The North American game of Blackjack, also known as 21, has been one of the most popular casino games of the last hundred years and has spread throughout the world. Though there have been many other casino games that have been in players’ eyes, 21 remains one of the most popular casino card games. Blackjack is a casino banked game, meaning players do not compete against each other but the house. The goal is to get a total hand closer to 21 than the dealer, without going over 21 (busting).
The online versions of this classic game do offer some great benefits including the ability to play for real cash prizes whereas a live stream alongside other players and dealers, along with the use of some fantastic modern features is also quite fascinating. And for your utmost pleasure, we, at Winissimo, offer both the versions and also variations of the game. So here we are to take you through a beginner’s guide to the Blackjack card game, also known and referred to as 21, which will help you while playing the game.
The Basics of how to play 21
Equipment
21 is played with a regular international card deck with the elimination of the Jokers, leaving 52 cards. The game was initially played with a single deck. However, later multi-deck games were introduced. As a result, Blackjack is now commonly available in either single deck, double deck, 4 deck, 6 deck, or 8 deck variations. It should be noted that, in internet casinos, there are cases where much greater numbers of decks can be used than would be feasible to handle offline.
Aim of the game
This game aims to get a hand that is valued closer to 21 than the dealer’s hand – without busting (going over 21). The simplicity is part of the appeal for many players and is also applicable in the card version of the game – particularly when played in a non-gambling environment. Social games need to be easy to play and quick to pick up, and this is where 21 excels!
Placing a bet in the 21 card game
When you’re playing for money, you have the option to place your bet before flipping your cards over to test them or place your bet after looking at the cards you’ve been handed out. Depending on how you wish to play the game, there are a few different options available to move forward.
Hit
If you choose to ‘hit’ in 21, it tells the dealer that you want another card to be dealt with. Normally this is done when you have two low-value cards and think that an extra card will take you to your target of 21-or so close that you don’t think the dealer can get any closer. When the total is 21 then the hand stands automatically. If the total is over 21 the hand is bust, the house takes the player’s bet and the turn to act is passed onto the next player.
Stand
If you ‘stand’ during a game of 21 then this will tell the dealer you don’t want any more cards and would like to stick with the hand you have. This is usually done when your current hand is close enough to 21 that you think another card will bust you. The player can take this action after any of the other player actions as long as their hand total is not more than 21.
Double Down
Doubling down in the game of 21 means you double your original bet in exchange for one extra card. You can’t choose to do this if you’ve already ‘hit’; you can only do this once the first two cards have been dealt. This also is done when you are genuinely sure that another card will get you closer to 21 than the dealer without busting you. When the third card is dealt you have no choice but to stand because this is part of the doubling down terms.
Split
If the first two cards that are dealt with are of equal value (e.g. you receive two 8s) then you have the opportunity to ‘split’ this into two separate hands. This will cost the same as your original bet as you’re creating two bets – one for each of your hands. The dealer will separate them and deal both hands another card. The game will continue as normal.
Surrender
If you don’t like your initial hand, you have the option of giving it up in exchange for half your original bet back.
The steps for how to play the game
Step 1: Understanding card values
Step 2: Shuffling and dealing
Step 3: Look at your cards
After the cards are dealt, all players may look at their two cards. Add up your cards’ total. Here is where the game truly begins.
Step 4: Understanding ‘Hitting’
‘Hitting’ is optional. You may ‘Hit’ any number of times in one turn. You can do this until you are satisfied with your card total or bust.
Step 5: Understanding “Staying”
“Staying” is keeping the hand you’ve been dealt. It can be done as soon as you are satisfied with your card counting. Staying is viable above a total count of 11, however, you still want to play the odds to attain the highest total under 21.
Step 6: Understanding “Folding”
“Folding” is the act of dropping out of a hand. Whatever bet you’ve made is automatically forfeited. You can no longer win the hand after folding. It can be done at any point in a hand before showing your cards.
Step 7: Understanding betting
Bets may only be raised on the respective player’s turn after they’ve stayed their hand. If a bet is made, all players at that point must either match that bet or fold their hands.
Step 8: Rules for dealer
If the dealer’s first two cards total less than 17, they are required to hit until their total is greater than 16. If initial totals are greater than 16, dealers are required to stay. Aces are automatically valued at 11 if the dealer’s card count equals 17 or higher. Aces are valued at 1 if the count is 16 or less.
Step 9: Order of the game
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After all, players have seen their cards, the dealer shows his/her first card.
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Based on this card, players decide to hit or stay their hands.
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After each player’s first turn, bets may be raised and therefore matched or folded at each player’s discretion.
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Once all bets are final, the dealer reveals their second card and hits or stays their hand appropriately.
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Then all other hands are revealed, and a winner or winners is/are determined. Ties with the dealer result in a “break-even” where bets return to those who tied.
Playing a game of 21 with us!
Playing the 21 or the Blackjack card game is of particular appeal to those looking to play for fun and excitement. The best way to play 21 (or Blackjack) for money is to get started with us at Winissimo for innovative and immersive gameplay. You can play from the comfort of your own home in a safe environment. We have created the perfect place for players of casino games to get started with world-famous games with a plethora of varieties to choose from. Our list of online Blackjack has plenty of choices, so all you need to do is choose the game that best suits your online casino preferences.
Live dealer Blackjack options
Are you looking for realistic gameplay not dissimilar from the experience of being in a land-based casino? Live Blackjack at our casino’s Blackjack options has some potential, connecting you with an experienced dealer via a live video and audio feed so you are as involved in the game as you can be without stepping foot in a casino. With a fantastic soundtrack and the ability to play alongside other people, this is a great option for those in search of authentic-looking live casino games.
Conclusion
Now that you have a fair idea of how to play 21, you can head over to our casino games and take your pick of the blackjack variation that suits and interests you the most. It will not only be a thrilling but also fun adventure for you while satiating your hunger for Blackjack in particular.