British Blackjack, also known as 7 Card Blackjack, is a high-paced blackjack card game variant that has gained significant popularity.
Despite sharing the name with the traditional casino game, it bears unique rules and gameplay. The central aim is to discard all the cards in hand rather than striving for a hand closer to 21 than the dealer.
This article delves into the rules, gameplay, and online platforms where you may be able to enjoy this compelling game.
What Is British Blackjack?
British Blackjack, sometimes referred to as 7 Card Game, Switch, or English Blackjack, among other names, is a distinctive card game that can be played with a single deck of cards. However, the number of decks may increase depending on the number of players.
Each player is dealt seven cards, and the remaining deck is placed face-down, constituting the discard pile.
The fundamental objective is to eliminate all cards from your hand by matching the suit or rank of the last card played. It offers a dynamic mix of quick thinking and strategy, where the first player to discard all their cards emerges victorious.
How To Play 7 Card Blackjack
The gameplay commences with the dealer's left and proceeds in a clockwise direction. The dealer distributes seven cards to each player, and the remainder of the deck is placed face down. The top card of the discard pile is flipped face-up to kickstart the game. Players strive to match the rank or suit of the last played card to place one on the discard pile. They can make as long a run as possible in their turn.
For instance, if the discard pile displays a 7 of hearts, a player could place a 7 of spades, followed by an 8 of spades, 8 of diamonds, and so on. Cards of a different rank can only be placed if they match the suit. If a player is unable to continue the run, they must draw a card from the discard pile.
British Blackjack Card Game Rules
British Blackjack is governed by several unique rules that add an extra layer of excitement to the game. Some cards hold special meanings, referred to as 'power cards'. The power cards and their associated rules are as follows:
- 2 Card: Playing a '2' requires the next player to pick up 2 cards or play another '2'. The cycle continues until a player doesn't have a '2' to play, leading to them picking up the accumulated number of cards.
- Black Jack: Playing a black Jack causes the following player to pick up 5 cards unless they too have a black Jack, in which case the player after must pick up 10.
- Red Jack: A red Jack can neutralise the power of a black Jack. So, if a player plays a black Jack, the next player can avoid drawing cards by playing a red Jack.
- 10 Card: Playing a '10' changes the direction of the game. If the game was previously moving clockwise, it will now move anti-clockwise and vice versa.
- 8 Card: Playing an '8' results in the next player missing their turn.
- Ace: Playing an Ace allows you to decide what suit to change to. However, you can't neutralise a '2', Jack or an '8' with an Ace.
Play Blackjack Online at Online Slots UK
While British Blackjack is an entertaining game, it's not widely available to play online. However, there are numerous online casinos, such as us here at Online Slots UK, that offer classic Blackjack and a plethora of other engaging casino games.
By creating an account, you can gain access to a wide variety of games, including table games and top slot games. Click the 'Join Now' button to begin the registration process.
As always, please gamble responsibly. Set a budget and stick to it.
British Blackjack FAQs
What Is The Ace In British Blackjack?
In British Blackjack, the Ace holds a special position. It can be played at any time, irrespective of the suit or rank of the previously played card. The player who played the Ace can then decide on the suit for the next round.
What Are Power Cards In Blackjack?
Power cards in British Blackjack are those cards that have special meanings and powers associated with them. They include the '2', black Jack, red Jack, '10', '8', and Ace.
What Does Blackjack Mean In Blackjack?
In traditional Blackjack, achieving a 'Blackjack' means a player has an Ace and a 10-value card in their initial two-card hand. This hand automatically wins unless the dealer also has a Blackjack. However, in British Blackjack, 'Blackjack' simply refers to the game itself rather than a specific hand.