Blackjack Switch – Review of the Hit Online Game by Playtech
Blackjack Switch is one of the most popular and beloved variations of the classic blackjack game. It was invented by Geoff Hall and patented in 2009. A few years later, the software giant Playtech acquired the exclusive rights to create an online Switch game. The result is a title that is often preferred over all other blackjack games because of its uniqueness, additional rules, and low house edge.
- Great Gameplay
- Innovative Mechanics
- Mobile Compatibility
- Licensed by:
- UK Gambling Commission
- #1611
- Accepted Payment Methods:
- Visa
- Mastercard
- Paypal
- Neteller
- Paysafecard
In this review, we will take a look at the rules of the game and the additional features that make it so popular, including of course the switch option. We also have a good strategy to help you play the game to the best possible outcome and a demo game for free practice. Use the buttons below to go to a section you like or just read along.
The Core Rules & Free Demo Play
The biggest difference between classic blackjack and Switch is the fact that you play with two hands instead of one. The bets for each hand are separate – you can split or double each of them independently from the other. You can, however, switch the top cards of both hands once per round. If you initially had Ace-2 and 9-10, you can effectively change them to Ace-10 and 9-2 – which is a way better situation. Try the demo game below and see for yourself:
As you might have noticed, you play each hand separately, and the options you have are identical to classic blackjack. There are several important differences, though – if the dealer gets 22, this is considered a push against all players, except for the ones who have a blackjack. Moreover, blackjack pays 1:1, instead of the usual 3:2. If you switch your hands to form a blackjack, it will be counted as just a 21 – making it beatable by a dealer 22. Lastly, the dealer will always hit a soft 17.
House Edge & Special Features
Blackjack Switch has a really low casino advantage, even by blackjack standards. If you utilise an optimal strategy in a six-deck Switch game, the house edge will be as low as 0.58%. Eight decks will increase the value a bit – 0.60%. This percentage is also increased by a few rules that benefit the casino – the 22 push, the 1:1 blackjack payout, and the fact that the dealer will always hit a soft 17. However, the Switch mechanic is highly advantageous for the player, so the numbers even out in the end. The game also features a side bet called Super Match – you can wager on whether or not your hands contain matching cards. Bets are placed just before the cards are dealt, and the payouts are as follows:
- 1 Pair – 1:1
- 3 of a Kind – 5:1
- 2 Pairs – 8:1
- 4 of a Kind – 40:1
Even though side bets like these ones work in favour of the house edge, it is a handy feature that can get you additional winnings. You can always opt out of it but it’s more fun bringing the house down when the odd are against you, isn’t it? So, it’s great to know you have this option available when you want to make things interesting.
How to Win at Blackjack Switch?
Aside from the two hands per player, the rules of Blackjack Switch are pretty close to classic blackjack. This means that most common strategies work just as well. Still, it’s best to follow the strategy chart specifically created for this game. Check it out below:
Unfortunately, you cannot count cards at Blackjack Switch. It’s an RNG game, which means that the decks are reshuffled after each round. This makes card counting impossible. When it comes to online casinos, you can utilise this strategy only at live dealer games that use real decks of cards. Still, you can take advantage of some of the many blackjack promotions that online casinos have prepared for you. Visit our basic strategy page for more useful tips.
Give Blackjack Switch a Chance Today!
Blackjack Switch is one of our favourite spin-offs of the original game. The low house edge, fun mechanics, and many customisable options make this Playtech title a real fan favourite. If you feel like playing this awesome game, make sure you do it at one of our recommended casinos. Good luck and have fun!