Online Blackjack
Blackjack has the most favorable odds of any casino game. It is a simple game to play and the rules are clear and easy to understand.
Blackjack is played with a regular deck of playing cards. The idea of Blackjack is to beat the dealer, Simple Enough?
There are 3 ways to win at Blackjack:
1) If your point total is higher than that of the dealer and neither of you exceed 21 points.
2) If your point total is lower than 21 and the dealer exceeds 21 points.
3) If you are dealt a natural Blackjack and the dealer isn't.
Selecting a Blackjack Table
Make sure you select a table that's betting limits are within your casino budget. Beginner Blackjack players should always start at the minimum tables so their Blackjack education isn't a costly one! Establish what your minimum starting amount will be and don't purchase more chips than that. Starting with a small stack that quickly disappears sends up a "red flag" that perhaps tonight isn't your night on the tables. This little red flag creates awareness.
Starting the Game of Blackjack:
In order to be dealt into a Blackjack game you must first place your initial wager. This signifies to the dealer that you are in the game. Blackjack tables are clearly marked so a player can visibly see the betting area.
The Blackjack Deal:
Blackjack tables can use one deck of cards or multiple decks of cards that are dealt from a "shoe". If you see a shoe at the table there will probably be at least 4 decks being used up to a maximum of 7 decks of cards. The more decks involved in the game the odds are increased for the casino. So be aware of the number of decks being used in your game of Blackjack.
The game begins with the dealer shuffling the decks and then flips a plastic card which will either be red or green to a player position. This card is to signify the dealer wants the player to "cut the deck". The dealer then extends all the decks so the player may slide the plastic card into the pile. After the deck is cut the dealer will discard the first one or two cards, this is referred to as "burning".
The Deal:
After the dealer burns the top card or cards he begins to distribute the cards to the players from left to right until each player has 2 cards. In one or two deck games the players cards are normally dealt face down. However most casinos use multiple decks and therefore the cards are typically dealt face up. In either case the dealer always has one card face up and one card face down. Once you receive your 2 cards it's time to calculate the value of your hand. Each card has a point value, 10's, Jacks, Queens; Kings are worth 10 points each. Ace's are worth either 1 point or 11 points. The remaining cards are worth their actual face value.
The Object of Blackjack:
The objective in Blackjack is to obtain a total of 21 points or as close to 21 as you can get without going over which is also known as "Busting". (If you bust you automatically lose). After evaluating your total points the dealer will give you the opportunity to take another card or stand with the cards you have. If you are happy with your initial cards you will tell the dealer you wish to stand. If you are unhappy with your first 2 cards then you may choose to take another card. This is referred to as a hit or draw. You may draw as many cards as you choose to as long as you don't go over 21 points. If you draw over 21 you are bust and out of the game and must forfeit your bet to the dealer. If you are satisfied with you cards and wish to stand the dealer will continue around the Blackjack table until all players have stood or taken additional cards. Once this is complete the dealer will then turn his 2nd card over on the table. The dealer may either choose to stand or draw another card. If your hand is closer to 21 than the dealers without busting you win your bet + your bet again. Ex: you bet $10.00/ you would win your $10.00 + an additional $10.00. If you lose you forfeit your bet to the dealer/house.
If your first 2 cards that are dealt are a natural Blackjack which consists of a jack and an ace than you automatically win.
Strategy:
The dealer is unable to draw another card if he has 17 points however if he has 16 points he must draw another card. The player may always choose whether he would like another card or to stand on his hand.
