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Blackjack is a super simple and flexible comparing card game that’s been a staple in British casinos for decades. You and the dealer begin the round with two cards each. The goal is to have a hand that totals as close to 21 as possible, without going over 21.
Throughout the game, you need to make different decisions that will help you beat the house. Blackjack is a game that combines skill, chance, and critical thinking.
In a way, it is quite similar to Baccarat, albeit more straightforward and accessible.
Its format and simple rules make it a great choice for beginners and veterans alike, so let us discuss a typical round of Blackjack and the possible outcomes once both parties have ended their turn.
In most UK blackjack casinos, online included, the game starts with the dealer and the player getting two cards each - one card facing down and one up for the dealer, and both cards facing up for you.
A round will have you decide among different options, as follows:
Stand - This shows you don’t want any more cards and you are comfortable with your initial hand. Once you Stand, that’s the final decision and that hand will be compared against the dealer’s.
Hit - This is when you want to draw another card. The dealer or the computer software will give you an extra card. Remember that you can Hit as many times as you want, as long as you don’t go over 21.
These are the two main things you can do. There are some other decisions you can take into account, but that depends on different factors such as bets and hand management:
Double Down - This will indicate that you want to double your initial bet. As such, you will get one additional card when your first cards have been dealt.
Split - A more strategic approach for the blackjack aficionado. When you are dealt two cards of the same value, you can split them up in separate hands and play each hand separately. However, you must also place an additional bet equal to your initial one
Surrender - Some casinos allow the Surrender option, which lets you give up your hand before the dealer plays theirs. In this scenario, you will only give up half of your bet.
The decisions you make will eventually affect the round. There are three simple outcomes in Blackjack:
Naturally, there are certain conditions for each outcome to be met, so let’s discuss them.
The goal in blackjack is to beat the house without going over 21. So, the round is won if:
Losing in blackjack can happen really fast and easily if you are not paying attention. Try to avoid the following loss scenarios:
These are also known as ‘pushes’. They happen when both the player and dealer have the same total value, such as:
Blackjack is a simple game that invites equally simple mathematics. All you need to do is know how to count the cards’ value. In a nutshell:
Example
If you are dealt a 7 and a King, or any other paint card, your hand totals 17. Or, if you get a 5 and a 4, your hand totals 9.
From the simple trick of the dealer’s card facing down that brings the thrill of anticipation to different types of decks and mechanics, blackjack brings interesting twists and turns. Let’s see some of the most popular versions of this timeless classic
This is one of the first versions that are often called, “original blackjack”. Here, the dealer will only receive his second card (the one that’s positioned faced down) before the gambler makes a decision.
Just like the American version of blackjack, the European version is considered “original blackjack.” The only difference between the two of them is that in the European version, the dealer will receive his second card (the one faced down) after the player has made his decision.
Blackjack Switch is one of the versions that can be considered completely different from the “original game” since gamblers receive two hards that will be played separately. What’s even better is the fact that the player has the chance to switch the second card between the two hands.
This variant played with a deck devoid of all 10s. Additionally, you can get bonus payouts for certain hand combinations, like hitting a 21 through 5 or more cards.
Yes, it sounds more challenging, but also more interesting, nonetheless.
This variant is more popular in Australia and the UK. Here, the objective stays the same, but the only difference is that the dealer’s hand is hidden until you have completed your turn.
This version of blackjack got its name after the South Las Vegas Boulevard, and it’s a bit different from the original game. Four decks of cards are used to play this game, and the dealer stands on a soft 17. In the Vegas Strip Blackjack version, aces can only be split once.
This version of Blackjack retains many of the original elements but also comes with a couple of modern features.
It’s one of the 21+3 Blackjack forms, and gamblers are offered the chance to make pair side bets before the cards are even dealt. If their first two cards are equal to the card face up, it’s considered a pair, and they win the side pair bet.
That’s another interesting turn where the dealer’s cards are face-up right from the start. While this can give you significant leverage, note that in this scenario all ties will result in you losing, and the payout consists of even money.
Online Blackjack casino sites offer many benefits, including bonuses, accessibility, and the freedom to enjoy your favorite games just the way you like, not to mention the smaller wagers.
