Blackjack Switch – Rules, Strategies and How to Play

First introduced by Geoff Hall and patented in 2009, this card game resembles the standard game of blackjack in many ways. One of the main differences that sets it apart from the classic variant is that players are dealt two hands instead of one.

During a game of blackjack switch online, you will also have the option to switch cards between your hands. This guide goes into more detail about what to expect when you decide to play this online game, including the rules, tips, and strategies.

How to Play Blackjack Switch

This variant has a lot of similarities to the regular blackjack game, but with a few notable differences. It was invented only in the past couple of decades, so it is relatively new and is a popular choice at many online casinos. Here’s a look at the main steps involved in playing this game.

Special Blackjack Switch Rules You Need to Know

While there are many similarities between this variant and regular blackjack, there are also a few key differences that you need to take into account.

Before you try your luck with blackjack switch game online, we recommend taking the time to understand the rules. To help you out, we’ve put together a little more information below.

Blackjack Switch Side Bet

When it comes to switch blackjack rules, there are plenty of minor differences. One of the additional aspects of blackjack switch rules is the option to place a side bet. However, you should note that this side bet will need to be placed before you start the action.

This is usually called a Super Match side bet. It will see you getting a reward if you end up with a pair, three-of-a-kind, two pairs, or a four-of-a-kind from your initial two hands. Here’s a look at the typical pay table for these different hands.

Understanding the House Edge

Depending on the developer, the RTP for this variant can reach as high as 99.92%. This means that for every $100 worth of bets that you place, the game will pay out $99.92 over a certain period of time. To calculate the house edge, you simply deduct the RTP from 100%. So, for a game with an RTP of 99.92%, the house edge will be 0.08%.

How is Blackjack Switch Different From the Standard Game?

The main difference with this variant is that you will be able to play two hands at the same time and have the option to switch between these hands. This allows players to enjoy an extra level of choice in the gameplay.

As a result, there are certain blackjack switch rules that are slightly different from the regular rules, with the payouts also being altered.

For example, if you get a blackjack during a game of blackjack switch, it will be paid out at 1:1 rather than the typical 3:2. Learning about blackjack odds and probability is recommended, so be sure to read up about it before trying the game out for yourself.

Switching Strategies for Playing Blackjack Switch

If you’ve been looking for a winning blackjack switch strategy, you should understand that while there is no way to guarantee a win each time, there are blackjack strategies that could increase your chances of making a profit. Here we’ve provided information about the more popular blackjack switch strategies used by online players. You can also get more blackjack tips from our free guide.

Arnold Snyder Switching Strategy

Arnold Snyder was a well-known blackjack player who decided to write a book on the subject to share some of his insights. One of the core aspects of this book was a systematic approach to playing this variant.

This is one of those switching strategies that sees players having to engage in a bit of card counting. This means memorizing which hand or card total falls into certain categories, allowing players to quickly make judgements on what moves they should make next.

Simple Switching Strategy

This basic strategy is also known as the Cindy Liu strategy and has a unique table showcasing the strength of hands. It gives you an indication as to when you should switch cards and when you should keep them the way that they are. This is a simple switching strategy, without much thought being needed. The list of hands by strength is as follows.

If you decide to actually use the strategy, there are a few things you need to know. If the dealer has a 7 or an 8, you need to make a weaker hand as big as possible by utilizing the above scale. For any other dealer cards, you need to maximize the hand strength using the above scale.

If you are unable to get a hand strength outlined in the above table, then follow the list below that is presented in order of strength.

The only exceptions are when certain cards are adjacent to your AA, most notably a 3,8 or 2,9 or 2,8. In these circumstances, it is advisable to keep your aces together.

Advanced Switching Strategy

This advanced switching strategy was also pioneered by Cindy Liu, however, it is a bit more complex. You’ll need to engage in a spot of point counting and then plug the results into a formula in order to figure out what the next best move is going to be for you.

You need to calculate the points for each of your hands for both of the ways that you can play them. Then you play the head that yields the largest number of points. If there is a tie, then you proceed with the aforementioned simple strategy. Here is a look at the table that you need to use:

We will use an example of a player having 8,4 and A,8 versus a dealer’s 6. Your option will be to play a 12 and a soft 19 or an 8,8 and a soft 15. Using the table, the first approach is worth one point and the second approach is worth two points. Therefore, the odds dictate that you go with the second pairing of 8,8 and a soft 15.

Playing Blackjack Switch on Mobile

Most online casinos these days will make sure that players are able to enjoy blackjack on a mobile app. The flexibility allows them to play this game while on the go.

There are not really any downsides to doing so and you have the ability to increase the amount of time during your playing sessions. Most leading online blackjack switch casinos will have high-quality mobile platforms that allow for seamless gameplay.

Developers of games take a lot of time and care to make sure that they are perfectly optimized for all types of devices. Sometimes casino sites will allow you to download an app directly to your phone, while others will just have to play through a mobile version of the website.

There will be certain operators that will offer both of these options. The app experience tends to be smoother and more streamlined, but playing through a browser still isn’t going to lead to a big drop-off in quality.

Naturally, some people will prefer playing on desktop computers as they tend to have bigger screen sizes and you can also play multiple games at the same time if you wish. Multiple table play can be a bit trickier on mobile.

The obvious advantage of mobile gameplay is that you can play on the go much easier than if you have to carry a computer around everywhere. Most people have a phone in their pockets with an internet connection that is powerful enough to run games with high-quality graphics.

How Blackjack Switch Compares to Other Variants

There are plenty of different blackjack variants that you will come across when looking through an online casino. They will sometimes have only minor differences from the classic variant, while others will be substantially different. Here’s a quick look at the main options available online.

Atlantic City Blackjack

This variant got its name as it originated in Atlantic City. One of the main differences is that it uses eight decks of cards to prevent card counting and a late surrender option is available. You can also split pairs as many as three times and double down on any two initial cards.

Perfect Pairs Blackjack

This is very similar to normal blackjack except for the presence of certain side bets. This includes the perfect pair and coloured pair side bets. You’ll be able to earn payouts if you engage these side wagers and come up trumps with an initial pair or a pair of the same colour.

Blackjack Surrender

The core difference with this variant is that you are able to save half of your stake by folding the hand before the dealer shows their cards.

European Blackjack

This is the commonly seen variant across Europe and the main difference is that the dealer stands on a soft 17 but they do not peek for blackjack. You can split a pair just one time and can only double down if hands have a total of 9, 10, or 11. Although this game is exciting, you should note that it does have a slightly higher house edge.

Comparing Different Blackjack Variants

Next, we’ll take a closer look at what you can expect when you play these different blackjack variants, including the RTP percentages and payouts for perfect pairs, switch and European blackjack.

Reasons to Play Blackjack Switch Online

There are many blackjack casinos that offer this exciting variant. One of the great benefits is being able to play two hands at the same time, which is not always going to be an option with other variants.

You have more ways to influence the outcome, as you can switch cards and there is also a decent RTP in place. Based on our experience, it is well worth your while trying this variant for yourself to see just how well it stacks up against other blackjack games.

See our guide to learn more about blackjack terms.

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