Blackjack is still one of the most widely played casino games today, with popularity that spans across land-based casino venues and online casino platforms. This classic card game has straightforward rules and combines both chance-based gameplay and decision-making.
The online version of Blackjack follows the same core principles as the traditional table game, except with a few extra mechanics and features in the digital format. With real-dealer Blackjack gaining traction online, our 101 guide will help you understand the game’s basic structure and how to play, no matter if you decide to play live Blackjack, a digital game, or visit a land-based venue.
Objective of the game
The primary aim of online Blackjack is to beat the dealer’s hand by getting your hand total as close to 21 as possible, without exceeding it. In online Blackjack, the dealer is the computer software.
You’re dealt an initial two cards, as is the dealer – although both your cards are face up while the dealer only has one card face up – and you must then make decisions on what to do with your hand to get as close to 21 as possible.
Card values
The card values in Blackjack are as follows:
- Number cards (2 through 10) are worth their face value.
- Face cards (Jack, Queen, King) are each worth 10.
- Aces can be worth either 1 or 11, depending on which value you think benefits your hand.
How player decisions work
Once you’ve added up the value of your initial cards, you have a range of options to take that can potentially strengthen your hand. The aim is to get as close to 21 as possible, but if you exceed it at any time, you “go bust” and lose the round.
The main options you can take are:
- Hit – Take another card.
- Stand – Keep your current hand and end your turn.
- Double down – Double your initial bet and receive one extra card only.
- Split – If you have two cards of the same value (like two 8s), you can split them into two hands and play them separately, but it requires an additional bet.
- Surrender – Only available in some versions, you give up half your bet and end the hand immediately.
After your turn, the dealer reveals the hole card and then must make decisions based on set rules – which can vary with different games. The standard rules dictate that the dealer must draw until their total reaches at least 17. In most online Blackjack variants, the dealer must stand on soft 17 (a hand totalling 17 that includes an Ace valued at 11).
Game outcomes and payouts
During a game of Blackjack, there are several possible outcomes. You win the round and receive a payout if:
- You get closer to 21 than the dealer
- The dealer goes bust
- You’re dealt a natural Blackjack (an Ace plus a 10-value card).
You lose the round if:
- The dealer’s hand is closer to 21
- You go bust
- The dealer receives a natural Blackjack
If there is a tie after both you and the dealer have ended your turns – also known as a push – your original bet is returned.
Blackjack variations online
When playing online Blackjack, you’ll come across many different versions of the game offered by regulated online casino providers. Each variation can have slight rule changes, so it’s important to check the specific game rules before playing. Common types include:
- European Blackjack: The dealer only receives one card initially and draws the second after you complete your hand.
- American Blackjack: The dealer receives both cards at the start, one of which is face down.
- Multi-hand Blackjack: You can play more than one hand at a time.
- Live dealer Blackjack: A game is streamed to your device from a dedicated studio setting featuring a real human dealer and physical cards.
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Blackjack remains a popular card game across online casino platforms, with a fresh blend of chance-based gameplay and player decisions. Now that you understand the basic rules, card values, and options during rounds, you’ll be able to play responsibly and never wager more than you can afford to lose
