Most people get confused with blackjack and 21. As a result, some think both games are different or related. Well, they are partially right. Blackjack is often referred to as a game of 21. Both are the names of the same game.
This game earned the name 21 since the players have to make a set of cards of 21 points. It is easy for some players to remember the game by this name. However, there is something more to it – people played two blackjack variants at two places. They are played with the same rules, table, and payouts. Please keep reading to find more on the reason behind blackjack being called 21 and their slight differences.
Why is Blackjack Known as 21?
In the 1700s, before blackjack rules were published, people knew this game as Twenty-One or Vingt-Et-Une or Ventiuna, depending on the region. They are the same game but have different names due to the various places of their origin.
Soon after the rules of this game were published in 1825, this variant developed into an American variant and later became renowned as blackjack around 1899.
The Spanish 21 game is slightly different from the traditional blackjack game, but the basic rules are all the same. So, it matters you play blackjack from which place and by what names people call this game.
Why do People Think 21 is Different From a Blackjack Game?
You cannot deny that Spanish 21 differs from a standard blackjack game. You can identify some differences in the game structure and availability of bets.
1. More Refined Cards
To make the Spanish 21 game a bit simpler and to deal with all low-value cards, the 10-of spades are removed from the decks. Whereas in a standard blackjack game, all cards stay in play.
2. Wider Range of Side Bets Options To Choose From
There is also a small difference in both games regarding side bets. You will find a limited number of side bets in traditional blackjack games. But in Spanish 21, players can avail of many more chances besides the standard blackjack side bets. It offers side bets like:
- 5 card hand offering 3:2 payout,
- 6-card hand offering 2:1 payout,
- 7-card hand offering 3:1 payout,
- Three sets of 7-card hand offer a 3:2 payout,
- Four groups of the 7-card hand of the dealers provide a 50:1 payout.
These are some of the side bets that players can use to save their original bet amount. You will not find these side bets in a standard blackjack game.
3. Two Winners
In a standard blackjack game, if the situation arrives to witness two winning players, first being the players and the other dealer, then none of the bets are paid out. However, in Spanish 21, if the game witnesses two players hitting 21, the bet winnings go to the player.
Final Note
Blackjack and 21 have the same rules but slight changes in the game structure. Since the names come from the place of their origin, it creates confusion among players.
