As the software supplier that developed and launched the first online casino, Microgaming is considered by many to be a true trendsetter in the online gaming industry. The company has led the way in gambling innovation since 1994, delighting casino fans with countless original games and products.
Consistently pushing the industry to new heights, the Isle of Man-based company also launched the first mobile gambling software in 2004. Microgaming’s suite includes more than 500 premium casino games, among which are over 30 engaging online blackjack variations.
The software studio certainly does justice to the classic card game. The variations Microgaming has released over the last 25 years feature highly realistic visuals, immersive sound, excellent playability, and plenty of great features designed to make players’ experience even more enjoyable.
Many superlatives could describe this trendsetting company, but in this article SuperCasinoSites will focus on the studio’s rich selection of online blackjack games. We will explore their features, cover their essential rules, and take a closer look at Microgaming’s most enticing online variants of the classic card game.
Blackjack by Microgaming Gameplay
Microgaming’s Blackjack Features at a Glance
As a proven leader in online blackjack, Microgaming offers the richest selection of 21 variations. Beautifully designed, these games not only please the eye but also include numerous features that elevate the overall experience. Their quality reflects the company’s commitment to excellence and innovation. Let’s take a quick look at the features you will find in most Microgaming blackjack titles.
Hit and stand warnings
Strategy display
Auto rebet
Quick deal
Software instructions
Multi-hand play
Expert mode
Statistics
Customization settings
Hit and stand warnings
Hit and stand warnings are displayed by Microgaming’s blackjack software to help players avoid basic strategy errors. For instance, if you accidentally click Hit while holding a hard 17 or 18, the software asks you to confirm the move. These warnings appear whenever you deviate from optimal strategy.
Strategy display
Strategy display provides hints on the correct basic strategy for each blackjack variation. The charts are sometimes customizable, allowing you to create your own strategy. Load the game in Expert Mode and click the Strategy button to do so. Adjust each move by clicking the corresponding grid to cycle through the available decisions for that hand.
Auto rebet
Auto rebet is a handy feature for players who prefer flat betting. Once activated, it automatically places the same stake at the start of each new hand as the one used in the previous round.
Quick deal
Quick deal is ideal for players who enjoy a fast-paced game. Activate it in the Options menu to make the virtual dealer deal the cards more quickly.
Software instructions
Blackjack players can also instruct the software not to remove losing hands from the virtual felt automatically. This allows you to review the hand and identify potential strategy errors.
Multi-hand play
Multi-hand play is available in several Microgaming blackjack variations and is perfect for players who crave more action. In games such as European Multi-Hand Blackjack, Atlantic City Blackjack Gold, Multi-Hand Perfect Pairs European Blackjack, and Vegas Strip Blackjack, you can play up to five betting spots at once.
Expert mode
Expert mode unlocks a wide range of customization tools and advanced features. It grants access to editable basic strategy charts and allows you to activate Autoplay, instructing the software to play between 5 and 500 hands automatically while following basic strategy.
Statistics
Statistics are available in real-money mode, allowing you to monitor your performance. You can review the number of hands played, the stakes, and how many hands you have won or lost during the session.
Customization settings
The customization settings let players tailor the game to their preferences. In titles such as Premier Blackjack Hi Lo, you can choose among three card designs, mute the dealer’s voice and background sounds, and select from several felt colors, including green, blue, red, and turquoise.
The Key Rules in Microgaming’s Blackjack Games in Brief
Over the past 25 years, Microgaming has introduced a wide range of blackjack variations, all visually appealing and highly authentic. Most of these games offer rules that generally favor the player. Although specific conditions differ from one title to another, we will examine the key rules that appear in most variations.
Number of decks
Blackjack pays 3 to 2
Dealer standing
Insurance
Peek rules
Hole cards
Late surrender
Number of decks
The number of decks varies across Microgaming titles, although most use multiple decks dealt from a virtual shoe. For example, Vegas Strip Blackjack uses four decks, Atlantic City Blackjack and Double Exposure use eight, while European Blackjack and Vegas Downtown Blackjack use two. Single-deck games such as Super Fun 21 and Classic Blackjack are also available.
