When playing blackjack at Australian online casinos, you will notice various variants that look nearly identical except for their name. For example, three common variants are Blackjack Reno, Blackjack French, and Blackjack Neo. On the surface, these games all look the same, but there are differences that players should be aware of.
Today, we will go over the key difference between these popular games so you can make the best decision when playing blackjack online.
Blackjack Reno
Blackjack Reno is a variant of blackjack offered by iSoftBet. The game is played with six decks and the dealer has to draw with 16 and stand with 17. Both Insurance and Even Money are available to players. However, the dealer will not check for blackjack, so you must play the entire hand before finding out if your insurance bet is a winner.
Double Down rules for this game state you can only hit with 10 or 11. Also, only a single split is allowed per hand.
Due to the restrictive split and double down rules of this game, the RTP of the game is only 98.92% with optimal play. This slightly lower than many variants of the game.
Blackjack French
Blackjack French is also offered by iSoftBet, and as such the game looks identical to the Reno version. However, the game actually offers better odds than the Reno version. Like the Reno version, this game is played with six decks and cards are shuffled after each round. The dealer must draw on 16 and stand on 17. Payouts are the same on all hands.
However, there are a few key differences. First, this game does not offer an even money bet when you are dealt a blackjack. Next, the dealers will check for blackjack in this game. Also, you are allowed to split up to two times in this game. Lastly, you can double down on 9, 10, or 11 in this game.
Due to the differences in this game, the RTP for this game is 99.38% with optimal play. While not a massive advantage over the Reno version, those playing higher stakes will appreciate the extra edge.
Blackjack Neo
Blackjack Neo is another variant you will see at Australian online casinos and it is definitely one to check out if you are looking to narrow the house edge. For starters, this game only uses a four-deck shoe as opposed to six-decks. The dealer will check for blackjack and must stand on 17.
Next, you can double down on any two cards, not just 9, 10, or 11. Also, you are allowed to double down after a split. You cannot do that on either of the other games listed above. However, you are only allowed to split once in this game.
Out of the three games in this group, this game gives you the best RTP at 99.6% for optimal play. This is a fantastic game for all bankrolls. The only downside to this game over the others is the game is a very generic game. It is a plain felt that doesn’t even explain the basics such as payouts. If you don’t mind the generic layout, this is going to be your best bet due to the low house edge.
Look for These Variants at Australian Online Casinos
All three of the variants listed above can be found at Australian online casinos. Johnny Kash and Joka Room are excellent options to play these games. For those looking to maximize their edge, Blackjack Neo is the obvious choice. However, Blackjack French is a solid second choice due to the relaxed rules on splitting.
For low stakes players, all three games are a solid option as the difference in house edge is not going to impact your bankroll. Now that you know the differences in these three variants, you can make an educated decision on which game to play the next time you gamble online.