What is Blackjack?
Blackjack is one of the most popular casino card games in the world. The objective is simple: beat the dealer by getting a hand value closer to 21 without going over.
Basic Rules
- Each player receives two cards face up
- The dealer receives one card face up and one face down
- Number cards are worth their face value, face cards are worth 10, aces are worth 1 or 11
- Players can hit (take another card) or stand (keep their current hand)
- Going over 21 is a "bust" — you lose automatically
- The dealer must hit on 16 or less and stand on 17 or more
Basic Strategy
Basic strategy reduces the house edge to approximately 0.5%. Key decisions:
- Always split aces and 8s
- Never split 10s or 5s
- Double down on 11 unless the dealer shows an ace
- Hit on soft 17 or less
- Stand on hard 17 or more
Blackjack Variants
- Classic Blackjack — Standard rules, best for beginners
- European Blackjack — Dealer gets second card after player stands
- Blackjack Switch — Play two hands, can swap top cards
- Spanish 21 — No 10s in the deck, more bonus payouts
Tips for Online Blackjack
- Always use basic strategy
- Avoid insurance bets
- Manage your bankroll carefully
- Choose tables with favorable rules (3:2 blackjack, dealer stands on soft 17)