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Blackjack Rules

Blackjack is one of the most popular casino card games in the world. It is popular not only because basic strategy can greatly reduce the house advantage, but also because blackjack rules are incredibly simple and easy to learn. Read on for an overview of blackjack rules.

Blackjack is a card game that is played against a dealer. The objective of the game, according to blackjack rules is to obtain a hand that is worth a higher value than that of the dealer, without breaking a total of 21. Hand values in blackjack are calculated by adding together the value of cards in the hand. Face cards are worth 10 points each; Aces are worth 1 point or 11 points, depending on the other cards in the hand; and numbered cards are worth their face value (i.e. a 3 is worth 3 points). Blackjack rules state that the highest valued hand is “Blackjack”, a 2-card hand made up of an Ace and a 10 or face card.

Before a game of blackjack begins bets are placed. Then, the dealer gives each player 2 cards, face up on the table. The dealer takes two cards as well but places one face down so the other players may not see. According to each players own hand and the up card of the dealer, each player must decide to stand with their current hand; hit and take additional cards to increase the value of their hand; double down, doubling their bet and taking one additional card; split a double into two separate hands; or surrender, leaving the game for half of their bet. Blackjack rules vary from variation to variation in regards to when players are allowed to split or double down, so double check before you begin playing.

Once all players are happy with their hands the dealer reveals his up card. Blackjack rules automate what the dealer must do next. In most games, the dealer must stand on a hand worth hard 17 or more and hit on anything 16 and under. Blackjack rules vary about whether the dealer hits on soft 17 (Ace-6). Once the dealer has completed his hand players that beat the dealer are paid and those that do not lose their bets. Most casinos pay even money for a regular win and 3:2 or 6:5 for a player that wins with a Blackjack hand.

Now that you understand blackjack rules you are ready to get started.



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