Best Blackjack Games
For those eager to explore the top blackjack games, we present a selection of the best titles from esteemed game developers. These games offer both free and real money gameplay options at our recommended casinos:
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Facts
- Blackjack can be played with anything between 52 and 416 cards.
- Also known as 21, the goal is to reach this number without exceeding it.
- A blackjack is achieved with an Ace and a 10-value card as the first two cards.
- Blackjack is immediately paid out unless the dealer also has a blackjack.
- Blackjack offers some of the best odds in the casino with around a 99% RTP.
- Standard payouts for blackjack are 3 to 2, making it more fun.
How to Win with Blackjack Strategy
Understanding the basic strategy is key to winning at blackjack. The goal is to get as close to 21 as possible without exceeding it. Here are some common terms and strategies used in the game:
- Hit: Request another card until you decide to stand or bust.
- Stand: Keep your current cards and end your turn.
- Double Down: Double your bet for one additional card.
- Split: Split two cards of the same value into two separate hands.
- Surrender: Forfeit half your bet to end your participation in the round.
- Insurance: Side bet on the dealer having a blackjack when showing an Ace.
As the rules are different so are the strategies, the uniqueness of the game provides it with some technical strategies. This Cheat Sheet Blackjack is essential to a casino player's success in the game if they are followed both for offline and online blackjack.
Cheat Sheet
| 1st 2 cards | 2, 3 | 4, 5, 6 | 7, 8 | 9, 10, A |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 17-20 | S | S | S | S |
| 13-16 | S | S | H | H |
| 12 | H | S | H | H |
| 4-11 | H | H | H | H |
| A + 8, 9 | S | S | S | S |
| A+7 | S | S | S | H |
| A + 3, 4, 5, or 6 | H | H | H | H |
| Player | Dealer | Dealer | Dealer | Dealer |
Tips
- It is very important that in the game of blackjack, you must not take the insurance bet, this rule is a general rule. The only situation where you can use the insurance is if you are using a mathematically proven strategy that will alert you to situations where taking the insurance bet is worthwhile.
- As a player, you must understand that every possible combination of player hands and dealer-up cards has a mathematically correct play. The basic strategy table underneath will be helpful according to the rule of the game being played.
- Avoid side bets as they pose an unfavorable position. Stick to the main game.
Rules
Just like every game in a casino, each table game has its own rules that govern how to play blackjack, regardless if it's offline or online blackjack. The blackjack rules are part of the things that make it stand out among other casino table games.
- When a player has an Ace and a 10 as his first 2 cards giving a count of 21, that is a blackjack
- The dealer pays a player who has a blackjack if he doesn't have one
- Blackjack normally pays 3 to 2
- When the dealer has a blackjack they collect the bets of players who do not have it
- When the dealer and another player have a blackjack that's a tie
- When the dealer and the player have the same value of cards it's a push, meaning the bet remains untouched
- Normally the dealer needs to draw a card until they hit 17, regardless if the dealer has the highest hand
- You can double your bet for 1 extra card on 9, 10 and 11
- You can split any pair by adding another stake
| Card | Counts as |
|---|---|
| Ace | 1 or 11 |
| 2 | 2 |
| 3 | 3 |
| 4 | 4 |
| 5 | 5 |
| 6 | 6 |
| 7 | 7 |
| 8 | 8 |
| 9 | 9 |
| 10 + Face Cards | 10 |
Insurance Bet
The insurance bet is offered when the dealer has an Ace. The insurance bet is half of your bet that ensures your initial bet is secured in case the dealer hits blackjack. When the dealer doesn't get blackjack you lose your insurance. Overall it's not recommended to place this bet. Don't be surprised when they ask insurance, know how to play blackjack.
Side Bets
There are many different online blackjack tables to play different variations of the game. Side bets are often seen as 21+3 or perfect pairs. These side bets allow you to play on combinations of cards like perfect pairs and such. As a rule of thumb, you should avoid the side bets as the main game has better odds for you to win.
