One of the more popular casino card games is Blackjack. This is because this games exudes a certain sophistication and also requires some intellect.
Of course, now you no longer have to travel all the way to an actual casino if you want to play Blackjack. You can do so from the comfort of your own home, at an online casino. Here is everything that you need to know about the game of Blackjack and how to play it online:
Understanding Blackjack
Blackjack is also known as Twenty One and the premise of the game is simple. Essentially, the game revolves around the number 21. In order to win at Blackjack, the cards that you have been dealt must equal or come close to 21, but not exceed it. At the same time, you must beat the dealer’s hand as well. Let’s break this process down to make it easier:
First, you will need to understand the value of the cards. The cards from two to ten are worth their face value. Kings, Queens, and Jacks are worth 10. If you get dealt an Ace, you get to decide if it is going to be worth 1 or 11.
A standard deck of cards is used for Blackjack, with the Jokers being omitted. Most casinos tend to use two to eight decks for each game. These decks are known as a shoe. This is typically done so that is more difficult for the players to count cards.
Playing Online Blackjack
In real life, you will have to communicate your intent to the dealer using gestures or words. When playing online Blackjack, it is a little different. There are usually buttons that will offer you the option to Hit, Stand, or Double Down. Hit allows you to get another card while Stand ensures that the dealer will not deal you another card. Double Down allows you to double your bet as well as get one more card.
First, however, you are going to have to choose how much you want to bet on a hand. The amounts that are usually offered are $1, $5, $25, and $100. Of course this will depend on which online casino you are playing at. Once you have decided on an amount, you can choose ‘Deal’. This allows you to start the game.
One of the great things about these online casinos is that many of them offer you the opportunity to try the game out first. This means that you will be able to get the hang of Blackjack without having to bet on your hand. This is a good way to familiarize yourself with the game as well.
Another thing that you should be made aware of is that there are different types of Blackjack. Typically, online casino provide you with the list of Blackjack options. Nonetheless, you should still read the instructions before you begin to play, just to make sure.
Important Blackjack Strategies
Casino games are often linked to luck and chance. While there is a certain amount of risk involved with Blackjack, it can be offset with some careful planning at strategy. Here are some of the techniques that you should keep in mind:
Know Your Hand
Blackjack hands are characterized as either being hard or soft. By knowing what type of hand you have been dealt, you will be better informed about the next move that you should make. A hard hand typically consists of one Ace, King, Queen, Jack, or 10 in addition to a card above the value of 8. If you have two cards that when combined have a score that is lower than 17, then you have a soft hand. If you have a hard hand, it is a good idea to stand. This way, you have less of a chance of going bust.
Split Aces and Eights
If you are dealt two Aces or two 8s, you should split these cards. This is because you can double the chance of you winning the pot. Furthermore, together these cards are of little value to you as they are considered a soft hand. Nevertheless, if you choose to Hit, you may end up going over 21. In a similar vein, you should never split two 10s – this is one of the strongest hands that you will be dealt.
Avoid Insurance
Certain casinos will give you the chance to get insurance on the game. This means that if the dealer has a face up Ace card, you can choose to make a side bet. If the dealer gets Blackjack, you win money. This, however, has a very low chance of occurring and as such is a bad deal.
This is the information that you need to know about playing online Blackjack. Remember to be strategic about the way that you play and you will increase your odds of winning.
