Blackjack is probably the most recognizable game in gambling – this guide will teach you how to play Blackjack, covering basic rules, card values and then introducing you to some advanced strategies.
Blackjack is quite easy to learn. Learn the basic rules and moves, and you are good to go.
The Basics of Blackjack
Blackjack is a card game where you compete against the dealer. The objective is simple: get a hand value as close to 21 as possible without exceeding it. Both you and the dealer get two cards to start, and you decide whether to “hit” for more cards or “stand” with what you have.
Your aim is to beat the dealer’s hand. If you go over 21, you “bust” and lose instantly. On the flip side, if the dealer busts, anyone still in the game wins. Keep in mind that Blackjack tables come in different forms and rules, so it’s essential to check the specifics at each casino.
Blackjack is perfect for all levels of players. If you’re a beginner, the basic rules are easy to grasp. And if you’re a seasoned player, understanding advanced strategies can give you a significant edge.
So, to summarize: you can win by:
- Getting a value higher than the dealer (e.g: 10 and 15)
- The dealer getting a value over 21
- By getting 21 on your first 2 cards
The Card Values
In Blackjack, card values are straightforward. Cards from 2 to 10 are worth their face value. Jacks, Queens, and Kings are worth 10 points each. Aces can be either 1 or 11, depending on which value helps your hand the most. Simple, right?
The most potent hand in Blackjack is an “Ace” and a “10” card (10, Jack, Queen, King), known as a “Blackjack.” This unbeatable hand pays 1.5x your original bet, unless the dealer also has a Blackjack, in which case it’s a push, and you get your bet back.
| Card Type | Value | Notes |
| Number Cards (2-10) | Face value | 2 is worth 2 points, 3 is worth 3 points, etc. |
| Face Cards (J, Q, K) | 10 | Jack, Queen and King are worth 10 points. |
| Ace | 1 or 11 | Depends on what benefits the hand more |
Here’s where it gets interesting. When you get an Ace and any card less than 10, you’ve got a “soft hand.” Soft hands offer more flexibility because you can choose whether your Ace counts as 1 or 11. Mastering when to opt for each value comes with experience.
How a Round Works
At the beginning of a round, each player places a bet. Then, the dealer hands out two cards to each player and two cards for themselves, usually one face up and one face down. Now, it’s your turn to make a decision based on the total value of your two cards and the dealer’s face-up card.
You can “hit” and take an additional card, or “stand” and keep your total. You can also “double down,” which means doubling your initial bet and taking only one more card. There’s also the option to “split” if you have two identical cards, creating two separate hands (additional rules and limitations may apply).
Learn when you should double down or split in these articles.
After all players have acted, the dealer reveals their face-down card and plays their hand according to fixed rules, generally standing on 17 or higher and hitting on 16 or lower. After the dealer’s turn, winners and losers are determined.
Blackjack Strategies
Strategy in Blackjack revolves around the “basic strategy,” a mathematically sound approach that outlines the best decisions based on your cards and the dealer’s face-up card. You can find basic strategy charts online, but the core principle is to hit, stand, double down, or split based on maximizing your chance of a win.
Here is a total guide to Blackjack strategies, from the basics to advanced ones..
Remember, Blackjack is a game of both skill and luck. The more you understand the rules and strategies, the better your chances of winning. Whether you’re new or an old hand, there’s always something new to learn in the captivating game of Blackjack.
