While the standard game of blackjack, or Classic Blackjack as it’s sometimes known, is generally pretty easy to understand and play, there are many variations on the game that introduce several twists on the standard rules, and one of those variations is Double Attack Blackjack.
The game itself is a variation of Spanish 21 that pays even money on a blackjack and gives the player the chance to double their initial wager after seeing the dealer’s up card, something that happens before their own cards are dealt. Double Attack Blackjack is mainly found in Atlantic City, where almost half of the casinos offer it as a game choice.
As mentioned, this variation of Blackjack comes with its own set of rules that differ to the standard game. These are as follows:
The first card dealt in Double Attack Blackjack is the dealer’s up card. As previously mentioned, the player can then choose to double their bet, or ‘Double Attack’. The raise may be up to the original wager placed. If the player later splits, he must match his double attack wager.
Players also have the option of placing a bust it side bet as well. The bust it wager pays out if the dealer goes bust with three cards. The side bet pays out different amounts depending upon the cards the dealer has. If the dealer has suited 888, the payout is usually 200 to 1. Colored 888 pays out 50 to 1. If the dealer busts with 6, 7, 8 or 9, the payout is 15 to 1, 10 to 1, 8 to 1 and 6 to 1, respectively. Finally, if the dealer goes bust with a face card, the payout is 3 to 1.
While Double Attack Blackjack may be played in land-based casinos more-so, Playtech has created an online version for you to play from the comfort of your home. The game does provide the same feeling and layout as a land-based game. You’re asked to place bets at the start, with chips of values 0.1 through to 100 available to choose from. The minimum wager is $1 and the maximum is $300 per round. Then, following the rules mentioned above, you’ll be able to place double attacks, bust it side bets and insurance wagers with ease.
This version of blackjack could be classed as a slightly more advanced take on the classic. There's obviously the addition of extra rules and features that don't necessarily need to be memorized, but are there to introduce a new way of playing the game for your enjoyment.