| Updated: Match Play 21 is probably the most popular blackjack variation developed by RealTime Gaming (RTG), and it is available both in a browser and as part of RTG’s downloadable casino software. Also known as Spanish blackjack, the game is played with several 48-card decks from which all 10s have been removed. Match Play 21 also offers bonus payouts for forming specific hands. Moreover, the top payout of 40 times the stake can be won without placing a side bet.
Rules and Gameplay
RTG’s Match Play 21 is an American-style version of blackjack with a hole card. It typically uses six or eight decks, depending on the casino. However, these are not standard 52-card decks containing cards from 2 through ace. The game uses so-called Spanish decks: standard decks with all the 10s removed. The dealer peeks for blackjack if the visible card is an ace and hits on soft 17.
Players can hit or stand on their initial hand, and they may double their bet at any time, but only once per round. If their initial hand is a pair, they can also choose to split, with up to two splits allowed. Doubling on split aces is also permitted. Another option, available at any time, is surrender, which allows players to forfeit half their bet and end the hand if they believe the dealer has a stronger hand.
Players can also purchase insurance if the dealer’s visible card is an ace. This side bet pays 2:1 if the dealer has blackjack. The other payouts are standard: a regular win pays 1:1, while blackjack pays 3:2.
Distinctive Features
The game’s most distinctive and exciting feature is the chance to win up to 40 times the original stake without placing a side bet. In fact, RTG’s Match Play 21 offers ten different bonus payouts for achieving special hands. The highest payout is awarded for getting three suited 7s when the dealer’s upcard is also a 7. This is the Match Play 21 payout. These are all the bonus payouts in the game:
- Match Play 21 – 40:1
- 7+ card 21 – 3:1
- 7-7-7 Spades – 3:1
- 6-7-8 Spades – 3:1
- 7-7-7 Suited – 2:1
- 6-7-8 Suited – 2:1
- 6-card 21 – 2:1
- Any 7-7-7 – 3:2
- Any 6-7-8 – 3:2
- 5-card 21 – 3:2
Conclusion
Match Play 21 is an interesting blackjack variant that offers more bonus payouts than any other version available online or in land-based casinos. It has a house edge of 0.76%, which is relatively high for blackjack.