Blackjack in Australian Online Casinos

The Best Real Money Online Casinos with Blackjack for Australian Gamblers

Among the array of casino card games available today, blackjack stands out as one of the most straightforward and popular options. While luck plays a significant role in blackjack, a degree of mathematical prowess can also enhance your gameplay, allowing you to calculate your odds of success. Modern Australian casinos cater to diverse preferences by providing both live blackjack and Random Number Generator (RNG) variants, offering players the choice between engaging with a live dealer or a computerized interface.

What is blackjack: the basics of the game

Though some historical accounts attribute the origins of blackjack to ancient Rome, recent research suggests that the game emerged in French casinos circa 1700. Since then, blackjack‘s allure has only intensified, with online iterations now ubiquitous across the vast expanse of internet gambling platforms.

Blackjack rules

Before diving into real money blackjack games online, it’s essential to grasp the fundamental rules of the game. The primary objective is to achieve a total card value of 21 or as close to it as possible without exceeding it. Surpassing a total of 21 results in an immediate loss. In instances where no player holds a hand totaling 21, victory is claimed by the participant whose card combination comes closest to the magic number.

Understanding card values is crucial in navigating blackjack gameplay. In the standard online Australian blackjack format, a traditional 52-card deck is employed. Cards numbered two through ten retain their face value, while face cards (Jack, Queen, King) carry a value of 10 each. Aces, meanwhile, possess dual value, either 11 or 1, depending on the player’s hand requirements.

Now armed with the foundational principles of blackjack, let’s explore a couple of illustrative examples to elucidate its mechanics.

Example 1

The cards are delivered, and the gambler has eight of Pikes and a King of Hearts, while the dealer has nine of Pikes and eight of Clovers. This is a winning situation for a gambler as the total value is 18 against 17 of the croupier, meaning the punter is closer to 21. The dealer is unlikely to ask for one more card as the chances to stay below or equal to 21 are very low.

Example 2

The Player’s hand includes 2 of Pikes and six of Hearts, while the croupier’s one comprises eight of Clower and Queen of Tiles. The total value of the player’s hand is eight. This is a good opportunity to ask for another card. The next one is Ace of Pikes, which makes 19 in total (2+6+11). The Player wins again as the dealer’s hand is worth 18 only.

Example 3

After delivering the cards, the gambler has Ace of Hearts and King of Pikes, while the croupier’s hand is worth 20 (ten of Clover and Queen of Tiles). The Punter wins right away as they have reached 21.

Blackjack vocabulary

Before diving into the world of online blackjack, whether playing for free or real money, it’s crucial to familiarize yourself with the game’s vocabulary. Understanding the essential terminology will help you navigate the game more effectively:

1. Bankroll: This term refers to the total amount of money you have available to place bets in blackjack.
2. Soft/Hard Hand: A soft hand contains an Ace, which can be counted as either 11 or 1. A hard hand, on the other hand, does not include an Ace. Playing a soft hand is generally easier, as the Ace’s flexibility provides more options.
3. Cold Deck: When the cards dealt are unfavorable, leading to multiple losses for the player, the deck is referred to as “cold,” in contrast to a “hot” deck.
4. Stand: In online casino blackjack, standing means choosing not to receive any additional cards. This action is typically taken when a player is satisfied with the total value of their hand.
5. Hit: Unlike standing, hitting involves requesting another card from the dealer. When playing online blackjack for real money, a player may choose to hit if the total value of their cards is less than 21.
6. House Edge: This critical factor represents the casino’s advantage in blackjack or other games. Expressed as a percentage, the house edge indicates the amount you can expect to lose for every unit of money wagered.
7. Surrender: In certain game variations, players have the option to surrender early, after the initial cards are dealt. By surrendering, you forfeit half of your original bet.
8. Split: Splitting is a strategic move that allows you to separate two cards of the same value into two separate hands. This decision can significantly alter the course of the game.
9. Double Down: When the total value of your cards is 9, 10, or 11, you may have the option to Double Down. This move involves placing an additional wager equal to your original bet and receiving one more card face up. However, after doubling down, you must stand, regardless of the final total.

