Blackjack is one of the simplest forms of card games found throughout any casino. The goal of the game is to not let your hand go over 21 points while concurrently be higher than the dealer. If the hand goes over, it’s called a bust and the player / dealer will lose the game. In essence, it is one of the games in which you’ll be betting against the casino and the chances of winning increases with the use of various strategies. In this article, we’ll go through the basic rules and re-learn the fundamentals of Blackjack so that you’ll be able to refresh your mind on how the game works or even pick-up a skill for your next game.
Scoring system and how to keep track of your points
The biggest consideration to make in the game always occurs from your starting hands. When the initial cards are dealt, always keep in mind of the following points:
- Face Cards such as Kings, Queens and Jacks are counted as 10 points,
- numbered cards are ranged from 2 – 10 points based on the card number
- Ace can be considered as 11 or 1 point depending on the situation.
- The name of the game (Blackjack) is based on the players getting a face card and an Ace. (Which is equivalent to 21 points).
Always remember that in this game, unlike playing against opponents in Poker, you’re always playing against the dealer. Therefore, as a beginner, try not to focus on other players and only focus on your cards versus the dealers’.
Standing still versus hitting it off with the dealer
Once the cards are dealt to both the players and the dealer, players have the option of choosing to stand or to hit.
- To stand means to keep the cards you have and hold your position on the number of points you have against the dealer.
- To hit means that you’ll be dealt with an additional card to increase your points.
In the event if you think your cards do not have enough value (less than 11), it’ll always be advisable to “hit” and try your luck. However, if you’re at 18, 19 or even 20. The probability of getting high cards are stronger and it is advisable for you to stand.
Here’s the kicker, even if you have 18, 19 or 20 points, you may still have chances in winning as the dealer may sometimes have lesser points or bust their hands by having more than 21 points.
Doubling down, Splitting or Surrendering
Sometimes, there are also options that you can choose which are to Double Down, Split or surrender. By doubling down, you’ll be adding an additional bet for an extra card. This will increase your winning if you win. Other than that, Splitting can only be done when you have two cards of the same rank (i.e. two face cards, or two cards with the same point), you’ll be receiving two additional cards while placing a side bet so that you’ll be playing with two independent hands. With this, both bets and their winnings are also independent.
Surrendering on the other hand varies between the rules of the casino so be sure to ask the house or read the rules first before going for this option. But once it’s selected, you’ll be going out of the game by giving up half of your original bet.
Practicing & Perfecting
Once you get the hang of the rules, you’ll definitely need to take some time to practice playing. And one of the best online gaming sites that you can use is Maxim88. As a new player, you’ll be receiving sign-up bonuses and many other benefits including additional credits on top of the cash you put into the platform. You can even practice by playing with a demo account with them. Sign up now by pressing the referral button below: