A Brief Explanation of How to Play Blackjack

Old but still good blackjack is gaining popularity thanks to online casino platforms. Players only need to make a few decisions, and with a few blackjack strategies, you can reduce the already narrow house edge even more. This handy how to play blackjack in casino guide covers everything from the game's objective to blackjack etiquette. In addition to discussing the basics of playing the game, we will provide you with unique secrets of gambling online at casinos such as King Billy. Continue scrolling down to look like a pro at the blackjack table.

What Is the Main Objective of Blackjack

In Blackjack, the main aim is to beat the hand of the dealer without exceeding 21. During the game, each player goes against the dealer – not against each other. In a particular round, the gambler aims to get a hand above the dealer's (without busting or exceeding 21). You can only win your wager if you beat the dealer. Gamblers determine their hand's value by adding the value of points to the cards they have.

How Cards Work in Blackjack

You don't have to worry about your hand total if you're a beginner because it is simple. There's no difference in whether cards are dealt in the same suit or a mix. Here is the numerical value of cards in Blackjack online.

• 2-10: Points are the number listed on the card. For instance, seven is worth 7 points.
• Queen, Jack, and Queen: Worth 10 points.
• Ace: Worth 1 or 11 points. You get to choose this as the player.
• Getting an Ace and a 10, Queen, Jack, or King gives you 21 points or a Blackjack.

Now that you know how to calculate the value of blackjack cards, follow these simple steps to place your wagers.

Choose a Table and Join

To play Blackjack, sign up at your favourite casino and choose a table in the Blackjack section. Once everyone is ready, the dealer will deal two cards facing up to each player. The croupier also receives the same number of cards, but one is facing down and the other up.

Players Decide Whether to Stand or Hit

You do this by working out your hand's value and that of the croupier. Ensure you don't bust. We will learn more about Standing or Hitting the rules section, so continue scrolling. Our tips will also help you in making this decision. The decision you make gives you a new hand value. You can stay in the game if the hand value exceeds 21.

Croupier Shows Their Cards

After all the gamblers at the table decide, the Blackjack croupier reveals their card facing down.

Revelation of the Player Closer to 21

If your hand is greater than the dealer's and is not higher than 21, you bust the croupier and land a win. However, if the croupier gets 21 or a number closer to 21 than any of the gamblers, the croupier wins. The type of wager you placed determines your payout amount.

Blackjack Rules You Need to Remember

Now that you know the basics of how to play Blackjack in casino, there are specific rules you need to master. Players need to know what payouts they'll receive in several scenarios of the blackjack game and the right moves to make depending on their hand's value. Here are the additional blackjack rules each player needs to learn.

Regular Wins Payout 1:1

These are wins where your card's value is closer to 21 than the dealer's.

Blackjack Wins Payout 3:2

You get a blackjack win when the value of your cards equals 21.

The 16 And Below Rule

The croupier should hit on any hand worth 16 points and down.

Stand or Hit

When you decide to hit, you make the basic option of getting another blackjack card in your hand. You can also stand if you think your hand value is favourable.

Split or Double Down

As the name suggests, splitting is turning your hand into two different hands to give a better opportunity to beat the dealer. The best moment for doing this is having two cards with similar values. On the other hand, doubling down is doubling your wager mid-hand. However, you get only one card, with no option to add another. Our experts don't necessarily recommend this move if you have other cards other than an 11 or/and 10.

The main thing about the Blackjack Etiquette

As we've mentioned, learning blackjack rules, a basic strategy, and playing options is one of the most vital aspects of the game. While all this is crucial for you to learn how to play Blackjack for beginners successfully, there are several blackjack etiquettes you should follow. If you're a novice and need help understanding these dos and don'ts or rules around the game's table, there is a high chance of needing clarification. Mastering these etiquettes will ensure you're not embarrassed at the table and enhance your entertainment level. Here are the do's and don'ts you need to observe around the blackjack table.

Never Give Your Money to The Professional Dealer

The rule mostly applies to players visiting physical casinos. However, when playing live dealer blackjack, the etiquette might apply. While at the blackjack table, never hand cash to the croupier, as most casinos don't allow that. To join a blackjack game, you only need to wait for the end of the current round and place your money on the table. The pro croupier then spreads the cash out and ensures they get counted in front of live cameras before handing equivalent chips to your area. The dealer only needs to know the value of the chips you desire to buy.

