If you're looking for a little change from the traditional Blackjack game, Spanish 21, originally introduced in Nevada, might be the game for you.
2004-02-05
Spanish 21 History
A child of the computer age, Spanish 21 is a computer derived variation of Blackjack. The term "spanish" refers to the 48-card deck used in some spanish card games. It is a regular 52-card deck with the four tens removed. Although, in most respects Spanish 21 is played just like standard Blackjack the basic strategy is somewhat different.
As a specially designed version of Blackjack, Spanish 21 had liberalized rules and unique bonuses. The casinos can be so generous in Spanish 21 because removal of the four tens from the deck gives the house a large advantage. The changes in rules and payout were designed to attract jaded Blackjack players and are what has made the game so popular. For instance, in standard Blackjack, it is always exhilarating to hit a count of 21 on the nose. But it quickly turn into a disappointment if the dealer also hits 21 (resulting in a push instead of a win). In Spanish 21, if both dealer and player have 21, the player wins.
A big reason why the casinos like Spanish 21 so much is because it's quick like traditional Blackjack, and gives player about the same edge, while throwing off card counters. Not to mention the fact that the more liberal rules of Spanish 21 attracts the players who have grown tired of Blackjack.