A Guide to Online Blackjack
Blackjack is probably the most popular gambling game in the world. It is a game of strategy and skill, and a mainstay in land casinos everywhere. The pleasure and excitement of blackjack can also be enjoyed at online casinos. Playing blackjack online captures all the thrills of the game and creates an unforgettable impression. The immersive and atmospheric qualities of the game are further accented with the exceptional live dealer casino. Players can experience the real thing by communicating with other players and the dealers. Blackjack it is not merely a game of luck. Skill, knowledge, and strategy play essential roles.
Online casinos typically offer multiple variations of Blackjack; however, the fundamental objective is pretty straightforward, to beat the dealer without exceeding 21 points. There are subtle differences between the different versions of blackjack. Multi-Hand Blackjack, European Blackjack and Blackjack Switch, are just some of the popular online versions.
How to Play Online Blackjack
Blackjack standard rules stipulate that two cards are handed out to all players and the dealer. The players’ cards are both faced upwards, while the dealer is allowed one card face down. The Ace is worth 11 points or 1 point, and the player decides which value to use. The picture cards are worth 10 points, with the rest of the pack taken at face value.
Using Blackjack Terminology
The terminology used in blackjack is unique to the game, yet quite straightforward. Players have several options with the two cards they are given. If players want another card, they can call out ‘Hit’. To ‘Stand’ means refusing another card, players are close enough to 21. There is a ‘Double’ option, which increases the bet, and only one more card is given. Players can also ‘Surrender’, which is to give up the game and cut the losses. If players take an additional card and supersede 21, they are ‘Bust’ or ‘Break’, which means they lose. Some variations of Blackjack provide the option to ‘Split’ the two cards into two separate hands, which can be played concurrently.
Another interesting term is; ‘Anchor’, which is the seat at the dealer’s right-hand side, and normally the last to be taken, and most coveted position at the table. ‘Insurance’ allows players to protect themselves from losses if the dealer receives an Ace face up. The ‘Insurance’ involves an additional bet on the dealer getting a natural 21. If that does happen, the player wins double their bet. If, however, the dealer does not, the wager is lost. ‘Double Down’ means players can double their initial bet, accepting just one more card. They turn over their first two cards and place an equal bet alongside the original wager.
Versions of Online Blackjack
Multi-Hand Blackjack offers a system of play using five hands at once with slight variations of the rules. Other popular versions include European blackjack, which is played with only two decks of cards. Blackjack Switch allows players to switch their second cards between the two hands that they receive.
Winning at Blackjack
Winning may seem easy at first glance, but nothing is further from the truth. A good memory is the most important weapon players have at their disposal. Trying to remember the cards already dealt will help to predict which cards remain in the dealer’s pack. The first thing players will need to decide is whether to Surrender or not, and it can only be determined when players have their first two cards. If not, the next thing to consider is whether to Split. This decision depends on having two 10 point value cards, or a pair. Another option at this stage is to consider Doubling the bet. Besides showing guts, players send a psychological signal to the dealer that they have a good hand. Some online casinos restrict this option to specific hands. The final decision players will need to make is whether to take another card or not. If not, they can Stand and hope for the best!
Online Blackjack Today
It has never been so good for blackjack players as now. They have so many different options that it is virtually impossible not to find one that tickles their fancy! Generally speaking, the different tables offer various stakes to suit all bankrolls. Players do not need to be high rollers to enjoy online Blackjack, and the game is available to anyone who wants to experience the timeless qualities of online Blackjack from the comfort of their homes, or on a mobile device! The live dealer Blackjack is of particular interest and players really want to try it out. It amalgamates today’s advanced technology with a land-based casino experience.