You Don't Hold Cards with Both Hands

All players should hold their cards with one hand if they have to. Providers created this rule to prevent blackjack card switching. The idea is it's easier to switch cards with two hands compared to one.

Always Keep Your Cards on The Table

Player cards should always be at the table at all times. The security cameras, the dealer, and other players should be able to get a full view of your cards.

Players Should Never Touch Their Chips After the Croupier Calls "No More Wagers"

After placing bets and the croupier has dealt the cards, players should only touch their chips at the end of the game. You only collect your chips if you land a win; the croupier collects them if you lose.

If the Dealer Deals the Cards Face Up, Never Touch Them

In the shoe-dealt blackjack variant, where gamblers get both cards facing up, and the dealer gets one blackjack card facing down and the other facing up, you should never touch the cards. You only need to indicate whether you're standing or hitting by a hand sign to add a card or wave if you want to stand. Only the dealer can move or change the location of the chips and cards.

Always Signal Decisions, Don't Say

Because there are live security cameras, players should utilize hand signals to let the dealer know if they desire to stand or hit. There needs to be more than a word of mouth. It would be best if you made a signal for the cameras to see. The croupier will demonstrate the sign you need to use for novice players. You can also observe what other players are doing.

Asking the Croupier's Advice Is Perfectly Fine

Most dealers employ friendly and professional croupiers ready to tell you if a play is mathematically correct if you need clarification. The dealer's job is not to take your money. They are supposed to run the game professionally. A good blackjack dealer is always friendly and encouraging. It's one of the reasons why good winners remember to tip the dealers.

Arrange Your Chips in An Orderly Manner

Don't be selfish to other players and take a huge space at the table. Place the chips with higher denominations at the bottom of your stack for easy viewing.

Tipping the Blackjack Dealer Is Always Nice

Remember tipping dealers before leaving the table, even after losing some cash. It is customary to do that while playing roulette. Since you can't hand a croupier money, you place the amount you want to tip on the table to ensure everyone knows the purpose of the cash.

Don't Advice Other Players at The Table on How to Play Blackjack in Casino

Giving advice or teaching other players how to play Blackjack at the table needs to be corrected. Only try to advise if someone asks.

Utilize A Basic Strategy

By mastering the basic strategy of Blackjack, you can reap huge rewards. Having a basic system and sticking to it will always enhance your winning chances and reduce the house edge.

Switch Off Gadgets That Might Cause A Distraction

Whether you are playing against a live dealer at the land of King Billy or a land-based casino, switching off your mobile phone or any other gadget is a common courtesy. If you must answer, make your conversation brief.

Different Blackjack Variations and Side Bets

You'll find many variants of the game when you're learning how to play online Blackjack. Depending on where you play, you can choose games such as Blackjack Switch, Pontoon, or Progressive. Some casinos ensure their games come with slight alterations to make them stand out from the standard blackjack game. Some might add bonuses and side bets.

Players can place side bets alongside their main chance or forego them. These optional bets lose or win independently. They can place side wagers on two cards dealt to the blackjack dealer or other player, or four or three of a kind, or if the croupier will bust. Side bets and multiple variations are appealing to most players looking for something extra, such as quick-paced action that requires skill.

Here are notable blackjack variations you can try out:

Perfect Pairs

The version is also known as Perfect Blackjack and is a standard variant of a deck game but also features the perfect pairs side wager (optional). The rules and features are similar to the standard game version.

Blackjack Surrender

The version features the standard eight decks but allows players to surrender their cards before playing. The betting options and blackjack card values are the same as the traditional Blackjack. You use the surrender option after the blackjack deal of two cards. After surrendering, the house returns half your stake. The feature helps gamblers opt out of playing a poor hand.

