Blackjack Switch Review

The history of blackjack can be traced back to the 1700s where a game by the name of ‘Vingt-et-Un’ (translates to twenty-one) was played. However, in this article we are looking at one of the most modern variants - Blackjack Switch. 

Not only we will tell you why this is one of the hottest games in the casino right now, but we’ll also cover the rules and pinpoint a few decent bonuses worth checking out. Although, if you want to skip our Blackjack Switch review and simply jump straight into the game, check out our list of recommended online casinos offering this game. It’s time to make the switch, so what are you waiting for!

Improving upon an original game such as blackjack is no easy task. It has been played in its bare form for hundreds of years, so surely it can’t be bettered. Well, Blackjack Switch has proven to be the exception that breaks the rule. This variant, gifted to us by the brilliant Geoff Hall, was only patented in 2009 so in blackjack terms its still very new. 

Regardless of its age, players have flocked to this game in their droves. It may well go down as one of the most-popular spin-offs in casino history. Put simply, it has everything that Classic Blackjack offers plus a few very interesting tweaks which we’re going to examine further down this page.

You can instantly recognise a game of Blackjack Switch because the player is dealt two starting hands instead of just the one that you get in traditional blackjack. You can then ‘Switch’ the second (top card) from each hand, so in essence you are swapping them around. For example, if you are dealt: Q - 6 in one hand and 5 - A in the second hand, you can switch the 6 and the ace to create: Q - A and 5 - 6. 

From there, you play the two hands just like you would do a normal game of blackjack. This means you must place a bet on both hands, which will be of equal value. That is the simple answer to what is Blackjack Switch, but there are a few important rules to be aware of before you run off to the tables, so let us explain them to you.

Assuming you know the basic objective of blackjack is to get 21 or closer to that number than the dealer (without going over), we’ll focus solely on this particular variant. As is common with many casino games, even specific variations of a game have some adaptations to the rulebook. For this online blackjack game review, we are using the Blackjack Switch rules related to Playtech’s stunning version.

As you can see, there are some elements the same as other variants and some are slightly different. Blackjack only paying 1:1 is not as generous as traditional games that commonly pay 3:2. However, the ability to switch creates more ‘blackjacks’ than you would normally get. Also the option to double down on any starting hand is another change you probably noticed.

Yet, the main difference is the Push 22 rule. What happens here is: if the dealer’s hand totals 22, the player’s hands that are live (i.e. not busted out) are pushed, so you get your stake back only. The exception is a player getting blackjack, that beats the dealer’s 22.

Playtech’s version of Blackjack Switch also includes the Super Match side bet. This is a separate wager that can be higher or lower than the amount you bet in the main game. The Super Match bet is decided on the four cards you are first dealt. This is the payout you’ll get:

Playtech states that the RTP (return to player) for this Blackjack Switch variant is an amazing 99.92% for the base game. However, to achieve this level of play, you must learn both the correct switching strategy and basic blackjack playing strategy based on the rules you are following. Additionally, the Super Match bet has an RTP of 97.45%, which although is acceptable for a side a bet, we don’t advise you play this every hand.

Technically speak, there isn’t such a thing as a Blackjack Switch bonus. But there are certain promotions to look out which can provide you with a boost whilst playing. Starting with the welcome offer. This is usually a matched deposit deal, so if you deposit £100, the casino will match it, giving you £200 to play with. What you need to check before using this bonus is the ‘game weighting contribution’ towards clearing the wagering requirements. It depends on the casino, some sites totally exclude Blackjack Switch, whereas others allow 10 or 20%. The higher the percentage, the greater your chances of profiting from the bonus, so it’s worth looking around for the best deals.

The next best place to look is in the casino’s loyalty or VIP program. If the scheme includes you earning points for playing Blackjack Switch, then you can’t lose. When you add this small extra from a loyalty program, you virtually reduce the house edge to zero (in some cases). You can’t ask for more than that - tremendous value.

Unlike traditional blackjack, Switch is not available in every casino (more’s the pity). This particular version is offered at all Playtech sites, which there are many. We’ve crafted a list of the best casinos where you can play Blackjack Switch online. All you need to do is pick one that catches your eye, get signed and start playing.