If you’re looking to master blackjack rules, you’re in the right place.
Understanding the rules of blackjack is essential before you sit down at a table or play the game online. Unlike slots, which are based on luck, blackjack requires strategy and decision-making.
In this guide, you’ll find everything from the basic blackjack rules to advanced variations, ensuring you know what the rules of blackjack are before playing.
Let’s start.
Basic Blackjack Rules
The rules of blackjack are simple. The game is played between a dealer and one or more players.
The goal? To get as close to 21 as possible without exceeding it. The dealer follows specific casino blackjack rules, while players can make decisions to improve their hand.
Here’s a quick breakdown of the basic rules of the blackjack card game:
1. How it Works
- Each player and the dealer receive two cards; only one of the dealer’s cards is face up.
- Players can hit (take another card) or stand (keep their hand).
- Doubling down and splitting are possible in certain situations.
- If a player’s hand exceeds 21, they bust and lose.
2. Card Values:
- Number cards (2-10) are worth their face value.
- Face cards (Jack, Queen, King) are worth 10.
- Aces can be worth 1 or 11, depending on what benefits the player most.
3. Winning the Round:
- If your total is closer to 21 than the dealer’s, you win.
- A natural blackjack (Ace + 10-value card) automatically wins unless the dealer also has one, resulting in a push.
- If the dealer busts (exceeds 21), you win automatically.
- If both the player busts, the dealer wins.
4. Dealer’s Play:
- The dealer must hit on 16 or lower.
- The dealer stands on 17 or higher.
By following these basic blackjack rules, you’ll have a strong foundation before getting into more advanced strategies and enjoying the game as an experienced player.
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Blackjack Rules – How They Differ
Depending on where you play, blackjack rules may vary slightly. Some key differences include:
- Blackjack Prizes: Some casinos award 6:5 instead of the traditional 3:2 for blackjack.
- Dealer’s Standing Rule: Some games require the dealer to hit on soft 17 (Ace + 6).
- Doubling and Splitting Rules: Some variations limit when you can double down or split pairs.
It’s always a good idea to check the rules of blackjack at your casino before playing to ensure you understand any house-specific rules.
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Other Special Blackjack Rules You Should Know
While the standard blackjack 21 rules cover most games, certain variations introduce special mechanics that can change your strategy. Below are some common blackjack game rules that differ from the classic version.
Dealer Rules – When To Hit or Stand
The dealer’s actions are dictated by the casino’s specific blackjack rules:
- In most games, the dealer must hit on 16 and stand on 17.
- Some variations require the dealer to hit on soft 17 (Ace + 6).
- In some high-limit versions, the dealer stands on all 17s, giving players a slight advantage.
Surrender Rules – Giving Up Your Hand
Some casinos allow players to surrender, which means forfeiting the round for half their original play instead of risking a total loss.
- Early Surrender: You can surrender before the dealer checks for blackjack.
- Late Surrender: You can surrender only after the dealer checks for blackjack.
5 Card Charlie Rule
The 5 Card Charlie rule means that if you draw five cards without busting, you automatically win the hand.
- This rule is not common in standard games but can be found in some blackjack rules.
- It rewards cautious players who take small hits instead of making aggressive moves.
6 or 7 Card Charlie
A rare but exciting variation, the 6 Card Charlie and 7 Card Charlie rules work similarly to 5 Card Charlie:
- 6 Card Charlie: If you draw six cards without busting, you win the hand.
- 7 Card Charlie: Winning with seven drawn cards can be found in some variations of blackjack.
Super 7 Rules – A Side Play Bonus
The Super 7 rule is a side play that rewards players if their initial cards contain 7s.
- A single 7 awards out a small bonus.
- Double 7s (unsuited) offer a bigger prize.
- Double 7s (suited) give an even bigger prize.
- Triple 7s (suited) can result in a massive jackpot win.
Wrapping Up
Now that you know the blackjack rules, you’re ready to start playing with confidence.
From understanding the basic blackjack rules for beginners to learning special game variations rules like 5 Card Charlie and Super 7, these will help you define your overall strategy.
Those are the core blackjack skills – knowing the rules, how to play and which strategies to use.
If you’re looking for an exciting, real-time blackjack experience, try live blackjack and other social casino games at McLuck and put your skills to the test!
