Top Casinos For USA Gambling
What Is Pontoon Blackjack?
You’re probably wondering “what is pontoon blackjack?”, and the answer is a modified standard American blackjack. Popular in the UK and Australia and similar to playing blackjack online, USA casinos keep a similar set of fixed rules. Pontoon is just a variation with higher payout, more decks, and other fun changes to the blackjack you know and love.
What’s The Difference Between Pontoon And Blackjack?
Although both goals share the same goal of beating the dealer and not going over 21, there are some differences that make pontoon unique. To start, getting an ace and a 10-value card (21) is called pontoon, not blackjack in the British version of 21.
Pontoon Blackjack Rules
Pontoon has differences in payouts and structure, but there are also pontoon blackjack rules that are different from online blackjack.
How To Play Pontoon Blackjack
If you’re wondering how to play pontoon blackjack, the strategy is similar to normal blackjack. Your objective is to make your hand add up to 21, or as close to it as possible without busting. Pontoon players go up against the dealer just like normal blackjack, except in pontoon both dealer’s cards are face down. This means you have to complete your hand before knowing either of the dealer’s cards. The good thing is these trusted USA online casinos offer free online gambling to practice pontoon. This way, you can be confident to gamble online with real money on pontoon blackjack.
Pontoon Blackjack Strategy
Just like any blackjack game, there are strategies for winning like splitting eights and aces. Luckily, USA online gambling sites with pontoon allow you to split aces and double down, giving you two chances at the highest-ranking hand in pontoon. But this is only one of the strategies to win at pontoon blackjack.
- Aggressive Doubling: Since you can double down multiple times, it can be advantageous if dealt a low total from your first two cards.
- Avoid Ties: Because you have to hit if you're at 14 or less, try to avoid any tie with the dealer. The dealer’s hidden cards mean players need to be more conservative around the threshold.
- Five Card Trick Consideration: Pursuing a Five Card Trick is tough but a great way to win Pontoon blackjack online. If a low total is dealt early on, it's a perfect time to try for it.
Sweet 16 Side Bets
Betting up to $100, pontoon features a Sweet 16 side bet that is an excellent companion to the game. While it sounds simple enough, it can be irritating how often it doesn't hot too. Only paying 2-1 at most, it's a negative EV play but can be a smart play if the deck feels ready for blackjack or a high total. Also, when dealt two aces and splitting, it creates big money situations.
