Here in NetBet casino, you can play thousands of exciting games. We’re not just talking about slots, which are well and truly entertaining. Every great online roulette and slots library will have a variety of games on offer, including luck and skill-based table and card games which we’ll feature right here!
History of Pontoon
If you ever heard about blackjack, you’re most likely heard about Pontoon too. It’s another card game from the Vingt-Un family that’s played in the UK. In the past, it was known as Britain’s domestic version of Twenty One. However, what many don’t know is that Pontoon is not derived nor a variant of blackjack. As a matter of fact, it’s a descendant of the earliest British Vingt-Un variant. It acquired the name Pontoon during the first World War as it was very popular among the troops. Unconfirmed reports say that the name was a solder’s corruption of its former name in French.
How does it differ from other Vingt-Un games? Pontoon has no official rules. They vary depending where it’s played. It’s a very popular card game among children, family, and friends, as well as among the military forces. Pontoon is a game anyone can learn in just a few minutes, and with the rules looser than blackjack, this amusing card game can be enjoyed by just about anyone.
A comparing card game that usually features up to 7 players, you won’t find many Pontoon games online. There are a few variants available here in our lobby, so if you want card games that are fun and without any rules set in stone, this one would be our pick.
How to Play Pontoon Online
Pontoon and blackjack share most of the gameplay rules, with the exception that Pontoon’s rules are not official. The game is played with a standard pack of 52 cards. In most cases, it’s a French-suited card pack without Jokers. Just like in blackjack, an Ace scores 1 or 11, while all court cards score 10 each. Pip cards have face value. A two-card combination of 21 is a natural or Vingt-Un.
There’s no upper limit on the number of players, although many believe it’s best played with 10. Typically, Pontoon is played with 3 to 7 players. If more than 7 players are on the table, a second pack may be added. Instead of a dealer, the player who draws the highest card before the game begins plays that role. The game is played for stakes, counters, or matches.
You can ask for another card, usually by requesting a ‘Twist’ (“twist me one”). When satisfied with their hand, players announce a “stand”. Those with a card count over 21 are busted. Splits are allowed, with all pairs played as two separate hands.
When you choose NetBet Casino, you can enjoy a whole range of top quality games. Whatever you choose, always remember to bet responsibly. Here at NetBet, player wellbeing is our number one priority – check out our Responsible Gambling tips and tools page for more information.
