Blackjack rules
The game is played with one or more decks of 52 cards. Each card is assigned a point value. Numbered cards (2-10) are worth their face value. Face cards (Jack, Queen, King) are worth 10 points. An Ace can be worth either 1 or 11 points, depending on which value benefits the player's hand the most. To begin a round, each player places a bet. The dealer then deals two cards to each player, face up, and two cards to themselves, one face up and one face down (the "hole card").
Gameplay and Decisions
After the initial deal, players make decisions that determine their hand's value. Players aim to get as close to 21 as possible without "busting," which means going over. Players have a number of options depending on game variations. The most common actions or decisions are: "Hit", "Stand", "Double Down", and "Split".
Hit, Stand, and Double Down
If you choose to "hit," you request another card from the dealer. You can hit as many times as you like until you either "stand" or bust. If you are satisfied with your hand's total, you "stand," and the dealer moves on to the next player. "Double down" allows you to double your initial bet and receive only one more card. This is typically done when you have a strong starting hand.
Splitting Hands
If you are dealt two cards of the same value (e.g., two 8s), you can "split" them into two separate hands by placing an additional bet equal to your initial bet. You then play each hand separately. This can be a strong strategy when you have a pair of high-value cards.
Key Blackjack Terms
Familiarizing yourself with the following terms will improve your blackjack experience:
- Soft Hand: A hand containing an Ace counted as 11.
- Hard Hand: A hand without an Ace, or the Ace is counted as 1.
- Bust: Exceeding a hand value of 21.
- Insurance: A side bet offered when the dealer's upcard is an Ace, paying 2:1 if the dealer has blackjack.
- Push: A tie between the player and the dealer.