I think the rules and payouts in Blackjack variations differ in several ways, including the number of decks used, dealer's actions, doubling and splitting rules, and surrender options. Some variations offer favorable rules like liberal surrender, re-splitting aces, or double down on any two cards, while others have restrictive rules like no double down or dealer hits soft 17. Payouts also vary, with some games offering 6:5 or even 1:1 for a natural Blackjack, while others pay the standard 3:2. Additionally, some variations feature side bets or progressive jackpots, which can impact the overall payout structure. These differences significantly affect the game's strategy and house edge, making it essential to understand the specific rules and payouts before playing.