Blackjack

Blackjack is one of the most popular casino table games in the world because the house advantage is one of the lowest in the casino. Everyone knows the most basic rule of playing Blackjack or “21” which is to get to the count of 21 or as close as you can without going over or “busting”. However, there are lots of different options offered when playing Blackjack that many people may not know about and could greatly increase your winnings. Double Downs, Splits, and Insurance are just a few options players have while playing Blackjack. Learning the terms and options available when playing Blackjack will help you become a better overall player and maximize your advantage while playing.

Here are some of the basic terms of play that can be found in almost every version of Blackjack:

Blackjack- being dealt any card value of 10 and an Ace adding to 21, is considered Blackjack and is usually paid 3 to 2 odds.
Double Down- when dealt a hand value of 9, 10, or 11, a player may double his bet and must draw 1 card only. Sometimes, the rules are slightly varied allowing a player to double down on additional hand values.
Push- When the player and dealer have the same hand value after the hands are completed, in other words, a tie.
Soft Hand- any hand using an ace as 11 that is not blackjack. For instance, an ace valued as 11 plus a 7 is called a “Soft 18“.
Hit- to draw an additional card to improve ones hand.
Stand- to decline drawing any more cards, keeping your existing card total.
Bet- the amount that a player is wagering on each hand.
Split- when dealt a pair of the same card value, a player may add an additional bet and another card will be dealt to each card after the split to make separate hands.

To elaborate on the option of splitting cards, players usually are allowed to split any 2 cards of the same value. Some rules vary among casinos when it comes to splitting Jacks, Queens, and Kings. Some allow the player to split any combination of each while some will only allow you to split the same cards like Jack, Jack or King, King. Aces can be split as well but usually when they are split, if a Blackjack occurs, Blackjack bonus pay is not normally paid. Players also may be able to re-split cards if they are dealt another match, but keep in mind, each pair of cards split cost additional bets. An important tip to keep in mind while splitting cards is that the odds of winning is greater if the player splits when the dealer is showing a 6 or less.

Doubling Down is another way to maximize wins and percentages when cards seem to be in the players favor. Doubling Down is usually allowed when the players 1st two dealt cards equal to a value of 9, 10, or 11. To take advantage of this option, a player must also double their initial bet or ante. Once the Double Down option is selected, the player will receive one additional card to make their hand and is not allowed to draw any more cards regardless of the value of their hand. Similar to the tip when splitting cards, it is always better to Double Down when the dealer’s hand is showing a 6 or less. Some rules vary among casinos and may actually allow players to Double Down on additional hand values.

Over the years, many strategies have been developed over the years along with many books and guides written on them. Understanding some of these strategies can also greatly increase your chances of having a winning session, but keep in mind, there is no sure win strategy out there. There are also many other versions that allow bonus pays for different things so try out different versions to find one that suits your style of play. The development of online casinos gives players the ability to try out every imaginable variation of the game 1st without having to lose a penny. Choose a great online casino and get plenty of practice until you are comfortable to wager real money. In the end, keep it fun and entertaining, and you will always enjoy a great game of Blackjack!