Double Your Bet
How to play blackjack with bigger bets and better odds. In classic blackjack, you can double your initial bet when you have 9, 10, or 11 with your first 2 cards. This is wise if your odds are high of winning like when against a dealer's hand of 4, 5, or 6. Beware as you'll only receive 1 card!
Splitting In Blackjack
When should you be splitting in Blackjack? You can split your cards when you have a pair. A pair could be 6 & 6, A & A, but even K & Q would be a pair as they both count for 10. To split, you need to add another bet to play against the dealer. The dealer will split your cards to form 2 separate hands to play as usual. Splitting AA is recommended unless the dealer has an A too.
Where to Play Online Blackjack
Where to play online blackjack for real money? These casino sites offer 24/7 blackjack with live dealer, for the best online gaming experience to rival the best online casino be it online or a local casino with a wide selection of table limits and game varieties. The casino studios stream 24/7 all you have to do is pick an available seat at a table with the right table limit.
Still haven't found a live casino to play 21? These online casinos provide live blackjack tables for real money and are waiting for you in the live casino lobby. Check the ratings and select a welcome bonus for your first deposit!
Must be 18+ to participate | Play Responsibly | Terms and Conditions Apply
Must be 18+ to participate | Play Responsibly | Terms and Conditions Apply
Must be 18+ to participate | Play Responsibly | Terms and Conditions Apply
Must be 18+ to participate | Play Responsibly | Terms and Conditions Apply
Must be 18+ to participate | Play Responsibly | Terms and Conditions Apply
Top 9 Betting Strategies For Blackjack
Here are our top nine techniques to increase your profit when you play Blackjack with real money online. We're not considering betting strategies like the Paroli or Martingale system, as they most often don't work.
- Look for tables with stakes that are appropriate for your money.
This is a tricky scenario, especially for players with lesser bankrolls, but if you do your homework on the casino you're playing at, you should be able to find out where the lowest and highest stakes are.
- Divide the Aces and Eights
If you've seen our blackjack cheat sheet, you'll know that splitting in Blackjack with aces and eights is always a good idea. While breaking up eights may appear to be a terrible play, it is still the most likely strategy to win and ultimately generate a nice profit.
- The dealer is on Soft 17.
Always look for tables where the dealer is on a Soft 17, as this might have a huge influence on your bankroll. When the dealer stands on a Soft 17, the house edge is greatly reduced, making it slightly easier for you to win.
- When you hold a hand that might bust against the dealer's card, stand.
If the live dealer Blackjack online holds a four, five, or six face-up, it is preferable to stand, especially if you have a poor hand.
- Select a table that allows you to double down.
There is another guideline that might assist you in lowering the house edge. While some casinos will let you to double down on a 10 or 11, others may allow you to double down on any two cards.
The double downs will increase your bankroll if you play this right. Make certain that you have a solid plan in place to lower the house edge as much as feasible.
- Against the dealer's six, double down with any ace.
When you have an ace in hand and the dealer's upcard is a six, one of the finest times to take advantage of double downs is when you have an ace in hand and the dealer's upcard is a six. Unless you have a soft 20, you should always double down in this case.
Except when you have a soft 19 or 20, double down if feasible against the dealer's 5.
- Have a plan in place.
We've said it before and we'll say it again. It's usually a good idea to have a basic plan in place that you may use when playing blackjack. Having a plan in place can help you conserve your bankroll by reinforcing you to play more accurately and preventing you from making costly mistakes.
- Establish and keep to your boundaries.
When you're ready to play, attempt to decide how much money you're prepared to risk and part with. Maintain your decision throughout the game.
Don't go chasing your money if you're on a losing trend. Once you've made this decision, be glad since it will save you from wagering more than you can afford.
- Establish a betting strategy.
As with other casino games, you should always have a betting plan in place to enhance your chances of walking away with more money.
