Blackjack Game Rules

A casino Blackjack game consists of a dealer and one to seven players. You do NOT play Blackjack against other players -- you play against the dealer. For the most part, other players are not even relevant to your play and are mostly just a distraction.

In Blackjack, you are betting that you have a better hand than the dealer. The better hand is the sum of the card values closer to 21 without exceeding 21. A hand that is greater than 21 is referred to as "busted" and loses.

Blackjack is a combination of an Ace and any 10 or picture card with your first two cards and typically pays one and a half times your bet -- unless the dealer also draws Blackjack, in which case you have a "stand-off".

Here are some basic Blackjack rules to get you started:

• The Dealer plays according to a strict set of rules. Dealers must take another card if their hand totals 16 or less. Dealers must stand (not take any more cards) if their hand totals 17 or more.

• Splitting - If your first two cards are of equal value you may split these to form up to three separate hands. Aces may be split to form only two hands. You will receive an additional card for each hand, however a wager equal to your original bet must be placed each time you split. Casino rules vary concerning splitting hands, so check with your dealer first.

• Doubling Down - You may place an additional bet (not exceeding your original bet) if your first two cards total 9,10 or 11 (without aces). You will be dealt one additional card when you double. Again, rules may vary at some casinos, so be sure to ask your dealer.

• Insurance - If the first card dealt to the dealer is an ace, the dealer will announce "Insurance". You may then place an insurance bet of no more than half your original bet, to insure your hand should the dealer make Blackjack. An insurance bet is paid at odds of 2 to 1 and will only win if the dealer makes Blackjack. If the dealer does not make Blackjack the insurance bet you place is lost.