Blackjack is a simple card game that has more players than most casino games. The card game is mainly a game of luck and chance, but there are also strategic elements.
There are 3 types of cards in every deck. The first type is the Number cards which has a value determined by the number printed on the cards. The second type is the face cards with a standard value of 10. The third is the ace that is either 1 or 11.
Step by Step guide
In blackjack, the goal of the game is to get a total number that is higher than the dealer, but not higher than 21.
The mode of play requires players to take turns. Every play has two basic options to choose from. You can either Hit (request another card) or Stand (hold on to your current hand and do nothing). You can hit as many times as possible until your hand is over 21. If a player goes over 21, he has “busted” and automatically loses the bet.
However, if it’s a tie with the dealer, it’s called a “push“. The player and the house would not be given any wins. The players will continue taking turns until every player decides to stand. The dealer then plays his own hand and this eventually determines who wins and loses.
Every player with a winning hand gets paid regardless of who has a higher hand. The players only play against the dealer but not against each other; this is the reason every player is measured against the dealer.
Possible actions to take in special scenarios
Taking insurance: This is only available when the dealer is showing an ace. Just like the name suggests, it gives you a form of safety against losing your bet. You can place a new bet that will pay you double if the dealer does have a blackjack.
However, if you lose your other bet but win the insurance, it results in a break-even. ii) Double Down: Double your bet and get one more card when your first two cards equal soft 12 to soft 19 or 8-11.
Other popular actions are split and surrender. Over the years, there are some strategies players have developed to stay safe, one of which is to copy the dealer.
Generally, players using copy the dealer hit on 16 or less. Another strategy is the never bust strategy which may be a little more effective than copying the dealer.
In the end, the casino has the upper hand, since the player has to make the first move. The dealer is the last one to play the hand.
Blackjack etiquette and rules
Blackjack Rules
Most live casinos always “stand” on 17 or higher. Some casinos will hit a soft 17. Casinos might also require an ante as in poker. In this case, your chance of winning is greatly reduced. When you sit at a table, you can quickly gather the rules that apply as the rounds play out.
In most cases, casinos have different rules on splitting, insurance, and doubling down when it comes to how and when you can do it. Your dealer will definitely announce specific rules to the casino sites.
Blackjack Etiquette
There are simple manners to observe when playing blackjack. When you see an open table, grab an empty seat and wait for a hand to be over.
When the hand is over, take out the amount you want to bet and let the dealer know what denomination of chips you prefer.
The money is then exchanged for a pile of chips. If you’re a beginner to the game, you should try to choose a seat that is not close to the dealer.
Final Note
Playing blackjack can be quite interesting. The great thing is that the game can also be played online, even on non Gamstop Casinos.
There are online casinos that now offer the online version. Before playing blackjack playing with your money, you can practice using the free version to get the hang of it.
Be conscious of soft hands (when an ace is part of your hand). Try out blackjack today, who knows, your first hand might be a blackjack (when you have an ace and a face card or a 10).
Last Updated on January 4, 2024 by editor