What is Blackjack?
Blackjack is a popular casino card game that is also known as 21. Blackjack betting is played with between one and eight decks of cards. The main objective of the game is to beat the dealer by having a hand that is worth more points than the dealer’s hand, without exceeding a total of 21.
Each card has a point value, with numbered cards being worth their face value. Face cards (Jacks, Queens, and Kings) are worth 10 points and Aces are worth either 1 or 11 points, depending on your choice.
Take a look at the breakdown below:
- Ace: 1 or 11
- 2: 2
- 3: 3
- 4: 4
- 5: 5
- 6: 6
- 7: 7
- 8: 8
- 9: 9
- 10: 10
- Jack: 10
- Queen: 10
- King: 10
The Basic Rules of Blackjack
A new game of Blackjack begins with you, the player, receiving two cards. The dealer also receives two cards, one of which is face down. You have several options once this first phase of the game is complete.
- Hit: You can choose to “hit” and receive additional cards to improve your hand’s value or “stand” and keep your current hand.
- Stand: Standing means that you’re happy with the cards you’ve been dealt and will take no more.
- Double down: You can also choose to “double down”. This entails doubling your bet and taking one more card before standing.
- Split: This option is only available to you if both of your cards have the same value. It involves doubling your bet and having each card in your hand be the first card in a new hand.
For example, if you are dealt two 7s, you have the option to split them into two separate hands. You will then place a second bet, equal to your original bet, on the second hand. The dealer will then deal a second card to each of your split hands, and you will proceed to play each hand independently as you would in a regular blackjack game.
Blackjack Outcomes
There are several ways in which a Blackjack game can end. Let’s explore these below:
- If your hand exceeds 21 points, you lose the game regardless of the dealer’s hand.
- If the dealer’s hand exceeds 21 points, you win.
- If your hand is worth more points than the dealer’s hand without exceeding 21, you win.
- If the dealer’s hand is worth more points than your hand without exceeding 21, the dealer wins.
- If you and the dealer have hands of equal value, the game ends in a tie and your stake is returned.
How To Bet On Blackjack?
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to play blackjack at Hollywoodbets:
- Visit the Hollywoodbets website and navigate to Live Casino before selecting “Blackjack”.
- Find a blackjack table that suits your needs and select it to join the game.
- Wait for the current game to finish before you join in. This will give you an opportunity to observe the other players and the dealer and get a feel for how the game works.
- Once a new hand begins or you are comfortable enough with the game, place your bet in the designated area on the table. The dealer will then deal two cards face-up to each player and two cards to himself/herself, with one card face-up and one card face-down.
- Look at your cards and decide whether you want to “hit” (take another card) or “stand” (keep your current hand). The goal is to get as close to 21 as possible without going over.
- If you want to hit, simply select “hit”. The dealer will then deal you another card.
- If you want to stand, simply select “stand”. The dealer will then move on to the next player.
- Once all players have finished taking their turns, the dealer will reveal their face-down card. If the dealer’s hand is less than 17, they must hit until they reach at least 17. If the dealer’s hand exceeds 21, all remaining players win.
- If the dealer’s hand is greater than or equal to 17, the dealer will compare their hand to each player’s hand. If the player’s hand is higher than the dealer’s hand without going over 21, the player wins. If the dealer’s hand is higher or the player’s hand exceeds 21, the player loses.
- Collect your winnings if you win or place another bet to continue playing.
Tips for New Players
Remember, there are some additional rules and variations that may differ when you play live blackjack, so it’s always a good idea to familiarise yourself with the specific rules before playing:
Learn basic strategy, set a budget for how much money you are willing to risk and stick to it. Set a goal and limits for yourself and stop playing once you reach that goal. If you’re unsure about the rules, consult the rules section in your chosen game, usually represented by a small question mark in the top corner. Remember that blackjack is a game, and the most important thing is to have fun. Don’t get too caught up in winning or losing and enjoy the experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the basic rules of blackjack?
To play blackjack, you are given cards that hold their face value, and your aim is to get a hand value as close to 21 as possible without exceeding it. Exceeding 21 will result in you losing the game. The rules of blackjack are straightforward, get as close to 21 as possible without going over it.
How can I win in blackjack?
If you want to increase your chances of winning at blackjack, it is recommended to review some blackjack strategy guides. Overall, it is always a good idea to go through the how-to-guides and start familiarising yourself with blackjack betting before you start playing. In addition to guides, you can also watch the behaviours of other players to get an idea of when you should hit or stand.
