Pontoon is a unique spin on the classic game of blackjack. With 2:1 payouts for initial totals of 21 and five-card hands, more flexible doubling, and great odds for players, Pontoon makes for a thrilling game. Give it a try for free on this page. If you think you’re ready to play Pontoon for real money, just go to any of the online casinos listed below.
To start a game of Pontoon, simply place your chips in the available betting field. Hit “Deal” (or similar button) to begin the game.
You will be dealt 2 cards, and the dealer will deal herself 2 cards face-down. If your initial cards total 21, that is a Pontoon, and you should stand to receive a 2:1 payout. On the other hand, if the dealer receives a Pontoon, you will lose immediately. Otherwise, gameplay continues.
Like blackjack, your goal is to beat the dealer by either getting closer to 21 than she does, or by staying in the game while she busts. You can also win by forming a five-card hand, which pays 2:1. Furthermore, because you cannot see either of the dealer’s cards, and because you lose on ties, proper strategy is much different.
During gameplay, you can do several things. “Hit” to receive an additional card. “Stand” to stop receiving cards and turn gameplay over to the dealer (this is only available on totals of 15 or higher). “Double” to double your wager and hit. Unlike blackjack, doubles in Pontoon can be done at any time, and you can continue hitting after a double. Finally, “Split” to split two initial cards of equal value into separate hands, each with an equal wager.
The dealer will hit on all totals of 16 or lower (as well as soft 17) and stand on all totals of hard 17 or 18 and higher. You’d best hope that she busts out fast, because if she gets 5 cards without busting, she will win instantly, regardless of her total.
Game Play
Deal: Begin the game with the placed bet.
Hit: Take another card.
Stand: Stop receiving cards and turn gameplay over to the dealer (must have a total of 15+).
Double: Double your wager and take another card.
Split: Split two cards of equal value into separate hands with equal wagers.
