A step-by-step guide to playing Blackjack online

Blackjack is a classic card game that’s grown further in popularity since debuting online. Starting out as a favourite in 17th-century casinos, it’s now available to play on the internet, and in real-life gaming rooms. The basic aim is simple – try to get your cards to add up as close to 21 as you can—without tipping over.

Blackjack basics you need to know

Whether you’re playing online Blackjack real money games or trying your chances at the local casino, your mission in Blackjack is to get your hand as close to 21 as possible. Each card has its own value: numbered cards count for what you see, face cards (Kings, Queens, and Jacks) are worth ten, while Aces can show up as either one or 11—whichever helps you most.

Each round kicks off with you and the dealer getting two cards each. You get to see both of yours, while the dealer puts one card face up and the other face down. The next move is up to you, but keep in mind there’s no surefire way to predict what’ll land next.

How to play Blackjack online

First, choose a trustworthy online casino. Look for sites with official licences and solid security—these help ensure that your games are fair and your personal details are safe.

Then, before any cards hit the digital felt, you’ll need to put down a bet.

After bets are placed, you get two cards while the dealer pops one face up for everyone to see. This sets the scene for your next choice. You could:

– Hit: Ask for another card and try to reach 21.
– Stand: Happy with your hand? Stick with it and end your turn.
– Double Down: Double your bet and take just one more card.
– Split: If you’ve got two cards of the same value, you can split them into two separate hands, but you’ll need to place another bet.

You’ll have to take your best guess, as there’s no way to know what’s coming next.

The dealer’s turn

Once everybody’s made their choice, it’s the dealer’s turn. The dealer flips over their hidden card and draws more cards if their hand is 16 or less, stopping once they hit 17 or above.

If your hand is nearer to 21 than the dealer’s (without going over), you win. If the dealer gets closer, you lose. If it’s a tie, it’s a draw.

No matter the outcome, there’s no way of predicting or influencing gameplay. That’s why you should always set limits on how much you wager and the time you spend. Most online casinos give you the tools to track your spending, set deposit limits, or even take breaks if you need to.

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Blackjack is a quick-to-learn card game that offers a mix of simple rules and chance. Whether you’re sitting at a real table or a virtual one, you’re always aiming for 21.