Pontoon is a traditional card game that has been played casually in homes for many years and is now also available on some licensed online gambling platforms in the UK. Although it shares some similarities with blackjack, Pontoon is a separate game with its own set of rules and style of play.
For those unfamiliar with Pontoon or looking to understand how it works, learning the basics could be a helpful first step. This guide outlines the fundamental rules, introduces common terms, and highlights the key differences between Pontoon and blackjack that players may come across when exploring the game online. Read on to learn more.
What Is Pontoon and How Does It Work?
Pontoon is played with a standard 52-card deck and is rising in popularity in the UK. The main aim is to get a hand as close to 21 as you can, without going over.
Each player and the dealer (referred to as the “banker”) receive two cards at the start, with both dealer cards kept face down until all players have made their moves.
Players can request extra cards (“twist”), double their bet (“buy”), or keep their current hand (“stick”). The dealer is bound by set rules, which you could check in detail at each venue or site.
Pontoon appears in home games and at select UK casinos, including online versions, where rules and features may vary. To get the most out of your experience, it might be a good idea to review each platform’s version before you play.
Always remember to gamble responsibly and within your means- never wager more than you can afford to lose.
Pontoon Rules Explained
Before any cards are dealt, each player places a stake, then receives two cards alongside the banker. As already discussed, the object is to build a hand as close as possible to 21, using straightforward card values.
You can request an additional card (‘twist’) or decide you’re happy with your hand (‘stick’). There’s also an option to “buy” another card by increasing your stake, with certain limits based on the number of cards in your hand. Achieving five cards totalling 21 or less earns a “Five Card Trick”, which is only ranked below a Pontoon.
The banker’s actions will follow set house rules, which may differ between casinos and online platforms. Payout rates and bet limits can be unique to each location, so it’s sensible to check the details before joining in.
How Does Pontoon Differ from Blackjack?
Pontoon and blackjack are close relatives, but several key points make them distinct.
In Pontoon, the dealer leaves both cards face down at the outset. This changes your strategy compared to blackjack, where one dealer card is visible.
As highlighted previously, Pontoon uses terms like “twist” and “stick”, instead of “hit” and “stand”. The game also awards the “Five Card Trick”—a unique hand made up of five cards totalling 21 or less, which beats all but a Pontoon itself. Blackjack does not award a bonus for reaching five cards.
Doubling your bet in Pontoon is called “buying”, with some rule variations depending on where you play. Payout rates vary; for example, classic Pontoon will usually offer 2:1 on both Pontoon and Five Card Trick wins, while blackjack typically pays 3:2 for a blackjack win.
How Many Players Can Play Pontoon?
You can play Pontoon with two or more participants. In home games, groups of 3–8 players are common, each round featuring a different person as banker.
At UK casinos, Pontoon is generally played at tables of up to 7 players plus the banker. Online games can support head-to-head play against the dealer or, in some cases, allow several real players to join the same game.
With more players, rounds may last a bit longer, while small groups enjoy a brisker pace. If you’re playing at home with a larger group, extra decks are sometimes used so there are enough cards for everyone.
Pontoon Card Values
Understanding how each card is valued is central to playing Pontoon well. Number cards are worth their face value (so a 3 of spades is worth 3 points), face cards like jacks, queens, and kings are worth 10 points, and aces can be worth either 1 or 11, whichever is most helpful for your hand.
Online platforms often total your hand automatically, but knowing the basic values could be useful, especially in home or in-person games.
What Are the Dealer Rules in Pontoon?
The dealer, or banker, must follow a fixed set of rules to ensure fairness. With both cards hidden at first, the dealer waits for all players to complete their turns before revealing their own hand.
On the dealer’s turn, they “twist” until reaching at least 16, and must stop once they hit 17 or more, counting a “soft 17” (with an ace as 11) as well. If the dealer achieves a Pontoon or Five Card Trick, these hands are only beaten by a higher Pontoon or another Five Card Trick. If the dealer exceeds 21, any remaining players win as noted in the paytable.
Because house rules can vary, especially online, it might be a good idea to review dealer actions for your chosen version before taking part.
When Can You Stick, Twist or Buy?
During your turn, you choose whether to “stick”, “twist” or “buy”—terms unique to Pontoon and first explained in earlier sections.
You “stick” if your hand adds up to 15 or more, which means you end your turn with your current cards. “Twist” allows you to request another card without increasing your bet, typically used with lower hand totals. If you wish, you can “buy” an additional card by raising your stake.
The choice you make depends on your hand value and whether you want to risk drawing higher or secure your position for that round. Platforms and venues might have rules about how often you can buy or twist in a single round, so it could be a good idea to check beforehand.
What Happens in a Tie in Pontoon?
A tie occurs when you and the dealer have hands of the same value. In traditional Pontoon, the “dealer wins ties” rule applies—the dealer always claims the win on ties. You’ll see this rule in most UK venues and online.
Some local house rules might deal with ties differently, so it could be a wise idea to look out for a summary of table rules before you start playing.
The “dealer wins ties” aspect is a standard part of Pontoon and adds a little to the challenge, as it gives the banker a minor advantage over the players.
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**The information provided in this blog is intended for educational purposes and should not be construed as betting advice or a guarantee of success. Always gamble responsibly.
*All values (Bet Levels, Maximum Wins etc.) mentioned in relation to these games are subject to change at any time. Game features mentioned may not be available in some jurisdictions.