How to Play Blackjack: The Ultimate Guide for Newbies

Blackjack, also known as 21, is one of the most popular casino card games in the world. It’s popular because it’s not just a game of chance; strategic decisions can significantly impact the outcome. This guide will cover the basics to get you started.

The Objective of the Game

To win, you must create a hand that beats the dealer’s hand and does not “bust” (go over 21). If your hand total exceeds 21, you “bust” and immediately lose your bet. It’s a common misconception that the goal is to get as close to 21 as possible.

How Cards are Scored

• The Number Cards: Are worth their face value.
• Face Cards (Jack, Queen, King): Are each worth 10 points.
• Ace: This card is special; it can be 1 or 11. This flexibility creates what is known as a “soft” hand.

How a Round Works

After placing your bet, you and the dealer are each dealt two cards. Players’ cards are dealt face up, while the dealer reveals just one of their two cards. Your turn consists of choosing one of the following actions:

1. Hit: To take another card.
2. Stay: To take no more cards and casino end your turn.
3. Double: You double your wager, casino but you are committed to taking just one final card. This is usually a good option when your first two cards total 9, casino 10, or 11.
4. Split a Pair: This option is available when you have a pair, casino allowing you to play them as two independent hands. This requires an additional bet equal to your original wager.

Playing Smart

You can improve your results by learning the game’s strategy. Decades of computer simulations have determined the best possible move in every situation, which is known as basic strategy. These charts are your guide to making the right mathematical play every time. Adhering to basic strategy minimizes the casino‘s advantage to under 1%, one of the lowest edges available.