This easy card game is played with four, six or eight standard decks of 52 cards. All cards are scored at their face value, except picture cards (Jack, Queen, King) which have a value of 10, and Aces which count as 1 or 11. The essence of Blackjack is to get nearer to a total of 21 than the Dealer. If your hand goes over 21 it loses.

Blackjack is usually played at an arc-shaped table with places for up to six Players. Each table has a sign that explains the minimum and maximum bets at that table, as well as giving variations in common rules.

Play begins when you place your bet on the table inside a betting circle. Once all bets have been placed, every Player is dealt two cards, including the Dealer.

You now must decide how to play out your hand. Cards 2 to 10 are scored at their face value. Kings, Queens and Jacks have a value of 10. Aces can count high or low (either 1 or 11).

The best result you can achieve in this game is a two-card 21, or a Blackjack.

If your two cards don’t total 21, you must decide if you can risk asking for more cards in your quest to get closest to a total of 21.

If your hand goes over 21, you lose, or go bust.

Blackjack Basics:

After being dealt their two cards and bets have been placed, Players can:

Blackjack Side Bets:

If available, the Player may also wager the following bets: