Blackjack is more popular than it ever has been. With the help of the internet and advancements in technology, people playing blackjack has grown exponentially over the past two decades.
The objective of the game is simply having higher cards than the dealer without going over 21.
For players new to the game, here are some basic rules and terminology you would be advised to learn before jumping in:
Card Values
2-10 = Face Value
Jacks, Queens and Kings = 10
Aces = 1 or 11
The card suits are irrelevant.
Terminology
“Blackjack” – An ace with a card worth 10 points gives you the desired total of 21.
“Bust” = Going over 21.
Hit” = Draw another card from the dealer.
“Hole” = The dealer’s card that is dealt face down.
“Stand” = Stick with what you have and take no more cards.
How to Play
Players place their bets by putting their desired number of chips on the mat in front of their sit in a comfortable range for the dealer. All of this is done automatically when playing online. You can check for yourself by playing a free game or real money at a trusted online casino, such as: https://casino.paddypower.com/c/blackjack
Once all the players have entered their desired bets, the dealer will deal two cards face up to each of the participants. The dealer gives himself one card face up and one card face down.
Any player who has 21 from their first two cards wins straightaway provided the dealer’s revealed card isn’t a 10 or an Ace.
Players are then asked if they want to hit or stand. Is their total so close to 21 that they don’t want to go bust? Or do they want to take the risk of getting even closer to the desired total?
You can indicate to the deal what you want verbally, by saying “hit” or “stand”, or by tapping the table to indicate “hit” or making a motion to notify the deal that you want to take no more cards.
Once all the participating players have made their decision the dealer will reveal his card in the hole. If their total is below 15 then they must hit until the number is between 15-21 or is bust. If they go bust then all of the remaining players who did not go bust, win. If the dealer’s first two cards calculate to a total of 15-21 then they must stand.
Payouts are based on the outcome. Winners double their money whilst those with blackjack get paid out 3 to 2. Should the player and dealer both get blackjack or the same number then it is a push and no chips exchange hands.
You are also allowed to double your bet after receiving your first two cards. You do this by placing additional chips next to your original bet. Should you do this then you receive only one additional card.
Likewise, you can split your cards if they are of the same number. This is a popular choice among players who have received a pair of 10s or Aces. To do this, simply place an equal bet alongside your first bet. Your cards are then separated by the dealer and you are given an additional card to complete each hand. You can call hit or stand for each.