However, when we are talking about table games like Blackjack, there are still many players who prefer the social part of gambling instead of just playing versus an algorithm. Here is where live dealer casinos come into the scene.
These live Blackjack casino sites offer the best of both worlds because you get to play with real players and dealers while still enjoying all the benefits of low wagers, accessibility, and not having to travel to a land-based establishment.
Basically, the casino has live rooms where real dealers await players at a Blackjack table, and multiple cameras and audio capturing systems will broadcast the entire game in real-time offering a completely immersive Vegas-like experience.
Naturally, blackjack has its own house edge, and that varies depending on the version you are playing. Factors like the number of decks you are playing, the number of additional cards you get, and how the cards are dealt (face up or face down) influences the house edge in every blackjack variations.
For example
In a typical game with standard rules, house edge can be around 0.5% to 1%. Or, in variations like Blackjack Switch, we can talk about 0.6% to 0.9%. Depending on the above factors, house edge really fluctuates.
But keep in mind
The percentages represent the house edge applied only if you perfectly use the basic blackjack strategy in any round.
This clearly underlines the importance of knowing your way around blackjack and adapt properly.
Playing blackjack online is the go-to for many gamers around the world. Certainly, online gaming has paved the way for memorable experiences, but maybe you are also thinking about land-based blackjack casinos. Here are the characteristics of both worlds to give you a better idea:
| Online Blackjack Casinos | Land-based Blackjack Casinos |
|---|---|
| More flexibility, as you control the flow of the game. At the same time, you also have plenty of time to think of your strategy because there is no live dealer or fellow players to rush you. | The pace can be faster and the rounds more alert, as you either play against the dealer, or against other players. But this can add to the excitement of playing blackjack. |
| Online blackjack casinos offer a vast range of great-looking games that simulate the authenticity of the real experience or even provide unique themes and gameplay. | Some players enjoy the authentic feeling of a brick-and-mortar establishment as they take their seats at the blackjack table and interact with the dealer and other participants. |
| Online blackjack sites are much more convenient for users who prefer a comfortable and quiet experience without having to travel to a land-based casino. You can play blackjack anytime, anywhere, even on your smartphone. | Despite the amazing atmosphere they offer, land-based UK casinos can be quite crowded and noisy. Some of them can also be harder to get to, thus implying the complexities of traveling to another location in order to play. |
| Diverse bonuses and tantalizing payouts often make online blackjack a fulfilling experience, for there’s something for everyone. | Compared to their online counterparts, land-based casinos do not really feature such uniquely-themed offers. We can talk about welcoming packages or comps, but no-deposit bonuses, for example, are quite scarce. |
Remember what we said about house edge? Good. When it comes to playing at blackjack casinos, it is important to know what you are doing. This ensures that you have the advantage over an otherwise simple game with pretty nice winning chances.
Here are the basic things you need to keep in mind:
This basic strategy is the cornerstone of every blackjack game. It represents a set of rules and guidelines that allow you to maximize your winning chances.
The basic strategy is based on maths and takes into account the player's hand, the dealer's upcard, and the specific rules of the blackjack variant being played. Its main goal? Make the best decision based on the situation you are in and minimize the house edge.
Basically an extension of the aforementioned strategy. If you study the basic strategy closely and learn it by heart, you will eventually understand what to do in every situation. This means you will become more confident in your gaming skills and will make more informed decisions.
Keep in mind that such decisions should be made depending on the given scenario, such as your initial hand or the dealer’s.
Side bets can be tempting, but beginners fail to realize that side betting lets the house have the high ground. Side bets are just not worth the shot, at least momentarily.
Insurance is generally a more advanced decision that should be considered in specific scenarios only, such as when counting cards and/or when you are positive the deck is rich in 10-value cards.
Otherwise, Insurance is not the brightest idea, as it rarely pays off in the long run.
A quintessential element in any casino gaming strategy. Always set a budget for blackjack casinos and stick to it. The key is to never bet more than you can afford to lose.
This is the smart way to keep you in the game for longer without financial consequences.
Now, if you ask me, blackjack is a super fun card game. It’s easy to learn and it has just the right amount of complexity that allows it to become a satisfying experience.
