Some call it Ving-et-un, while others call it 21. Either way, in the digital casino age, the goal is to still get to 21 for 3:2 payouts. Compared to other, more glamorous table games, blackjack keeps calling for those looking to gain experience playing card games. This guide is about providing expert tips for more successful outcomes when playing at the blackjack table.
Understanding the Blackjack Rules
Thanks to technology, we can play blackjack at home, or anywhere, 24/7. However, before you jump into playing blackjack with real money, it’s important to first familiarize yourself with all of the basic blackjack rules. The overall goal of the game is to get as close to the number 21 without busting over it and having a higher-valued total than the dealer.
You do so by deciding when to hit or stand, or double down, or split, or exercise any of the other blackjack side bets. Busting means having a score higher than 21, which means an automatic loss. This also applies to the dealer.
It’s possible to play blackjack so that you and the dealer finish with an identical playing hand. This results in a push. Unlike baccarat, where players can actually bet on the tie, the player’s original bet is returned to them. This is also true if both have 21. However, with Spanish 21, the player’s blackjack always pays out.
Regardless of the blackjack variants at traditional or social casinos, each player gets two cards, as does the dealer. Except for European Blackjack, the dealer gets both cards up front. The first card is the upcard, which helps players decide to hit or stand. Hitting or standing are two essential ways players maneuver during the playing round to win.
In conventional wisdom, if the upcard is an ace, most games give the player the option to take insurance. This means an additional bet to possibly prevent losing half of your winnings. However, if you wind up winning the hand, you still lose that insurance bet, so it is not highly recommended.
Know How To Count the Cards
Counting blackjack cards is straightforward. Aces count for both eleven or one point in two or more card-playing hands. Tens and the royalty cards all count for ten points. Cards two through nine carry their face value.
Know When to Hit
To hit is to draw another card. There is no limit for hitting, however, you run the risk of busting for each hit, so use it sparingly. Also, the dealer must hit until they get to 17 or better if their first two cards are a soft 17. Also, the dealer can bust as well.
If you’re playing hand is worth eleven points or less, always hit. You don’t have to worry about busting. Finishing with a low-playing hand might lead to a loss.
Know When to Stand
Being too aggressive in hitting might mean going bust. So, knowing when to stand is essential. If you’re playing a hand worth 13 or more, conventional wisdom says to stand, because if you draw a nine or ten, you’ll bust. You can also bust with a 12, but getting an eight puts you at 20, and a nine puts you at 21 for a 3:2 payout.
Doubling Down
Doubling down is to draw one final card during the playing round. However, you must match your original bet. Doubling down can lead to busting, so if you’re playing hand is worth twelve or more, it is not advised. However, if it is worth 11, feel free to double down because you don’t have to worry about busting. Doubling down below 11 might lead to a weak playing hand and an ultimate loss.
Splitting
The appeal of playing blackjack is the chance to play two hands at the same time. If you have a pair of the same rank, most blackjack games support splitting. You must match your original bet. However, the chance to win double is impressive. I always split aces, nines, and eights. Usually, you can only split once. If you have a pair of tens, consider standing on it, because you are one point away from 21.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions About Playing Blackjack
Is blackjack hard to play?
Blackjack is one of the easiest and most popular card games for beginners. Players don’t compete against each other. Instead, they go against the dealer.
What happens if I tie?
Your original bet is returned to you.
Can I surrender my cards?
Online blackjack x-change supports selling or paying additional fees to surrender weak playing hands to avoid significant losses.