Casino games have been popular for hundreds of years. There are numerous different casino games out there, some more popular than the others.
Blackjack is a game that is immensely popular among casino gaming enthusiasts. According to Gitnux.org, Blackjack makes up about 31% of Casino table games worldwide.
The ease and comfort of digital platforms has definitely added to the popularity of blackjack games. The game is available in every online casino, allowing easy access to players anytime anywhere.
Free games offered by online casinos can be a great way for beginners to explore the game without spending money.
What is Blackjack?
Blackjack is a card game in which each player competes against the dealer and not against one another. The aim is to get the best score that is less than or equal to 21.
The game is played with one to eight standard decks of 52 cards each. Each card in the deck has a specific numerical value assigned to it.
The cards numbered 2 to 10 have their respective numerical values assigned to them. The Ace can either have a value of 1 or 11, while the King, Queen and Jack all have a numerical value of 10.
If a player gets an Ace and any ten-value card, it’s referred to as Blackjack. This combination makes the player win a payout instantly, as the total is exactly equal to 21.
How to Navigate Online Blackjack Games
The rules for online Blackjack are largely the same as that of the traditional game. The gameplay begins with the players placing the bet.
The dealer then deals 2 cards to each player and 2 cards to themselves, with one card face up. Once every player is dealt 2 cards, they have multiple options regarding the move to make.
- Hit: to take an additional card for free
- Stand: to not take any more cards and accept the current total
- Double down: to pay the price of the original bet to buy an additional card
- Split: to split one hand into two separate hands
Different Variants of Blackjack
Once you are familiar with the basic rules of Blackjack, you can experiment with different variants.
a] Classic Blackjack
The online version of the traditional game, this uses anywhere between 1 to 8 decks. It offers ample opportunities for players to choose to hit or double down.
The game allows players to take risks and win big. Each player aims for a hand value close to 21 but not higher.
b] European Blackjack
One of the differences in European Blackjack is that the dealer is dealt a single card instead of 2. Also, each player aims for a hand value of 17 or higher, while for the dealerit is 16 or lower.
c] Blackjack Switch
This is a unique variation as the players can switch cards between two hands, hence the name! The game begins with each player being dealt two hands, instead of one.
The players are allowed to switch the second card dealt to each hand.
d] Spanish 21
Another popular version, it stands out because it is played using the Spanish deck that is devoid of ten-value cards. Players have the provision to double down as many cards as they wish to.
This version comes with its own set of bonuses and rules, including special payouts. The players aim for a hand value of 21.
e] Double Exposure Blackjack
The two cards of the dealer are dealt face up in this version of the game. While this gives the players the upper hand to begin with, there are certain restrictions in place.
For example, every instance of a draw/tie is considered a win for the dealer, except for the blackjack (combination of Ace & ten-value cards). Also, a player can double down only if their hand value is 9, 10 or 11.
f] Pontoon
This British version of blackjack has some unique rules that make it exciting. While each player aims for a hand value of 21 or lower, they can hit only if their total is less than 14.
In addition to that, there is the unique ‘five-card trick’ bonus which rewards players with 2:1 odds when they have five cards without exceeding the hand value of 21!
g] Progressive Blackjack
The rules for this one are the same as classic blackjack, but with an added progressive jackpot thrown in! It allows the players to try their luck at a big Jackpot win by placing a side bet.
The progressive Jackpot can be an opportunity for winning big money, which adds to the excitement of the game.
Here are a few quick tips for beginners to approach online blackjack games:
- Understand the rules of the particular variation of the game before you place your first bet.
- Have patience to learn the skill of strategy building as you play. Practice is all it takes to develop your intuition.
- Start with a simple strategy.
- Have fun as you play, because at the end of the day, games are all about fun and entertainment.
Conclusion:
Navigating online blackjack games can appear tricky to a beginner because of the many variations and different sets of rules. However, the trick lies in approaching the game with the necessary information and armed with a good strategy.