Blackjack pays 3 to 2
Most Microgaming titles offer the standard 3 to 2 payout for a blackjack, meaning you earn $1.50 for every $1 wagered. A few exceptions, such as Double Exposure and Super Fun 21, pay even money but compensate with other favorable rules.
Dealer standing
The dealer standing rules are generally player-friendly. In most Microgaming variations, the dealer draws to 16 and stands on all 17s, including soft 17, which lowers the house edge by about 0.22%. Exceptions include Double Exposure, Vegas Downtown Blackjack, Spanish Blackjack Gold, and Super Fun 21, where the dealer hits soft 17.
Insurance
Insurance is available in all Microgaming variants and pays 2 to 1 if the dealer has a blackjack. This side bet, which costs half your original stake, is offered when the dealer’s upcard is an ace. If the dealer holds a natural, the insurance wins but your main bet is lost. Basic strategy recommends declining insurance because it is a negative-expectation wager.
Peek rules
Peek rules are quite favorable in some Microgaming variations. When the dealer shows an ace or ten, they peek at the hole card to check for blackjack.
This benefits players because it prevents them from splitting or doubling only to discover the dealer has a natural. Games with the peek rule include Atlantic City Blackjack, Super Fun 21, Big 5 Blackjack, Spanish Blackjack, Vegas Downtown, Vegas Single Deck, and Vegas Strip Blackjack.
Hole cards
Hole cards are used in the majority of Microgaming blackjack games. Having a hole card favors the player because it allows the dealer to peek for blackjack, saving you money in the long run.
Some no-hole-card games are also available, in which the dealer receives only one face-up card and draws the second after players act. This rule adds about 0.11% to the house edge and is found in European Blackjack Gold, High Streak Gold, Big 5 Blackjack, Classic Blackjack, and Premier Hi Lo 13 Blackjack.
Late surrender
Late surrender (LS) is offered in many Microgaming games and lowers the house edge by approximately 0.07%. After the dealer checks for blackjack, you can surrender a weak hand and get back half of your bet. LS is available in Spanish Blackjack, Atlantic City Blackjack, and Super Fun 21.
Early surrender (ES) is even more favorable because you can surrender before the dealer peeks for a natural. Although rare online, ES is available in Microgaming’s Big 5 Blackjack.
Microgaming is the software developer that created Cash Splash, the first online slot with a progressive jackpot. It was also the first studio to pioneer progressive blackjack with the release of its highly appealing Triple Sevens Blackjack.
This is quite an accomplishment because blackjack variations do not easily lend themselves to the progressive jackpot genre. The most notable feature in Triple Sevens is the $1 progressive side bet, which goes toward the jackpot pool. Minimum bets in the base game are usually $2, so you must wager at least $3 per round to qualify for the jackpot.
As the name suggests, sevens are the most important cards in this online blackjack variation. They hold the key to winning a portion of the pool or the entire progressive jackpot. The payouts for the progressive side bet are as follows:
- 5 to 1 if the player’s first card is a seven, regardless of its suit
- 25 to 1 for a pair of sevens of any suit
- 50 to 1 if the player’s first two cards are suited sevens
- 250 to 1 if the first three cards are sevens of any suit
- 1,000 to 1 if the player receives suited sevens (of hearts, spades or clubs) as their first three cards
- You win the entire jackpot when you get three sevens of diamonds, hence the name of the variation. Check out the table below for concise information about the rest of the rules in Triple Sevens.
| Base Game Rules in Microgaming’s Triple Sevens Progressive Blackjack |
| Deck Number |
5 decks in play |
| Hole Cards |
No hole cards are in play |
| Dealer Standing Rules |
Draws to 16 and stands on soft and hard 17 |
| Blackjack Odds |
Blackjacks pay at odds of 3 to 2 |
| Doubling Rules |
Players can double only on two-card totals of 9, 10, and 11 |
| Doubling after a Split |
Unavailable |
| Splitting Rules |
May split once, creating up to two hands |
| Hitting Split Aces |
Available |
| Surrender |
Unavailable |
| Peeking |
Unavailable due to the absence of hole cards |
| Return to Player |
Fluctuates depending on current jackpot values |
| House Edge for the Side Bet |
37.94% |
| Jackpot Break-Even Value |
$109,862.00 |
| Odds of Winning the Progressive Jackpot |
289,562 to 1 |
| Average Jackpot Win |
$80,000.00 |
The blackjack games discussed so far are governed by a Random Number Generator that shuffles the cards automatically before each round. In addition, Microgaming offers a fantastic suite of live dealer blackjack games. Joining the live tables is a great alternative for players who yearn for a more authentic experience in a real casino environment.
