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Blackjack Basics

The object of the game is to make 21 or come as close to this number as possible
without going over and scoring higher than the dealer.

  • To start a game, you place a bet and then receive two cards.
  • The dealer will then deal two cards, one face up and one face down.
    • If you score higher than the dealer, but not more than 21, you'll win.
    • If you score less than the dealer or more than 21, you'll lose your bet.
    • If the dealer scores 17 or higher from their first two cards, they must stand and cannot draw any more cards out.
    • If your first two cards total 21 i.e. an Ace with a picture card or a 10, you will win immediately.
    • If you and the dealer have the same hand value of 17 or higher, this is called a push and your bet will be returned.
Card Values
  • The Ace can either be 1 or 11 depending on the other card values you hold.
    This will always be in your benefit.
  • Cards 2 through 9 are face value.
  • 10, Jack, Queen and King are all valued at 10.
Actions Available
Action Definition
Bet The amount you want to bet to start the game.
Hit Taking another card from the deck to try and make 21.
Stand Stick with the value of the cards you currently have.
Split If you have two of the same card, 9 and 9 for example, you can split your current hand into two hands. This will cost you the same amount as your original bet. If you split Aces and draw a 10, this will be classed as getting 21, not Blackjack.
Double down If you double down, you'll be presented with a third card but you must also double your original stake. This should be used if you think that a third card would give you a strong enough hand to beat the dealer. You will not be able to take any further cards after the third one is dealt to you.
Insurance If you think the dealer has Blackjack, you can take insurance against this which will cost you half of your original wager and pays out at 2-1 if the dealer does get Blackjack. If the dealer does not have Blackjack, you lose the insurance bet and continue the game.

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