Basic Rules that Every Blackjack Player Should Know
Blackjack is one of the most common attractions in every casino. Players around the world know the thrill and satisfaction they can get when they beat the dealer and win huge prizes in this game of luck. Although the game’s popularity gave life to other blackjack variants, the basic premise of blackjack remains the same. Whether you are playing games in Free Play mode or with real-money bets, make sure to know how this iconic game works by learning these standard rules.
Blackjack Card Values
The game uses a standard 52-deck card. Normally, some players use only one to two decks, but most casinos level up the fun by combining six to eight decks, excluding jokers. Here are the corresponding values that the cards hold in blackjack:
- Cards 2 to 10 are worth their face value or the number indicated on the card.
- Face Cards, or the King, Queen, and Jack, equate to 10
- Aces are valued as either 1 or 11
The suits and colors of the cards do not hold any significance in the game. Your cards’ points are the sum of their values. An Ace card is a special case because it can be worth 1 or 11, depending on the circumstances. You can choose whichever value will make the best hand.
Basic Gameplay
Your objective when playing blackjack is simple – beat the dealer’s hand without your cards going over 21 points. If you go over that value, then your hand is busted and you automatically lose the game.
At the beginning of the game, the players and the dealer will receive two cards, which can face up or down, depending on the casino’s rules. Normally, one of the dealer’s cards is exposed. Your next move can be:
- Blackjack or Natural
If the sum of your first two cards is 21, then you have a Blackjack or Natural. This is the best hand you can get in the game. If the dealer does not have the same value of cards, you win. Otherwise, the round is tied and the chips will remain in play.
- Hit or Stand
A Hit means adding another card to your hand. You can ask for as many cards as you like as long as you do not go over 21. A Stand, on the other hand, is deciding to gamble with the cards that you have.
- Double Down
Double Down option is applicable if you have a good hand. You can double your initial bet and ask for another card. This is commonly used when the probability of getting a bust from drawing a card is zero. For instance, you have an 8 or 3; you will not get a bust even if you draw a 10, which holds the highest value among the cards in the deck.
- Split the Cards into Pairs
You can split your cards into two hands if they hold the same value. But take note that you have to add another wager, which should be the same as your initial bet, for the second hand. Again, you can draw as many cards as you like if your first two cards are not Aces. Take note, though, that you can draw only one card for each Ace.
- Surrender
This blackjack rule gives you the chance to retreat when you have a lousy hand. You just need to surrender half the amount of your wager. The catch is, you cannot use this option after you ask for a draw.
- Insurance
When the dealer’s exposed card is an Ace, you can opt for an Insurance bet. This usually amounts to half of your original wager. In addition, this side bet is treated separately from your original bet. If the dealer has a 10, Jack, King, or Queen, you will win a prize that is twice the amount of your insurance. Otherwise, you lose all your insurance bet.
The basic rules of blackjack, combined with the entertainment and anticipation it gives, makes the game one of the most iconic casino games. Make the most out of your blackjack experience by knowing these rules by heart. With the help of this guide, you can hit, split, and get the chance to win big in blackjack. Test your luck by playing this game today.
Other than knowing the basic rules of blackjack, you can learn more easy game guides, tips, and tutorials to maximize your betting sessions. Just visit HappiStar Tips and enjoy!
Share this page
