Among the most popular card games in both land-based and online casinos, Blackjack has truly stood the test of time. It’s a game where each round is self-contained, and you’re not playing against any other players, but just the dealer.
Like the classic land-based table versions, the aim of online Blackjack is straightforward – get a hand total as close to 21 as possible, without going over, but also closer than the dealer’s (the software).
To give you a clearer idea of how to do things like count your hand value or place an inside bet in online Blackjack, read on to find our overview of this digital classic.
Bets are placed and cards are dealt
In a standard online Blackjack game, you begin by placing your wager. Once you’ve completed this in the given timeframe, the betting window closes and the game begins.
To start, you're dealt two cards. The dealer also receives two cards, one face up (for the player to see) and one face down.
You can assess your hand value, as your ultimate goal is then to make decisions based on your hand and the dealer’s visible card.
Card values
Card values are simple to understand:
Choosing what to do with your hand
After receiving your initial two cards and assessing your hand, you have options on what to do. You can choose whether to:
Some in-game options may be available, depending on your chosen game, such as:
You may continue taking cards until you either choose to stand or your total exceeds 21, which is known as going “bust”.
Outcomes
Once your turn ends, the dealer then proceeds to manage their hand based on specific game rules. This can include taking another card or standing, depending on their initial hand value.
Once the dealer’s turn ends, the cards are shown and payouts are made according to the hand value that beats the other hand.
How the software works
Online Blackjack is played using a digital interface and a random number generator (RNG), instead of a real-life dealer. This ensures that cards are dealt fairly and that outcomes are purely based on chance.
Most online Blackjack games are played with multiple decks, often six or eight, and these are shuffled according to RNGs to maintain game integrity.
It’s important to note that Blackjack is a game of chance. Each hand is independent, and outcomes are not influenced by past results or any other factors. Whilst the decisions you make during gameplay can change the result of a round, this does not mean there is a guaranteed path to a specific outcome.
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Before starting a game of online Blackjack, it’s highly recommended that you review the specific rules and settings of the game you’re playing. These are usually available in the help or information section of the game interface.
As Blackjack continues to be a staple in online casino gaming, due to its recognisable format and fast-paced gameplay, it’s important to ensure that you play safely and responsibly. Speak to your chosen online casino provider if you have any questions surrounding online Blackjack games, how to play, or how they operate.
