Blackjack: The King of Casino Table Games

Blackjack reigns supreme as the most popular casino table game, readily available at virtually every online casino. Its relatively low house edge and manageable variance make it a smart choice for bonus play (where permitted).

Gameplay and Rules

Card values in Blackjack are summed to determine hand totals. For instance, a 4, 5, and 6 total 15. Face cards are worth 10, while Aces flexibly count as either 1 or 11 (an Ace and a 7 can be 8 or 18). The goal? Achieve the highest hand total without exceeding 21 (a "bust," resulting in an automatic loss). A two-card 21 is a coveted Blackjack, paying 3:2, while other winning hands pay 1:1.

After betting, both player and dealer receive two cards; one of the dealer's cards is face-up. Standard rules dictate a dealer peek for Blackjack if their up-card is an Ace or a 10-value card. If the dealer shows an Ace, the player can purchase "insurance" against a dealer Blackjack (paying 2:1 if the dealer's hidden card is a 10 or face card). However, except in specific scenarios (like a ten-rich deck in multi-hand games, or when card counting), insurance is generally disadvantageous due to its high house edge (2-15%, varying by deck and cards played). See the dedicated insurance exceptions page for details. A dealer Blackjack ends the hand immediately. Otherwise, the player chooses their action:

• Stand: Keep current cards.
• Hit: Draw another card (multiple hits allowed until bust or 21).
• Double: Double the bet and draw one more card (hand ends after this card). Doubling is only permitted on a two-card hand.
• Split: If holding two cards of equal value, split them into two separate hands, doubling the initial bet. Each hand receives another card. Splitting Aces ends the hand after the second card. Other splits allow hitting, standing, or doubling on each resulting hand (a second split may also be allowed).

Strategic Play

Despite complex rules, optimal Blackjack strategy is surprisingly straightforward. Unlike some games, there are no strategic card selection choices. The focus is on when to hit, stand, double, or split. Detailed strategy charts are widely available online to guide players towards maximizing their chances of winning.