Quick Learn British Blackjack - 7 Card Blackjack Rules and How to Play the UK Card Game

Have you ever met friends or acquaintances from other places who have a weird way of playing blackjack? If you have, then you should not feel confused, as there are over 100 variations of blackjack played worldwide. This casino game has undergone several changes, and there are several classic and modern versions of the title.

In this post, we will learn about British blackjack or 7 Card game. This variation is common in the UK and Australia, and it has some unique rules. There are several casinos that offer this variation of the casino game online, and they offer amazing bonuses and promos for players.

What is British Blackjack? (7 Card Game)

Blackjack or game of 21 is a common casino title that you have probably played before. However, it should not be confused with British blackjack which is also known as Pontoon. This game which has been played since the 1700s in the UK has an affluent tone to it. Initially, it was played by the aristocrats, but it has undergone several changes to end up as the common casino blackjack that we all know. To give you a bit of history about this game, did you know it was originally coined from the French game, Vingt-et-Un?

Anyways, British blackjack and the traditional versions of 21 aren't all that different, and the number of cards dealt might be the major difference. In British blackjack card game, players get to play and make decisions based on the hands they are dealt. This is because two of the dealer's cards are placed face down while only one is shown to the players. In fact, another major point is the rules on splitting, surrender, and doubling down.

With a similar objective to the traditional blackjack, players have to play to get a hand value that is closest to 21 without beating that number.

They are initially given three cards, and they can pick up five cards, one at a time all from a single deck of card. The twist is that in British blackjack, each player is dealt 7 cards which is the max accumulated number of cards, from which they can play. However, one common misconception is that the dealer deals seven cards to each player.

How to Play British Blackjack

For those who have never played this variant of blackjack, the whole gameplay can be hard to understand. This is why we have created a step-by-step guide to help you learn the rules.

Step 1: Receive Your Cards

When the game is about to start, the dealer will give three cards to each player and themselves. Once that is done, any player can pick up four cards to try and get closer to 21. However, the dealer's last two cards would be placed face down with only one card visible to the players.

Step 2: Know Your Card Value

Since the aim of the game is to be the closest to 21, you would need to know your hand value. Do this by summing the total points of your card. Always remember that the card number 2 through 10 bear their number value, while the king, queen and jacks are worth 10. For the aces, they can hold a value of either 1 or 11. At this stage it's best not to go for another card especially if your certain cards or your first card is an Ace.

Step 3: Decide Your Next Action

Every successful player makes adequate planning. American professional poker player, Phil Hellmuth once said, ''If there weren't luck involved, I would win every time.'' That shows the level of his preparations, and you must be ready too if you want to be as successful as Phil.

Depending on the hand you are dealt, you would need to use your preferred strategy. You can choose either to take a hit, double down, stand, split or surrender. Remember that your aim is to win, so don't be quick to make a decision until you are certain. The next player might have a good hand, and a better strategy, so stay calm.

Step 4: Watch The Dealer's Top Card

Once all players have taken their turn, the dealer will then reveal the other cards. In a case where the dealer has a hand value less than/or 16, they would be required to draw another card and this rule is not subject to change. If they have a hand value over/equals to 17, they will have to stand. However, if the dealer were to bust, the game ends, and every other player in the game wins. Also pay attention to the dealer's up card as it can change at any time.

7 Card British Blackjack: Rules of the UK Card Game

In British Blackjack, the 7 card game rules are quite simple, and as long you get used to this then you would have a great playing experience. The most important one is that most player receives 5 cards max after all cards have been shared. However here are other rules to follow:

Insurance: This is a risky bet that is placed by a player on the side which insist the dealer has a black jack.

Surrender: This is a way to get out of the game halfway, if you know you aren't that confident of your cards. There is no shame in surrendering if you think you are out of aces. Just like Kenny Rodgers said in his hit track, 'The Gambler',

''You've got to know when to hold 'em,

Known when to fold 'em

Know when to walk away

And know when to run...''

However, you lose half of your bet, and add your card on the discard pile when you surrender.

Splitting: This rule states that the initial cards given to a player have to be divided into separate hands if they have matching cards.

Doubling Down: When a player doubles down, they are quite confident and have doubled their bet. In this case, they get one more card from the deck, and this move can be played at any time.

What Happens When There are No Cards Left to Pick Up When Playing 7 Card Blackjack?

When the deck of cards in 7 Card British blackjack runs out, the game continues without drawing additional cards. Players must play with the cards they have. The dealer will still reveal their hidden cards and follow the standard rules. Strategies for playing with a reduced deck include focusing on card counting, paying attention to the cards that have been played, and adjusting bets accordingly.

Players can also use this opportunity to bluff and make strategic decisions based on the remaining cards. By adapting to the reduced deck, players can increase their chances of winning.

How to Play Blackjack Card Games Online

If you are looking to play English blackjack online, then the advancement of technology makes it easy. All you need to do is find the perfect platform for your budget create an account and make a deposit to start playing.

Most online casinos offer players an interface where they would be able to play British black jack online against other players. On most casino platforms, you would place a bet and be dealt your cards. From there on, you can start enjoying playing British Blackjack at home.

Big 7 Card Blackjack Tips

As a new player looking to get started at 7 Card Black jack, you would need to develop a solid strategy to better your chances of winning. However, if you are new at British blackjack, then make use of these valuable tips to help better your gameplay:

Study the Dealer's Open Card

Once all the cards have been distributed, it is important to play your game around the dealer's open card. Most times, this would help you in making your next decision.

Surrender

If you are dealt a hand with low value, sometimes, it is best to cut your losses and make a surrender.

Double Down

On the other hand, if you have a strong hand, then you can double down. This move helps you make the best out of that round and probably maximize your winnings. Remember, other players are watching your every move.

Make Splits

In a case where you have been dealt initial cards with the same value, the best move might be to split. This boosts your chances, as you now have two strong hands.

Apply Strategy

It's important to know when to implement your blackjack strategies, and when to go with the flow of the game. This can make or mar your game, so thread carefully and keep a poker face.

Conclusion

In conclusion, British blackjack can be an interesting game to play, as long as you have the right strategy. Ensure you practice often and master the ropes, as this will help you become confident. Over time, you would become more confident and be able to take on any game.