Blackjack is one of the most popular card games at a casino. Originating in 17th century France as a game called “Vingt-en-Un” (literally meaning “21”), blackjack has been enjoyed around the world for hundreds of years. The game that we know has evolved somewhat since then and has included the concept of going bust, most probably from an Italian game played around the same time. Blackjack spread to the US after the French Revolution where it went underground until it was legalized in Nevada in 1931. Today, blackjack is easily accessed and played via online casinos and it has only grown in popularity.
The Aim of the Game
The aim of the game of blackjack is to achieve a total hand value of closer to 21 than the dealer’s hand, without going over (bust).
Types of Blackjack Variations
When you play blackjack online, you will have access to many different variations of the game. One of the advantages of playing online blackjack is the amount of variety available to you with some online casinos offering ten or more game options. Some of the online blackjack variations you can find include classic blackjack, 21 Duel Blackjack, Blackjack Surrender, Blackjack Switch, Lucky Blackjack, Pontoon, Progressive Blackjack and many more.
How to Play Blackjack Online
One of the reasons that classic online blackjack is so popular is that its rules are simple and easy to learn. Players must place a bet and then each player is dealt two cards face up, while the dealer is dealt one card face up and one card face down. You will then need to play your turn, with a number of options available to you. If the variation of the game allows it, you may be able to surrender your hand. Check the rules of the game at the casino to see if this is available and if only late surrender or early surrender is available. You may be able to place an insurance bet against the dealer getting Blackjack if his up-card is an Ace. Players can choose to split two identically valued cards into two separate hands with separate bets. Players can double down, allowing them to double their bet and receive one more card. Most commonly, players choose to either stand (receive no more cards and end their turn) or hit (receive another card). Players can continue to hit until they choose to stand or they go bust.
Winning at Blackjack Online
Once the player ends his turn, the dealer will play. The dealer will be required to play according to the house rules which dictate when he must hit and when he must stand. The dealer’s hand and the player’s hand will then be compared and the player will be paid out for a win. A player will win for Blackjack (two cards that include an Ace and a ten) or for five cards with a total value of under 21 or for achieving a hand value closer to 21 than the dealer without going bust.
