Blackjack, also known as 21, is one of the most popular casino card games in the world. The game masterfully combines chance with strategy, offering skilled players one of the best opportunities to win. This guide will cover the basics to get you started.

What is the Goal?
The primary objective in blackjack is simple: beat the dealer's hand without going over 21. If your hand total exceeds 21, you "bust" and immediately lose your bet. It's a common misconception that the goal is to get as close to 21 as possible.

Understanding Card Points

Numbered Cards (2-10): They count as their numerical value. The Royals: Are each worth 10 points. The Ace Card: Can be worth either 1 or 11, whichever is more advantageous for the hand. A hand with an Ace that counts as 11 is called a "soft" hand.

How a Round Works
Once bets are in, the deal commences with two cards for every player and casino the dealer. Your cards are usually dealt face up, while the dealer has one card face up (the "upcard") and one face down (the "hole card"). Based on your hand and the dealer's upcard, you have several options:

Draw: You request an additional card to improve your hand total. Stand: To take no more cards and end your turn. Increase Your Bet: This aggressive move lets you double your bet but restricts you to a single extra card. This move is typically reserved for casino strong starting hands. Splitting: This option is available when you have a pair, allowing you to play them as two independent hands. This requires an additional bet equal to your original wager.

Playing Smart
To be successful, you need more than just luck. Decades of computer simulations have determined the best possible move in every situation, which is known as basic strategy. These charts are your guide to making the right mathematical play every time. By following basic strategy perfectly, casino you can reduce the house edge to as low as 0.5% in some games, making it one of the best bets in the casino.