Keep in mind that strategies are designed with certain bankrolls in mind. So, if you have a limited bankroll, most betting tactics will not work for you, as you might encounter a losing streak that could wipe out a small balance before getting to apply the blackjack strategy successfully.
7 step guide to play online blackjack for real money
How to play Blackjack for real money
Total Time: 5 minutes
Secure your bankroll
It's best to set your bankroll before you make a deposit to play for real money. Make use of promotions when possible and set realistic expectations. If you plan to play 1 hour you will need to have a bankroll to place at least 10 x minimum table limit.
Select an online casino to play blackjack
Online casinos are renowned for their lower house edge, often offering enticing sign-up and welcome bonuses. Typically, these bonuses are a percentage of your initial deposit. Your welcome bonus serves as extra ammunition to enhance your blackjack experience. However, it's vital to thoroughly examine the wagering requirements before accepting any bonus. These bonuses are usually distributed over a specific duration, varying based on the offer and the casino site. Always peruse the terms and conditions before committing to a promotion.
The same caution applies to blackjack tournament prizes; it's essential to review the terms and conditions, especially if there are entry fees involved.
Registration
Complete the registration process, the KYC you can complete when this is requested.
Deposit
Deposit funds into your player account, in this case, you deposit them into your live casino account in order to play blackjack. Go to the cashier to deposit, if you don't have an account yet, you'll need to register first. Some online casinos offer a live casino bonus that you can use for blackjack.
Go to the casino game lobby and select blackjack table
There are many online blackjack tables to choose from with different limits. Select a table where you can place the minimum bet multiplied by the desired amount of hands you want to play with your casino balance.
Take a seat
At most blackjack tables you need to take a seat before you can start playing. You have to wait until a game round is completed in order to be able to place your bet.
Place your bet
How to play blackjack with real money. Place your desired bet into the place your bet box in front of your seat. There is a time limit in online blackjack so make sure you do it in time to not miss the round.
Hit, Stand, Split or Double
Depending on your first 2 cards the game will automatically show you when you need to make a decision. Do this in time in order not to be skipped. Check the online blackjack strategy section above, to help in your decision on how to play blackjack.
Withdraw
When you are done playing blackjack and you want to withdraw your funds or winnings, you proceed to your profile and select withdraw to the same payment method you have used to make your deposit.
Supply:
- Blackjack Rules
- Blackjack Strategy
- Limits are set per blackjack table
Tools:
- Valid email address
- Phone Number for SMS verification
- Online payment method
- Proof of Identity
- Proof of Address
- Proof of Payment Method
Origins and Evolution of Blackjack
Blackjack, one of the most popular casino games worldwide, has a rich and intriguing history that spans several centuries. Understanding the origins of blackjack not only adds to the enjoyment of the game but also enhances your strategy by appreciating its evolution.
The Early Beginnings: From Vingt-Un to Blackjack
The immediate precursor to blackjack was a game known as Vingt-Un (French for "Twenty-One"), believed to have Spanish origins. The first written reference to this game appears in the works of Miguel de Cervantes, the famous Spanish author best known for "Don Quixote." In his short story "Rinconete y Cortadillo" from Novelas Ejemplares, Cervantes introduces characters who are skilled at cheating in a game called veintiuna (Spanish for twenty-one), which involved reaching 21 points without exceeding that number. This reference, written between 1601 and 1602, suggests that the game was already well-established in Spain by the early 17th century.
As the game spread across Europe, it found notable popularity in France and Britain. By the late 18th century, references to Vingt-Un were common in both countries. The game's rules were first documented in Britain in 1800, and it retained its French name as it crossed the Atlantic to the United States in the early 1800s.
The Transformation into Blackjack
The American version of Vingt-Un eventually evolved into its own variant, gaining unique features and rules that distinguished it from its European counterparts. By the end of the 19th century, the game had been renamed "blackjack." A popular myth claims that the name "blackjack" originated from a promotional tactic used by American casinos in the early 20th century. To attract players, casinos allegedly offered a ten-to-one payout if a player's hand consisted of the ace of spades and a blackjack (either the jack of clubs or jack of spades). While this bonus was eventually discontinued, the name "blackjack" persisted.
