Blackjack Rules

Basic blackjack rules are quite straightforward. However, there are some variations to blackjack rules that different casinos use, so it is important to have an understanding of your options before you wager very much.

In blackjack rules, players are attempting to build a hand of cards for which the value is equal 21. Players try to get as close to that goal as possible, without exceeding it. The game is played against the house, represented by the dealer.

Blackjack rules require the players at the table to place their bets before any cards are dealt. Once all the players have wagered, the dealer gives each player two cards, generally dealt face up. The dealer also receives two cards, but one of them is left hidden and the second is exposed.

Players look at their cards, as well as the dealer's revealed card, and can make decisions to stay or stand -- declining any additional cards -- or to hit -- draw more cards. In blackjack rules each card is worth its face value and kings, queens, and jacks are worth 10; aces can be used as 11 or 1, depending on the player's hand. So, for example, a player with an eight and a two would definitely want to draw another card; there is no card that would take the player over 21 and the odds are that the player would get a ten on the hit and end up with a strong 20. Blackjack rules allow players to hit or stand on nearly any hand, but smart players are discerning and make their decisions based on the odds. If a player's hit takes the card total higher than 21, the player busts and loses the hand.

Once all the players have made their decisions, the dealer reveals his down card and hits if he has a 16 or lower. If the dealer busts, all of the remaining players at the table win. If the dealer does not bust, his hand is compared to each player. Players with more points than the dealer win; those with fewer than the dealer lose.