What is Blackjack?

Blackjack is one of the most popular casino card games where the goal is to beat the dealer by getting a hand value as close to 21 as possible without going over. It combines skill, strategy, and a bit of luck, making it a favorite among both beginners and experienced players. Many players start practicing with no deposit bonuses before playing with real money, while experienced players often join VIP programs for exclusive high-limit tables.

Quick Start Guide

  1. Learn card values - Number cards = face value, face cards = 10, Ace = 1 or 11
  2. Understand the goal - Get closer to 21 than the dealer without busting
  3. Master basic strategy - Know when to hit, stand, double, or split
  4. Manage your bankroll - Set limits and stick to them

Blackjack Card Values

Number Cards (2-10)

Worth their face value (2 = 2 points, 5 = 5 points, etc.)

Face Cards (J, Q, K)

All worth 10 points each

Ace (A)

Worth 1 or 11 points (whichever is better for your hand)

Hand Examples

  • Blackjack: Ace + 10-value card = 21 (best possible hand)
  • Soft Hand: Ace + 6 = 7 or 17 (Ace counted as 11)
  • Hard Hand: 10 + 7 = 17 (no Ace or Ace counted as 1)

🃏 How to Play Blackjack - Step by Step

Master the classic casino game with our detailed walkthrough

1

Place Your Bet

Put your chips in the betting circle before cards are dealt. Choose your bet amount based on your bankroll and table limits.

2

Receive Your Cards

You get two cards face up so everyone can see them. The dealer gets one face up (upcard) and one face down (hole card).

3

Calculate Hand Value

Add up your card values (2-10 = face value, J/Q/K = 10, A = 1 or 11). Decide if you have a soft hand (with Ace as 11) or hard hand.

4

Make Your Decision

Choose to hit (take another card), stand (keep current total), double down (double bet + one card), split (if pair), or surrender based on basic strategy.

5

Dealer Plays

Dealer reveals the hole card and must hit on 16 or less, stand on 17 or higher. Dealer has no choice - rules are fixed.

6

Compare Hands

Closest to 21 without busting wins. Blackjack (21 with 2 cards) beats regular 21. Ties result in a push (bet returned).

Blackjack Basic Strategy

Player Actions Explained

  • Hit: Take another card to improve your hand
  • Stand: Keep your current hand and end your turn
  • Double Down: Double your bet and take exactly one more card
  • Split: Split identical cards into two separate hands
  • Surrender: Give up half your bet and fold (if allowed)

Basic Strategy Guidelines

Hard Hands (No Ace or Ace = 1)

  • 8 or less: Always hit
  • 9: Double vs dealer 3-6, otherwise hit
  • 10-11: Double vs dealer 2-9, otherwise hit
  • 12: Stand vs dealer 4-6, otherwise hit
  • 13-16: Stand vs dealer 2-6, otherwise hit
  • 17 or more: Always stand

Soft Hands (Ace = 11)

  • A,2 - A,6: Double vs dealer 5-6, otherwise hit
  • A,7: Stand vs dealer 2,7,8; Double vs 3-6; Hit vs 9,10,A
  • A,8 - A,9: Always stand

Pairs

  • A,A and 8,8: Always split
  • 10,10: Never split
  • 9,9: Split vs dealer 2-9 except 7
  • 2,2 - 7,7: Split vs dealer 2-7

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Taking insurance (it's a bad bet for basic strategy players)
  • Playing hunches instead of following basic strategy
  • Splitting 10s or face cards
  • Standing on soft 17 when you should hit
  • Not doubling down when basic strategy says to

Bankroll Management Tips

  • Set a budget before you start playing and stick to it
  • Never bet more than 5% of your bankroll on a single hand
  • Take breaks to avoid making emotional decisions
  • Don't chase losses by increasing your bet size
  • Know when to walk away, whether winning or losing

Ready to Play Blackjack?

Now that you know how to play blackjack, practice your skills at our recommended casinos with the best blackjack games and bonuses. Start with no deposit bonuses to practice your strategy, then explore cashback programs to minimize losses while you learn. Advanced players can benefit from VIP programs with higher table limits and exclusive tournaments. If you enjoy card games, also try poker or baccarat for variety.

Find Blackjack Casinos Practice for Free