Blackjack

Blackjack is one of the most popular casino games.

The basics

• One to eight decks of cards. In single and double deck games the dealer holds the cards and deals them out. 
•  In multi-deck games the cards are dealt out of a tray like box that is called a shoe. (We will talk about the multi-deck hand rules only)
• The suits of the cards have no affect on the game. 
• Cards 2 - 10 are counted at face value without regards to their suit. 
• All face cards have a value of ten. 
• An ace can count as either one or eleven. 
• The objective of the game is to beat the dealer. You beat the dealer by getting a higher scoring hand, without getting more than 21.

Playing

• The player puts his bet in the betting circle if front of his space. 
•  Each player is dealt two cards face up. 
• The dealer receives one card face up and one card face down. 
• After the cards are dealt the dealer will ask each player in turn to make their decision. The player to the left of the dealer acts first. 
• The player can take a "hit" (signal for another card) or "stand" (signal you don't want any more cards).
• Another option is to "double down" (double the bet). After signaling to double down, you receive one card only on your hand. 
• If you are dealt a pair (two cards of the same rank) you can split these into two separate hands. You must make an additional bet equal to your starting bet. You now play each hand separately. 
• If the dealer's up card is an ace the dealer will offer insurance. This is a side bet you make wagering half your original bet that the dealer has a ten as their other card. If you make the bet and he has the ten you are paid 2 to 1. You would then lose your original bet but win the insurance bet. 
• If you have a blackjack and the dealer has an ace you will be asked if you would like even money for your blackjack instead of 3 to 2. If do not take the even money you will have a push if the dealer has a blackjack. 
• If your cards total higher than the dealer's cards without going over 21 you win. 
• If your hand goes over 21 you "Bust" and lose. 
• If the dealer busts and you do not, you win. 
• If you or the dealer is dealt an Ace and a ten-value card you have 21 known as a blackjack and you will be paid 3 to 2 for your bet providing the dealer does not get one at the same time. 
• If you and the dealer have blackjack it is a push. 
• If only the dealer has blackjack all players will lose.