Introduction
Blackjack 21, also known as 21, is one of the most popular card games in the world, both in physical casinos and online. The game pits players against the dealer, with the objective of getting a hand value as close to 21 as possible without going over (busting). Online Blackjack brings this classic game to your screen, offering convenience, a variety of versions, and often the chance to play for free or real money. It’s a game of skill, strategy, and a bit of luck, making it appealing to beginners and seasoned players alike.
How to play
Understand the basics
- Card values:
- Number cards (2-10): Worth their face value.
- Face cards (Jack, Queen, King): Worth 10 points each.
- Ace: Worth 1 or 11 points, depending on what benefits your hand most.
- Goal: Achieve a hand value closer to 21 than the dealer’s, without exceeding 21 (busting).
The Deal
- You’re dealt two cards face-up.
- The dealer gets two cards: one face-up (the “upcard”) and one face-down (the “hole card”).
- Check your hand’s total value.
Your Turn – Player Options
- Based on your cards and the dealer’s upcard, you can choose from these actions:
- Hit: Take another card to increase your hand’s value.
- Stand: Keep your current hand and end your turn.
- Double: Double your bet, take one more card, and then stand (usually allowed on your first two cards).
Dealer’s Turn
- After you stand or finish your actions, the dealer reveals their hole card.
- The dealer must follow strict rules: typically, they hit on 16 or less and stand on 17 or higher.
Determine the outcome
- Win: Your hand is closer to 21 than the dealer’s, or the dealer busts (goes over 21).
- Lose: Your hand exceeds 21 (bust), or the dealer’s hand is closer to 21.
- Push: You and the dealer have the same total (a tie), and your bet is returned.
- Blackjack: If your first two cards are an Ace and a 10-value card (e.g., Ace + King), you get a “natural blackjack.” This usually pays 3:2, unless the dealer also has blackjack (resulting in a push).
