Each card has a point value, with cards 2 through 10 worth their face value, and face cards (Jack, Queen, and King) worth 10 points each. The Ace is a special card that can be worth either 1 or 11 points, depending on what is more advantageous to the player.
The game begins with the dealer dealing two cards to each player and themselves, with one of the dealer’s cards face down (known as the hole card). The player then has the option to “hit” and receive another card or “stand” and keep their current hand. The player can continue to hit until they decide to stand or their hand exceeds a total of 21, at which point they “bust” and lose the game.
Once all players have completed their turn, the dealer will reveal their hole card and must continue to hit until they have a hand that totals 17 or higher. If the dealer busts, all remaining players win. If the dealer’s hand is higher than the players’ hands without busting, the dealer wins. If the player’s hand is higher than the dealer’s hand without busting, they win.
In addition to the basic rules, there are several variations of the game that can add additional elements of strategy and complexity, such as splitting pairs, doubling down, and taking insurance against the dealer having a blackjack. Overall, blackjack is a thrilling and fast-paced game that has been a favorite of casino-goers for generations.
