Learning how to play online blackjack isn't difficult but it's important to know before jumping in.
Blackjack is a table game in which players compete against the dealer to tally the higher card count, up to 21.
How to play online blackjack
The goal in blackjack is to finish with a higher number than the dealer without going over 21. Multiple decks are used to limit shuffling as well as to make it harder for the player to know which cards are coming next.
Although ultimately based on luck, blackjack has more of a skill component than other casino games as a player is required to make multiple decisions throughout a hand that can have a direct impact on the outcome.
Hit or stand
The first thing to know when jumping into a game of blackjack is the terms 'hit' and 'stand'. To 'hit' simply means to ask the dealer for another card. You can hit on any number below 21 but the higher the value you have the higher the chance of going over 21 with an extra card, also known as a bust.
To 'stand' means to stay put. Then, your fate is with the dealer. If the dealer has 16 or fewer, they must continue taking cards until reaching at least 17. If the dealer's card total exceeds 21 or is lower than the player's, the player wins.
Some players, though, become too aggressive by taking cards without need, resulting in a bust. For example, if you have 16 or less and the dealer is showing a six, the odds are strongly in your favour if you stand.
That's because the dealer would have to draw another card no matter what. A 10 would put the dealer on a 16 and an ace (worth one or 11) puts the dealer on a soft 17. That term refers to 17 with an ace involved.
Technically an ace can be worth one if needed so it's best to think of a soft 17 as a seven for the dealer since the ace will be worth one after the dealer pulls another card.
Payouts
In theory, the odds in every game are at least even money, though the exception is hitting blackjack, in which the odds are 3-to-2. A blackjack is a 21 that is made up of any card with the value of 10 and an ace.
So, if you bet $10 and you win regularly, you receive $20. If you hit a blackjack, you get 2.5x your money back. Therefore, it would be a $25 payout on a $10 wager.
The final result to know is If the dealer ends up with the same number showing as the player. That is known as a push and the player gets his or her original wager back.
If the dealer shows an ace and you don't like your hand, you can fold, also known as surrendering, for a refund of half your bet.
Online blackjack: Strategies to increase the odds
If you're dealt two cards with the same value, you can split them into two hands. You would have to pay the price to buy in the second hand, but the odds are even money for each. For example, if you receive two sevens, you can separate them and play two hands. If the first bet was for $10, the second one is also for $10.
If you have two nines and the dealer is showing a six, you may want to consider splitting the hand. That's because as explained earlier, there's no outcome in which the dealer doesn't take at least one extra card resulting in a higher chance of a bust.
When splitting, you could win both hands, win one and lose one, or lose both so remember to evaluate the situation and choose wisely.
You may also double down on any given hand, but there are risks for doing so. If you double down, you can only get one more card from the dealer and you double your buy-in. But that means you also double your payout if you win.
If a dealer is showing a six and you pull a three and a seven (adds up to 10), it may be smart to double down as the dealer has the higher risk of a bust with a six. Best case scenario, you draw a 10 and get to stand on a 20, giving you a high chance to win.
Know your limit
Before betting, establish your bankroll and don’t exceed it. If you start with $50 and lose quickly, you can deposit more or try a new table. But taking a break might be the best option of all.
Whether you're winning or losing, maintain a level head. As easily as the cards can work in your favour, they can also go the other way. In a matter of moments, you could be playing with scared money instead of house money. Know when to ante up and when to walk away.
