Thanks to advancements in technology, you can now play the classic casino card game, Blackjack, in many forms, including live games online.
However, before playing live Blackjack, it’s important to familiarise yourself with the fundamental rules and structure of the game.
With this in mind, we have collated a small list of things worth knowing about live Blackjack before you take a virtual seat at one of the many online tables.
Objective of the game
Live Blackjack is a card game where the goal is to beat the dealer’s hand without going over a total of 21 points. The game is played with one or more decks of standard 52 cards, and each card has a value:
- Number cards (two to 10) are worth face value.
- Face cards (Jack, Queen, King) are each worth 10.
- Aces can be worth one or 11, depending on which value benefits your hand more.
Basic gameplay
The game begins with you placing a bet using virtual chips. Once all bets are placed, you and the dealer are dealt two cards.
Your cards are dealt face-up, while the dealer receives one face-up card (the upcard) and one face-down card (the hole card).
- Hit: You can request additional cards to increase your hand’s total.
- Stand: When you’re satisfied with your total, you can stand, meaning you do not want any more cards.
- Double down: You may choose to double your bet after receiving your first two cards, but you must draw precisely one more card.
- Split: If you have two cards of the same value, you can split them into two hands, doubling your original bet.
- Surrender: In some versions, you can forfeit half of your bet and end the round early if you believe you have a low chance of winning.
The dealer’s hand
The dealer plays after all players have completed their hands. They must follow strict rules:
- The dealer must hit until they reach a total of 17 or higher.
- If the dealer exceeds 21, they ‘bust’, and all remaining players win their bets.
Winning conditions
There are three primary ways to win:
- Have a hand total higher than the dealer’s without exceeding 21.
- If the dealer busts by going over 21.
- Get a Blackjack – an Ace and a 10-value card on the first two cards, paying out 3:2.
If you and the dealer have the same hand value, it’s a ‘push’, and your bet is returned. Remember, Blackjack is a game of chance, and winning is never guaranteed.
Live Blackjack etiquette
When playing Live Blackjack online, you’re engaging with a real dealer via a live video stream. Most live games allow you to communicate via live chat, but remaining respectful and courteous to the dealer is essential.
Understanding betting limits
Each Blackjack table will have its betting limits, which define the minimum and maximum stakes you can place. It’s essential to be aware of these before virtually playing. Betting responsibly ensures you can enjoy the game within your budget.
Responsible gaming
It’s crucial to be aware that Blackjack, like all casino games, should be approached as a form of entertainment. It’s important to play responsibly and not view the game as a way to increase your funds. Remember, wins are never guaranteed, and outcomes are based on chance.