Blackjack Switch

Most players like this game thanks to its exciting and intriguing features. It's played on 6/8 decks. The betting options and card values are the same as in the standard version. However, there are no other similarities. How croupiers play their hand differs in Switch regarding losing wagers, payouts, and when the croupier takes a card. In this version, players play two hands – they can switch the top card of every hand before playing them. The advantage is you have two wagers, and the possibility of changing cards enhances your winning odds. In this version, both the two cards of the Blackjack dealer face up. It plays with six decks shuffled before each round. The main difference is when the croupier has to stand on the first blackjack deal. The player is automatically until they bust or lose. Players can stand or hit like in the standard game if the croupier doesn't have to stand on the first blackjack deal.

Different blackjack variations come with rules, side bets, and other options. It's important to master the laws of the version you want to play before hitting the tables.

How to Play Blackjack for Beginners Guide

When playing Blackjack online, it's easy to exhaust all your bankroll at the table if you need to be more careful. However, we care about you, and if you follow these tips, you'll be playing like a pro within no time. The game of Blackjack has the best value to casino players if you have a good strategy. Before you place real money bets, the first step is to try out blackjack games for free to understand the game's rules and try out any strategies you might have.

Good news: The King Billy Casino citizens can try out tens of blackjack games on free mode to enhance their playing skills. Below are several quick tips that you should consider before visiting the blackjack tables.

Master A Basic Strategy and Stick to It

Before you place your first cash bet, ensure you have memorized a basic strategy to use at the table. For instance, always assume that the blackjack card you can't see is a 10. Statistics show that there is a high probability it is. Dealers count the cards 2-9 as face value, but king, queen, jack, and 10 are worth 10 points. An Ace is special because you can use it to be worth 1 point or 11 points. Use the online basic strategy charts if you need help with the strategy.

Never Use Cash You Can't Afford

Gambling is fun and addictive at the same time, so don't get lost in the moment. Before you start wagering online, you need to have a specific budget and stick to it. Don't throw away good cash chasing huge wins. If your money is meant for rent or basic needs, don't use it at the blackjack table.

Never Wager Over Half Your Bankroll on A Single Wager

While at a blackjack table, never play recklessly. You can't have all your bankroll disappearing in a single bet. Whether you're winning or losing, you should always gamble responsibly.

Avoid Emotional Betting and Hold Your Nerve

There are times when cards don't favor you. At these times, abandoning your basic strategy is tempting despite it being the best way of winning. Remember that Blackjack is more of a streak game. See the example below to learn what our experts recommend.

Example: Assume you're on a winning streak (you've won over three hands consecutively). We recommend you raise your wager a little to earn more if the luck lasts. However, you should lower your bet if you start losing. Don't play for too long before you cash in. If you want to be successful, set a target, and if you manage to double that amount or achieve your goal, cash in and call it a day. Keep track of time because luck can change abruptly, and you lose all your winnings.

These are just some tips you can use while playing online Blackjack. Playing at a reputable casino, practicing frequently, and more are vital.

Improve Your Chances of Winning at a Blackjack Table

Now that you understand the rules of Blackjack and know how to play the game, you can't wait to sign up at your favourite casino and try it. If you need to know where to play the game, try King Billy, a casino with over 20 awards. You can play different game variants in the standard version and live at the casino.

The information and tips shared in this article will increase your winning odds and reduce the house edge! Happy gambling!

FAQ

How does the game of blackjack work?

The rules are simple. The blackjack dealer deals two cards to each player, both facing, while the pro dealer gets the same number of cards but one facing up. You win a game if you beat the dealer's hand without exceeding 21.

Which way can I use to win in Blackjack?

Having a basic strategy and sticking to it helps enhance your winning odds at a blackjack table. Other tips like having a proper budget and practicing regularly will also help.

Do blackjack players count cards?

Players don't necessarily count blackjack cards. Casinos have card counting systems to help determine who has won a hand. However, pro players practice card counting to know who has an advantage in the next game.

What is the perfect time for a player to hit or stand in Blackjack?

Blackjack players should hit if they have a hand of 10 0r the value of their cards is 12-16. Getting an Ace has a great chance of getting 21 after a hit. They should stand if the value of the cards is 17 and above.

Which is the best reason to play Blackjack?

Apart from awesome cash rewards, the blackjack game is very exciting, so its popularity is unmatched in casino table games.

Written by Michael Cunningham

2024-04-23