Blackjack

Blackjack is a popular casino card game where the objective is to beat the dealer by having a hand value closer to 21 without going over. Here’s how to play:

Basic Rules

1. The game is played with one or more standard 52-card decks.
2. Card values: Number cards (2-10) are worth their face value, face cards (Jack, Queen, King) are worth 10, and Aces can be worth 1 or 11.
3. Players place their bets before the cards are dealt.
4. Each player and the dealer receive two cards. Players’ cards are typically face-up, while the dealer has one card face-up and one face-down.

Gameplay

1. Players take turns deciding whether to “hit” (take another card) or “stand” (keep their current hand).
2. Players can continue to hit until they’re satisfied with their hand or until they “bust” (exceed 21).
3. After all players have completed their turns, the dealer reveals their face-down card and hits or stands according to specific rules (usually hitting on 16 or below and standing on 17 or above).

Winning and Losing

1. If a player’s hand exceeds 21, they bust and lose their bet immediately.
2. If the dealer busts, all remaining players win.
3. If neither busts, the hand closest to 21 wins.
4. A “blackjack” (an Ace with a 10-value card) on the initial two cards is the best hand and typically pays 3:2.

Additional Rules

1. Doubling Down: Players can double their bet and receive one more card.
2. Splitting: If dealt two cards of the same value, players can split them into two separate hands.
3. Insurance: If the dealer’s face-up card is an Ace, players can place a side bet against the dealer having a blackjack.

Basic Strategy Tips

1. Always split Aces and 8s.
2. Always hit on hard 11.
3. Hit on soft 18 (Ace-7) when the dealer’s upcard is 9, 10, or Ace.
4. Double down on 10 when the dealer’s upcard is 9 or less.