How to Play Online Blackjack

Our basic guide of the rules of blackjack will help beginners who are attempting the game for the first time. Blackjack is a card game that has made an easy transition from the casino tables to online play because software providers have developed the game to feel very authentic. Another one of the reasons the game is so popular is due to the fact that learning how to play blackjack is very easy.

Sometime the game is referred to as “21” because it sums up the main objective of the game, which is to acquire an ideal hand equaling 21 (called blackjack). The straightforward rules of blackjack is to beat the dealer with a hand that equals or is as close to 21 without going over. If you bust (going over the target) or are beaten by the dealer, you lose.

The game starts with the players and the dealer each receiving two cards. The players’ two cards are face up and after receiving them there is an option to hit (take one or more cards) or stand (stay with what you have). It sounds easy but the challenge comes from the fact that you only see one of the dealer’s two cards. When you tie the dealer it’s called a push, where it is neither a win nor a loss. Check each individual casino’s policy to know how to play online blackjack at each site.

Overall, blackjack rules are easy to learn but there are advanced strategies for more experienced players. Two common strategies called splitting and doubling down offer opportunities to double your bet. Each requires an additional wager when approaching the bet. A split is only possible when you are dealt a pair which you can decide to turn into two separate hands to play with. A double down allows you to double your wager in return for receiving one additional card on the hit. These additional betting options are usually applied the same way but be aware that some online casinos’ have different betting policies. Pay attention on how to play blackjack when visiting different casinos.

Besides the traditional way of playing blackjack, many online casinos offer interesting variations to spice things up. Most of these adaptations follow the same blackjack rules and premises but include slight modifications to create a fun twist. Online casinos offer options to play as a single player, with multiple participants, with a live dealer and in competitive tournaments. The best way to learn how to play online blackjack is to get practice online.