The games are hosted by professional, highly attractive female dealers who run the tables in a variety of languages, benefiting players who are not fluent in English. As authentic as the Microgaming live blackjack tables are, we must admit they do not offer the best playing conditions for patrons.
For starters, most of the live tables use eight decks of cards. As we have explained elsewhere in our blackjack guide, the more decks in play, the higher the house edge.
Additionally, no hole cards are dealt, as the dealer receives only one face-up card at the start of each round. Players may double down only on two-card totals of 9, 10, or 11, and doubling after splitting pairs is not allowed.
The live suite is not without advantages, though. Some tables allow you to hit split aces, which is rare in online blackjack. Another benefit is that the live dealers stand on soft 17 instead of hitting.
Players can join several live games at once, with the option to bet behind other participants at full tables. The dealers usually shuffle the cards manually. Table limits are flexible, catering to both high rollers and casual bettors.
Classic Online Blackjack Games by Microgaming
Microgaming has introduced many blackjack variants over the years, yet its classic titles still appeal to purists who prefer games without side bets or unconventional rules. If you are looking for a traditional experience, consider the three classic releases outlined below.
Classic Blackjack Gold
Vegas Single Deck Blackjack
Atlantic City Blackjack
Classic Blackjack Gold
Classic Blackjack Gold is ideal for fans who remember when casinos dealt blackjack from a single deck. All traditional rules apply, with blackjacks paying 3 to 2 and the dealer standing on soft 17.
The game is available in single-hand mode, but some Microgaming casinos also offer a multi-hand version that lets you wager on up to five spots at once. Classic Blackjack Gold includes helpful features such as Auto Rebet and Quick Deal. See the table below for full rule details.
| Rundown of Classic Blackjack Gold Rules |
| Deck Number | 1 deck in play |
| Blackjack Odds | 3 to 2 |
| Dealer Standing Rules | Draws to 16 and stands on soft 17 |
| Peek Rule | No peek, hole cards are not in play |
| Doubling Rules | Doubling on two-card totals of 9, 10, and 11 only |
| Doubling after a Split (DAS) | Unavailable |
| Splitting Rules | Players can split once to form up to two hands. Splitting any two cards of the same denomination or value is possible. |
| Surrender | Unavailable |
| Theoretical Return | 99.91% |
Vegas Single Deck Blackjack
Vegas Single Deck Blackjack is another classic variation that should appeal to fans of pitch games. It offers solid playing conditions, with the main drawback being that the dealer hits soft 17.
Even so, the remaining rules keep the house edge at just 0.31% when you follow perfect strategy. User-friendly controls also make this game a great choice for beginners who are learning to play online.
| Rundown of Vegas Single Deck Blackjack Rules |
| Deck Number | 1 deck in play |
| Blackjack Odds | 3 to 2 |
| Dealer Standing Rules | Hits soft 17 |
| Peek Rule | Hole cards in play, the dealer peeks under tens and aces |
| Doubling Rules | Doubling on hard 9, 10, and 11 only |
| Doubling after a Split (DAS) | Unavailable |
| Splitting Rules | Split once to up to two hands |
| Surrender | Unavailable |
| Theoretical Return | 99.69% |
Atlantic City Blackjack
Atlantic City Blackjack pays tribute to the iconic games found in the famous New Jersey resort town. It offers favorable rules, authentic graphics, and a user-friendly interface.
