What is Blackjack?

Blackjack is a card game that brings together the elements of skill, chance and entertainment in a perfect blend. The game is traditionally played against the dealer at a live or online casino, although multiplayer blackjack is fast becoming a firm favorite in the industry today. It can safely be said that blackjack is one of the most favored card and table games in the business, thanks to low odds and the excitement involved.

Where did Blackjack Originate?

While the French have laid claim to being the true creators of blackjack with their version of the game (called vingt-un or twenty-one) around the 1700s, if the truth be told, different variants of the game were played as far back as the 1500s when card games came into fashion. In the later part of the 19th Century, the term blackjack was coined in American casinos where the game had now reached, thanks to immigrants from Europe. Blackjack has experienced a bumpy road in US gambling history, especially with legal issues and card-counting systems. However, as mentioned, today it is one of the most sought-after games in any casino.

What is Online Blackjack?

Thanks to the fact that blackjack made the transition from land-based casinos to the world of online gambling, today players can find the game in a multitude of levels and variants, ranging from the classic game to exciting versions such as Spanish Blackjack. Free blackjack software introduces players to the game and allows them to practice without making a dent in their bankroll, before they join the exciting world of pay-to-play blackjack.

What is the Objective of Blackjack?

Classic blackjack is played out between the gambler and the dealer, with each being dealt two cards initially. One of the dealer’s cards are placed face up. The object of the game is to get as near to the number 21 as possible, without exceeding this total, or to better the dealer’s hand. After the first two cards are dealt, players need to make a decision regarding their next move, based on their sum total. The face value of the cards are as follows: The Ace is counted as one or eleven, the royal cards are counted as ten, and all other cards have their own face value.

How is Blackjack Played in Tournament Form?

Online blackjack has brought about the creation of blackjack tournaments – a competitive spin on the classic game. Players contend with others who have also bought in to the tournament, and are slowly eliminated until the best player walks away with the prize money. There are great amounts to be won at these types of tournaments and they add an exciting twist to regular internet blackjack. It should be remembered that not all casinos promote the same tournaments and rules will obviously vary.

What Strategy is Used in Blackjack?

Because blackjack is a game of skill, a basic strategy is not only recommended but it is a necessity if players want to bring down the house edge in blackjack. Card counting was once considered a sound strategy but casinos are not tolerant of this method anymore and players now stick to mathematical calculations and equations to figure out their best move.