Hello and welcome to my comprehensive guide to Blackjack!
As an expert player with 28 years of lifetime blackjack experience, I’ve seen it all when it comes to this popular casino game.
I’ve also been reviewing internet casinos since 2001, so I know what to look for when it comes to finding the best places and online casino games to play.
In this OCS Blackjack Guide, I’ll cover everything you need to know about the blackjack (21) game, including its history, objective, rules, strategies, tips, myths, and rumors. Let’s go…
History of Blackjack
Blackjack is a popular casino game that has been around for centuries. The game’s origins can be traced back to the 17th century, where it was first played in France under the name “Vingt-et-Un” (which means “21” in French). The game quickly spread throughout Europe and eventually made its way to the United States.
In the early 1900s, the game was still known as “21” in the United States. However, casinos began offering a special payout for hands that contained an Ace of Spades and a Jack of Clubs or Jack of Spades. This hand was known as a “blackjack,” and the name stuck.
Objective of Blackjack
The objective of blackjack is to have a hand that is worth more than the dealer’s hand, without going over 21. Each card in the deck is worth its face value, except for face cards (Jacks, Queens, and Kings), which are worth 10 points, and Aces, which are worth either 1 or 11 points, depending on which value is more beneficial for the player.
How to Play Blackjack
To play blackjack, you first need to place a bet. Once all bets have been placed, the dealer will deal two cards to each player, including themselves. One of the dealer’s cards will be face-up, while the other will be face-down.
If you have a hand that is worth 21 points (an Ace and a face card or a 10), you have a “blackjack” and win immediately, unless the dealer also has a blackjack.
If you don’t have a blackjack, you will then have the option to “hit” (take another card) or “stand” (keep your current hand). You can continue to hit until you either decide to stand, or you “bust” (go over 21 points).
Once all players have finished taking their turns, the dealer will reveal their face-down card and hit or stand according to a set of predetermined rules. If the dealer busts, all remaining players win. If the dealer does not bust, the player with the highest hand value wins.
Blackjack Rules
While the objective of the game is simple, there are a few rules that players should be aware of. First, if you and the dealer both have the same hand value, it’s a “push,” and you’ll get your bet back. Second, if you bust, you automatically lose, regardless of what the dealer has.
Another important rule to keep in mind is that if the dealer’s face-up card is an Ace, players will have the option to take “insurance.” This is essentially a side bet that the dealer has a blackjack. If the dealer does have a blackjack, the player will win the insurance bet but lose their original bet. If the dealer does not have a blackjack, the player will lose their insurance bet but can still win their original bet.
Blackjack Strategies
There are many different strategies that players use when playing blackjack, but one of the most popular is known as basic strategy. Basic strategy is a set of rules that tells you the best move to make based on your hand and the dealer’s up card.
For example, if you have a hand worth 12-16 points
, and the dealer’s up card is a 2-6, you should stand. If the dealer’s up card is a 7-Ace, you should hit. Basic strategy can help reduce the house edge and increase your chances of winning in the long run.
Another popular strategy is card counting, which involves keeping track of the cards that have been played to determine the likelihood of certain cards being dealt. While card counting is not illegal, it is frowned upon by casinos and can result in being asked to leave.
Blackjack Tips
In addition to using strategies, there are a few tips that players can follow to increase their chances of winning at Blackjack. First, it’s important to always pay attention to the dealer’s up card and use basic strategy to make the best move. Second, it’s a good idea to start with a small bet and gradually increase it as you become more comfortable with the game.
It’s also important to set a budget and stick to it. Don’t chase your losses and never bet more than you can afford to lose. Finally, it’s a good idea to take advantage of any bonuses or promotions offered by the casino, such as free chips or cashback rewards.
Blackjack Myths & Rumors
Like many casino games, Blackjack has its fair share of myths and rumors. One of the most common is that you should always assume the dealer’s face-down card is a 10. While it’s true that face cards are the most common cards in the deck, assuming that the dealer has a 10 can lead to making the wrong move.
Another common myth is that you should always split Aces and 8s. While this can be a good strategy in some situations, it’s not always the best move to make. As with any strategy, it’s important to consider the dealer’s up card and make the best decision based on the circumstances.
Online Blackjack for Real Money
With the rise of top online casinos, playing Blackjack for real money has become more accessible than ever. While the rules and gameplay of online blackjack gambling are the same as the traditional version, there are a few key differences to keep in mind.
First, instead of a physical deck of cards, online blackjack uses a random number generator (RNG) to determine the outcome of each hand. While RNGs are designed to be completely random and fair, some players may prefer the physicality of playing with real cards.
Another important factor to consider when playing blackjack online is the variety of games and betting options available. Most online casinos offer a range of different Blackjack variations, such as Single Deck Blackjack, European Blackjack, and Pontoon, each with their own set of rules and payouts. It’s important to choose a game that suits your preferences and budget.
When playing online blackjack for real money, it’s also important to choose a reputable and trustworthy online casino. Look for a casino that is licensed and regulated by a reputable authority, such as the UK Gambling Commission or the Malta Gaming Authority or the New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement.
It’s also a good idea to read expert casino reviews and check for any red flags, such as slow payouts or poor customer service.
In addition, take advantage of any bonuses and promotions offered by the casino site.
Many casinos offer welcome bonuses, free chips, or cashback rewards, which can help boost your bankroll and increase your chances of winning.
Overall, playing online Blackjack for real money can be an exciting and rewarding experience, as long as you take the necessary precautions and gamble responsibly.
With a wide range of games and betting options available, there’s never been a better time to try your luck at the virtual Blackjack table.
Free Blackjack Apps
Alternatively, you could just play free blackjack apps suck as Blackjack 21 on iOS or Blackjack by Super Lucky Casino for android devices on Google Play.
My Overall Thoughts on Blackjack
As someone who has been Playing Blackjack for 28 years, I can say that it’s a fun and exciting game that offers the potential for big payouts. However, like any casino game, it’s important to remember that the odds are always in favor of the house. While strategies and tips can help increase your chances of winning, there’s no guarantee that you’ll walk away with a profit.
That being said, Blackjack is still one of the most popular and widely played casino games, both in land-based and online casinos. With a rich history and simple yet exciting gameplay, it’s easy to see why so many people are drawn to this classic casino game.
In conclusion, whether you’re a seasoned player or a newbie looking to try your luck, I hope this guide has been helpful in understanding the ins and outs of blackjack (21).
Remember to always gamble responsibly and have fun!