Exploring the Different Ways to Play Blackjack Online

Online casinos offer three primary ways to enjoy blackjack: playing for free, playing for real money against a Random Number Generator (RNG), or competing against a live dealer.

Playing blackjack online for free often involves a demo mode, allowing you to experience the game without risking any money. In most cases, you don’t even need to register an account to enjoy your favorite card game. Simply look for options like “Try Now” or “Play for Fun” when hovering over a game.

Demo mode is ideal for those who want to test out a casino or play free online blackjack for the first time to get a feel for the game. As the “Play for Fun” label suggests, this mode is also perfect for simply entertaining yourself without any financial commitment.

Another way to play free blackjack online is by taking advantage of no-deposit welcome bonuses or free chips offered by some casinos for their live casino software. While not widely available, these promotions can sometimes be found at newer casinos. No deposit bonuses allow you to start playing without funding your account, providing an opportunity to test the casino and potentially win some money, albeit not millions.

In addition to free games, you can also play online blackjack with friends or other opponents by joining RNG-based games. These titles are powered by a Random Number Generator, a software that ensures the outcome of each round is determined randomly. Australian online casinos offer a wide variety of real-money blackjack games that utilize RNG technology.

Lastly, blackjack is a staple in live casino games, with renowned software developers like Evolution Gaming, Ezugi, and VIVO regularly releasing new titles. The popularity of online gambling blackjack among Australian players and those from other countries has led to a diverse selection of live dealer blackjack variants being available at online casinos worldwide.

A guide on how to start playing blackjack on an online gambling site

Getting started with online blackjack is a simple process. Follow these steps to begin playing at an online gambling site:

1. Choose a casino that offers online blackjack games.
2. Register for an account and make a deposit.
3. Try the game for free (or use a no-deposit bonus if available).
4. Select an online blackjack game that you want to play for real money.
5. Place your bet.
6. Wait for the dealer (or computer-generated dealer) to deal the cards.
7. Evaluate your hand and make strategic decisions.
8. Based on your hand’s value, choose to hit, stand, double down, or split.

The most popular types of blackjack

When you visit an online blackjack casino, you’ll discover a wide range of game variations. While the variety of names may seem overwhelming at first, here’s a brief overview of some popular blackjack types.

European blackjack

European Blackjack is a well-loved variation of the classic card game and is often considered one of the best online blackjack options. The main difference between European and traditional blackjack is that the European version uses only two decks of cards, while the classic game typically utilizes six to eight decks. Additionally, doubling down is restricted in European Blackjack, with players only allowed to do so when they have a hand value of 9 or 11 (doubling down on 10 is not permitted).

Spanish 21

In this real-money online blackjack game, players can double after splitting, re-split Aces, and double down with any number of cards. A unique feature of Spanish 21 is that a player with blackjack (21) always wins, regardless of the dealer’s hand. Payouts in this game depend on how your 21 combinations are formed.

Single deck blackjack

Single Deck Blackjack is the classic, traditional version of the game that has been enjoyed for generations. Modern casinos often use multiple decks to make card counting more challenging for players.

Pontoon

Some Australian online casinos offering blackjack also provide the British variation known as Pontoon. The most significant difference in this game is that players can see one card before placing their bets and can add bets after the cards are dealt.

In Pontoon, the game begins with each player receiving one card. Once you have your card, you can place a bet, and then the second card is dealt. Another important rule in Pontoon is that if a player has five cards totaling 21 or less, they automatically win, and their bet is doubled.

Multi-hand blackjack

Multi-Hand Blackjack is one of the earliest variations of live online blackjack, inspired by video poker games that allow players to play multiple hands simultaneously. While this option is available in offline casinos, it is limited by the available space next to the player. In live blackjack dealer games and RNG versions, there are no such restrictions.

The rules of Multi-Hand Blackjack are similar to the classic 21 card game, with the exception that players can play multiple hands instead of just one. This is one of the most significant advantages of playing in online casinos, as you would not be able to play eight hands at once in a land-based gambling establishment.

