| Updated: While most blackjack games are quite similar and the gameplay can become monotonous, Super 21 offers a more engaging gaming experience by adding several bonus payouts. The game was developed by RealTime Gaming, one of the oldest and most experienced software providers in the online casino industry. Although it does not feature top-quality graphics or many customization options, its interesting rules and bonus payouts make it more exciting than many other blackjack variations.
Rules and Gameplay
RTG’s Super 21 is played with eight standard decks of cards and features a hole card, which is the dealer’s second card and is dealt face down. The dealer is required to hit on soft 17, which gives the house an advantage. Players can hit, stand, and double down on their initial hand. They may double their bet at any time, but only once per round.
Players can also split their hand if it consists of any two cards of the same value. Two splits per round are allowed, and only one card can be drawn for each split ace. Another option is surrender. Unlike in most blackjack versions, where surrender can be chosen only at the start of the round, players may surrender their hand at any time. If they choose to do so, they forfeit only half of their bet.
The game also allows players to take insurance if the dealer’s visible card is an ace. Insurance costs exactly half the original bet. It functions as a side bet, winning only if the dealer has blackjack, and pays 2:1. A regular blackjack, however, pays even money (1:1).
Distinctive Features
Super 21 plays much like standard blackjack, but it differs significantly from the classic game. Its most distinctive feature is the bonus payouts for certain hands. Players have the chance to win up to twice their stake, but not with a regular blackjack, which still pays 1:1. The 2:1 payout is offered for a Diamond Blackjack and several other hands:
- Diamond Blackjack – 2:1
- 5-card 21 – 2:1
- 6-card 21 – 2:1
- 6 cards – Instant Win
As soon as a player receives six cards without busting, they win automatically. In addition, a player’s blackjack always wins.
Conclusion
RTG’s Super 21 is an interesting version of blackjack, but players should carefully devise a strategy suited to its specific rules and payouts.