British Blackjack: Play With 7 Cards (How To Play & Rules)

British Blackjack, also known as Switch, is a popular card game that differs significantly from the American version of Blackjack most are familiar with. This game brings a unique twist to the traditional rules of Blackjack, making it an entertaining alternative for card game enthusiasts.

What Is British Blackjack?

British Blackjack, sometimes known as 7 Card Blackjack, is a game that shares its name with the famous casino game but plays out quite differently. It’s known by various other names, including Switch, Jack Changes, English Blackjack, Take Two, Irish Switch, Two Four Jacks, Black Jack Pick Up 7, or Last Card game.

Unlike classic Blackjack where the aim is to get a hand closer to 21 than the dealer, in British Blackjack, the objective is to eliminate all the cards in hand by attempting to match the rank or suit of the previous card played. Each player is dealt seven cards, with the rest of the deck placed face down; this becomes the discard pile.

The game is usually played with a single deck of cards, but depending on the number of players, more decks can be used.

How To Play British Blackjack

The gameplay of British Blackjack begins with the dealer, who deals seven cards to each player, including themselves. The remaining deck is placed face down in the middle of the table, forming the discard pile. The top card of the discard pile is then turned face-up to kickstart the game.

Starting from the dealer’s left, the game proceeds in a clockwise direction. Players aim to match the rank or suit of the last played card to place one on the discard pile. They can continue to place cards for as long as they maintain a run in their turn.

For instance, if the discard pile exhibits a 7 of hearts, a player can place a 7 of spades, followed by an 8 of spades, then an 8 of diamonds, a 9 of diamonds, a 9 of hearts, and so forth.

It’s important to note that higher value cards can only be used if they are of the matching suit. The Ace card in this game holds a special position, as it can be both high and low.

7 Card Blackjack Rules

Certain cards in British Blackjack have special meanings, which add a unique twist to the gameplay:

2: If a player plays a 2, the next player must pick up 2 cards or put another 2 down. If they also play a 2, the next player after them picks up four cards unless they also have a 2.
Jack (J): If a player plays a black Jack, the next player picks up five cards unless they can also play a black Jack. If they have a black Jack, the next player picks 10 cards.
10: Playing a 10 reverses the game’s direction. If the first card turned over on the table is a 7, the player on the right starts instead of the one on the left.
8: An 8 means the next player misses a turn, and the player after them goes.
Ace (A): The Ace card allows you to dictate the card suit you want to follow. However, you can’t neutralise a 2, J or an 8 with an Ace.

If a player is unable to match the suit or rank of the last played card, they must pick up a card from the deck. The round ends when a player successfully discards all of their cards.

Blackjack 7 Card Charlie Rule Explained

The 7 Card Charlie rule is an addition to the game of Blackjack. According to this rule, if a player draws seven cards without going bust (exceeding 21), they automatically win, regardless of the dealer’s hand. However, this rule is not commonly used in British Blackjack.

What’s The Difference Between American & British Blackjack?

While both versions share a common goal of reaching a specific card total, the rules vary significantly. In American Blackjack, the aim is to have a hand closer to 21 than the dealer.

On the other hand, in British Blackjack, the goal is to eliminate all the cards in one’s hand by matching the rank or suit of the previous card played.

Another significant difference lies in the dealing of the cards. In American Blackjack, two cards are dealt initially. In contrast, in British Blackjack, each player receives seven cards at the beginning of the game.

Play British Blackjack Online

While British Blackjack is predominantly a physical card game, several online platforms offer digital versions for enthusiasts.

While you may not find British Blackjack on every online and live casino platform, many online gambling sites, like Red Casino can offer other Blackjack variations.

Please gamble responsibly.

*All values (Bet Levels, Maximum Wins etc.) mentioned in relation to this game are subject to change at any time. Game features mentioned may not be available in some jurisdictions.