Players seeking more action can choose the multi-hand version, which allows up to five simultaneous betting spots. A standout feature is Late Surrender, which lets you forfeit bad hands right after the dealer peeks for blackjack. Explore the rest of the player-friendly rules below.
| Rundown of Atlantic City Blackjack Rules |
| Deck Number | 8 decks in play |
| Blackjack Odds | 3 to 2 |
| Dealer Standing Rules | Draws to 16 and stands on soft 17 |
| Peek Rule | Hole cards in play, dealer peeks under tens and aces |
| Doubling Rules | Doubling on any two cards |
| Doubling after a Split (DAS) | Available |
| Splitting Rules | Players can split any pair of cards of equal value and denomination, up to three times for a total of four hands. |
| Surrender | Late Surrender is available |
| Theoretical Return | 99.65% |
Microgaming’s Suite of Innovative Blackjack Games
Long-time blackjack fans may eventually tire of traditional variants. Microgaming addresses this by offering innovative games that deviate from standard rules.
Some versions introduce side bets with sizable payout potential, while others provide extensive customization or unique rules that reshape gameplay. We have selected three of the most intriguing unconventional variations.
High Streak Blackjack
Premier Blackjack Hi Lo Gold
Super Fun 21
High Streak Blackjack
High Streak Blackjack is a great choice for players looking for a fresh experience. The game includes side bets that reward consecutive wins.
Place the High Streak side bet in the marked box beside your main wager. Two consecutive wins pay even money.
Three wins pay 2 to 1, four wins pay 5 to 1, and five wins pay 10 to 1, the highest return available. Exciting, right?
| Rundown of High Streak Blackjack Rules |
| Deck Number | 2 decks in play |
| Blackjack Odds | 3 to 2 |
| Dealer Standing Rules | Draws to 16 and stands on all 17s |
| Peek Rule | No hole cards are in play, the peek rule is unavailable |
| Doubling Rules | Doubling on hard 9, 10, and 11 only |
| Doubling after a Split (DAS) | Unavailable |
| Splitting Rules | Once per round to up to two hands |
| Surrender | Unavailable |
| Theoretical Return | 99.59% |
Premier Blackjack Hi Lo Gold
Premier Blackjack Hi Lo is another exciting twist on the classic game. It offers extensive customization, letting players adjust game speed, select different card designs, and change the felt color.
The main attraction is the set of Hi Lo 13 side bets, rarely seen in other online blackjack variants.
The Lo bet wins and pays even money when your first two cards total 2 through 12. The Hi bet also pays even money when the total is 14 or higher. A total of 13 is the top payer, rewarding 10 to 1. Remember, aces count as 1 for these side bets.
| Rundown of High Streak Blackjack Rules |
| Deck Number | 2 decks in play |
| Blackjack Odds | 3 to 2 |
| Dealer Standing Rules | Draws to 16 and stands on soft 17 |
| Peek Rule | No hole cards in play, the peek rule does not apply |
| Doubling Rules | Doubling on hard 9, 10, and 11 only |
| Doubling after a Split (DAS) | Unavailable |
| Splitting Rules | Once per round to a maximum of two hands |
| Surrender | Unavailable |
| Theoretical Return | 99.60% |
Super Fun 21
Super Fun 21 lives up to its name, delivering an unconventional single-deck experience that showcases Microgaming’s extensive pitch game lineup.
The game pays even money for blackjacks, yet it introduces the Double Down Rescue, a rare rule that lets you surrender a hand after doubling down. Additionally, a player blackjack beats a dealer blackjack.
Super Fun 21 also features several bonus payouts. A blackjack made of an ace and a king of diamonds pays 2 to 1, as does a six-card 21. Any six or more cards totaling 20 or less pay even money. These bonuses do not apply after a double down. See the table below for more details.
| Rundown of Super Fun 21 Rules |
| Deck Number | 1 deck in play |
| Blackjack Odds | 1 to 1 |
| Dealer Standing Rules | Hits soft 17 |
| Peek Rule | Hole cards in play, dealer peeks under tens and aces |
| Doubling Rules | Doubling on any number of cards |
| Doubling after a Split (DAS) | Available |
| Doubling and Hitting Split Aces | Available |
| Splitting Rules | Three times to up to four hands |
| Resplitting Aces | Available |
| Surrender | Late Surrender on any number of cards |
| Theoretical Return | 99.10% |
