European Blackjack Review – Rules, Strategies & Where to Play it Online in 2025

The European Blackjack Rules You Need to Know

Although the fundamental rules of Blackjack still apply here, there are some changes that you should be aware of. For starters, the game is played with two 52-card decks, and the dealer must stand on all 17s. These seemingly small details are beneficial for players. If the house used more decks or had the option to hit a soft 17, the Return to Player rate would decrease.

However, there are also regulations that some might find restricting. For example, you can only double down on a hard 9, 10, or 11. The European Blackjack rules allow a single split at the beginning of the game. You can't divide 10-value cards that are different (e.g., Q + K), but it's possible to hit split Aces more than once. Also, the peek rule is not in effect, but you can still place an Insurance bet if the dealer's up-card is an Ace.

Learn the Ropes with This Tutorial

If you're new to casino games, you'll be happy to know that it's not difficult to start playing Blackjack. Follow our short guide, and you'll get going in five minutes or less:

• First, you have to find a place that features a demo mode of this title. All of the casinos that we recommend in our European Blackjack review will allow you to play for free after you register. Microgaming's official site is also an option.
• Once you get past the loading screen, select a chip from the lower-left end and put it on the "Click to bet" circle. If you want to begin, press "Deal". If not, the "Clear" button will remove your wager.
• When the round begins, you'll have the option to ask for another card via "Hit" or complete your turn by standing. The double, split, and insurance bets will become available if the situation allows it.
• Achieving mastery in European Blackjack online will require you to use basic strategy. Search the web for a strategy chart that is specifically made for this title and use it until you memorize the correct plays.

European Blackjack by Switch Studios: RTP and Payouts

Much like the classic iterations, this release grants 1:1 reward for normal wins and 3:2 every time you land a natural 21. Insurance costs half your original wager and pays 2:1. However, we advise you to always skip this bet, as the house edge on it is quite substantial.

When you combine these payouts with the player-friendly rules, you get a theoretical RTP of 99.60%. In other words, the house edge is lower than most other Blackjack games. However, our European Blackjack review experts feel obliged to repeat that this RTP is only possible when you play according to elemental strategy. Making mistakes will lower your expected returns in the long run.

Customize Your Experience with These Special Features

This game sports a minimalistic design, but it still has a few options that you can tweak to your liking. If you press the three-line menu at the top-left side, you'll see a "Settings" subsection with a mute toggle, audio sliders for the game sounds and dealer's voice, and a "Turbo Mode" that enables fast play.

The hamburger menu also features a "Help" section and a list of the most important European Blackjack rules.

In Conclusion, European Blackjack Online Is the Real Deal

We usually advise our readers to steer clear of Euro Blackjack versions, as their house edge is often higher than that of their American counterparts. However, this game is different. Thanks to the 2-deck shoe and the "stand on 17" rule, the RTP is high enough to satisfy pros and enthusiasts alike.

If you bet more than $200 per hand or love side bets, this title might not do it for you. However, we wholeheartedly recommend it to everyone else. When you're ready to play, feel free to choose an approved casino from our list, and good luck!