Blackjack, also known as 21, is one of the most iconic card games played all over the world. It combines both simplicity and strategic depth, allowing for a captivating experience that leaves players coming back for more. Although its origins are still hotly debated, most researchers would agree that it’s one of the oldest card games around, dating back to the 1700s.
Whether you’re a new or seasoned player, understanding the fundamental principles of blackjack is essential for an enjoyable gaming experience. In this guide, we’ll break down the basics as well as take a look at some strategies of this beloved card game.
Where to Play Blackjack?
You wouldn’t be surprised to learn that not only is blackjack being played around real, physical, round tables, but it’s also enjoyed virtually by millions of online gamers all around the world. Thanks to the technological advancements in the gaming industry, online games and apps allow blackjack lovers to experience the excitement and thrill of the game in the comfort of their own homes and on the go. With the rise of mobile gaming, many players are enjoying a better user experience playing blackjack on betting apps on the go. Ruth Zammit confirms that betting apps are now one of the most common ways to bet online because the convenience is unparalleled.
If you’re a first-timer, playing online is a great way to experience the game and practice your strategies to become a blackjack pro!
How Blackjack Works?
The essence of the game is about comparing cards between the player and the dealer with the primary objective of beating the dealer’s hand without exceeding a total of 21 points. Each card in the deck holds a unique value, following these rules:
- Numbered cards retain their face value.
- Face cards (ie. King, Queen, or Jack) are valued at 10 points each.
- Aces can be counted as either 1 or 11 points – the payer gets to decide.
The Fundamentals of Gameplay
While blackjack has been around for years, the basics of the game have remained the same. A blackjack game typically begins with players placing their bets. Once bets are placed, the dealer will then deal two cards to each player, including themselves. Players’ cards are typically dished out face up so everyone at the table can see them, but the dealer gives themself one card facing up and one facing down.
The card that faces up is known as the “hole card” and it essentially gives players somewhat of an advantage in the game, improving their odds of winning.
After receiving their initial cards, players then have several options for making their next move. They may:
- Hit: Request another card to increase the total value of their hand.
- Stand: Choose to keep their current hand and end their turn.
- Double Down: Double the initial bet and receive only one extra card.
- Split: If both of the player’s cards have the same value, they can choose to split them and create two hands instead of one. They’ll be dealt another card to go with each of their original cards to form two hands.
Once all players have made their next move, the dealer then reveals their hole card and plays their hand according to the set rules. In most cases, the dealer must hit until they get 17 points or more, but the rules can vary by casino and even the table you’re playing at. If the dealer exceeds 21 points, known in the game as “busts”, all remaining players will automatically win.
Basic Strategies to Consider
Although the card game largely involves chance or “luck” as some would say, having a strategy can significantly improve your odds of outmaneuvering the dealer and winning the game. Here are a few to keep in mind:
- Learn all about Blackjack charts which help bettors know when to hit, stand, or double down.
- Practice playing Blackjack at home with friends with little or no wagers. By practicing, you’ll get more confident by the time you’re ready to wager on the real thing.
- Set a budget for your play sessions and ensure that you follow it. Know your risk-to-reward bankroll so you don’t end up chasing losses by betting more than you can afford to lose.
- Stay focused and calm. Avoid impulsive decisions based on emotions as this will help you stick to your strategy and give you the best chance of winning.
Winning and Losing
Winning in blackjack is pretty straightforward. If a player’s hand value is closer to 21 than the dealer’s hand without exceeding it, the player wins. Another way for the player to win is if the dealer busts and the player does not. However, if the player’s hand exceeds 21 points, they bust and lose their bet, regardless of the cards in the dealer’s hand.
While the principle of winning may seem simple, things can get tricky when players adopt complicated strategies. By understanding the basics, you can improve your chances as the game goes on and you could even end up winning big, just as some Holywood A-Listers have done.
So whether you’re playing around a table at a brick-and-mortar or online, mastering the basics of blackjack will undoubtedly give you the best hand in knowing how to win this popular card game.