However, French card historian Thierry Depaulis has debunked this myth, showing that the term "blackjack" was actually coined during the Klondike Gold Rush (1896–99) by prospectors. The term referred to the top bonus in the game, which was an Ace combined with any 10-point card. Interestingly, "blackjack" is also a term for the mineral zincblende, often found alongside gold or silver deposits, suggesting that the term was borrowed from mining slang by the prospectors.
The Birth of Modern Blackjack Strategy
The strategic depth of blackjack as we know it today began to take shape in the mid-20th century. In September 1956, a groundbreaking paper titled "The Optimum Strategy in Blackjack" was published in the Journal of the American Statistical Association by Roger Baldwin, Wilbert Cantey, Herbert Maisel, and James McDermott. This was the first mathematically sound approach to devising an optimal blackjack strategy, laying the groundwork for future efforts to beat the game.
Building on this work, Ed Thorp further revolutionized blackjack strategy with his book Beat the Dealer in 1963. Thorp's application of Baldwin's basic strategy and his introduction of card counting methods changed the landscape of blackjack forever, making it possible for skilled players to gain an edge over the house.
Mastering the Art of Blackjack
Playing blackjack, whether for fun or real money, is an enjoyable endeavor. Here's your guide to getting started:
Registration: Sign up for an account at your chosen online casino to play blackjack for real money.
Variation Selection: Choose your preferred version of online blackjack and wait for it to load. If you're seeking a more immersive experience, consider trying your hand at live casino blackjack with real dealers and fellow players.
Dealing the Cards: In a standard blackjack game, both you and the dealer receive two cards. Your goal is to outscore the dealer without going over 21. Card values are straightforward: face cards are worth 10, and Aces can be valued at either one or eleven.
Gameplay Choices: Decide whether to "hit" (draw another card) or "stand" (stick with your current cards). Beware, going over 21 results in an immediate loss.
Outcome Reveal: The dealer's cards are revealed, and the game's winner is determined. In case of a tie, it's called a "push," and your bet is returned. Win or lose, remember to visit our "how to play" page for mastering the basics. For advanced tips and tricks, our betting strategies page is your gateway to playing like a pro.
Where to Play Blackjack with a Bonus
Online casinos have welcome bonuses that will match your deposit and sometimes even offer free bets. Typically, these bonuses are a percentage of your initial deposit. Your welcome bonus serves as extra ammunition to enhance your blackjack experience. However, it's vital to thoroughly examine the wagering requirements before accepting any bonus. These bonuses are usually distributed over a specific duration, varying based on the offer and the casino site. Always peruse the terms and conditions before committing to a promotion.
The same caution applies to blackjack tournament prizes; it's essential to review the terms and conditions, especially if there are entry fees involved.
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9FAQ About Online Blackjack
What is the Origin of Blackjack
The immediate precursor to blackjack was a game known as Vingt-Un (French for "Twenty-One"), believed to have Spanish origins. The first written reference to this game appears in the works of Miguel de Cervantes, the famous Spanish author best known for "Don Quixote." In his short story "Rinconete y Cortadillo" from Novelas Ejemplares, Cervantes introduces characters who are skilled at cheating in a game called veintiuna (Spanish for twenty-one), which involved reaching 21 points without exceeding that number. This reference, written between 1601 and 1602, suggests that the game was already well-established in Spain by the early 17th century.
Is Online Blackjack Legal?
It is legal to play online blackjack, just make sure that you play at one of the remote casinos that are listed here or your state-licensed casino. The remote licensed casinos offer a bigger selection of games and blackjack tables, which makes it a lot more fun to be playing in an online live casino.
Playing Live or Online Blackjack
There is no real competition between these two. Playing in a brick-and-mortar casino can be nice for an occasion, but you can play online from anywhere at any time. The other big difference is the casino welcome bonus that you will never see in a land-based casino.