How to play online Blackjack
Blackjack is one of the most famous casino games of all time. With fairly simple gameplay and a history that dates back to the 1700s – it’s no wonder the game is classed as a classic.
Also known as Twenty-One, the aim of any land-based and online Blackjack game is to beat the dealer. You can do this by creating a value of 21 – or as close as possible – with the cards that have been dealt to you. Creating a value higher than 21, however, will cause you to go ‘bust’.
In 1996, the first online casino to allow automated payouts took to our screens. Blackjack was one of the first games to feature in the debut. Since then, popularity of the game has increased, with it being easier to access than ever before.
So, without further ado, join us to discover how you can play Blackjack online…
Finding which game to play
When first logging into your chosen online casino site, you could find lots of different Blackjack variations to choose from.
Depending on your preferred style of gameplay, you’ll probably want to find the one with the lowest minimum bet, and where six decks of 52 cards are in use.
On average, a game of Blackjack will use between six and eight decks of playing cards.
You could decide to try live Blackjack online, where a real-life dealer will be hosting the game, directly from a specially designed studio. Alternatively, you could stick to the digital games, run by a Random Number Generator (RNG).
Either way, the aim of the game remains the same.
How to play
Once you’ve selected the game you wish to play, you’ll want to place your bets. It’s important to bear in mind that online Blackjack follows the same rules as land-based Blackjack.
It’s a good idea to brush up on basic strategy before playing. You can have access to basic strategy cards at the Blackjack table, which should guide you on the best option for each potential hand you could hold, although it never guarantees a win.
To start, the dealer will deal each player a card, face-up, in a clockwise direction. They will deal themselves a face-up card, and then proceed to hand out another face-up card to each player, before placing their second card face-down.
From your first two cards, you’ll want to add up the value, to get as close to 21 as possible – without going over. Number cards are represented at face value – Jacks, Queens and Kings are worth 10, and Aces can be either 11 or one, depending on which best suits your hand.
You’ll then get the chance to either “stand” and stick with the cards you have, “hit” and ask for another card, “split” your hand into two, “double down” on your bet, or “fold” and drop out of the game.
Once everyone is happy with their cards and decisions, the dealer will reveal their face-down card and the winner will be announced.
Now you know how to play Blackjack online, do you think you’ll be trying your chances anytime soon?