Switch

Patented in 2009, Blackjack Switch has become one of the most popular blackjack variations in both land-based and online casinos. Live dealer blackjack games of this type allow you to play two hands simultaneously and switch cards between them after they are dealt.

The ability to switch cards provides a significant advantage to the player. However, there is a trade-off for this benefit. If you hit blackjack in this game, you will only be paid even money.

Blackjack perfect pairs

Blackjack Perfect Pairs is a common variation found in live dealer blackjack games. This game allows players to place side bets before the cards are dealt. If the first two cards dealt are of the same value (for example, an eight of Clubs and an eight of Spades), the side bet is won.

Online blackjack strategies

While blackjack is a game of chance, as it involves dealing with cards, it is also a game of skill. Professional gamblers who play live blackjack in Australia or offline casino games often employ specific strategies to increase their chances of winning.

Important notice:

None of the strategies you use will guarantee that you will win all rounds you pla,y or even you will have a winning streak. By using strategies to play live blackjack online, you simply can improve your chances to win. However, there is no tactics that will ensure your future winnings.

The basic strategy you can use when playing blackjack in a live casino is card counting. The chart below illustrates when to hit, double, stand, or split based on your hand and the dealer’s up card.

Online blackjack tips

In addition to using a strategy, you can follow some essential recommendations to enhance your gambling experience:

1. Set limits: When playing live casino blackjack or the RNG version, it’s crucial to manage your risks by setting betting limits.
2. Avoid overplaying: Set time limits for your gaming sessions to prevent burnout and maintain a healthy balance.
3. Avoid splitting 10s: It’s generally not recommended to split a pair of 10s (except when you have two Aces), as a total of 20 is already very close to winning. However, splitting a pair of 8s is often a good move, as a total of 16 is considered the worst hand in blackjack.
4. Learn and apply basic card counting strategies: Familiarize yourself with fundamental card counting techniques and strive to implement them perfectly.
5. Split Aces and double on 11: When dealt a pair of Aces, always split them. If your initial hand totals 11, consider doubling down.
6. Ride winning streaks: If you find yourself on a winning streak, some experts suggest increasing your bets to capitalize on your good fortune.
7. Look for bonuses and rewards: Always seek out live dealer online blackjack casinos that offer special bonuses and rewards. This can provide you with extra funds to bet with, but be mindful of the wagering requirements.

RNG vs live dealer blackjack online games

The choice between RNG and live dealer blackjack games ultimately comes down to personal preference. Both types of software offer the opportunity to play blackjack, but with some key differences.

When playing against a Random Number Generator (RNG), you’ll be facing off against the computer. RNG games are regularly tested by independent auditors like eCogra to ensure that the round outcomes are genuinely random and not influenced by any external factors.

Live dealer blackjack games, on the other hand, offer a unique atmosphere that closely mimics the experience of visiting a real offline casino. These games are broadcast from specialized studios designed to resemble actual casino floors. The only notable difference is the absence of the distinct scents of cigarettes, scotch, and freshly unwrapped card decks. Nevertheless, many players find the immersive atmosphere of live dealer games to be highly enjoyable.

How to find the best real money online bj casinos in Australia

To play online blackjack with a live dealer, you first need to find a reputable online casino. This can be a challenging task, but you can save time by browsing our experts’ curated list of recommended casinos or using the following criteria to conduct your own research:

1. Licensing: The best blackjack online live dealer and RNG casinos are regulated by independent authorities such as the Curacao Gaming Commission, Gibraltar Gambling Commissioner, or Malta Gaming Authority.
2. Game selection: In addition to blackjack variations, top-notch casinos offer a wide range of other games, including pokies, roulette, video poker, baccarat, poker, specialty games, lotteries, and more.
3. Software providers: Blackjack variants are supplied by various renowned providers like Evolution Gaming, VIVO, and Ezugi. The more providers a casino partners with, the better.
4. Payment options: To play live blackjack, you’ll need to deposit funds. Look for online casinos that support a variety of payment methods, allowing you to choose the one that best suits your needs.
5. Responsive customer support: Whenever you have questions or encounter issues, a casino’s support team should be readily available and helpful. We only recommend online casinos that provide 24/7 customer support.