deck game as the only 52 cards are used, which means only one of in each card can be presented per around.
Other players prefer the multi-hand variation as the ability to split is presented more often as the chances of getting two face cards are a much more common.
With so many different variations of multi-deck blackjack, you might also find that one of these variations suit you better. This gives the player more options and a bigger game variety than single deck blackjack.
Tips
Once you've worked out your strategy and you have confidence in that strategy, it's very important to keep an eye on the amount you play with.
One of the most valuable tips is to never play with money you cannot afford to lose. While you play the game do not make any sudden adjustments to your strategy based on the last hand.
Allow your strategy to prove its worth, otherwise make small adjustments based on various hands of blackjack. But for basic strategy tips, these might come in handy:
- You should always slot aces and 8s
- Refrain from sitting 5s and 10s
- Double hard 10 except against a dealer 10 or A
- Double soft 15 or 16 vs dealer 4 - 6
- Always hit hard 11 or less
