Blackjack Guide
Blackjack is a simple card game that is also known as “21″, named after the winning score. There are plenty of Blackjack variations, but most people prefer to play the very simple and basic version of the game which is also offered at most casinos, both live and online. The first thing to know is that you need to have a lot of patience to play Blackjack, and then of course, luck is also an important factor to contend with.
The basic idea is to gather a card total of 21 to win at Blackjack, or get as close to 21 as possible without going over. If that happens, then you go ‘bust’. Blackjack is played with a single deck or multiple decks of cards at a table; rules are printed on the table itself with a placard next to the dealer detailing the minimum and maximum betting limit. The dealer can deliver the cards in two ways; either he has the deck in his hands from which to deliver the cards or he makes use of a ‘shoe’ which holds up to six card decks. Most casinos offer multiple deck games although you do find some offering the single deck games as well.
The game begins with shuffling of cards and cutting the deck. Players can now place their bets in the circle in front of them. The dealer then passes out the cards to the players seated at the table. There can be 5 to 7 players in the game of Blackjack, but the game itself is between a single player and the dealer. Starting from his left, the dealer gives one card to each player and one to himself which is face up. Then he distributes another card to each player and one to himself which is face down. The face down card is known as the ‘hole’ card.
In Blackjack, cards are assigned certain fixed values. The Ace is worth 1 or 11, face cards, i.e. King, Queen and Jack are valued at 10 and cards 2 to 10 are taken at their face value. After taking a look at their own cards and the dealer’s face up card, the players must make their decisions as to the further course of action. Players can either ‘stand’, ‘hit’, ‘double down’, ‘split’ or ‘surrender’. To stand means to stop taking any more cards. To hit is to ask for more cards to reach closer to the figure of 21. “Doubling down” means to double the original bet and getting an additional card. Split means splitting the two cards and getting two new cards. Surrender is to give up the hand and lose half the original bet.
If you want to increase your odds of winning at Blackjack, it helps to pay attention to a few tips that will teach you how to avoid the pitfalls. Some Blackjack players practice card counting, a strategy that helps them decide on their course of action. Any strategy or betting system you use is welcome if you can reduce the house edge and increase your chances of winning. So, whether you play at a traditional casino, or whether you play online casino, try and follow the rules of the game, take the advice from Blackjack experts and aim to win. But don’t forget to enjoy your game of Blackjack! Click here to get started.