When it comes to real money blackjack, this depends on your main goals. If you aim to make it your big source of income, I advise against that. Yes, blackjack requires skill, which can be trained, but do not be oblivious to the element of chance, which is quite prominent.
You risk financial losses as well as becoming frustrated with the game and developing bad habits. I urge you to exercise caution in this field and abstain from chasing wins and losses.
On the other hand, if you enjoy the game by itself and feel good when your strategies pay off and beat the computer or the dealer, then by all means, enjoy a round or two of blackjack during your lunch break.
As for a possible common ground, yes, it’s possible to earn a bit of money from your games while still having a pleasant and relaxing time, as long as you know what you are doing and you game within your means.
Ah, yes, the fine art of picking the right blackjack casinos. I’m going to be as straightforward as possible. Licences and honest reviews. Two essential elements that constitute a reliable online casino.
You cannot enjoy playing blackjack for real money to its fullest if you do not take care where you spend your money. Online casinos can be like fly traps - they are catchy (horrendous pun, I beg your pardon). The idea is that dubious or unlicenced casinos are a cesspool of frauds and scams, so be very careful when choosing your gaming platform.
The simplest and safest way to kick off things is to look exclusively for licenced casinos. These have been verified by the UK Gambling Commission, the regulatory body that aims at protecting British players.
When a casino is UKGC-approved, you know that the casino is fair and transparent and doesn’t commit any fraud. For example, our list of blackjack casinos is made entirely of licenced casinos only, so feel free to examine them at your leisure.
Ratings and feedback are a testimony of a casino’s quality. Poor ratings evidently indicate that something’s awfully wrong with the platform.
Conversely, high-rated blackjack casinos almost surely provide quality services, good security, and prompt support.
Take the time to go through forums, reviews, discussions, boards, and don’t hesitate to ask around for other player’s opinions.
Remember these crucial factors
To pick a reliable online casino, never forget the following:
Proper licences and regulations (UKGC is the magic formula)
Good ratings and reviews written by other players
Quality services and 24/7 support from the casino
Useful and player-friendly services
Diverse and VALID bonuses
Quality and generous games selection
Plus, always read terms and conditions, because they offer vital info regarding the casino in question.
In terms of payment methods, British gamers enjoy a diverse menu. We are talking about popular, fast and secure options that are widely available.
If the casino accepts your preferred method, then you are all set. So, you can choose from things such as:
Currently, among the most popular payment options for UK players we find PayPal, Skrill, Neteller, and Paysafecard. That’s because they’re pretty fast and secure, and you don’t have to provide too much sensitive information to the casino in order to add or withdraw money.
As we saw earlier, the best online blackjack sites feature quality services, proper licencing and attentive support.
If you’re sure you found a reliable one, it’s time for step 1, so you are to create an account and add funds.
Then, move on to selecting the blackjack game you want to play. Choose something you’re comfortable with, and hit the play button.
When it’s time to play, study the virtual blackjack table. Most online blackjack games feature a friendly interface with intuitive controls. Bet the desired amount, and the game will start with you and the dealer receiving your initial cards.
Now it’s time to put in practice what you’ve learned. Consider the situation and make a decision. Generally, the corresponding buttons are literally a click away.
All you have to do now is await the outcome and see if you have beaten the house. If so, you will collect your winnings and another round will start again, should you wish so.
Blackjack, known as "21" in the UK, has roots dating back to the 18th century. The game's origins are linked to French games like "Vingt-et-Un" (21) and "Quinze" (15). It gained popularity in the United States during the 19th century, where it was named "blackjack." Interestingly, the name "blackjack" referred to a hand with
the Ace of Spades and a black Jack, further enhancing its appeal.
Blackjack casinos have been a popular choice for many UK players, as they offer unique experiences and rewards.
Because of that, it’s time to take your game to the next level with UKGC-licenced platforms that focus on your own safety and enjoyment.
Online blackjack is a fun way to spend your free time and even earn some money, but only if you take things casually and responsibly. That means not chasing wins and losses, keeping your emotions in check, and taking often breaks.
The beauty of hitting 21 lies in itself, not in financial incentives. So have fun out there, and keep it safe!
