Blackjack
Blackjack is a card game where the goal is to get a hand total closer to 21 than the dealer without going over. It offers some of the best odds in the casino when you follow basic strategy.
How to Play
You and the dealer each receive two cards. Your cards are usually both face-up; the dealer has one card face-up and one face-down. You can Hit (take another card), Stand (keep your total), Double Down (double your bet and take one card), or Split (if you have two identical cards, split into two hands). The dealer must hit on 16 or less and stand on 17 or more in most rules.
Rules
- Number cards are face value; face cards are 10; Ace is 1 or 11
- Blackjack (Ace + 10-value card) typically pays 3:2
- Dealer bust (over 21) means all remaining players win
- Insurance and side bets are optional; check table rules
Basic Strategy Tips
Stand on 17 or higher. Hit on 11 or lower. Double down on 11 when the dealer shows 2–10. Split Aces and 8s; never split 10s or 5s. Use a strategy chart for the exact table rules you are playing.