How to Play Spanish 21
Spanish 21 is a sought-after alternative to traditional blackjack, especially when the table rules are favourable. The game is played with a 48-card deck (all 10s are removed), which reduces the chances of having a natural 21 hand. However, as compensation, it offers liberal rules and large bonus payouts.
This article explains how to play Spanish 21 and highlights its rules, payouts, and strategies. Let's begin!
Spanish 21: Cards and Objective
Spanish 21 is a classic blackjack variant popular for its 48-card deck, player-friendly rules, and unique payout structure. The objective is to form a hand totaling 21 without going over.
A standard 52-card deck is used with all 10s removed, leaving only Jacks, Queens, and Kings (10-value cards), for a total of 48 cards. The absence of 10s makes it harder to form a natural blackjack, but the safety-net rules make up for it.
Spanish 21 Rules
The Spanish 21 rules are straightforward, and some are favorable to players. They include:
- No Tie: If a player and dealer have 21, the player wins.
- Late Surrender: Surrender to recover half your bet even after the dealer peeks.
- Double Down Rescue: If a double down results in a weak hand, you can "rescue" half your initial wager.
- Aces Re-Split: Re-splitting of Aces is permitted.
How to Play Spanish 21
Here's how to play Spanish 21 without error:
- Place your main and side bets.
- The dealer and player receive two cards; player cards face up, dealer with one face up/one face down.
- If you don't have a natural blackjack, decide your move based on the dealer's upcard:
Gameplay Actions
- Hit: Request another card.
- Stand: Hold your current total.
- Double Down: Double your wager on any number of cards.
- Split: Separate pairs (including Aces) into two hands.
- Surrender: Walk away for half your bet.
Spanish 21 Payout Structure
The tables below show the payouts for 21-card hands and special bonuses.
21-Hand Payouts
| Hand | Payouts |
|---|---|
| Blackjack | 3:2 |
| 5-Card 21 | 3:2 |
| 6-Card 21 | 2:1 |
| 7-Card or more | 3:1 |
Bonus Payouts
Spanish 21 offers bonuses for specific combinations:
- 7-7-7 or 6-7-8 (Mixed): 3:2
- 7-7-7 or 6-7-8 (Suited): 2:1
- 7-7-7 or 6-7-8 (Spades): 3:1
Super Bonus and Envy Payouts
If a player has suited 7-7-7 and the dealer shows a 7, a Super Bonus of $1,000–$5,000 is paid. Other players at the table receive a $50 Envy Bonus.
Match the Dealer Side Bet
This optional wager wins if your cards match the dealer's upcard rank.
| Match Type | Payout |
|---|---|
| Non-suited | 4:1 |
| Suited | 9:1 |
Spanish 21 Basic Strategy
Because there are no 10s, you must hit more often than in regular blackjack.
Hard Hand Strategy (No Ace)
- 8 or Less: Always Hit.
- 11: Double if dealer shows 2-8, otherwise Hit.
- 17: Stand (unless dealer has an Ace, then Surrender).
Soft Hand Strategy (With Ace)
- Soft 13-15: Always Hit.
- Soft 18: Stand against 2, 3, 7. Double against 4, 5, 6. Hit against 9, 10, Ace.
Spanish 21 vs. Blackjack: Which Should You Play?
Spanish 21 is often a better game for the player due to the "Player 21 Wins" and "Late Surrender" rules. However, it is more technical. If you want simplicity, play Blackjack. If you want the lowest house edge with optimal play, choose Spanish 21.
FAQs
Can I use a standard Blackjack chart?
No. The lack of 10s changes the math completely. Use a specific Spanish 21 chart.
What is the house edge?
It ranges from 0.40% to 0.76% depending on whether the dealer hits or stands on soft 17.