Blackjack is a card game where players compete against the dealer for money. The game has many different rules and variations, but the goal is the same: to beat the dealer by having the better hand.
The Player
During the first round of play, each player is dealt two cards face down and has the option to hit or stand. If a player decides to hit, they will be given another card; if they choose to stand, they will not be given any additional cards.
The Dealer
Once the cards are dealt, the dealer begins the game by checking his or her hole card. If this is an ace, the dealer will ask for “insurance” wagers. If the dealer has a blackjack, players who have placed insurance wagers will be paid 2 to 1 on their original bets.
Basic Strategy
The player’s objective is to obtain a total hand value that exceeds the dealer’s without exceeding 21. This can be done by combining a pair of aces with a 10-card or a face card. This is called a natural and is the best possible hand in Blackjack.
If the player’s hand is equal to or less than 21, then the game is considered a draw, and no players are rewarded for their efforts. However, if the dealer’s hand is equal to or greater than 21, then the players who did not bust win immediately.
When the dealer’s hand exceeds 21, all players who did not bust are rewarded with an amount of money that matches their original bet from the dealer’s bank. If the dealer’s hand ties with a player’s, the player and the dealer both lose their bets.
Surrender
When a player has a poor hand and does not want to lose any more money, they may surrender their hand. This allows them to reclaim their initial bet, and it is important for them to do this when they have an ace or 10 showing.
One Card Split aces: The player is allowed to split the same ace into two hands, but only if the resulting hands have the same value. Several casinos restrict this ability to a single ace or to cards that rank as 10-valued.
Doubling down: When a player has two cards with the same value, they can double their bet on the first hand. The player then gets to take another card on the second hand and continue the game.
If a player has two aces and one card, they can also double down. This is an excellent way to increase the amount of money that you can win, as it gives you more chances of winning a large hand.
The Dealer
The dealer in a Blackjack game stands behind a table and a chip rack. The players sit on either side of the dealer. The game can be played with varying numbers of players, but most casinos accommodate 7 to 12 spots.
Dealer interaction
When playing a high limit game, the dealer can have a significant impact on the mood of the game. If the dealer is friendly and courteous, it can make for a fun game and help you feel more comfortable at the table. If the dealer is hostile, it can make the game less enjoyable for you and others at the table.